Gardening is one of life's simplest pleasures - there's nothing better than getting out there, digging up the soil and tending to your plants. But as much fun as gardening is, working in the wrong shoes can quickly lead to frustration with dirty feet, wet socks, sore muscles and injuries, or a broken pair of shoes.
To help you garden in comfort, we asked expert gardeners which shoes are the best for dealing with mud.
If you'd rather repurpose an old pair of sneakers and don't mind giving up the comfort and protection of a garden shoe, there's nothing fundamentally wrong with this (inexpensive and durable) option. However, if you are looking to purchase a pair of garden shoes, there are a few things to keep in mind, starting with the feel. "For a shoe that I'm going to be standing and squatting and walking and walking for hours on end, the first thing I need is comfort," says Kathy Dubo, owner of Garden Media Group, which sells garden plants to QVC. "I look for a shoe with a good sole, enough cushioning, good arch support, and a good fit, but not too tight."
When it comes to gardening shoes, a 'good sole' really is key. "The garden is a slippery area, so you want your feet to be firmly on the ground and doing a good job when you're trimming bushes, planting new tomatoes, or doing other garden chores," says Stefan Bokor, founder and owner of home improvement website Rhythm of the Home, who has more than six years of experience in gardening and landscaping. "Rubber soles with a deep tread or pattern tend to provide better traction than flat or plastic turf shoes." Apart from the possibility of slipping in the mud, safety is also an important factor to consider. "If you like to grow thorny plants and have rocks or other sharp objects in your garden, consider shoes with high sides or studs to protect your feet from dirt and nails," says Booker.
Durable garden shoes will not only help prevent injuries, but also extend the life of your shoes. If you're constantly looking for replacements, the costs - both to your wallet and to the environment - can quickly add up. "Gardening can be tough on shoes because they're exposed to dirt, mud, wheel holes, spikes, sharp tools, and more," Dubeau says. "But this is a contact sport! I'm looking for a durable rubber shoe, or at least a durable, stable toe box.' If a shoe is damaged, always repair it before replacing it.
It's also a good idea to look for waterproof (or at least very durable) gardening shoes, warns Dubov, given how much you'll be watering plants and walking on wet grass and mud. "For the next job, it's important to have shoes that keep your feet dry, comfortable and dry quickly," he says. Plus, if it's waterproof, it's easy to clean with a hose.
You might not worry so much about keeping your bathers clean every day, but you'll appreciate the convenience when you decide to freshen up. Speaking of comfort, Brian Clayton, CEO of GreenPal, a service that connects gardening professionals with customers, recommends purchasing gardening shoes that are "easy to slip on and off both indoors and outdoors."
Then there is the method. Will the appearance of your gardening shoes affect your safety or success in the garden? Probably not, but if you really love shoes, you'll probably enjoy wearing them and going to the park even more. In addition, Dubov added: “They love gardening; Why don't you like the clothes you wear in the garden?
Here are seven According to experienced gardeners, they are one of the best garden shoes.
Dubov and Bukur recommend these clogs from Sluggers, a company that has been making waterproof footwear for decades. "The interior is made of a soft textile material that is excellent for your comfort, and the sole has large grooves that help to properly anchor your feet in the ground and mud," says Bokor. In fact, Dubov points out, Sloggers fulfill most requirements when it comes to shopping for gardening shoes, and as a bonus, they come in a variety of colors and patterns. "Many people like to be able to take a pinch with them to other activities outside of their backyard, such as hiking, camping, or rainy day adventures," Dubow says. Their versatility makes them a practical and reliable shoe option for a wide variety of occasions. Extra Durability: The soles are made from 90% recycled materials, and the company has a recycling program, so you can send in your old Sloggers to be rebuilt into a new pair (and get a $5 coupon for it).
"I love how easy it is to integrate into everyday gardening," says Jean Macdonald, a certified organic gardener and co-founder of garden design company Garden Girls, noting the "classic look" and important features for gardeners. "It's comfortable and lined with quick-drying neoprene." Additionally, Macdonald notes that Hunter's two-year warranty on decorative shoes can give you peace of mind if you're worried about the high price of garden shoes. Sustainability-focused Hunter has its own recycling initiative called the ReBoot Program, which allows customers to send in old shoes that might otherwise end up in landfill.
This garden shoe is just like any other, but it's specifically designed for garden use, and according to the Oaks, it serves more than one purpose. "These are the most comfortable and durable work shoes you'll ever buy," says Dubov. "There's no need for protectors. They're lightweight, breathable, and waterproof. The sole is waterproof enough to dip your feet in the pool and keep them dry. Includes an antimicrobial coating. Easy to drive, hike, or walk behind. Even the black color doesn't show dirt." Need I say more?
“I would happily recommend Bogs to fashion-conscious gardeners,” says MacDonald, ensuring that function is never sacrificed to form. “It is completely waterproof and has no smell. It's comfortable enough to wear all day and stylish enough when you're done with the garden and need to go to the store." The design of the boot isn't as simple as you might expect, but it's still the same, with the added benefit of protecting your ankles from thorns, twigs and other potential garden hazards. "This is my Gold Star gardening shoe for the biggest, dirtiest jobs," says MacDonald. "At the end of the day, when I'm covered in dirt and sweat, my shoes still look great." For men, the Kicker Rain Chelsea II style offers a very similar look and the same basic benefits as the Sweetpea.
In terms of sustainability, Bogs has taken several measures to reduce its carbon footprint, including the use of algae-based EVA soles throughout the shoe, the use of sustainable rubber from FSC-certified areas, and mandatory delivery in eco-friendly packaging. The company is also active in the field of external education; Bogs continually makes grants to non-profit outdoor education organizations and donates used shoes to the organizations. (When you or your kids are done with Bogs, ask for a prepaid shipping label and send it in.)
Clayton is a fan of these shoes from Native, a brand that focuses exclusively on lightweight waterproof shoes, and it's also the main reason Clayton wears them to work in the yard. Because of the holes in the shoes, they are perfect for warmer climates as you can remove your socks and get your feet wet in the process (watering and cooling your plants at the same time is a win-win situation). And as Clayton points out, Native is another company that puts sustainability first, thanks to the unmatched level of transparency and information they provide to customers about their carbon footprint, materials and initiatives. The Native Shoes Remix project recycles old shoes and donates materials for projects like playgrounds, insulation, and more.
Flat ballet flats and turf boots may seem like an odd combination, but these waterproof neoprene boots successfully combine the best of both worlds. The silhouette creates a unique garden shoe look and ensures your feet stay cool in high temperatures, while the durable sole, breathable insole and waterproof neoprene provide the protection you need for a day in the garden. The pattern is also available in plain black if you prefer a more minimalist look, and the company sells more traditional garden patterns, depending on which Dubow matches. "Mud boots have always been known for being durable, washable and comfortable," he says.
These Wells might be considered a fishing shoe, but with the same features that make them great for boating, such as a high slip-resistant sole and 100% waterproof exterior, they're also great for gardening, which is why Dubow recommends them. "They're very durable and waterproof, and they're best for working in harsher, wetter conditions," he says, adding that the ankles are also lightweight, although they have a higher profile than many garden shoes.
