Best Shoes for Yard Work- Gardening Shoes for Men and Women

One of the duties of a responsible homeowner is to keep your yard looking presentable. From gardening to landscaping, yard work includes a variety of activities that will improve the curbside appeal of your home. Finding the right footwear for this activity will keep your feet dry and comfortable.

-Waterproof shoes that are easy to slip on and off are best for basic gardening. If you work in rougher conditions, such as agriculture or landscaping, you should find more protective shoes. Either way, you can find the best shoes for your yard work within any budget.

Yard Shoe	Fit	Price	Best Feature
Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Low Steel-Toe Lace-Up	Men's	Expensive	Steel toe boot protects toes; ideal for landscaping or shoveling
Muck Boots Muckster Ll Men’s Rubber Garden Shoes	Men's	Moderately-priced; our pick for best men's shoe for yard work	Good traction; non-slip sole perfect for slippery conditions
NORTY Ladies Ankle Rain Boots	Women's	Budget-friendly	6” height will protect your ankles from abrasions from weeds and sharp objects
Crocs Men's and Women's Classic Clog	Unisex	Budget-friendly	Coslite foam insole with extra cushion
Easy Spirit Eliana	Women's	Moderately-priced	Adjustable velcro strap across the upper
Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe with Comfort Insole	Women's	Budget-friendly; our pick for best women's shoe for yard work	Durable, solid soles with excellent traction
Joules Molly Welly Rain Boot	Women's	Moderately-priced	Elevated platform rubber sole for messier jobs
Sloggers Men’s Premium Garden Clog	Men's	Budget-friendly	Soft interior lining is breathable for comfort
SaphiRose Mud Muck Slip-ons	Unisex	Budget-friendly	“all weather” shoes; protect your feet during warm, wet, and cold conditions
Wolverine Men’s Dublin Waterproof Boot	Men's	Expensive	6.5" tall; protects your feet and ankles from injuries/hazards

Best Shoes for Yard Work

Muck Boots Muckster Ll Men’s Rubber Garden Shoes

Before Muck Boots started making garden clogs in 1999, there was a demand for durable and comfortable outdoor footwear. Finding its premium market, the company manufactured waterproof and leather boots that could withstand the harshest conditions, such as work on the farm, in the yard, or on rugged terrain. The Muck Boots Muckster Ll Men’s Rubber Garden Shoe is perfect for rough gardening jobs, protecting your feet from the elements with its rubber upper and non-slip outsole. These moderately-priced garden shoes have excellent shock absorption and great traction, ideal for those who need more protection in the yard.

The Muck Boot Muckster Ll’s Stretch-Fit Comfort Topline adjusts to the shape of your foot, but it doesn’t come in half-sizes, and they run narrow. In some reviews, users have complained that the insole is uncomfortable, taking away from the quality of the shoe. Fortunately, this insole is removable so that you can replace it with a more comfortable insert or orthotic.

Pros

• Durable rubber sole has excellent shock absorption for irregular terrain
• Stretch-fit Comfort Topline form-fits your foot, protecting it from the elements
• Mesh interior pulls moisture away from your feet, keeping them dry
• Good traction; non-slip sole perfect for slippery conditions
• Heel tab
• Rubber extends to upper, making shoe 100% waterproof and keeps your feet comfortable in any temperature

Cons

• Moderately priced
• No half sizes
• Run narrow
• Some complaints that the insole is uncomfortable; removable, but only ¼” thick

 

Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Low Steel-Toe Lace-Up

Men who work outdoors are more than familiar with Timberlands- they are one of the premium manufacturers of work boots and outdoor shoes. With the Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Low Steel-Toe Lace-Up Boot, men who work in agriculture or landscaping get the protection they need for their feet. The quality leather upper makes the shoe breathable, and the sturdy, slip-resistant rubber outsole provides shock absorption for rugged environments. The low-top design protects the feet and ankles, and the steel-toe boot protects the toes from mishaps during landscaping or shoveling.

The sturdy build of the shoe isn’t for everyone: the Mudsill has a higher price point, and it isn’t convenient for basic gardening or yard activities. The lace-up design isn’t ideal for those who want a handy outdoor shoe that they can slip on and off. Some reviews complain that the anti-microbial insole isn’t that comfortable and that the cushion around the back of the heel wears down over time. Despite these drawbacks, the Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Low Steel-Toe Lace-Up Boot can endure slippery, rough conditions in their yard work.

Pros

• Quality Leather upper is breathable
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole has shock absorption
• Low top boot protects feet and ankles
• Steel toe boot protects toes; ideal for landscaping or shoveling
• Insole anti-microbial for odor control
• Light EVA midsole provides extra cushion for rugged terrain

Cons

• Expensive
• Lace-up boots not for those who want a convenient outdoor shoe
• Reports that lace hooks at top snap off
• Some complaints that the back heel wears down
• The insole provides minimum support

NORTY Ladies Ankle Rain Boots

The NORTY Ladies Ankle Rain Boots also provide excellent support and coverage for slightly messy yard work. If you need to water a larger yard or garden, these budget-friendly boots are completely waterproof to keep your feet dry. With a 6” height, they protect your feet and ankles from weeds, shrubs, or any other abrasions that you may encounter. The NORTY Ladies Ankle Rain Boots also have a non-slip sole to prevent accidents in wet conditions, and they are cotton-lined to keep your feet warm during colder weather.

