Enjoy spending time in your garden? Chances are, you know the frustration of trying to find a pair of suitable shoes and grappling with laces or zips every time you go in or out. A pair of practical gardening shoes removes this problem. Pop them by the back door and you’ll always be able to nip out at a moment’s notice.
The best gardening shoes have a slip-on design for convenience, and are waterproof to keep your feet dry in any weather. These days, the selection of gardening shoes available is huge, but we've focused on the simple clog.
Here's how to choose gardening shoes
Back in fashion, durable, and incredibly comfortable, gardening clogs are a useful addition to your outdoor wardrobe. Plus, you can find clogs in a wide variety of different colours and patterns, from traditional khaki tones to colourful prints and patterns. When deciding on your favourite pair, check to make sure they have grippy soles and possibly even a removable lining for extra warmth in colder months.
Of course, your gardening shoes may not be the most stylish item in your wardrobe, but they’ll certainly make your life a lot easier whenever you want to nip outside. Here's our list of the best gardening shoes.
If you're looking for wellies, take a look at our round-up of the best wellington boots for walking and gardening, and the best welly storage options here.
The best gardening shoes in 2024
Birkenstock Schuhe Super-Birki Clog
Available in a range of colours and sizes, the versatile Super-Birki can be worn by anyone and everyone. Made from dirt-resistant polyurethane, with a fabric footbed lining and non-slip sole, these are both practical and durable. The super-resilient shoe can actually be washed at up to 60C.
Plus, the removable, cork-latex footbed can be removed and popped in the washing machine. A practical addition to keep by your door or in your allotment or greenhouse for sliding on and off.
Take a look at the best boot scrapers for clean hallways and wellies!
Dunlop Gardening Shoes
These slip-on gardening shoes from Dunlop carry more than a resemblance to the company's extremely popular wellies and that's no bad thing.
Waterproofing shouldn't be a concern and the deep cut soles should make light work of mud and puddles. The unisex design is available in a wide range of sizes.
Hunter Gardener Clog
Iconic for their wellies, Hunter also have a range of clogs for the gardener who spends their days popping in and out of the garden. They're easy to slip on and off. Perfect for when you want to do a quick bit of weeding or grab some herbs for dinner.
Made from waterproof, vegan rubber these clogs clean easily and have a sturdy tread for grip. The neoprene lining adds breathability. A great choice if you garden throughout the year. Come rain or shine, these shoes will see you through. Pick between dark olive/grey or vintage green.
Backdoor Shoes Poppy Explosion Outdoor Clogs
Buy from Backdoorshoes (£34.95)
The clue is in the name. These colourful and comfortable outdoor clogs are designed to be kept by the backdoor, ready for quickly slipping in and out of when trekking into the back garden. They're the simple, no-lace way to keep the world of worms and muck away from your carpets and rugs.
Easy to put on and take off, and completely waterproof, not only will these shoes stop your socks from getting soggy, but their unique foam construction makes them washable and reusable.
Aigle Rubber Shoes
If you're looking for a little more ankle support without restriction, this boot from Aigle is a great choice. The non-slip sole is notched to assist with outdoor terrain and the lining ensures quick drying and extra insulation. The material on the upper part of the boot has a quilted feel for comfort but is still lightweight.
We like the boot's stylish look and would happily wear them beyond the garden gate. After heavy use in the garden, wipe clean with warm water and a mild soap to help them last longer.
Sicilian Lemon Garden Clogs
An economical and pretty design from Crocus, these flexible and lightweight clogs add a boost of colour to your gardening routine.
Perfect for popping in a bag and carrying to the allotment or keeping as a spare pair at the other end of your garden in the greenhouse or shed, these plastic clogs are waterproof and come with removable insoles for added comfort.
Giesswein Chamerau
Perhaps not suitable for practical gardening but nice to have at the back door when you need to step out for cut flowers or garden herbs. Or when you want to simply find a seat and enjoy all your hard work. This is a cosy outdoor slipper for evenings outdoors or an early morning wander on the terrace.
The sole is made from thermo-insulating cork and the upper is made from wool felt. This helps your feet to keep warm without sweating. The thicker than usual footbed gives us the confidence that these slippers will cope with being outdoors on dry, sunny days. There's two colours to choose from: anthracite or grey.
RHS Muckster II Shoes
Buy from The Original Muck Boot Company (£85.00)
More of a shoe than a clog, The Orginal Muckboot Company have teamed up with the Royal Horticultural Society to bring you casual but durable garden footwear. The neoprene lining is breathable and comfortable and the shoes have a mud-resistant sole.
The printed, upper part of the shoe is stretchy. This is to prevent pesky stones or soil falling in the shoe and it helps keep your feet nice and dry in wet weather. At the back you'll find a handy tab to help you slip them on and off.
There are lots of designs to choose from. We liked the country vibes of this brown plaid option.
Lakeland Active Fleece-lined Dockray Clogs
If you're warming up to the idea of a pair of clogs but would like more support around the back of the ankle, have a look at these Dockray Clogs. Similar in style to Crocs - which are seeing a fashion revival by the way – the back strap is removable. Or you can simply push it forward so it sits towards the front of the shoe.
We liked their textured look and the fleece-lining that brings extra comfort and warmth. The soles are non-slip and the whole shoe is lightweight and waterproof. We think they're perfect for year-round use and as they're easy to clean, they'll last. Go up a size with these as the sizes run small.
What to consider when buying gardening shoes
Protection and Coverage
The first thing to consider when buying gardening clogs is the level of protection and coverage they offer. Look for shoes with a sturdy sole that can withstand sharp objects like thorns and rocks. Closed-toe clogs are ideal as they provide more protection to your toes. Also, consider shoes that come with waterproof or water-resistant materials to keep your feet dry when gardening on wet grounds.
Durability
Durability is another crucial factor when buying gardening clogs. You want shoes that can withstand the rigors of gardening, such as exposure to water, mud, and dirt. Consider shoes made from durable materials such as rubber, neoprene, or leather. These materials are long-lasting and can withstand exposure to different weather conditions.
Fit & Style
Comfort is key when choosing gardening clogs, so look for shoes that fit well and provide ample support. Additionally, look for clogs with good arch support to reduce fatigue when standing or walking for long periods.
Finally, consider the style of the clogs. While function is crucial, you also want a pair that looks stylish and complements your gardening attire. Gardening clogs come in different styles and colours, so choose one that fits your preferences.
The last thing you want to think about when enjoying the garden is getting your shoes dirty, or injuring your toes with a sharp tool. Gardening shoes are perfect for protecting you feet and keeping you dry, and our roundup includes a range of styles, prices, and fits, to suit every need. If you're searching for more garden must-haves, why not check out our roundup of the best welly boots, or gardening gloves?