Women's trainers may seem easy to compare at first glance. But differences in fit, materials and soles can have a big impact on comfort. A pair that looks appealing online may turn out to be too narrow, offer little grip or get dirty quickly.
Look out for these common pitfalls:
If possible, measure your feet at the end of the day, when they may need a little more room. Measure both feet and use the larger one as your guide. Then check:
If you're between sizes, the construction can make a difference. A leather upper moulds differently from textile, but it won't stretch indefinitely. So don't buy women's low-top trainers that are too small in the hope they'll loosen up on their own.
The upper has a big influence on how a trainer feels and how much care it needs.
A combination of suede and mesh, as used in New Balance 574 models, can offer a balance of style and breathability. According to New Balance's product information, the WL574YA1 is made from suede, mesh and textile, with an EVA midsole and ENCAP construction. Treat these as product specifications, not as a guarantee that the shoe will be equally comfortable for every foot.
For cycling, shopping and walking along Dutch city streets, a rubber outsole with enough tread is practical. Also consider the sole's flexibility and the weight of the shoe.
For light sporting activities, women's sports shoes with a lightweight upper and rubber sole may be suitable. For running, indoor sports or long walks, you'll generally need a model designed specifically for that activity.
A low-top trainer with a flat sole often works well with jeans, dresses and casual clothes. A model with a thicker sole can give you a little extra height, but it won't automatically feel more stable.
Why it suits this profile: The beige colour, low-top shape and regular fit make this an easy pair to style for shopping, work and casual outfits.
The product information lists a regular fit and recommends choosing your usual size. Even so, check this against your foot length before ordering.
Textile upper, rubber sole, lace-up fastening and a regular fit. The sole is suitable for everyday wear.
Why it suits this profile: The retro shape and neutral shades work well with jeans, dresses and sporty outfits. This model is designed for everyday wear and getting around town.
The materials are clearly listed: suede, mesh, textile, an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole. This lets you assess the model by its components rather than just its appearance.
ENCAP midsole according to the product description, breathable mesh and a grippy rubber outsole. Suede does need regular care.
Why it suits this profile: This black model is designed for everyday walking. According to the product information, it has a regular fit, a synthetic upper and a rubber sole.
The specifications explicitly describe it as a low-top trainer with a rubber sole. Don't use this model as a substitute for technical sports shoes during intensive training.
Regular fit, D width, synthetic upper and rubber sole. The product information recommends choosing your usual size.
Why it suits this profile: The low-top navy shape with white details works well with jeans, shorts and simple outfits for the city.
Canvas is lightweight and breathable, but less practical in the rain. The product information clearly states the material, so you can wear the shoes in weather they're suited to.
Canvas upper, textile lining, curved rubber sole and a low-top fit. Check the available size carefully.
We've put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply with the current European safety regulations.
Choose a model with the right width, secure lace-up fastening and a rubber sole. Textile and mesh are practical in dry weather; leather is easy to wipe clean but needs care. For everyday wear in town, low-top women's trainers are often more versatile than technical sports shoes.
Their lifespan depends on how far you walk, the surfaces you walk on, your body weight, how well you care for them and how often you alternate them with other shoes. Check the sole, seams and heel lining regularly. Worn tread or an uneven sole may mean it's time to replace the pair, even if the upper still looks tidy.
It depends on the model. According to the product information, many of the Skechers women's trainers in this selection are intended for everyday wear and light activities. For running, intensive fitness or indoor sports, it's better to choose women's sports shoes designed specifically for that level of activity. The brand name alone doesn't tell you what a shoe is designed for.