Although these boots were designed for comfort and durability, there have been some quality issues. Some reviewers complained that they fall apart easily: the soles have separated from the upper, and the seams rip with frequent use. The boots do run large, which can make ordering the right size an issue. Otherwise, if you are only wearing for gardening, they should last you a while.

Pros

• Wide range of colors and styles
• Waterproof
• Slip-resistant sole with good traction
• 6” height will protect your ankles from abrasions from weeds and sharp objects
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Run large
• Some quality issues with stitching and the sole staying connected to the upper

Croc’s Classic Clog

What makes Crocs so comfortable, despite their less-than-stellar appearance, is their Croslite foam closed-cell resin insole, making the soles light with excellent bounce-back. The Crocs Men’s and Women’s Classic Clog is a good example of why people love the company’s footwear. This waterproof shoe is ideal for gardening and useful in all other wet environments. 

For light gardening or quick runs to walk the dog, these are the perfect shoe. However, those who have moderate to heavy yard duties may find another shoe to be better for their purposes. The slip-on design may not be for those who move a lot during their yard work. The design of the classic is what made people like them originally, so the shoes will either work for you or not.

An important note is that they aren’t ideal if you have a high arch: with little arch support, they are a better fit for those who have flatter feet.

Pros

• Waterproof
• Coslite foam insole with extra cushion
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Slip-on design may not be ideal for those with heavy-duty yard work
• Run narrow
• Complaints of little arch support; better for those who have flatter feet

 

Easy Spirit Eliana

For almost forty years, Easy Spirit has been a leading manufacturer of female-friendly footwear that ranges from comfortable sandals to active running shoes. The Easy Spirit Eliana is a moderately priced, comfortable shoe that is durable enough for basic yard work. The EVA midsole provides good rebound, and the waterproof outsole is slip-resistant to prevent accidents in wet conditions. With an extra durable leather upper, the Easy Spirit Eliana keeps its shape longer than most gardening shoes, and it has an adjustable top strap to get the perfect fit.

The Eliana runs small, so you may have to order up from your usual size. Although the company advertises its comfort, there is very little arch support. The low back heel collapses easily, so the shoe will slip off with frequent movement. Also, there is a narrow toe box, so they aren’t ideal for those with wide feet. The Easy Spirit Eliana is perfect for those who desire a customizable, durable shoe for their yard work or every-day chores.

Pros

• Slip-resistant
• Removable insole
• EVA midsole
• Waterproof outsole
• Leather upper is extra durable
• Adjustable velcro strap across the upper

Cons

• Moderately priced
• Run small
• No arch support
• Slip-off easily; back collapses
• Narrow toe box

 

Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe with Comfort Insole

As one of the top-rated waterproof shoes on the market today, the Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe with Comfort Insole is equally useful for working in the yard or running errands on a rainy day. It has a durable sole with excellent traction, which reduces slipping while watering your garden or cutting your grass. The padded insole and a wide toe box make them more comfortable, but the removable insole is ideal for people who have custom orthotics. Manufactured with recycled materials, the Sloggers Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe with Comfort Insole comes in a variety of colors and designs.

Although they have rave reviews, there have been some complaints about their fit. The Sloggers run small, and they don’t come in half-sizes. Some report that these garden clogs are heavy and don’t breathe very much, so they wouldn’t be best for days of garden work. The tight ankle opening, meant to keep the water and muck out of the shoe, can be uncomfortable, depending on the thickness of your foot. If you are looking for cheap, convenient footwear in which you can run errands and water your garden, the Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe with Comfort Insole is the most budget-friendly option on our list.

Pros

• Multiple design and color selections
• Made from recycled materials; vegan-friendly
• Durable, solid soles with excellent traction
• Convenient to put on and slide off
• Wide toe box
• Removable insole for custom orthotics
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Not a wide range of sizes; no half-sizes
• Some reports that the shoe is heavy with little breathability
• Some complaints about fit
• Tight ankle opening

Joules Molly Welly Dragonfly Rain Boot

In business for just over forty years, Joules has built its reputation for manufacturing clothing and footwear that is useful and stylish. Inspired by color palettes from life in the English countryside, the company separated from other companies that created clothes and shoes with dull, muted colors. The Joules Molly Welly Rain Shoe is great for outdoor wear, especially if you are working in your yard. This moderately-priced selection is made entirely of rubber, creating a more durable boot than other outdoor shoes. With a thicker outsole and heel, the Joules Molly Welly provides more arch support for those who have extensive outdoor duties, such as farm work. The flexible boot measures 10” from the arch, protecting you from hazards and injuries from your foot to your mid-calf.

