We tested a colorful array of gardening shoes to find the comfiest winners

CNN

23-06-2025

The best gardening shoes we tested
Best gardening shoes: Hunter Elana Clogs
Best budget gardening shoes: Duluth Trading Co Garden Clogs
Best heavy-duty gardening shoes: Nora Garden Clogs There's nothing quite like tending to your garden and seeing the fruits of your labor blossom. As beautiful as it is to connect with nature and touch grass, it's no easy feat braving bug bites, dodging slips and averting mud to water your green companions, all while creating an ecosystem. Just like your plants and flowers need the right ingredients (e.g., watering cans or even a hydroponic setup for you indoor gardeners), you'll also need to be equipped with the proper tools to care for your garden, starting with the best gardening shoes.
That's why I tested a range of gardening shoes to find the best ones to support you in all of your green adventures. Here's what I unearthed.
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The classic Hunter clogs stood out as the best gardening shoes in my testing for several reasons, namely the secure fit, cushioned comfort and easy-to-clean design. The lightweight, low-maintenance slip-on outperformed more traditional styles like Crocs.
Duluth Trading Co Garden Clogs
These $25 gardening clogs impressed me with their waterproof build, reliable traction, cushioned comfort and easy slip-on design — all wrapped in cheerful, garden-themed patterns that added personality to an otherwise muddy task.
Nora Garden Clogs
Chunky, colorful and nearly indestructible, the Italian-made, closed-back garden clogs from Nora stood out in testing for their durable polyurethane build, unique cork-lined insoles and roomy, waterproof design. Hunter boots are practically synonymous with all things water-resistant, and these sturdy gardening clogs are no exception. They may not be the most fashionable or charming pair of shoes, but they checked every box. The Hunter Elana casual clogs stood out as the best gardening shoes in my testing, thanks to their practical design and reliable performance. Made with water-resistant synthetic uppers and a slip-on construction, they're easy to hose off after muddy yard work and quick to dry.
The cushioned footbeds and 1.75-inch molded midsoles provided solid comfort and support for gardening, which felt even more comfortable than the classic Crocs and Nora gardening shoes I tested. The slightly squishy yet flexible build allowed for easy movement for all sorts of gardening needs like kneeling, digging or even walking across uneven ground. Although they're not fully waterproof, they handle damp conditions well and are surprisingly lightweight for such a sturdy pair of shoes. I felt this was the most secure shoe I tested, because it held onto my heel and didn't gape open like other open-backed gardening shoes.
When it came to traction, the Hunter clogs beat shoes without a textured bottom, like Crocs. Though not as thick or intense as other gardening shoes I tested, the flexible sole made the shoes more comfortable. I will advise, however, that the shoes are much sleeker than other gardening shoes, and if you love the Hunter design but crave a sturdier gardening shoe, there's the Hunter Neo Lined Clogs for the pros.
With a simple, no-fuss design and durable synthetic soles, the Elena clogs strike a balance between comfort, function and ease of use, making them ideal for casual gardeners or anyone who wants low-maintenance work shoes.
If you're looking for dependable gardening shoes that won't break the bank, this $25 pick is a colorful contender. They're fully waterproof and survived all the mud, puddles and damp grass I slugged through.
The sturdy tread (the patterned sole of a shoe) provided reliable traction on slippery surfaces, and the cushioned insole made the gardening clog more comfortable than you'd expect at this price. The cushioned sole helped support my weary feet during long stretches of gardening work, like weeding and watering. But, perhaps, the best aspect of the budget winner? The slip-on design made them easy to kick off before heading into your next dirt-free space, without lifting a finger.
No one likes wet feet while gardening, and that's why I loved that the Duluth shoes gripped the back of my heel for extra protection. Sure, my ankles still got muddy, but I felt this pair offered more coverage than open-backed clogs.
And while they're built for function, they had the most fun design options: you can choose from cheerful, garden-inspired patterns like Multi Ditsy Garden Floral or Navy Wildflowers & Bees.
