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We tested over 20 pairs to find the best for every gardeners needs.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
To learn more about how we tested gardening shoes, check outour testing processbelow.
They also started to feel hot quickly when in the sun.
Overall, the best gardening shoes are theSloggers waterproof comfort shoes.
Credit: Amazon
After testing them for months, the shoes received high scores across categories and a near-perfect rating overall.
Plus, theyre a waterproof, closed-toe option thats even great for rainy days or cooler weather.
When it came to comfort, we noticed the shoes dont offer much arch support.
The Sloggers Original garden shoe lived up to its waterproof claims in our tests.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Viveka Neveln
Our feet didnt feel sore after wearing them for 30 minutes, however, and they felt well-cushioned.
The shoes received a perfect score for their design as we appreciated the tulip design and gloss finish.
We tried them without socks and noticed that the shoes made a slight noise while walking.
The shoes include a heavy-duty tread to minimize slipping, which is perfect forgardening in wet conditions.
After extended use, however, we did find that mud often got stuck in the deep treading.
They have waterproof material but do feature holes that let water through.
We liked the breathability, thanks to the multiple holes and the lightweight material.
However, after six months of regular wear, they’ve held up well.
We found these to be nicely cushioned with a fair amount of support.
Leaving the shoes in direct sunlight may cause them to shrink or warp.
We foundthis pair of Crocssuper easy to slip on, both when using the back strap and when not.
They kept our feet sweat-free, too.
Some may find that the shaft fits too tightly around the calf.
Theyre waterproof boots that can be rolled down to fit more like a shoe.
After months of testing, these gardening shoes remained in excellent shape.
These tend to feel hot in warm or sunny weather, so theyre best for cool or rainy days.
These waterproof bootsfrom Joulescome to about mid-calf height and have a rubber exterior and sole that keep toes dry.
One drawback is that these are not breathable, which made our feet feel hot on warm days.
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Plus, the 25 color and pattern choices let you really show off your gardening personality.
The size chart recommendations didnt seem accurate, so we needed to size down for a better fit.
When it comes to both comfort and durability, these tall boots are the clear winner.
The Amoji Garden Clogs' holes made the pair incredibly breathable, making it a great pick for warmer months.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
The bottom half of the boot is made from a sturdy but flexible neoprene rubber so its waterproof.
The top half is much softer, water-resistant, and provides insulation.
Theyre waterproof yet comfortable and even easy to clean, making them ideal for all types of gardening tasks.
Credit: Anthropologie
If youre looking for a less-expensive option, the top shoes are theAmoji Unisex Garden Clogs.
The shoes are breathable, form fitting, and lightweight.
Plus, theyre offered in a variety of colors.
The Hunter Garden Clogs offered support and a smooth, waterproof interior.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Sarah Martens
The final score for each pair was determined by averaging the scores in each category.
If you need a waterproof option, consider materials like neoprene and rubber.
It’s worth noting that depending on the style, they may not be the most breathable options.
“You’ll definitely want something waterproof for the cooler months.
I prefer water-repelling sandals for the summer so my feet can breathe,” says Parks.
To help, consider clogs or shorter styles that let more air in.
Arch Support
Overall, the best gardening shoes will offer some arch support.
In general, rubber options can be easily wiped or hosed down after each use.
However, that also makes them very heavy to wear.
Hisea Men’s Rain Boots
We found theseboots from Hiseato be waterproof and durable with good traction.
However, they didnt provide arch support and werent breathable.
Your Questions, Answered
What makes a shoe a gardening shoe?
For less-than-tidy gardeners, rain boots are also a solid option.
For those looking for a trendy gardening shoe, however, clogs and other slip-on styles are worth considering.
Can you wear gardening shoes without socks?
Wearing socks with gardening shoes is a personal choice, according to Gatanas.
She recommends wearing them with waterproof and water-resistant shoes to prevent chafing and cut back on sweat.
What’s the difference between water resistant and waterproof?
She also consultedSara Gatanas, director of marketing at Urban Garden Center, andKatie Parksof Freckles & Sprouts.
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval.
In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
Looking for more products that have earned ourBHG Recommends seal of approval?
Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers.
Credit: Crocs
The Crocs Specialist II Work Clogs were easy to slip on and off.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / John Beard
Credit: Amazon
The Muckster II’s kept our feet dry when we sprayed the boots with water.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief
Credit: Amazon
We could still kneel comfortably while wearing the Joules Women’s Molly Welly Rain Boots.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Ashley Schaubroeck
Credit: Muck Boot Company
The Muck Boot Company Edgewater II’s are tall enough for extra muddy conditions or tasks where you want a second layer of protection.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Alan Schultz
