Are you part of the mass amount of people that love gardening?
Have you ever considered the kind of stress that gardening can put on your feet?
Whether you love gardening for curating beautiful flower beds or growing fresh vegetables for your family, you’re going to need a good pair of gardening shoes.
If you treat your feet with care, that care will spread on to your garden. A solid pair of gardening shoes will support your feet, the things that continue to support you every single day. There are so many ways that you could damage your shoes or hurt your feet out in the garden. Many people never even consider these things.
The last thing that you want to do is damage your favorite pair of shoes by getting mud on them or having them sit in a shallow pool of water. Remember, gardening includes digging in the ground, pulling out weeds, and walking through soil. We’re going to be talking about some of our favorite gardening shoes in this article so that you can be confident stepping outside.
Top Gardening Shoes Comparison Chart
Product | Type | Price | Where to Buy? |
---|---|---|---|
1. Kujo Yardwear Garden Shoe | Work Shoe | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
2. Sloggers Women’s Premium Garden Clog | Clogs | $ | Check Price On Amazon |
3. Crocs Classic Clog | Clogs | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
4. Muck Boots: The Original Daily Garden Shoes | Boots | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
5. Bogs Women’s Classic Winter Blooms | Boots | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
6. Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoes | Clogs | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
7. Eliana Easy Spirit | Clogs | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
8. Bogs Women’s Classic Mid Handles Boot | Boots | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
9. Backdoorshoes Premium Garden Clogs | Clogs | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
10. Muck Boot Company Muckster Boot | Boots | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
11. Amoji Unisex Garden Clogs | Clogs | $ | Check Price On Amazon |
12. Tingley 31151 Kneed Agriculture Boots | Boots | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
13. Aleader Unisex Garden Sandal Clogs | Clogs | $ | Check Price On Amazon |
Gardening Shoes Buying Guide
Boots vs. Shoes vs. Clogs
While the article is called “Best Gardening Shoes”, you should actually know that there are different kinds of gardening shoes, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The first thing to consider when buying a pair of gardening shoes is what type you want to buy. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of gardening shoes.
Boots
Boots are the toughest of the gardening shoes, perfect for conditions that are very cold, rainy, or muddy. They give you the most protection out of all of the gardening shoe types and can be cut boot height or mid-calf height depending on your preference. The midsole section on these shoes typically come with tons of support and the outsoles are usually the strongest of the bunch. They are great for those who are working in more extreme farm conditions.
In terms of disadvantages, they aren’t the most breathable or lightweight. You may regret buying them if you live in a place that is constantly hot, or if you find yourself working in summer conditions.
Shoes
Shoes are made to feel like your average shoes, though gardening shoes come with specific features that make them far more durable and garden-ready. They have a heel cup and fit all the way around your foot, providing you with a secure fit in the case that you are moving faster. In our opinion, they provide the perfect mix between clogs and boots, in that they are lightweight, breathable, and easy to take on and off like a pair of clogs, though they are also durable, protective, and secure-fitting like boots. The disadvantages of gardening shoes compared to others really vary from model to model.
Clogs
Clogs are the best type of gardening shoes for the casual gardener. They have the least amount of overall coverage and protection, though you can easily slip them on and off if you are taking a little walk in the garden. While the open heel design isn’t very secure, it does allow for the best air circulation. Some clogs are so lightweight that you almost forget that you are wearing them, making this type of shoes perfect for hot summer months. Some, though definitely not all, come complete with heel straps that help to hold them a bit more securely in place so that you don’t feel like you are constantly sliding out of them.
Weather-Resistance
If you want to be in your garden all year-round, you are going to need a pair of shoes that can protect you from everything that you might run into. When you are out in the garden, you can be exposed to hot, cold, dry, and wet conditions. You can have constant contact with both dirt and water too, depending on where you garden.
