By Ronak Shah
What This Article Covers
In this article, we'll cover NSW road rules on driving footwear, how different shoes affect pedal control, and what to wear for a more comfortable, confident drive.
Your Shoes Can Make a Difference
When we think about driving, we usually focus on the car, driving techniques, and road safety. But what about the little things we often overlook, like the shoes we wear? Maybe you’re heading to a party in high heels, finishing a long shift in heavy work boots, or slipping on your favourite thongs for a quick trip to the shops. You might not think twice about what’s on your feet before getting behind the wheel, but your footwear can make a real difference to how comfortably and confidently you use the pedals.
It’s not something every driver thinks about, and it may not be a topic that gets much attention during a driving lessons. However, a good Sydney driving school instructor will remind you that comfort and control go hand in hand. Flat shoes aren’t automatically the best choice if their soles are slippery, just as stylish heels aren’t always practical when you need to brake quickly. So, what can you wear behind the wheel in NSW, and what’s better left for when you reach your destination? Let’s look at what the road rules say, how different types of footwear affect your driving, and how to choose shoes that help you stay in control.
What Shoes Are Best for Driving?
You don’t need to buy special driving shoes or spend a fortune to find a suitable pair. For many drivers, comfortable trainers or simple flat shoes do the job well. Basically, your footwear should fit securely without slipping off your feet, have a good sole with proper grip, and allow your ankles to move freely. They shouldn’t be too thick or so wide or bulky that they interfere with the pedals. It’s also worth checking your soles before setting off. Wet or sandy shoes can slip on the pedals, so give them a quick wipe if needed. If you regularly wear heels, thongs, or heavy boots, keeping a spare pair of comfortable shoes in the car can save you the hassle of changing plans. And while you’re getting ready to drive, take a moment to check the vehicle too. Prepare a pre-drive car inspection checklist to help you get into the habit of checking the essentials before heading out.
Is It Illegal to Drive in Thongs or Barefoot in NSW?
The simple answer is no; it’s not illegal as NSW doesn’t have a specific road rule banning thongs, high heels, or barefoot driving. But that doesn’t mean every footwear choice is a good idea. According to Rule 297(1) of the NSW Road Rules 2014, drivers must have proper control of their vehicle. If your footwear slips, gets caught near a pedal, or makes it difficult to control the car, that could become a problem. To put it simply, a particular type of shoe isn’t automatically illegal, but you still need to be able to drive safely in it. What feels perfectly fine on a quiet road might not feel so easy when the car in front suddenly brakes.
How Footwear Affects Your Driving
Have you ever noticed how often your feet move between the accelerator and brake? You need to judge pressure, move smoothly between pedals, and react quickly when traffic changes. If you’re wearing shoes that slip around, have very thick soles, or restrict your ankle movement, it can make these actions less precise. Imagine approaching a set of traffic lights when the car ahead stops more quickly than expected. This is where your hazard perception, decision-making skills, and your knowledge of when you need emergency braking come in handy. In that limited time, your foot should quickly move to the brake without your shoe shifting or getting in the way. Comfortable, secure footwear can help you feel more confident using the pedals.
Are Thongs and Slides Safe to Wear While Driving?
We love our thongs in Australia. They’re easy to slip on for a quick trip to the shops, a beach run or a coffee with friends. But behind the wheel, they can be a little less convenient. Loose thongs may slip off, twist under your foot or catch near a pedal. Slides can also move around if they don’t fit securely. You might get away with them on one drive, but that doesn’t make them the best choice every time. If your footwear moves around when you press the pedals, play it safe and change into shoes that stay firmly on your feet. It’s a simple switch that can help you feel more in control.
Can You Drive in High Heels or Platform Shoes?
Heading straight from work to dinner? You might not have time to change out of your heels, but it’s worth considering how they feel when you drive. High heels can change the angle of your foot and limit natural ankle movement. Depending on their shape, the heel may also catch on the floor mat. Platform shoes can make it harder to feel the pedals because of their thick soles. Not every pair of heels will cause the same problems. The important thing is whether you can move your feet freely and apply pressure to the pedals smoothly. If you find yourself struggling, keep a comfortable pair of driving shoes handy.
Are Heavy Boots and Gumboots Suitable for Driving?
Heavy boots are great for protecting your feet at work, and gumboots are handy when the weather turns wet. But some styles can feel clumsy behind the wheel. Bulky soles may make it harder to distinguish between closely spaced pedals, while stiff boots can restrict your ankle movement. Of course, not every work boot is unsuitable. It comes down to how well they fit and whether you can operate the pedals comfortably. If your boots feel too bulky or make your feet awkward to move, consider keeping a lighter pair of shoes in the car.
Is It Safe to Drive Barefoot?
Taking your shoes off before driving might seem like an easy fix, especially if your feet are uncomfortable after a long day. And in NSW, driving barefoot isn’t specifically prohibited. However, bare feet have less protection, and pressing the pedals firmly may be uncomfortable, particularly during sudden or hard braking. If you find yourself choosing between loose thongs and bare feet, remember that neither option is automatically the safest for everyone. What matters is being able to maintain proper control. If you do remove your shoes, put them somewhere secure and well away from the pedals. A loose thong sliding under the brake is the last thing you need when traffic slows. And never change footwear while the car is moving. Pull over somewhere safe first.
Choose Shoes That Help You Stay in Control
Your shoes might not be the first thing you think about before a drive, but they’re worth a little attention. The best pair is one that feels comfortable, stays securely on your feet, and lets you use the pedals without a second thought. A spare pair of trainers in the car could be all it takes to make your next trip feel easier.
If you’re still building confidence behind the wheel, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Book a driving lesson with Onroad Driving School and get practical guidance from an instructor who can help you develop safer habits, improve your pedal control, and feel more comfortable on the road. Your journey towards becoming a confident driver starts with the little things, and we’re here to help you get them right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is it illegal to drive in thongs in NSW?
A: No, there’s no specific rule in NSW that bans driving in thongs. But the rule does say that the driver must maintain proper control of their vehicle. So, if your thongs are uncomfortable while driving, or slip or interfere when you use the pedals, you should change into another more secure pair of shoes before driving.
Q2. Can you drive barefoot in NSW?
A: Yes, you can technically drive barefoot as there is no road rule or law prohibiting it in NSW. However, it can be uncomfortable and offers less protection for your feet. You should instead choose footwear that lets you operate the pedals safely and comfortably.
Q3. Can you be fined for wearing the wrong shoes while driving?
A: There is no specific offence simply for wearing thongs, heels or driving barefoot. However, if your footwear contributes to a failure to maintain proper control, the circumstances may be considered under the relevant road rules. Any penalty depends on the offence and the circumstances.
Q4. Can you drive in high heels or platform shoes?
A: There is no specific NSW ban on high heels or platform shoes. However, they may restrict ankle movement, reduce pedal feel, or catch on a floor mat. If you can’t operate the pedals smoothly and reliably, change into more suitable footwear.
Q5. Are work boots or gumboots safe for driving?
A: They can be suitable if they fit properly and allow you to move your feet freely between the pedals. Bulky soles and stiff ankles can make pedal control more difficult, so consider changing shoes if your boots feel restrictive.
Q6. What type of shoes are best for driving?
A: Choose shoes that fit securely, have a reasonably thin, grippy sole, and allow your ankles to move freely. Trainers and comfortable flat shoes are practical options for many drivers. The key is choosing footwear that won’t slip or interfere with your control of the pedals.