Choosing the right pair of shoes to drive in can make or break a lesson, test or driving experience. You need to be able to feel the pedals, apply pressure with comfort, not get your feet caught and most importantly have shoes that allow you be and feel in control.
There is of course a lot of other things to consider when learning to drive, but this blog focuses on the importance of choosing the correct shoes before you get behind the wheel and in turn avoiding any stress or difficulty caused by having the wrong pair.
It may sound cringey but making the correct decision is important, there are indeed many does and don’ts, which is why we have put together this handy learners guide to driving shoes.
Check your soles
The sole of the shoe in question is vitally important when selecting the right pair for driving. You will want to make sure that the shoes’ sole is neither too thick nor too thin. When driving you want the right balance of feel on the pedals and protection for your feet, so void anything overly cumbersome and any items that are too soft/flexible.
Grip
Making sure that your selected pair of shoes have enough grip is another key consideration. The last thing you want when taking to the open road -- especially in your early days -- is to not feel in control or secure. Finding a pair of shoes with the right amount of grip will therefore help you to avoid slipping on the pedals.
Lightweight to enable movement
When operating the pedals you will want to be agile enough to move swiftly between the pedals. Therefore you will want to find shoes that are lightweight, and that don’t hinder ankle movement when working the pedals. The goal here is ease of movement; this should be reflected in your choice of shoe.
Avoid heels – good feel is key
In life most of us tend to go for fashion over function, and shoes tend to be some of our favourite accessories. There is nothing wrong with that but when driving you will do well to consider what is practical. For example, avoiding heels when getting behind the wheel, and soles that are over 10mm, will provide better touch and feel for your feet, ridding yourself of obstruction to operate pedals safely and properly.
Avoid overly wide shoes
Different cars have different pedal shapes, but these instruments of propulsion are always there so you will want to wear shoes that are not overly wide as to cause you to step on two pedals at once. This can have obvious negative repercussions that all drivers will want to avoid. So keep those clown shoes at home.
If you wish to learn to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229
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