If you understand what to look for in terms of weather-resistance, you can help to better protect your feet. Here are some very important considerations to make when looking into weather-resistant gardening shoes:
Lining
The lining of your gardening shoes is one of the most important factors if you are trying to obtain the most in terms of comfort. If you find yourself gardening in hotter summer conditions, you’re going to want lining that is more breathable. We would recommend looking for lining that is made with either cotton or mesh materials. Not only are these materials very comfortable to wear, but they are also great for wicking away any moisture that might build up in your shoes, perfect for those who have sweaty feet. These are also the best materials for preventing bacteria build-up, which can lead to foul odors. Look for keywords like “antimicrobial”.
On the other hand, if you find yourself working in cold environments a lot, you are going to need a pair of gardening shoes with more protective lining. Look for materials like fur, wool, or anything that is a bit thicker. Not only will these materials help to keep you warm through the power of insulation, but they can also protect your feet from frostbite if temperatures drop really far.
Waterproofing
Before you jump the gun and buy yourself a pair of gardening shoes that are waterproof, ask yourself,
“Do I need waterproof shoes?”
If you are gardening in environments that are hot and dry, or if you are gardening very casually (aka watering, planting small flowers, picking small veggies) you may not need shoes that are 100% waterproof. Waterproofing can quickly raise the price of anything, so you will definitely end up spending a bit more if you want to get shoes that are waterproof in design.
With that said, if you find yourself out in the garden, watering your plants by hand, working in the morning dew, or walking where rain has been the day before, you will definitely need a good pair of waterproof gardening shoes. Unless you are someone who likes to squish around in damp, soggy shoes all day that still haven’t dried from the day before, we’d say that waterproofing is a necessity.
Do note that 100% waterproofing comes with added thickness and warmth, meaning they might not be the best for summer gardeners who need breathability. In that case, look for shoes that are water-resistant. They are typically lighter in weight and far more breathable. You can even get many of these waterproof shoes with ventilation holes in the top so that air circulates throughout, giving you much more room to breathe.
Sole
There are a huge variety of soles available on the market. Deciding which type of sole you need to get really depends on what type of gardening you will be doing. If you just need a simple pair of gardening shoes that you can slip on so that you can walk into your yard and pick some snap peas or pull some weeds out, you might not need heavy-duty soles. In this case, looking for soles that are more lightweight and flexible might do you better. The lighter the sole, the more comfortable they will feel on your feet. A lot of the time, lightweight soles are so light that you forget they are on your feet altogether.
Yards that are in the rain a lot or constantly have mulch on them require soles that are a bit more heavy-duty. You will probably want a sole that is a bit more rigid and durable so that you can step around without fear of injuring your feet. Most high-quality gardening shoes come with semi-rigid soles to offer better protection, so you won’t have trouble finding these in the least bit. The coolest thing about semi-rigid soles is that they provide you with different types of texture on the bottom, giving you tons of traction in conditions that are very slick and slippery. Depending on your gardening environment, the best in traction might be a must.
Lastly, you can get soles that are available on heavy-duty, work-style boots. These types of soles can be an inch thick, allowing you to do serious garden work like digging ditches or clearing mud. These shoes are made with hardcore traction patterns that are heavily textured, providing you with all of the traction you need in the most extreme of environments. They’re great for cold ground too, as you get tons of space between the soles of your feet and the outside environment.
Durability
Gardening shoes need to have some durability to last out in the garden, at least more durability than your average sneaker. Think about it, you’ll be walking around in wet, hot, or muddy conditions all day. In order to have your gardening shoes last you for a long time, they must be made with higher-quality materials that are meant for the outdoors.
One of the best types of materials that we often see in gardening shoes is rubber. Rubber offers a solid amount of water-resistance, helping to keep your feet dry, but also helps you to maintain a strong grip when you are in slicker environments. Rubber also fits really nicely, though still allows air to circulate throughout your foot.
Nylon is another great material to look for in gardening shoes. While it isn’t the most breathable, it is still very strong and will hold up nicely over the years. Nylon is cheap to manufacture and it is also some of the strongest material around with flexible properties. It is known for heat-resistance as well, making it perfect for hotter weather conditions too.
Lastly, we recommend mesh materials for those that are working in hot weather exclusively. While mesh is the least protective type of material out there, offering almost no protection from rocks or other sharp objects that you might come across in the garden, it is the lightest in weight, providing you with a comfortable fit and tons of air circulation in the summer. While it isn’t waterproof necessarily, it is water-resistant and dries very quickly. We would highly recommend it for those who garden often in hot weather.
