Argos £5 trainers look just like £55 and £325 high-end pairs in store now

Having to buy new sneakers might make you worry you'll have to part with over £100 of your hard-earned cash. But that isn't always the case , and Argos is stocking trainers that come with a much more affordable price tag.

The major retailer, which has over 600 locations across the UK, is selling the Active Black Knitted Lace-Up Trainers starting from £5. At a glance, they feature a highly on-trend, unisex black aesthetic, and while they aren't waterproof, the breathable knitted material and thick, cushioned foam sole could make them a comfortable and lightweight option for everyday wear.

Describing the product, Argos said: "Designed with comfort in mind, our black trainers are the perfect pair for busy lifestyles. They come in a knitted fabric with lace fastening, a cushioned inner and a white wedge sole. Great for gym sessions and active weekends."

Shoppers hoping to find out more are urged to head to the Argos website . It is available for both in-store collection and home delivery - to avoid a wasted trip, check stock levels at your nearest branch using the online store finder. All you have to do is enter your postcode, and a list of your local Argos stores will appear alongside an indicator showing whether or not the trainers are in stock there.

Argos offers free standard delivery on select small items like technology and toys, while standard delivery for clothing starts at £3.95. For faster service, Fast Track same-day delivery is available for £7.95 on orders placed before the daily cut-off time.

They could be considered a budget alternative to more premium options available elsewhere. Puma, for instance, has the SOFTRIDE Mayve 2 Sneakers retailing for £41, down from £55.

It has the similar black look and knitted material, while the biggest difference is the huge Puma logo emblazoned across each shoe. They are available in sizes three to eight for women only.

"SOFTRIDE styles blend function and style with SOFTRIDE foam for all-day cushioning and classic PUMA looks," reads the product description. "It’s your everyday go-to sneaker. This version keeps you comfortable through every stride with a plush SOFTFOAM+ sockliner."

Meanwhile, Net-A-Porter is offering a much more expensive lookalike in the APL Athletic Propulsion Labs in black or cream. Each pair will set you back £130, which is 60 per cent down from its usual retail price of £325.

The product description says: "APL Athletic Propulsion Labs designed these 'Streamline' sneakers as a lightweight and performance-driven running shoe. Made from black 'AeroLux' ripstop for breathability, they're trimmed with tonal rubber and set on chunky 'FutureFoam' soles that promote forward motion and energy return.

"They have newly-developed 'Soufflé' sockliners for additional comfort and integrated laces for a secure and customizable fit." More information on both alternatives to the Argos shoe are available on the Puma and Net-A-Porter websites .