Over a third of drivers admit wearing risky summer footwear behind the wheel

More than a third of motorists admit driving in flip-flops, sliders or other open-backed footwear during the summer months, according to new research from IAM RoadSmart.

The road safety charity is warning that unsuitable footwear can reduce a driver’s ability to control their vehicle, increasing the risk of a collision.

A survey of 1,045 motorists carried out in July 2026 found that 35% had driven wearing loose-fitting or open footwear during June. Of those, 22% said they only did so on short, local journeys in hot weather, while 7% admitted wearing this type of footwear on every journey regardless of distance or conditions.

The research also found that younger motorists were the most likely to take the risk, with 42% of drivers aged 17-29 and 38% of those aged 30-34 saying they had driven in flip-flops or sliders during June.

By comparison, older drivers were less likely to wear unsuitable footwear behind the wheel, with 72% of motorists in their 50s and 80% of those in their 60s saying they had not done so.

Women were also found to be more likely than men to drive in open-backed footwear, with 39% admitting to doing so compared with 31% of male drivers.

IAM RoadSmart says footwear such as flip-flops and sliders is not designed to provide secure grip on vehicle pedals. Shoes can slip off during a journey, become trapped beneath the brake or accelerator pedals, or fail to provide enough control during emergency braking. The charity also warns that driving barefoot carries similar risks, as sweaty feet can reduce grip on the pedals.

Although there is no specific law banning motorists from driving in flip-flops, the Highway Code requires drivers to remain in proper control of their vehicle at all times. Unsuitable footwear could be considered a contributing factor following a collision.

Nicholas Lyes, director of policy and external communications at IAM RoadSmart, said: “We all love kicking off our shoes when the sun’s out, and flip-flops or sliders may be considered an essential clothing item in a British heatwave. The trouble is, while they’re brilliant for the beach or the garden, they can seriously impact on your ability to drive safely.

“Our advice is to keep your flip-flops handy in the boot, but wear something comfortable yet sturdy when behind the wheel. A slipped shoe or a slippery sole is all it takes to turn a sunny afternoon into a scary one.”