Comfort
You always want your gardening shoes to have a fit that is very snug. Shoes that fits snugly around your feet help to protect you from mud, water, and other debris that seep in with ease. Snug shoes can be a problem though if there are no easy ways to get them on and off. Unless you are getting a pair of clog-style gardening shoes, it could be a struggle. This is why we recommend looking for gardening shoes that have handles or pull tabs so that you can get them on and off with ease. This is especially helpful when you are trying to remove them with slippery hands or gloves.
The inside sole is also very important to consider as well. A sole is the heart of the shoe, providing you with everything from comfort, to stability, to balance, and beyond. Often, people don’t just go out in the garden to work for an hour. The gardening process can last a full day, meaning you’ll be on your feet for longer periods. This can take a massive toll on your feet if you aren’t careful. Constantly bending over or picking up heavy objects can be the cause of aches in pains in your feet that can take you off your feet for a week. If you wear the right kinds of shoes with ample support, you won’t have to worry about dealing with those same aches and pains.
A midsole is made to absorb any shock that hits your foot from walking or running, giving you an extra layer of cushioning for comfort. In general, a midsole that is soft will be far more flexible and lightweight in design while a harder insole will be far heavier and much more rigid. A midsole that is soft helps you to avoid shock that can harm your feet, though they aren’t nearly as durable, meaning they may wear out in less time. It’s usually a choice between total comfort or longevity in many cases.
Your outsole is the outside of your sole and is the part of your shoe that will touch the ground. You’ll likely want to look for an outsole that is made with natural rubber material or PVC, as these are incredibly durable and water-resistant. If you want your gardening shoes to have the most longevity possible, it is necessary to look for some with durable materials.
Best Gardening Shoes Reviews
Kujo Yardwear Garden Shoe
Shawn Langton, the founder of Kujo Yardwear, used to wear his old sneakers in the yard for many years. He was sick of dealing with nasty morning dew and slipping all over the place. Because he couldn’t find the perfect solution for his problems, he decided to create his own special shoes that were built for hardcore gardeners. Kujo Yardwear shoes are some of the best in the business and come with a variety of high-quality features.
The SPU toe material is coated, making it 100% waterproof. You can clean it with ease and it is totally abrasion resistant, meaning you’ll be able to wear these bad boys without fear of breakage. The EVA midsole is cushioned nicely, adding a solid amount of comfort to these shoes and providing wearers with total support. Ultimately, Kujo Yardwear Garden Shoes are perfect for those who suffer from flat feet and need good arch support when they’re on their feet all day.
The durable rubber outsole has aggressive lugs, giving you the best slip-resistance possible. If you work early mornings or in generally wet environments, slip-resistance is a must. The top is made with a breathable air mesh that gives you both protection and breathability, keeping your feet nice and dry and providing lightweight properties to keep you moving swiftly. Lastly, you get antimicrobial lining on the inside that helps to protect you from bacteria and fungi that grow in damp environments.
Pros
- Breathable and flexible mesh construction
- Rugged and slip-resistant outsole
- Comfortable with tons of arch support
Cons
- Kind of hard to get on and off
Sloggers Women’s Premium Garden Clog
The thing we love most about the Sloggers Women’s Premium Garden Clog is that it can be worn pretty much anywhere. From the garden, to the store, to lunch, and beyond, it’s a comfortable, everyday kind of shoe that just so happens to be perfect for the garden as well. It is made out of 100% waterproof material, which will help to keep your feet from getting soggy and wet while you are in the garden.
One cool thing about Sloggers shoes in general is that they use recycled materials to manufacture their shoes. If you’re someone who cares a lot about the environment, you’ll love the fact that Sloggers does too. The beauty is, when your Sloggers shoe hits rock bottom and you need a brand new one, you can simply ship it back to Sloggers HQ and they will recycle it and make you another.
Beyond these shoes having a comfortable feel and environmentally-friendly build, they are nice and lightweight. Besides the fact that your feet will stay comfortable and safe from any harm, you’ll almost feel as if you were wearing no shoes at all. Overall, these are some of the best women’s gardening shoes out there!
