I love trainers, but since this summer feels like it's been one heatwave after another, I've hardly had a chance to wear anything other than my most comfortable sandals.
Specifications
Price: RRP from £80 (depending on colour/fabric)
Size Range: UK 3-9 (some half sizes available)
Fastening: Lace-up
Colours: 19 colours and variations available
Material: Nylon and leather
However, with the temperature slightly dropping this week, I took my opportunity to test some trainers I've had my eye on for a while.
It can be difficult to find a shoe that's both as stylish as you want it to be and comfortable enough to wear for long days on your feet, but since FitFlop makes some of the comfiest shoes I've ever tried, I had high hopes for the FitFlop Retro-Q.
I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pair in the limited edition Pantone pink colour, and right from the off I loved the retro running style, which feels a bit like a New Balance 327 or a Reebok Classic trainer.
The brilliant thing about these is that the main fabric is actually nylon, which is a first for me. When it comes to trainers, I normally opt for leather or suede styles. However, the nylon makes them incredibly lightweight and flexible to walk in.
They'd be a great travel option in my opinion - lightweight to wear on the plane or pack in your suitcase, perfect for a long day of sightseeing, and smart enough to wear with a dress or linen trousers for dinner, too. They feel noticeably lighter than my adidas Stan Smiths, for example, and much springier. The sole is more flexible compared to the flatter FitFlop Dash trainers, too.
Shop the trainers
I personally love this pink colour, but there are loads of others to choose from, too. They feature FitFlop's signature double F on the side, plus the retro 80s-inspired style works perfectly with the trainer trends 2026.
FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: comfort & support
My first thought is how incredibly springy the trainers feel, which is hardly surprising since they feature FitFlop's famous iQushion™ Technology, which boasts ultra-light cushioning for shoes you'll want to wear all day. On day one, I took these for a long dog walk and a trip to the shops, and I kept them on when it was time to go out for dinner in the evening. After all that, my feet or legs didn't feel remotely hot or achy, and I didn't have that feeling of counting down the minutes to finally taking the trainers off when I got home.
It's so easy to overlook quite how clever FitFlop's designs really are. These are actually "ergonomically engineered to help optimise your body's alignment, natural movement and energy" They have natural arch support, and a great amount of grip, too, so I didn't find them slippery whatsoever.
They felt wide enough, and there was enough room around the toes, plus zero rubbing at the heel. A full day in new trainers without so much as a blister plaster is seriously impressive!
Size-wise, I feel like these fitted a bit on the small side, but perhaps my feet are a bit swollen from all the heat we've had. My usual size four still fitted perfectly, but if I were ordering again I think I'd go for a 4 and a half. Additionally, the Uniqlo trainer socks I wear with them are quite thick, so if you'll be wearing yours with sports socks it's worth taking that into account.
With trainers, I frequently find the heel or tongue comes too high and rubs my ankle, but the low profile of these avoided any pain points.
FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: style
These are not just a footnote (excuse the pun) - these trainers absolutely make outfits look more fashionable. When autumn is finally in full swing, I'll wear these with straight or barrel-leg jeans, but they'll work just as well with your best summer dresses, too.
They're available in loads of different colours and prints (including leopard!). They feel very flattering on my feet and legs, too. The shape is streamlined, and although there's a cushioned sole, it doesn't feel too chunky or heavy.
Up until now I've bought trainers either because they're comfortable or because they look good. Truly, I think I'd buy these even if they didn't have any of the comfort elements. They really are a joy to wear, particularly in a mood-boosting colour like pink.
FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: cleaning & care
The nylon fabric is so easy to wipe clean, which is good to know for someone like me, who leaves the house in box-fresh white trainers and seems to return home looking like I've been wearing them for weeks. I blame a dog that likes mud too much!
I was initially worried about how the suede would stand up to the weather, but so far so good. They are Scotchgard™ protected, but I would be wary about wearing them in very wet weather.
FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: Verdict
Overall, the FitFlop Retro-Q is a very stylish trainer that genuinely makes everyday life easier. They're supportive but don't look remotely like orthopaedic shoes. In fact, the style alone is enough for me, and all the comfort features are a huge bonus. For £90, I think these do the work of two pairs of trainers - fashion trainers and proper walking shoes.
Shop more colours
I love anything leopard print, and I'm absolutely not afraid to layer my spots. It's worth noting that, unlike my pink version, these are entirely suede, so they're also a little bit more expensive.
If you find white trainers work best with your wardrobe, this sporty yet chic option will do the trick. These are also £10 cheaper than my limited edition pink style, and you can get 15% off your first purchase with the promo code WELCOME.
This review sums these trainers up perfectly: "I've been looking for high-quality, lightweight sneakers that: (1) are good for my feet, (2) work well with jeans, shorts, and dresses, (3) work well for European travel (cobblestones), and (4) match my autumn-colored wardrobe. I'm loving these so far and will put them to the cobblestone test in a few months.... These are exactly the color and design I've been wanting."
I'm not the only fan of the FitFlop Retro-Q - the customer reviews are seriously impressive. One called them "Feather light... like walking on air", while another wrote, "Put them on first day and went to a festival. Feet were a dream all day."
I'm impressed at how they seem to help people with foot problems, and can be worn for a range of activities, too:
"I’ve been suffering with plantar fasciitis and the trainers help with my heel pain , I’ve not had to put my insoles in them. Bought many trainers and it seems these are the best for me"
"I wear them whilst playing Pickleball and have found them up to the job. I would buy again in different colour."
"Like walking on a pair of cushions. I have rheumatoid arthritis and my job means I'm on my feet most of the day. My footwear HAS to be considered very carefully. This is my 3rd purchase from Fitflop and will not be my last."