In my testing, I jokingly dubbed these my 'Minnie Mouse' shoes, and I still stand by this apt description. Bright and chunky, these Nora shoes are made in Italy from durable, eco-conscious polyurethane foam. These garden clogs are built to last through seasons of heavy use, which I felt considering they were noticeably heavier than the other shoes tested.
Despite the heftier build, they were still comfortable and waterproof, but most importantly, virtually indestructible. I think this is a pair for more serious gardeners who need clogs that can handle dirt, water and long hours outdoors.
The Nora garden clogs are sturdy due to the cork and leather inner lining. I've never seen cork inside shoes before, and after some investigating, I learned that cork soles are often used as an eco-friendly alternative that still provides comfort, arch support and shock absorption. These were the only shoes in my testing pool with a cork lining, which is why they earned their spot as our heavy-duty champion, along with their thick polyurethane rubber lining.
I noticed the shoes had a roomy fit and later read this was intentional to promote airflow and easy movement. Although not as flexible as other gardening shoes I tested (even though cork is meant to be more flexible, which wasn't the case for me), the cushioned cork-latex-leather insoles added surprising comfort. Available in a range of bold colors, I thought these shoes offered both utility and a bit of personality. You may need some time to break them in, however. And I'd recommend sizing down.
After narrowing my list to the most popular and well-reviewed gardening shoes, I tested each pair by actually gardening in them. I wore each pair while tackling various gardening tasks like watering, weeding, planting and walking across different surfaces like wet grass, mulch and mud.
I evaluated each pair of shoes using the following key criteria:
Comfort: I assessed how each pair of shoes felt during extended wear, especially while standing, kneeling or walking for long periods. I paid attention to cushioning and arch support.
Traction: I (carefully) tested the grip on both dry and slippery surfaces to see how well the tread held up against mud, wet grass and garden paths.
Water resistance: All the shoes were tested in damp and muddy conditions to determine how well they kept water out.
Ease of use: I considered how easy each pair was to slip on and off, especially when hands were full or muddy.
Durability: I noted the construction quality and materials after repeated wear, looking for signs of wear and tear.
Style and design: While function came first, I also noted design features such as color and pattern options, especially for gardeners looking for a flair of personality.
According to Andrew Porwol, gardening and landscaping expert and founder of Garden Centre Shopping, the right pair of gardening shoes should balance durability, comfort and practicality, especially if you're spending long hours in the yard. 'If you're going to be in the garden a lot, get shoes that are both sturdy and easy on your feet,' said Porwol. 'Rubber or neoprene is great — they don't fall apart when they get wet or muddy.'
Comfort also matters more than you might think. A cushioned insole and some arch support can make a big difference when standing or crouching for extended periods. And in muddy or slick conditions, traction is key. 'Don't skip the slip-resistant soles — mud isn't forgiving,' said Porwol.
Unlike hiking boots or standard outdoor shoes, gardening shoes are built for mess and moisture. The waterproof materials and easy-to-clean designs are made to tackle the daily wear and tear of planting, watering and digging. 'They're all about staying dry, slipping on easily and rinsing off without a fuss,' said Porwol. 'If you're regularly watering plants or digging in damp soil, they're a practical, no-nonsense choice.'
Birkenstock Super Birki Clog
The Birkenstock Super Birki clogs are a sturdy, practical choice for anyone who needs reliable footwear for messy or wet environments. Made in Germany, they feature a slip-on design with a removable cork contoured footbed that offers personalized support and comfort. As much as I loved the color and overall design of the Birkenstocks, I did feel the thick soles made them less comfortable for long gardening sessions. They weren't as flexible as the winning Hunter clogs or budget-friendly Duluth clogs. However, the platformed shoe could work for a quick yard session.
All that to say, the synthetic uppers are easy to clean, while the oil-, grease- and slip-resistant soles provide solid traction. They're a bold, low-maintenance option that I found quite colorful. I even dubbed these the 'Polly Pocket' shoe.