Pros
- 100% waterproof design
- Functional, slip-on design
- Anti-microbial properties
Cons
- Not the most stable or secure fit
Crocs Classic Clog
Unless you’ve been living under a giant rock for the past decade, you’ve most likely heard of the name Crocs, or at least have seen these shoes around. Crocs are easily one of the most popular types of slip-on, gardening shoe on the market. Their functional design makes them incredibly easy to take on and off, though unlike most slip-on gardening shoes, these babies come with back straps that keeps your feet far more secure. Thanks to the fact that it only wraps around the heel, you still have the freedom to move your feet around and bend your ankles with ease.
The coolest thing about Crocs is that you have more than 30 colors and designs to choose from. On the tops, you’ll see big drainage holes. These are great if you have to stand in water or deal with your hose, as water will seep out instead of pooling at the bottom. These holes are also great for those who have sweaty feet and need some shoes to keep them dry. In terms of fit, Crocs are nice and wide, great for those with wider feet. Overall, if you’re looking for comfort and simplicity, look no further than Crocs.
Pros
- Easy-to-use design
- Secure heel strap for comfort
- Lightweight, waterproof build
Cons
- Flat arch that may not be suited for high-arched feet
Muck Boots: The Original Daily Garden Shoes
Muck Boots have been around for quite some time and probably have the strongest design out of most of the shoes on our list. These shoes are made of premium materials and are best for hardcore gardeners who are getting dirty in wetter or more extreme environments. Muck Boots are awesome for gardeners who work in outside conditions with tons of bugs, such as mosquitoes or ants, as they wrap around your feet to give them total protection. No more worrying about getting nasty fire ant bites. They’re also great if you’re working in the sun and you get burnt easily, as they’ll protect your feet from harsh UV rays.
The uppers are made from a durable rubber material that is not only water-resistant, but also very easy to clean thanks to the smooth surface exterior. The lining inside of the shoes is made with a moisture-wicking material, perfect for those who have sweaty feet and are looking for a way to stay dry when the summers get a little hot. You’ll feel much cooler with dry feet. Beyond the high-quality designs and features, you can choose from a wide variety of colors and patterns, perfect for the gardener who wants to flaunt his or her style. Overall, the original Muck Boots are one of our favorite pairs of shoes for serious gardeners thanks to the durability and functionality.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable design
- 100% waterproof and dirt-resistant
- Moisture-wicking interior for keeping dry
Cons
- Rubber upper might crack over time if not taken care of
Bogs Women’s Classic Winter Blooms
Bogs is a company from Oregon, the state where gardeners continue to work year-round, no matter the conditions. This means that they are prepped for the worst of conditions.
If you garden in an environment that is freezing cold or very wet, you are going to need a more hardcore gardening shoes to protect you. Luckily, Bogs has their Women’s Classic Winter Blooms that are perfect for winter gardening. They are rated for -40-degrees Fahrenheit, giving you all the protection that you need in the coldest of conditions.
The outsole is made with a non-marked, non-slip rubber material that is made to keep your foot very comfortable, as well as warm, thanks to the added insulation. Not only are the Bogs Women’s Classic Winter Blooms completely waterproof, but they also have removable insoles, so in the case that water gets in, you can take them out to dry or replace them completely. We absolutely love the floral design on these boots, as they give off a gorgeous, garden-style aesthetic that will have all of your gardening friends talking.
Pros
- 100% waterproof design
- Insulated and comfortable with four-way stretch inner bootie
- Easy to put on with built-in pull-on handles
Cons
- Neoprene uppers are known to retain nasty odors if not cleaned
Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoes
Sloggers Waterproof Rain and Garden shoes are some of the most comfortable gardening shoes around. These waterproof rain shoes provide you with total protection from water while also providing you with easy, slip-on construction so that you can take them on and off with ease. They are available in tons of awesome styles too that will definitely have all of your gardening friends talking.