Although the Joules Molly Welly Ran Shoes are composed of a long-lasting rubber, there have been some comments that the boot cracked or fell apart after a few months of consistent wear. They run very large, so you may have to order a size down from your standard size. As with most rain boots, these take some effort to get on and off, which may dissuade some buyers who want a more convenient shoe.

Pros

• Completely rubber rain boot
• Elevated platform rubber sole for messier jobs
• 10” from arch; protects feet to mid-calf
• Flexible
• Good arch support

Cons

• Moderately priced
• Some complaints that they cracked and fell apart after a few months of consistent wear
• Runs large
• Take some effort to take on and off

 

Sloggers Men’s Premium Garden Clog

Sloggers is the premium company in waterproof footwear. With its anti-microbial interior, the Sloggers Men’s Premium Garden Clog keeps moisture away from your feet, and it helps eliminate foot odor after long-term wear. Manufactured with recycled materials, the Sloggers Men’s Garden Clog has a soft, breathable interior for hot days. These shoes have superior traction, and they are remarkably easy-to-clean: spraying them off with a hose does the trick. If you need a budget-friendly outdoor shoe for light gardening or watering, these are a great option.

Some reviews have complained of the Slogger’s Men’s Premium Garden Clog’s limited size options and that it runs narrow. The thick sole can be heavy to some who are used to previous models. Although they aren’t suitable for heavy yard work, their slip-on design makes them convenient, and they don’t fall off like other clog designs.

Pros

• Anti-microbial insole keeps feet dry and eliminates foot odor
• Easy to clean with a spray hose
• Made of recyclable materials
• Soft interior lining is breathable for comfort
• Durable outsole has good traction
• They don’t slip off like other clogs
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Limited size options
• Run narrow
• Some complaints that they feel heavier than previous designs

 

Raphi Rose Slip-on Mud Muckers

Although the SaphiRose Mud Muck Slip-ons are made specifically for light yard work, they are suitable for all environments. These budget-friendly, “all-weather” shoes have a heel tab for easy slip-on, and the flexible outsole has excellent traction for dirt, grass, and mud. The real winner of the Raphi Rose slip-ons is the neoprene collar: unlike other waterproof shoes, the soft ankle collar doesn’t cut into the skin.

Raphi Rose Shoes run narrow, so you will need to buy one size up from your usual footwear. If you bend and move a lot during your yard work, you may want to find a shoe with a more durable upper. The top of the shoe has been known to crack and fall apart with frequent bending and movement. However, for light gardening and yard work, they are a comfortable slip-on shoe that protects your feet from the elements.

Pros

• “all weather” shoes; protect your feet during warm, wet, and cold conditions
• Heel tab for convenient slip-on
• Flexible outsole moves with you
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Run narrow
• Some complaints about quality: crack and fall apart with consistent, long-term use

 

Wolverine Men’s Dublin Waterproof Boot

Designed for substantial yard and outdoor work, the Wolverine Men’s Dublin Waterproof Boot is perfect for landscapers or farm workers. The mesh lining on the inside allows your feet to breathe while pulling moisture away from your feet. With an extra-flexible, slip-resistant outsole, the Wolverine Men’s Dublin Waterproof Boot is perfect for those who work in messy conditions. The soft-toe protection will save your toes from minor injuries during shoveling, and the 6” height from arch to top will keep your feet and ankles secure. The cushioned insole is removable for those who require specific supportive orthotics.

The Wolverine Dublin also runs small, so you will have to purchase one size up from your normal work boot. Marketed as waterproof, they are not as water-resistant as advertised. They are also expensive, which may turn off some buyers. However, they are flexible enough to move in while protecting your feet during heavier outdoor work.

Pros

• Removable insole
• 5″ tall; protects your feet and ankles from injuries/hazards
• Mesh lining on inside allow your feet to breathe while pulling moisture away from your feet

Cons

• Expensive
• Run small
• Some complaints that they are not as water-resistant as advertised

The Bottom Line

When you are in the market for shoes to wear during yard work, you should always consider how long you will be wearing them and how much protection you need. If you are looking for a basic shoe to work in your garden, just for light watering and gardening, the SaphiRose Mud Muck Slip-ons  waterproof footwear will keep your feet dry.

If you are landscaping or doing more heavy-duty activities, such as replanting, you will want a boot that will stabilize and protect your feet and ankles. Buying a pair that fits you well, or has a removable insole for more comfortable inserts, is ideal.  For this we recommend the Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Low Steel-Toe Lace-Up Boot. 

Selecting a shoe that is comfortable and durable enough for your environment will make your yard work seem less and less like a chore.

 

Resources:

Kvrgic, Dejan. “The Basics of Yard Maintenance and Why You Need to Do It.” https://www.lifehack.org/481277/the-basics-of-yard-maintenance-and-why-you-need-to-do-it