How to identify trainers from a photo

What sets one model apart

• The sole. Its thickness, its colour (gum, white, black), and any visible air unit or cushioning.
• The panels. How the upper is cut: the toe cap, the eyestay, the heel tab and any overlays.
• Stripes and marks. Brand marks differ in size and position between models.
• Materials. Leather, suede, mesh or canvas; some models only come in one.

Find the style code

Most trainers have a label inside the tongue, or sometimes under the insole, with the size and a style code: a short string of letters and numbers for that model and colourway. Search the brand name with the code and you’ll usually find the exact pair.

Search by picture

1. 1

   Photograph the side

   A side view shows the sole and the panels; add a photo of the heel if you can.

2. 2

   Include any writing

   A model name on the tongue, heel or insole helps a search name the exact model.

3. 3

   Compare the details

   Check the sole and panels of the closest match against your photo before you buy.

pairs of shoes identified first time in our October 2026 test

20 of 20

pairs still identified: a clear side view mattered more than a clean shoe

Worn and dirty

Those results come from photos of well-known models. Newer and less common pairs are harder to identify. Read how we test.

Questions