What are the safest shoes to wear when driving a car?

Many accidents occur due to using inappropriate footwear while driving a car.

0
138

When driving, it is not advisable to wear high heels, high-soled boots, or go barefoot. Oversized shoes or shoes with a raised sole can make it difficult to operate the accelerator and brake pedals, and even get stuck between the pedals.

Instead, it is recommended to wear flat shoes like athletic shoes, ballet flats for women, dress shoes, and loafers.


Choose appropriate shoes to stay safe on the road. (Illustration photo).

According to experts, the type of shoes or sandals worn by drivers can have a significant impact on driving. Flip-flops without support from the sole easily slip off and can get caught under the pedals, distracting the driver while trying to put them back on.

High heels raise the heel of the foot off the floor of the car, creating an unnatural feeling, making it difficult to feel the brake and accelerator pedals, and not flexible in emergency situations. Oversized shoes or shoes with a raised sole also make it difficult for drivers to operate the accelerator and brake pedals.

In reality, various surveys all show that wearing inappropriate shoes or sandals can have worse consequences than driving barefoot. Specifically, NMRA – an insurance company in Australia – when asked 1,000 drivers, 60% of them said they still wear flip-flops or high heels while driving, and 38% admitted to having a slip-off incident before an accident.

Types of shoes/sandals to absolutely avoid wearing while driving

High heels: To maintain proper control of both the brake and accelerator pedals, the feet must be placed flat on the floor of the car. However, this is not possible with high-heeled shoes.


A pair of high-heeled shoes will impede the operation of the pedals. (Illustration photo).

Therefore, when driving, women should not wear pointed high-heeled shoes, but instead have a pair of flat shoes or sandals in the car as a safer alternative.

Boots: “Boots” are also not usually recommended for driving as they can be heavy on the feet and may get caught under the pedals when in use.

Flip-flops, sandals: Flip-flops are also considered a poor choice for drivers. They have been proven to be quite dangerous and contribute to a significant number of traffic accidents.

According to VTC

Frequently asked questions

High-heeled shoes impede the operation of the pedals as they prevent your feet from lying flat on the floor of the car. This makes it hard to feel and control the brake and accelerator pedals, and reduces flexibility in emergency situations.

Yes, boots are also not recommended as they can be heavy and cumbersome, and may get caught under the pedals. Flip-flops are a poor choice too, as they can easily slip off and cause a distraction as you try to put them back on.

Flat, closed shoes are the safest option. This includes athletic shoes, ballet flats, dress shoes, and loafers. These shoes allow you to operate the pedals with ease and provide a good sense of feel and control.

Yes, according to a survey by NMRA, an Australian insurance company, 60% of drivers admitted to wearing flip-flops or high heels while driving, and 38% of those surveyed said they had experienced a shoe slip-off incident before an accident.
You may also like

How to Strut Like a Model in High Heels with Confidence

Do you ever wish you could experience the fashion and glamour of strutting down a catwalk like a supermodel? While the thought may be appealing, the reality of walking in high heels is often a true test of strength and endurance.

10+ Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Women Turning 30 on Their Birthday

Still trying to figure out the perfect gift for that special woman in her 30s on her birthday? Worry no more! From thoughtful items to unique experiences, here are 10+ gift ideas that are sure to make her day extraordinary.

7 Tips on How to Select the Perfect Summer Shoes to Keep Your Feet Protected

Are you looking to spruce up your wardrobe with summer shoes? Before making any decisions, it’s important to be cognizant of more than just the aesthetics and cost. Make sure you’re also paying attention to your foot health by avoiding the common mistakes that often come with shoe-shopping. Ði?n máy XANH has put together a list of the top 7 blunders to keep an eye out for – check it out!

Enjoying the Warmth of a Short Dress in Winter

Not shying away from short dresses in winter, fashionistas have embraced the idea that winter is not the season to avoid wearing them.

Heading into Fall? Here are 6 Fashion Essentials You’ll Need

As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures start to drop, fashion lovers everywhere are getting ready to flaunt their chic autumnal style. With the arrival of the most romantic season, folks everywhere are preparing their wardrobe for all the warm and cozy looks fall has to offer.