What is the London Slang for Trainers? A Guide for Irish Shoppers

Have you ever stood in a shoe shop in Dublin and felt slightly out of place because the staff used words you didn't quite catch? Or maybe you've been scrolling through Instagram reels from London friends and heard them call their running shoes something other than trainers? If you're an Irish resident, expat, or tourist trying to navigate the subtle differences between British and Irish English, this guide is for you. We’re going to break down exactly what "trainers" are called in London, why the distinction matters, and how it impacts your shopping experience across the UK and Ireland.

The Short Answer: It’s Still Trainers

Here is the good news that might save you some mental energy: in London, just like in Dublin, Belfast, and Cork, people overwhelmingly use the word trainers casual athletic footwear designed for comfort and everyday wear. You will rarely hear a Londoner say "sneakers" (that’s American) or "plimsolls" (that’s old-fashioned). So, if you walk into a store on Oxford Street or Harrods and ask for "trainers," you will be understood perfectly.

However, language is never that simple. While the core noun remains the same, the adjectives and specific types of shoes can vary. This is where the confusion usually starts. An Irish person might say "I’m buying new runners," while a Londoner might say "I’m picking up some kicks." Both mean the same thing, but the vibe is different.

Why Do We Call Them Trainers?

To understand the term, we have to look at its history. The word comes from "training." In the early 20th century, these shoes were specifically designed for athletes training for sports. They had rubber soles and canvas uppers, making them lighter and more flexible than leather brogues or oxfords.

In Ireland, this terminology stuck firmly. Whether you are in a pub in Galway or a classroom in Limerick, "trainers" is the standard. In London, the same applies. But there is a nuance. In some parts of the UK, particularly among younger generations influenced by global pop culture, you might occasionally hear "sneakers." It’s not wrong, but it sounds a bit like you’re quoting an American movie. Stick with "trainers" and you’ll fit right in.

Common Slang Terms Used in London (and Sometimes in Ireland)

While "trainers" is the official term, slang exists in every city. Here are a few terms you might encounter in London that could trip up an Irish visitor:

• Kicks: This is a very common casual term. "Nice kicks!" is a compliment. You might hear this in Dublin too, especially among university students in UCD or TCD, but it’s less universal than "trainers."
• Flats: Be careful here. In the US, "flats" means flat-soled shoes for women. In the UK and Ireland, "flats" usually refers to low-top sneakers without laces, or sometimes ballet flats. It’s rarely used for high-performance running shoes.
• Runners: This is widely understood in both London and Ireland. It specifically implies shoes meant for running or high-impact activities. If you buy heavy hiking boots, you wouldn’t call them runners. You’d call them boots or tramps.
• Buggers: Rarely used now, but older Londoners might refer to cheap, uncomfortable shoes as "buggers." Not a term you need to learn, but fun to know.

Irish vs. British Footwear Terminology: Key Differences

Although we share many words, there are distinct differences in how we talk about footwear. As someone who has shopped in both Dublin and London, I’ve noticed these patterns:

Shopping for Trainers in Ireland: Local Tips

If you are living in Ireland, you don’t need to fly to London to get the latest styles. The Irish market has evolved significantly. Here’s how to shop smart locally:

1. Know Your Local Stores: Chains like Sports Direct, JD Sports, and Foot Locker have major presence in Dublin’s Grafton Street, Dundrum Town Centre, and Galway City Centre. Prices are often competitive with London, and you avoid VAT refund hassles.
2. Check Online Retailers: Irish online retailers like Smyths Toys (for kids’ trainers), Derry’s, and independent shops on Etsy Ireland offer unique finds. Many Irish brands, such as Kiltie or local artisan makers, produce high-quality casual footwear.
3. Seasonal Sales: Like in London, Irish stores have major sales in January and July. If you’re looking for premium brands like Nike, Adidas, or New Balance, wait for these periods. Discounts can reach 30-50% off.
4. Sizing Differences: UK and Irish sizing is generally aligned. A size 8 in Ireland is a size 8 in the UK. However, always try before you buy, as brand-specific fits vary. For example, Nike tends to run narrow, while Adidas offers a wider toe box.

Why Does This Matter for Expats and Tourists?

If you’re moving to London from Ireland, or visiting from Dublin, understanding these nuances helps you blend in. Language is a social cue. Using "trainers" shows you’re comfortable with British/Irish English. Using "sneakers" might mark you as American, which isn’t bad, but it’s different.

For tourists, knowing the slang helps when asking for directions or recommendations. If you ask a local in London, "Where can I find good trainers?" they’ll point you to the right area. If you ask for "sneakers," they’ll understand, but they might assume you’re new to the country.

Frequently Asked Questions