What Shoe Is Called a Trainer? Simple Guide to the Term

Ever heard someone say they’re going for a run in their trainers and wondered, what exactly is a trainer? It’s not a person coaching you-it’s a type of shoe. And if you’re from the U.S., you probably call it a sneaker. But in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and many other places, trainer is the everyday word for the kind of shoe you wear to the gym, on a jog, or just around town.

Where Does the Word 'Trainer' Come From?

The term trainer comes from the 19th century, when these shoes were first made for athletes to train in. Back then, people didn’t wear heavy boots or dress shoes for physical activity-they needed something light, flexible, and grippy. Companies like Adidas, Puma, and Reebok started making rubber-soled shoes specifically for sports training. Over time, the name stuck. By the 1950s and 60s, "trainer" was common in British English for any athletic shoe designed for exercise.

It’s not about being fancy. A trainer doesn’t have to be a high-end running shoe. Even your basic canvas gym shoe, flat-soled cross-trainer, or old pair of Nike Air Force 1s? Those are all trainers. The name isn’t tied to performance specs-it’s about function. If you wear it to move, sweat, or walk miles, it’s a trainer.

Trainer vs. Sneaker vs. Athletic Shoe

Confusion often comes from regional language differences. Here’s the breakdown:

• Trainer - Used in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and parts of Canada. It’s the default term.
• Sneaker - Used mostly in the U.S. and Canada. The name comes from the quiet rubber sole that lets you "sneak" around without making noise.
• Athletic shoe - A formal, technical term used in retail and product descriptions worldwide. You’ll see this on boxes and websites.

So if you’re in Wellington and say, "I bought new trainers," you’re not being odd-you’re being normal. If you’re in Chicago and say the same thing, people might raise an eyebrow. But they’ll still know what you mean.

What Makes a Shoe a Trainer?

Not every shoe with a rubber sole is a trainer. Here’s what actually makes one:

• Flexible sole - Designed to bend with your foot as you walk or run. Think of how your toes push off the ground. A trainer lets that happen naturally.
• Cushioned midsole - Usually made of foam, EVA, or air pockets to absorb impact. Even budget trainers have some level of padding.
• Lightweight upper - Made from mesh, knit, or synthetic fabric, not leather or heavy canvas. Breathability matters.
• Non-marking outsole - Rubber that doesn’t leave scuff marks on gym floors. That’s why gyms require them.
• Designed for movement - Whether it’s running, lifting, jumping, or just walking the dog, a trainer supports lateral motion and foot stability.

That’s why a formal dress shoe with a rubber sole isn’t a trainer. Same with hiking boots or work boots. They’re built for different jobs. Trainers are built for motion.

Types of Trainers You’ll See

Not all trainers are the same. There are subtypes based on what you use them for:

• Running trainers - Light, responsive, with extra cushioning in the heel. Brands like Brooks, Asics, and New Balance make these.
• Cross-trainers - Built for the gym. More stable side-to-side, good for weightlifting, HIIT, and agility drills. Nike Metcon and Reebok Nano are popular.
• Walking trainers - Softer cushioning, more arch support. Think about long days on your feet-these help.
• Training sneakers - Often used interchangeably with cross-trainers, but sometimes just means a stylish, everyday athletic shoe.
• Minimalist trainers - Thin soles, low drop, close to barefoot. Popular with runners who want more ground feel.

You don’t need to own all of them. Most people get by with one or two pairs. If you’re mostly walking or doing light workouts, a good pair of cross-trainers works fine. If you run 30km a week, you’ll want something built for that.

Why Do People Still Call Them Trainers?

Language sticks because it’s practical. "Trainer" is short, clear, and tells you exactly what the shoe does. It’s not a fashion label or a brand name-it’s a function. In New Zealand, where outdoor activity is part of daily life, you’ll hear "trains" at the park, in gyms, and even in supermarkets.

Even kids know what a trainer is. Ask a 7-year-old in Auckland what they’re wearing, and they’ll say, "My trainers." Not sneakers. Not athletic shoes. Trainers.

It’s also tied to culture. In the UK and Commonwealth countries, "trainer" feels more grounded, less commercial than "sneaker." The word doesn’t carry the same hype as "Air Jordans" or "Yeezys." It’s just a shoe you move in.

Can You Wear Trainers Everywhere?

Yes-and most people do. Modern trainers are designed to work as both performance gear and casual footwear. You can wear them to the office if your workplace is relaxed. You can wear them on a date. You can wear them to the airport. The lines between sport and style have blurred.

Brands like Allbirds, Clarks, and Adidas have made trainers with clean lines and neutral colors that look good with jeans, chinos, or even a dress. You don’t need to look like you’re heading to the gym to wear a trainer.

But there’s a catch: not all trainers are built for walking all day. A lightweight running shoe might feel great for 5km but give you arch pain after 8 hours on concrete. Choose based on your use-not just looks.

What to Look for When Buying Trainers

If you’re shopping, here’s what actually matters:

1. Fit first - Your toes should have space. Heel should stay locked. No pinching.
2. Arch support - If your feet roll inward (overpronate), look for stability models. Flat feet? You need more cushioning.
3. Weight - Lighter isn’t always better. If you’re on your feet all day, a bit of heft gives durability.
4. Outsole grip - Check the tread. Deep grooves = better traction on wet pavement.
5. Breathability - Mesh uppers beat synthetic leather for hot days.

Try them on in the afternoon. Feet swell during the day. Buy when they’re biggest. Walk around the store. If you’re not sure, ask for a pair with a removable insole-you can swap it for an orthotic later.

Trainers Aren’t Going Away

They’ve been around for over 100 years. They’ll be around for another 100. Whether you call them trainers, sneakers, or athletic shoes, they’re one of the most universal pieces of clothing on the planet. Everyone owns at least one pair. And for good reason-they’re made to move with you.

So next time someone asks, "What shoe is called a trainer?"-you’ll know. It’s not a mystery. It’s just the shoe you wear when you’re doing something active. Simple. Practical. And honestly? A little bit brilliant.