Born in Colorado in 2002, Crocs footwear can now be found everywhere around the planet. These extremely popular foam-made clogs are available in more than 100 different styles for men, women, and kids. In other words, there are Crocs for every season and occasion – that’s how versatile and adaptable this footwear is.
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However, people who are looking to buy their very first Crocs often have a couple of questions. The biggest of these is “do Crocs run big?”. Whether you’re shopping for a pair of these clogs for home, work, or even hiking, you may be wondering if this type of footwear runs true to size.
If that’s the case, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll be discussing Crocs sizing and try to find answers to a number of different questions regarding this matter. Read on!
So, Do Crocs Run Big?
Generally speaking, this type of footwear runs true to size. However, Crocs sizing typically varies based on the particular type of foam-made clogs you decide to go with.
Crocs Classic Clog
As the name suggests, this would be the most classic type of crocs footwear available. Most people agree that they provide a spacious, comfortable fit that, in most cases, runs true to size.
The thing that makes these clogs look and feel different than the Classic Clog Crocs is their sportier design. When compared to the previous version, they are not as spacious and are, therefore, unsuitable for folks with wide feet.
Once again, the overall design of these clogs makes them quite a bit different than the Classic Crocs. While they do sport closed tops, Bistro Clog Crocs often provide the roomiest fit.
Behind this simple name hides a type of Crocs that is very similar to the Classic version of this footwear, particularly when it comes to true-to-size fit. However, this variety also sports a warm, fuzzy interior lining.
These fully-enclosed slip-on Crocs are not as spacious as the Classic or Bistro Clog versions. However, their secure fit turns them into a fantastic choice for food preparers and nurses.
Do Crocs Stretch?
As you can see from above, most types of these clogs provide a spacious, relaxed fit. While some versions promote a more secure fit by offering less space, most have roomy toe boxes and feel very comfortable on the feet.
However, regardless of the fit they provide, Crocs do tend to stretch over time, as well as when they come into contact with high heat. Obviously, this is nothing surprising – Crocs are made out of a type of foam that stretches when exposed to excessive temperatures. In addition, they’re mostly used during summer, when a lot of people leave them outside in the sun or in a hot car.
How to Shrink Crocs?
As we said, Crocs can stretch over time – especially if they’ve been constantly exposed to scorching heat. If this is the case with your Crocs and you’d like to shrink them back to their original size, don’t worry – it can be done and it’s relatively easy. Still, be cautious when doing what we’re about to show you, as you could easily permanently damage your Crocs if you’re not careful.
- First, turn on your clothes dryer on medium heat and set its timer for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Take two wet towels and place them together with your Crocs in the clothes dryer. Start the cycle and observe it – you need to make sure that the temperature isn’t too high. Why the wet towels? Their role is to moisten the foam – this will make it more flexible and less prone to permanent damage caused by the high heat.
- After about 5 minutes, open the dryer and check if the Crocs are hot. If so, remove them from the dryer. Give them a couple of minutes to cool down a bit – you don’t want to burn yourself by putting them on immediately.
- Put on the Crocs while they’re still warm. This will allow the clogs to cool down completely while they’re on your feet and thus conform to their size.
How to Unshrink Crocs?
Sometimes, the opposite is true – your Crocs may have shrunken too much and now feel too tight on your feet.
Obviously, the easiest way of unshrinking them is by leaving them out in the sun, as we’ve mentioned above. However, this isn’t only time-consuming but can also be done only during hot summer months. Here’s how to quickly and easily stretch out Crocs anytime you need to do so:
- Put your Crocs into a bowl of boiling water and leave them there for about a minute.
- Take the Crocs and try wearing them as soon as their temperature allows you (be as quick as possible).
- This allows the clogs to re-mold to the wearer’s feet. While they may feel a bit too tight at first, wearing them while they’re warm is bound to stretch them out and force them to conform to your feet.
- In case you really need to stretch out your Crocs, make sure to put on a couple of pairs of socks on your feet before slipping on the freshly boiled clogs. Wear them around for a while to give them time to conform to your thickly-socked feet.
How Much do Crocs Weigh?
Depending on the size and model, a pair of Crocs will typically weigh somewhere between 10.5 ounces (300 grams) and 15.8 ounces (450 grams). While they’re not the lightest footwear that you can buy (those would be flip-flops), Crocs are undoubtedly sturdy and comfortable. This turns them into a worthwhile investment, both in terms of weight and dollars.
One thing we have to mention here is LiteRide technology. This would be one of the newest and lightest additions to the company’s collection of shoes and something that’s bound to become a real game-changer. Made out of materials that are 40% softer and 25% lighter than those used in older models, LiteRide Crocs come in the traditional clog style but also as slides and sandals.
Is Anything Better Than Crocs?
Obviously, there is no clear-cut answer to this question. It goes without saying that Crocs can’t be compared to regular ultralight sneakers when it comes to running or to robust hiking boots when it comes to trekking. In a similar fashion, Crocs will never look as stylish or attractive as some other types of footwear, such as leather shoes.
However, when it comes to pure comfort and casual around-the-house use, Crocs are very hard to beat. When compared to flip-flops, they are significantly more comfortable, particularly for people with wide feet. The Crocs also promote good foot and ankle care, as they bear the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) seal of approval.
It should also be mentioned that the company manufactures special types of Crocs that are suited for specific activities. These include hiking Crocs, two of which we’ll analyze below.
What Are Hiking Crocs?
As their name suggests, these are Crocs made with backcountry hiking in mind. While they’re certainly not suitable for intense trekking trips, they can be of great use when it comes to short day trips into the wild. Here are two great examples:
Crocs Women’s AllCast II Luxe
These high-top boots combine various materials to provide warmth and comfort during short hiking trips in cold weather.
The lower shaft of these Crocs-turned-boots features an insulated, cushioned lining. The upper shaft, on the other hand, is made out of shearling. There is also a removable, fleecy insole.
Combined, these materials keep the feet warm and dry, turning these simple boots into a suitable choice for shorter Winter hikes.
On the outside, AllCast II Luxe features a rubber outsole and a leather upper. Both of these are water-resistant, although crossing streams in these Crocs is not advisable.
Crocs Men’s Swiftwater Leather Fisherman
A successful combination of hiking sandals and good-old Crocs clogs, the Swiftwater Leather Fisherman sandals are among the company’s bestsellers.
Featuring a durable synthetic sole and a mesh/leather upper, the Swiftwaters feel exceptionally durable and capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. What’s more, slipping them on and off is as easy as it gets – they sport an adjustable hook & loop strap.
On the inside, these Crocs sandals feature the original Croslite footbed and soft textile lining. While these ensure comfort, the model’s protective toe bumper keeps your toes from harm during backcountry adventures.
Finally, the Swiftwater Leather Fisherman sandals offer excellent traction and are water-friendly – they are all you’ll need for the less-demanding summer hikes.
Should You Hike in Crocs?
It goes without saying, but this type of footwear isn’t exactly suitable for thru-hiking and similar long-distance outdoor escapades. However, Crocs come with a couple of benefits that turn them into an ideal option for day hikes on not-so-rugged terrains and trails.
Not only do they feel extremely comfortable on tired feet, but they also dry very quickly and provide decent on-trail protection. In addition, Crocs are extremely breathable and lightweight, particularly when compared to heavy trekking boots.
As such, they’re a great choice for day hikes on trails that aren’t slippery or filled with sharp rocks.
Leslie Gilmour
I love hiking, backpacking, and camping. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.