These shoes are made with a removable insole so that you can take them apart to wash them or dry them if need be. It’s incredibly easy to wash mud off with a simple spray down, though having the ability to take the insole out beforehand will expedite the drying time so that you don’t have to wait a few days to wear them again. The soles are made with a semi-rigid material, giving you the perfect mix of flex and durability. There is a heavy lug tread that gives you the ability to walk around in almost any condition without fear of slipping or falling.
Environmentalists will love the fact that these shoes are made from 100% recyclable material without using any latex or animal materials. Overall, they are some of the most durable and functional slip-on gardening shoes that are on the market.
Pros
- Heavy-duty lugs for extreme traction
- Very easy to clean
- Made with 100% recyclable materials
Cons
- The sizing is kind of weird
Eliana Easy Spirit
If you’re looking for the best in terms of comfort, the Eliana Easy Spirit gardening shoes should be at the top of your list. They are some of the most comfortable gardening shoes on the market and are built with durability in mind. They are mad with a slip-on design, meaning they are very easy to take on and off, and have a leather upper for extra strength. The removable insoles are a cool touch, allowing you to clean them with ease to get rid of any bacteria that may be holding on. The midsole is made with a sculpted EVA material and has a padded footbed that gives you the best possible arch support with every single step you take.
The soles on these shoes are made of a durable rubber material that is completely waterproof and has grip that is great for slick conditions. You’ll never have to worry about sliding around in the garden again. Even though the leather is very strong, it is still very breathable. You’ll be able to work in the hot summer months in total comfort while knowing that your shoes have the best possible longevity. The leather also helps to make them abrasion-resistant so that they maintain their shape much better too.
Overall, if you are in the market for a pair of gardening shoes that are both extremely comfortable and very stylish, look no further than the Eliana Easy Spirit clog-style shoes. Beyond that, they are very reasonably priced considering the fact that they are made out of leather.
Pros
- Comfortable and arch-supporting EVA midsole
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Stylish and durable leather material
Cons
- Runs a bit small in terms of size
Bogs Women’s Classic Mid Handles Boot
Bogs make some of the best shoes around for gardening in more extreme environments. If you ever find yourself needing boots for sub-freezing temperatures or rainy days, these are some of the best boots around. The Classic Collection from Bogs gives you 100% waterproof insulation that provides both comfort and protection, no matter how harsh the environment is that you are in. This is why they are used by so many farmers around the world.
These Bogs boots are made with Neo-Tech construction, meaning they provide wearers with a four-way stretch on the inner bootie to give the best fit possible. This bootie is also totally insulated, helping to provide warmth and comfort as well. They are rated to work in sub-freezing temperatures as well, doubling up as a solid pair of snow boots.
Beyond the comfort and protection, the DuraFresh technology helps to fight off nasty bacteria that can give your boots and shoes nasty odors. This is great for people who suffer from unusually sweaty feet. Lastly, we love the fact that these boots come with large pull handles on the tops. Typically, boots like these are pretty difficult to get on and off. These pull handles help give you the extra grip to slip them on with ease so that it’s not a struggle every time you want to get out in the garden.
Pros
- Durafresh lining to get rid of nasty odors
- Durable and flexible rubber construction
- Total protection from cold and wet environments
Cons
- Not the best for arch support
Backdoorshoes Premium Garden Clogs
Not many clog-style gardening shoes offer the kind of support that many people need. If you love the idea of having a pair of clogs, though also need the additional support to stay comfortable throughout your long gardening days, we have the perfect pair of gardening clogs for you. The Backdoorshoes Premium Garden Clogs offer tons of arch support and come in many different varieties, each with a different sole material that is meant to shape itself to your foot pattern. This offers foot support that grows with you from the minute that you put them on. Thanks to the insole design, higher-arched people will enjoy supreme comfort as well.
Backdoorshoes has removable insoles in all of their models, allowing you to easily remove them for a good cleaning or replace them with a brand new pair. You won’t have to worry about nasty odors building up on your insoles anymore. The rest of the shoes are very easy to hose off and dry very quickly so that you can wear them again and again without having to wait for dry time in-between.
While they aren’t the most durable shoes for hardcore gardening, they are incredibly comfortable and breathable compared to many other types of garden shoes that are on the market. Having shoes that work well in hotter and wetter climates is something to consider.
