Choosing the perfect shoe goes beyond just an aesthetic choice. It is a decision that can affect your comfort, performance and overall well-being. Whether you are looking for the ideal sports shoe, a casual trainer for everyday wear, or a shoe to suit specific activities, making the right choice is essential. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when selecting the shoe that suits you:
The fit of a trainer
Start by putting them on and standing in them with the socks you normally wear, but also take the time to perform the specific activity you purchase them for. Sometimes an option feels perfect when you are standing or even walking, but shortcomings or fit issues may come to light after a few minutes of running. A well-fitting shoe should sit firmly around your heel without sliding. For running or walking shoes, enough room for your toes to move is essential. You will probably need to choose a size larger than your normal shoe size for running shoes, as your foot moves much more dynamically while running than while walking. For cycling shoes, a snug fit with enough room for your toes is important.
For sports-specific shoes, about a 1-centimetre space from your big toe to the tip of the shoe is ideal. If your feet are of different sizes, base your choice on your largest foot. There should be no pressure points while performing your activity. When reviewing shoes, we considered everything.
Shape of the shoe
At StreetLab, we agree that the shape of the shoe should mimic the shape of your foot for the best fit. We call this "matching your foot". We noted if the shoe has a narrow or wide toecap, whether there is support for the arch of the foot and other aspects that affect how well the shoe fits the shape of the foot.
Shoe life
Although this criterion is harder to test in the short term, it is still important to consider when evaluating trainers. The expected lifespan of a shoe can affect your investment, especially since trainers can be quite pricey. Moreover, worn-out shoes can make you more susceptible to injuries. If you buy shoes in a shop, ask an employee about the life expectancy of the shoes you are interested in, or search online for reviews to get an idea of how long you can expect to use your shoes.
The style of the shoe
Style is definitely at the top of the list for many when looking for new trainers. It makes sense; if you feel like you look good, you will probably feel good about yourself too. Of course, you have to love what you buy, but you also have to figure out what style you prefer. We live in a time when people buy certain types of shoes and end up not using them for what those shoes are actually meant for. For example, how many times have you seen someone wearing basketball shoes when they are not playing basketball? And how about people who love running shoes but hardly ever see them running, right? Times have changed and people buy whatever style they like, even if they don't use them for their intended purpose. That's totally fine! You just need to figure out what kind of shoe suits your style and needs. High tops or low tops? Running shoes? Basketball shoes? Skateboarding shoes? Try on different types of shoes until you find the one that just "feels" like they are meant for you.
The price of the shoe
Another variable that determines which type of shoe you get is the price. We all know that shoes are sometimes seen as a luxury and there are much more important things in life that we need to take care of before we can buy a new pair of shoes. You know, things like our mortgage, utility bills, food, car expenses, things like that need to be taken care of before you go ahead and buy a new pair of trainers. Don't worry though, you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars every time you buy a new pair of trainers. There are thousands of options to choose from that can help anyone currently living on a budget. If you are determined not to pay above a certain amount, don't worry, StreetLab has a good shoe for everyone, no matter what your price range is.
Materials
The world of trainers today offers a plethora of materials to choose from. Each material not only gives a unique look to the shoe, but also affects its comfort. Think leather, suede, nubuck, mesh, Primeknit, Flyknit, woven fabrics - the options seem endless. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, but ultimately, you are the one who decides what best suits your style. Your personal preference plays a crucial role. Do you prefer the breathability of a mesh upper? Are you charmed by the style that only a leather upper can offer? Or are you keen on the flexibility that Primeknit and Flyknit are known for? Once you are clear on which features you prefer, you can search more specifically and make the selection that perfectly suits your needs.
Different applications and versatility
When buying a new pair of shoes, there is one important aspect that is often overlooked: the versatility of the shoe itself. By versatility, we mean the shoe's ability to adapt to the various functions and activities that comprise your daily life. It is essential to have a diverse collection of trainers in your closet. Having only Jordan 11s and Jordan 1s in your collection limits your ability to update your style from time to time. We understand that you love your retros, but it's also important to be prepared for situations when retros just won't suffice. A varied shoe collection is key. A shoe for the gym. A stylish option for a night out. A comfortable running shoe. A powerful basketball shoe.
A shoe that allows you to walk long distances without any problems during a day of shopping in Knokke. A shoe suitable for serious moments, such as meeting parents or an important job interview. Expand your horizons, because it makes shoe shopping not only more exciting, but also more surprising.
Summary:
Choosing the right shoe is all about balancing style, comfort and function. Take the time to explore, try on and compare different options before making your final choice. Whether you are looking for a sports shoe that optimises your performance or a fashionable trainer for everyday use, the right shoe can make a world of difference in how you feel and move.