How to Buy Women's Trainers at a Good Price: Running, Gym, Everyday
Purpose first, brand second
The same Nike or Asics comes in many very different trainers. Running ones have cushioning and a breathable upper, gym shoes need a stable sole without too much flex, everyday walking needs a comfortable last, and lifestyle models like the Adidas Gazelle or New Balance 574 are made mainly for looks. Running on tarmac in lifestyle trainers is a sure way to tired feet.
So in your request, first write what you will do in these shoes, and only then name a model. That way sellers will also suggest what you had not thought of.
Season and material
Mesh summer models ventilate well but get wet quickly. For in-between weather, people choose denser textile or leather. Winter trainers with insulation and a membrane are good for walks, but not for training. Decide in advance whether you need a water-repellent treatment, especially for the rainy season.
Original, new, size
Popular lines are copied heavily, so in your request write “original only” or “replica is fine” and ask for photos of the tags and article number. Size is usually given in EU, US or UK, but the last differs between brands, so it is more reliable to go by the insole length in centimetres. For running, leave about half a centimetre in front of the toes.
What to put in your request
- brand and model — for example Adidas Gazelle or Nike Air Max 90;
- purpose — running, gym, walking, everyday wear;
- size — EU and insole length in cm;
- condition — new or second-hand, acceptable wear;
- original or replica;
- season — summer mesh, all-year, insulated winter;
- colour — white, black, pastel;
- budget and city.
Example: “I am looking for new original Asics running shoes for tarmac, size 39 EU (insole 25 cm), preferably with cushioning. Delivery to Johannesburg. Budget up to R 1,600.”
How the search works on BlaBlaPrice
You do not go round the shops, you leave one request. Footwear sellers reply in the chat: which exact model, the price, delivery, whether you can return it. The system compares the offers and shows the best one first, while sellers see where their offer stands and can improve their terms. So the price often comes out better. Contacts are hidden, and you can read more about the process separately.
When comparing, look at the same article number and colour, the model's year of release, what is included (box, bill) and the return terms. Previous-season models often cost differently from new collections but look just the same.
For other footwear, look at canvas shoes, sports shoes or the general women's footwear section.
