Can You Drive in Flip-Flops Legally?

When summer rolls around, and the warm weather beckons, there’s always one question that pops up: can you legally drive in flip-flops? The answer is both yes and no. Yes, because it’s not expressly prohibited by regulations, and no, because it poses a risk to safety and could result in a fine.

In this regard, due to the risk it poses to driving, a traffic officer could fine you by applying certain articles (18.1; 17.1; 3.1) of the General Traffic Regulations (an approximate fine ranging between 80 and 100 euros).

But why is driving in flip-flops a safety risk? It’s because flip-flops are footwear that doesn’t secure well to the foot and restricts your freedom of movement behind the wheel. Thus, flip-flops could get caught in the pedals, slip off, or fail to apply the correct pressure on the brake pedal.

What Should Good Driving Footwear Be Like?

When driving a vehicle, you need to adjust the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel according to the driver’s physical characteristics to ensure safe driving. Another factor not to be overlooked is clothing, as you should dress appropriately when driving; that is, always wear a shirt, pants, and footwear that fits perfectly to your feet.

So, good driving footwear should have the following characteristics:

  • Ensure good foot support.
  • It should be comfortable and breathable.
  • Soles with good grip or non-slip features.

Skechers Track Scloric for Men

This sports footwear guarantees good cushioning with each step thanks to its Memory Foam insole. It is made of smooth leather, synthetic leather, and mesh, with a lace-up closure for the perfect fit. The heel measures 2.5 centimeters, and the flexible rubber sole provides good traction. It can be machine washed for added convenience in cleaning.

Features:

  • Lace-up Skechers Track Scloric sneakers for men.
  • Available in different colors.

In summary, flip-flops, high-heeled shoes, or work shoes with protections are not recommended for safe driving. An alternative could be to keep another pair of shoes, such as comfortable closed-toe sandals, in the trunk that does meet the characteristics described above and change into them when driving.

Skechers Graceful Get Connected for Women

With over 42,300 reviews on Amazon and 78% of users giving it 5 stars (the highest rating) for being a very lightweight and versatile sports shoe, with padded tongue and soft fabric lining. Additionally, it features a Memory Foam insole with cushioning, flexible and lightweight sole for impact absorption, and mesh panels with open point on the toe, sides, and heel for greater breathability.

Features:

  • Lace-up Skechers Graceful Get Connected sneakers for women.
  • Perfectly adapt to the foot.

Geox Uomo Snake K for Men

It highlights Geox’s technology that combines perforated sole with a breathable and waterproof membrane that ensures good sole breathability. This footwear has an informal style and is made of mesh and faux nubuck material. The lace-up closure allows for a good foot fit, and the insole is removable, very practical, and hygienic. This model is available in a wide range of different colors.

Features:

  • Breathable lace-up Geox Uomo Snake K sneakers for men.
  • Perforated sole allows feet to breathe naturally.

Geox D Sukie B for Women

Enjoy good sole breathability thanks to the system devised by Geox. Thus, this lightweight footwear is ideal for daily use, as it ensures great comfort with every step. It has a lace-up closure to adjust the shoe perfectly to the foot, and the insole is removable. They are made of suede, the heel height is 2.5 centimeters, and they are available in other colors.

Features:

  • Lace-up Geox D Sukie B sneakers for women.
  • Removable insole.

These recommendations emphasize the importance of choosing appropriate footwear for driving, not only for legal compliance but also for ensuring safety on the road. It’s essential to prioritize comfort, support, and grip when selecting shoes for driving, especially during summer when footwear choices tend to be more casual.