Can You Drive in Crocs? Are Crocs Safe and Comfortable for Driving?

There is no specific law in the UK banning driving in Crocs. However, drivers are required to wear “suitable shoes” as per Rule 97 of the Highway Code.

1. UK Driving Laws

The Driving Standards Agency provides guidelines that shoes should:

• Have a sole no thicker than 10mm
• Not be excessively soft or thin
• Provide enough grip to prevent slipping off pedals
• Not be so heavy as to limit ankle flex

While Crocs likely meet many of these recommendations with their lightweight design and tread grip, their thicker soles mean drivers should take extra care with pedal control.

If deemed culpable in an accident, wearing unsuitable Crocs could potentially open a driver up to prosecution. Penalties could include:

• Fixed penalty fine of up to £100
• Up to £5000 in fines if taken to court
• Licence points or disqualification

So while not strictly illegal, Crocs are a considered choice that drivers make at their own risk.

2. Driving Test Rules

There are no universal regulations about wearing Crocs during your driving test. While examiners can dictate rules about clothing, comfort is also a consideration.

In general, Crocs are unlikely to pose an issue for your test, but some examiners may ask you to wear a more secure shoe or bring a spare pair just in case.

3. Barefoot Driving Laws

Driving barefoot or in flip flops is also not illegal in the UK. However, it is not recommended by safety organizations. Driving barefoot can reduce grip on pedals and leave feet more vulnerable in a crash.

Check it: Do you wear crocs without socks

So should you kick off your Crocs before getting behind the wheel? Here are some key pros and cons to consider:

1. Benefits of Crocs for Driving

• Lightweight and comfortable – great for long drives and easy to slip on/off
• Decent grip from treadded soles, if not worn excessively
• Provide toe protection in case of bumps or accidents
• Non-restricting design allows good ankle flex

2. Potential Drawbacks of Driving in Crocs

• Thick soles reduce feel on pedals vs thinner shoes
• Can slip off feet if loose fitting or wet
• Not durable/supportive in accidents
• Limited high speed capability – best for short trips

Overall, Crocs make a reasonable shoe choice for short drives in ideal conditions. But they may not be ideal for challenging weather or long highway journeys.

So if not Crocs, what footwear is best suited for safe driving?

1. Recommended Driving Shoe Options

• Light slip-on sneakers/plimsolls – thin, grippy flexible soles
• Well-fitted athletic trainers – secure but non-restricting
• Driving loafers or moccasins – designed for pedal control

2. Shoes to Avoid for Driving

• Flip flops – loose fit and easily tangled on pedals
• High heels – limit ankle flex and pedal control
• Overly heavy boots – restrict movement and feel
• Tight shoes – constrict ankle flex when moving between pedals

The key is a shoe that stays securely on your foot but doesn’t limit your ankle range of motion.

Read more: Are leather shoes good for rain

If you do decide to drive in Crocs, here are some tips to stay safe:

• Wear properly fitting Crocs with a heel strap to prevent slipping
• Check the tread regularly and replace excessively worn soles
• Take extra care when braking in wet conditions
• Keep spare shoes in the car to change into if needed
• Consider wearing different shoes for long motorway journeys
• Test your pedal control in Crocs in low risk areas first

The key is making sure your Crocs provide enough grip and control for safe operation.

Our feet are a critical connection to our vehicles, so proper footwear matters. Shoes when driving:

• Protect feet from abrasions, burns, and impact injuries in a crash
• Improve grip on pedals through tread and avoid slipping
• Prevent getting stuck under pedals by being secure and closed toe
• Allow quick, controlled transition between pedals as needed

Good shoes lead to better pedal control. So it’s important to choose appropriate footwear for the driving you plan to do.

We asked driving safety experts about the use of Crocs behind the wheel:

“Crocs are quite popular these days but not the ideal choice for safe driving. Their thick, chunky design doesn’t provide the best feel of the pedals. I recommend wearing thin, grippy shoes you can feel the pedals through.” – John Richards, Driving Instructor

“In dry conditions, Crocs can provide enough grip for basic short drives. But I would certainly suggest drivers have a second secure pair of shoes on hand for situations where more control is needed.” – Sarah Thomas, Safety Researcher

“While not necessarily unsafe, you are taking a risk driving in Crocs as they are not designed primarily for car operation. You may find it harder to react quickly in certain situations. More secure shoes would be a wise choice for frequent and long journeys.” – David Owens, Auto Insurance Provider

While acceptable for casual use, most experts agree Crocs should not be your only footwear choice behind the wheel, especially in poor weather. Having a spare non-Crocs option can give added safety and confidence.

Based on UK driving laws, expert guidance, safety considerations and the benefits/drawbacks of Crocs themselves, here is the final verdict:

• Driving in Crocs is not illegal in the UK
• They can provide adequate grip for ideal short drives
• But a poor pedal feel makes them non-ideal for frequent use
• In wet conditions Crocs perform considerably worse
• For long drives or challenging weather, more secure shoes are strongly recommended

So while acceptable for a quick trip on a sunny day, Crocs should not be your go-to driving shoe choice, especially if you value maximum pedal control and active safety. Having a spare pair of proper driving shoes or trainers in your car can give added peace of mind.

Can you legally drive barefoot?

No, driving barefoot is not specifically illegal in the UK. However it is strongly advised against by safety organizations, as bare feet provide limited grip, control and protection compared to proper footwear.

What about driving in flip flops – is that allowed?

Flip flops are also not expressly illegal, but highly inadvisable for driving. Their loose-fitting design means they can easily slide off and get caught under pedals, limiting control. Sturdier sandals or shoes are a much safer choice.

Are boots acceptable footwear for driving?

Boots are generally fine, provided they are not excessively chunky, heavy or limiting of ankle flexion. The key is boots allowing a good feel of the pedals and ability to transition between them quickly. But they offer greater protection than shoes in an accident.

• Crocs are an acceptable shoe for driving short distances in ideal conditions
• But drivers should consider more secure shoes for frequent or long drives
• Check Crocs soles regularly and replace if worn smooth
• Always have a spare set of proper driving shoes on hand
• Focus on footwear that balances grip, control and protection

Choosing appropriate shoes for the conditions is a key part of safe driving. Understanding your footwear’s capabilities can give you confidence behind the wheel. So consider your Crocs carefully before hitting the road.