Crocs Dylan Platform Clog
You wouldn't think of Crocs as gardening shoes, but I'm here to vouch for them when it comes to style and design. Another fun and colorful pick, the Crocs Dylan clogs blend a fun, chunky style with a high platform sole for shoes that are equal parts style and comfort. They're versatile too, meaning they can be worn in and out of the garden. Though they are fun to look at, the Crocs had an open back, meaning my heels got muddy and cold. Plus, the thick heel (though a fun height booster) didn't do much for arch support while gardening, which is why it was docked down in my testing.
From a fashion perspective, however, the Crocs platform clog would make a great shoe for a Gen Z flair. Made from lightweight EVA with the brand's signature Croslite footbed, the shoes won me over for their soft cushioning and easy slip-on wear. However, if you're not fond of heights, be warned. The 2.2-inch platform adds noticeable height, yet still manages to feel like walking on air.
Oofos Clog
Talk about an expertly designed, comfortable pair of shoes. The Oofos clogs are made with recovery top of mind, making them a smart choice for anyone on their feet for long hours, especially when gardening. Like the Crocs, the Oofos Clogs had an open back, which meant less coverage for my ice-cold feet, which lowered the shoes in my ranking. Interestingly enough, they're almost identical to the Hunter clog and felt thinner and less heftier, which didn't seem ideal for wet or muddy surfaces. However, the Oofos clogs are incredibly comfortable.
Their patented footbed supports the arches and helps reduce stress on joints, while the brand's infamous OOfoam absorbs more impact than standard foam. Lightweight and supportive, they're a versatile option for both work, gardening and even downtime, especially when comfort is a top priority.
The following FAQs were answered by seasoned gardening expert Andrew Porwol.
Are there specific shoe styles better suited for different types of gardening?
Are there specific shoe styles better suited for different types of gardening?
'The kind of gardening you're doing does make a difference in the shoes you should wear,' said Powol. 'For raised beds, something light and easy to slip on, like garden clogs, usually does the trick. They're quick and comfortable, and you're not slogging through mud. But if you're dealing with a soggy garden or heavy soil, you'll want waterproof boots with a solid grip because there's nothing worse than wet socks and sliding around. Greenhouse work is a different story altogether. Since it tends to get warm and a bit slick underfoot, breathable shoes with good traction are your best bet.'
What's the best way to clean and maintain gardening shoes?
What's the best way to clean and maintain gardening shoes?
'After a day in the garden, cleaning off your shoes is worth taking a few minutes,' said Powol. 'A quick rinse with the hose usually does the job, but if they're really caked with mud, grab a soft brush and a bit of mild soap. No need for anything harsh — that can wear them down faster. Let them dry out fully before tossing them in the shed. If they're damp inside, stuff them with newspaper to help soak up moisture and keep their shape. A little upkeep goes a long way when you're using them regularly.'
Do gardening shoes need to be waterproof or breathable?
Do gardening shoes need to be waterproof or breathable?
'Waterproof shoes are a no-brainer if your garden is usually wet or muddy,' said Powol. 'But on warmer days, your feet can feel gross if there's no airflow. I've found that shoes with a waterproof shell and some kind of breathable lining work best — keep the water out but don't trap heat. It depends on the kind of work you're doing and the weather. Some days you need full protection, other times, you just want something light that won't make your feet sweat. Try a few styles and see what feels right.'
Are Crocs good gardening shoes?
Are Crocs good gardening shoes?
Yes, if you prefer a lightweight and breathable clog. However, be warned — the holes at the top of the shoe will mean your feet are more likely to get wet.
For this article, we consulted the following expert for their professional insights.
Andrew Porwol, gardening and landscaping expert and founder of Garden Centre Shopping
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test the products in our testing guides and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.
Associate testing writer Carolina Gazal wore each pair of gardening shoes in mud, dirt and grass to find which stood out. Gazal spends her days testing all sorts of tools and gadgets and has written product reviews about her experience with a range of products, from the best shoes for standing all day to the best cooling pillows.