Pros
- Lightweight and waterproof design
- Easily-removable and washable insoles
- Comfortable, slip-on design
Cons
- Not the most durable
Muck Boot Company Muckster Boot
When it comes to gardening in cold or wet weather, having a pair of gardening shoes that gives you ultimate protection is 100% necessary. Muckster Boots provide the best in comfort and protection thanks to the fact that they are able to protect you in sub-freezing temperatures. They are made with waterproof materials, perfect for those who are gardening out in the rain or snow. The high-traction rubber outsoles give you the best contact possible with wet surfaces so that you can get rid of debris and stay upright.
They are made with 4mm of neoprene. Neoprene material is what is used in heavy wetsuits for surfing and scuba diving and 4mm is very thick. This means you won’t have to worry about staying warm during your gardening hours. Beyond that, they also have a breathable Airmesh lining that improves overall air circulation, perfect for those who suffer from sweaty feet. The midsole has a solid amount of arch and support so that you can work for long hours of the day without feeling discomfort. You won’t need to add a third-party insole to get the proper support that you need. You’ll love how easy these are to get on and off too, thanks to the pull-tab.
Pros
- Warm and waterproof neoprene design
- Breathable Airmesh lining
- High-traction outsoles
Cons
- Some people say they’ve gotten blisters from wearing these
Amoji Unisex Garden Clogs
If you constantly find yourself gardening in the hot, hot, heat, you’re going to need a pair of gardening shoes that are lightweight and comfortable, or built for that kind of environment. This is where the Amoji Unisex Garden Clogs come into play. These are specifically designed for hot-weather gardening. The upper is lined with holes to give your more breathability. It helps to keep moisture out by circulating cool air throughout the shoe.
In terms of construction, the shoes are incredibly lightweight overall. The EVA resin material that is used on the soles of the shoes is very flexible and lightweight, though also incredibly comfortable, providing you with all-day support. This EVA sole is also non-slip in design, giving you a solid amount of grip in the early mornings when there is dew on the grass. The material is 100% waterproof as well, so you won’t have to worry about getting them wet when you’re watering your yard.
The slip-on design makes them very easy to take on and off too. You can find them in a wide variety of colors too, so you’ll have no trouble finding a good pair to match your style. Overall, these generously wide, slip-on garden shoes are some of the simplest and most functional summer gardening shoes around.
Pros
- Air-circulation thanks to holes in uppers
- Available in a wide variety of colors
- 100% waterproof and easy to clean
Cons
- Not the most durable
Tingley 31151 Kneed Agriculture Boots
It is no secret that gardening boots can be incredibly expensive. This is the reason why so many people avoid buying them for as long as possible. If you don’t want to throw down a ton of money on a pair of gardening boots, we have the perfect pair for you. The Tingley 31151 Kneed Agriculture boots are made for heavy-duty gardening and come at an incredible value. You can easily muck out the stable, dig ditches in heavy mud, or just perform general, hard gardening work.
These boots are made with a durable and waterproof PVC material, providing you with the best construction possible. No matter what the task at hand is, you won’t have to worry about these boots breaking or tearing in use. They have semi-rigid soles that help to give you the best support possible. They are incredibly thick too, so you won’t have to worry about your feet getting cold or sinking around in nasty muck. Regular boots are known to get stiff when conditions become very cold. Even if you need to get outside and walk around in the snow for a bit, you can have the confidence to do so in these boots.
Pros
- Cleated outsole splits for tons of traction
- Injection-molded PVC construction for added durability
- Flexible upper for comfortable fit in cold climates
Cons
- These boots are known to retain odors
Aleader Unisex Garden Sandal Clogs
If you aren’t an avid gardener, you might not want to throw down a ton of money on an expensive pair of gardening clogs. This is where something like the Aleader Unisex Garden Sandal Clogs come in handy. These shoes are some of the most budget-friendly gardening shoes on the market, though they are still made with functionality in design. You have a wide variety of colors to choose from, perfect for expressing your style. You can slip them on and off with ease as well thanks to the clog-like design.
