My Favorite Shoes for Farming & Gardening

Having the right footwear is super important to anyone who works on their feet. Am I right?!

When I'm choosing a pair of work shoes, I'm looking for three things,

1. Are they water-proof? This is essential.

2. Are they supportive and functional? I love some arch support.

3. Are they affordable or worth the investment? I'm super hard on my shoes so the value has to be there! I try not to be skimpy on work shoes.

Below are my four favorite kinds of farming/gardening shoes. I wear all four of these interchangeably throughout the year. Let's explore!

First, are my Redwing work boots. I have had these boots since I managed the urban farm at Garinger High School, or since 2017 -- the same year I started my business! These are tough boots. I feel invincible in these. They're water proof, heavy, and supportive. I choose these boots when I have a BIG project to do or am planning to traipse through the woods, brush, etc. These are not my every day work shoe, and are quite the investment. I think I spent around $200 for this pair in 2017. And they have served me exceptionally well!

Second, are my Sloggers. I usually go through a pair of Sloggers a year. I love the fun colors, and patterns. I like wearing these as "slip-ons" to visit my backyard. These are also great to wear in the spring and fall. Since they are rubber shoes, they're waterproof but also make my feet feel super hot in the summer. I don't like having hot feet. The ones in the picture above have pigs with wings on them! These were definitely my favorite pair. My current pair are bright blue with orange and red birds. I've had other pairs with honeybees, chickens, and leaves.

Third, is none other than, Chacos. Ah, yes, the crunchy outdoorsy standard footwear for the summer (or year-round, for some). Marshall bought me this pair for Christmas a few years ago. I like wearing Chacos to work in because they keep my feet cool and are meant to get wet. You can bet your best dollar that I have the strongest Chaco tan lines you'll see this summer! They lasted all winter last year too, ha! I don't love the texture of the soles of Chacos though, or their strong arch support. I have to do a lot of moisturizing in the summer when I wear these to work! But, it's worth it. I also love that I have a picture of my toenails painted -- a rarity!

Finally, my Xtratufs. I love these boots. These are my everyday fall, spring, winter footwear. They keep my feet dry and supported. They're also super comfy. I never have to break in a new pair of Xtratufs. I get the wide fit ones too, so if I need to wear thick socks there is plenty of room. They come in a variety of colors too! I've had mint green ones, navy ones, moss green ones, and now these salmon colored ones. These boots are a moderate investment... usually around $100 / pair. I easily go through one pair a year. In fact, I'll need to invest in a new pair here soon.

What are you favorite type of shoes to wear while farming and gardening?