Joybuy Insights

Choosing women’s trainers: how to find a pair that combines style and everyday comfort

Women’s trainers are suitable for work, shopping, travel and casual outfits. But a pair that looks appealing can disappoint in practice. A low price, well-known brand or striking product photo doesn’t tell you everything about the fit, materials or ease of use.

Use this practical guide to compare women’s trainers based on features you can check. That way, you can avoid a disappointing purchase and choose more confidently from options including Nike Dunk Low women’s trainers, New Balance women’s trainers, Lacoste women’s trainers, Vans women’s trainers and Converse women’s trainers.

Three common pitfalls when choosing women’s trainers

1. A familiar style won’t necessarily suit every foot

A style may look great, yet feel narrow, leave little room for your toes or feel stiff around the heel. When ordering online, it’s especially important not to rely solely on your usual size. A size 37 in one style may not fit exactly the same as a size 37 in another brand.

Always check:

  • the stated EU size and available half sizes;
  • the shape of the toe;
  • whether the shoe has a padded collar or tongue;
  • the returns policy in case the fit isn’t right.

2. “Leather” or “comfort” can mean different things

Product descriptions sometimes use general terms without explaining which part of the shoe they refer to. Check the materials used for each part. An upper made from leather, synthetic leather, suede, mesh or canvas will need different care and feel different to wear.

A leather trainer for women may feel sturdy and be easy to wipe clean, but it usually needs different care from a mesh style. It’s often best not to immerse textile and suede shoes in water. Follow the care instructions for the product.

3. A soft sole isn’t always the right sole

Comfortable women’s trainers need more than just a soft insole. Also consider:

  • the thickness and construction of the midsole;
  • how flexible the forefoot is;
  • the tread on the rubber outsole;
  • the weight of the shoe;
  • how well the sole suits walking or everyday wear.

Many styles are designed for casual wear and light sporting activities. Don’t automatically use them for running or intensive training unless the product description says they’re suitable.

Key features to compare

Fit and size

Don’t choose a size based only on what you usually wear. If possible, measure your feet at the end of the day, when they often need a little more room. Compare your measurements with the size chart for the specific style.

Popular sizes such as 38, 39, 40 and 42 aren’t available in every style in the same way. Look out for half sizes too, such as 39.5 or 42.5. If you have a wide forefoot, a slightly roomier style may feel more comfortable; if your feet are narrow, a secure heel fit is more important.

Materials and care

These materials are commonly used for everyday wear:

  • Leather or synthetic leather: often easy to wipe clean and suited to a smart look.
  • Suede: gives a retro look, but needs a suede brush and protection from moisture.
  • Mesh: can feel more breathable, but is more prone to getting dirty.
  • Canvas: lightweight and a familiar feature of classic Converse women’s trainers, but not designed to be waterproof.

If it’s relevant to you, also check whether any non-textile parts are made from animal-derived materials. This information is sometimes listed separately in the product details.

Sole, grip and use

A rubber outsole can offer grip and durability, but the tread varies from one style to another. A flatter tread is often enough for getting around town and commuting. If you do a lot of walking, you may prefer a more defined tread pattern and a sturdy heel.

ENCAP technology is mentioned as part of the midsole in various New Balance styles. Rather than relying on a general promise of comfort, it’s better to look at the overall construction: suede and mesh uppers, a rubber outsole and the stated sole design.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Vans VN000EE3BLK1 Authentic Black 37

Why it suits this need: The low-cut black design is easy to wear with jeans, a skirt or a casual work outfit. Available in size 37, this style is a good option if you’re looking for that size in particular.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify a textile upper, textile lining and rubber outsole. So you know what you’re buying in advance, rather than relying on the style name alone.

Key benefit and highlights

Classic low-cut design; textile construction; rubber sole for everyday use around town.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
New Balance WL574YA137

New Balance WL574YA137

Why it suits this need: The retro shape and neutral colours work well with jeans, dresses and sportswear. According to the product description, the style combines suede, mesh, a textile lining and an ENCAP midsole.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The materials and sole construction are specified. This makes it easier to understand that suede needs care and that these shoes aren’t waterproof.

Key benefit and highlights

ENCAP midsole according to the product information; suede and mesh; rubber outsole; neutral colour scheme.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent wear
New Balance U574RAC39.5

New Balance U574RAC39.5

Why it suits this need: The combination of a retro running-shoe silhouette, suede and mesh makes this style suited to everyday walking, casual outfits and light sporting activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description doesn’t claim that the shoes are waterproof and provides clear cleaning instructions. This helps you avoid accidentally caring for the suede incorrectly.

Key benefit and highlights

ENCAP midsole according to the product information; breathable mesh; sturdy rubber outsole; size 39.5.

Suitable for: Minimalist everyday outfits
Lacoste Aceline 96 124 6 Sfa

Lacoste Aceline 96 124 6 Sfa

Why it suits this need: The all-white court style is easy to pair with neutral clothes and smart-casual outfits for the office. This style is listed in size 39.5.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify a synthetic leather upper, textile lining and rubber outsole. The white colour does need regular wiping with a damp cloth.

Key benefit and highlights

All-white design; padded insole according to the product description; rubber outsole; low-cut court style.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.

How to keep your women’s trainers looking good for longer

Good care starts with looking after your trainers properly:

  • Gently brush suede with a suitable suede brush.
  • Wipe leather or synthetic leather with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
  • Don’t machine-wash trainers if the product instructions advise against it.
  • Leave shoes to dry naturally, away from radiators and other direct heat.
  • Alternate between two pairs if you do a lot of walking every day.
  • Check the soles and seams regularly for signs of wear.

Products sold in the Netherlands are generally covered by the statutory guarantee. The product information for the styles mentioned states a minimum statutory guarantee of two years under EU consumer law. The exact rights may depend on the circumstances and the applicable national rules.

Frequently asked questions about women’s trainers

Which women’s trainers are suitable for everyday wear?

Choose a style with a rubber outsole, a fit that doesn’t pinch and an upper that suits the level of care you’re prepared to give it. According to their product descriptions, New Balance 574 styles combine suede, mesh and an ENCAP midsole. Vans Authentic and Lacoste Aceline have a simpler, low-cut shape for casual wear.

How do I find the right size in women’s trainers?

Measure both feet on a flat surface and compare your larger foot with the style’s size chart. For sizes 37, 38, 39, 40 and 42, check whether half sizes are available and consider the width of the toe box. If possible, try on new shoes with the socks you normally wear.

How often should I replace my women’s trainers?

It depends on how far you walk, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and the style itself. Replace them when the outsole becomes smooth, the heel wears down unevenly, seams start to come apart or the fit noticeably changes. Trainers that still look tidy but no longer provide enough grip aren’t suitable for the same everyday use.