Though these shoes are made for hardcore gardeners who are really digging deep into the soil, they are perfect for the peaceful gardener who just wants to go out, pick some veggies, plant a few flowers, or water the yard. They are very lightweight, making them great for hotter climates or summer months. Just like Crocs, these shoes come with holes all over the top that allow moisture to move out freely, perfect for those who suffer from sweaty feet. We would highly recommend them as an alternative to your durable, heavy-duty gardening shoes if you have them.
Pros
- Tons of different colors to pick from
- Comfortable, slip-resistant outsole
- Lightweight, hot-weather friendly design
Cons
- Don’t provide the best arch support
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening Shoes
Why Do I Need a Pair Of Gardening Shoes?
If you’re like most of your average gardeners out there, you have probably been gardening in a pair of your old sneakers for years. You may ask yourself,
“Why would I really need to spend extra money on a pair of gardening-specific shoes?”
It’s a good question that we get asked all the time. For starters, regular shoes build up with mud, dirt, bacteria, and more, which ultimately destroys them completely. For those of you who currently use sneakers, you know exactly what we’re talking about. This is because unlike gardening shoes, you can’t easily rinse down a pair of sneakers and leave them out to dry.
Gardening shoes are made to hold up through rinse-downs, meaning you can rinse them as many times as you want without having to worry about the weakening of the materials. Unlike regular shoes, gardening shoes don’t soak up water in the soles. The last thing you want is to be walking round in squishy shoes all day because they are filled with water. Not only is it uncomfortable, but that is also one of the quickest ways to end up with bacteria in your shoes.
Lastly, gardening shoes are made to be ventilated or warm, depending on which type you get. Regular sneakers are made to circulate air or protect you from freezing temperatures. Like we said in the beginning, protect your feet and they will provide you with the strength to walk around and make the most out of your active gardening life.
Can I Wear Sandals In the Garden?
If you’re gardening during the summer months, it can be very tempting to wear your sandals, as they are far more comfortable and breathable. We would highly recommend against wearing your sandals though if you can. Sandals have the least amount of protection, leaving you open to a world of injuries. Rocks, mud, mulch, weeds, thorns, and more, have the option of getting in your sandals and wearing down your feet. Bacteria can build up on your feet and injuries can leave you out of gardening for a week or longer if you aren’t careful.
How Do I Clean My Gardening Shoes?
Most gardening shoes are very easy to care for. This is why we highly recommend them compared to regular sneakers. For the most part, they are made so that you can simply spray them down with freshwater after you are done and leave them out to dry.
If your gardening shoes have a removable insole, we would highly recommend taking the insole out first before you spray them down. You can also clean the insole with mild soap to get rid of any odors that may be building up.
In terms of drying, we highly recommend leaving them somewhere that is both cool and dry. If you leave them out in direct sunlight, you run the risk of letting the material crack or wear.
Where Else Can I Wear My Gardening Shoes?
The beauty of gardening shoes is that they are made to be very versatile. Many of the clog-style shoes on our list can be worn in day-to-day activities, such as going to the market, grabbing lunch, going to work, or running errands. They are very comfortable, lightweight, and casual, perfect for use in almost any situation.
Many shoe-style gardening shoes come with secure fit and solid traction, making them great alternatives to hiking shoes. When it comes to the boots on our list, many of them are made with cold-resistant materials, meaning they double up as snow boots in the winter.
Conclusion And Final Gardening Shoes Recommendations
There you have it, some of the best gardening shoes on the market. When it comes to finding the best pair of gardening shoes for your needs, it is important to take into consideration the construction, comfort, price, and overall best uses of the shoes you have in mind.
If we had to choose our favorite off of the list that excels in all of these considerations, it would be the Kujo Yardwear Garden Shoe. These shoes are some of the most functional gardening shoes on the market. We love that they are made with passion and care too, giving you all you need to garden in any way that you want. They come at a price that is very fair too, considering the fact that they will probably last you forever.
We hope that our list of gardening shoes has helped you to narrow down your choices. Now slip on your favorite pair of gardening shoes, get your materials ready, and get out there in the garden!