Kids and Crocs Shoes: Trendy or Risky? (2024)

Crocs shoes are all the rage, especially among kids. But are Crocs a safe footwear choice for school?

Written by Heather Hatfield

Reviewed by Louise Chang,MD on August 17, 2007

Crocs are everywhere, from malls to parks to schools across America. With funky color choices like Camouflage, Haze, and Glam, Crocs are probably your child's favorite footwear. But the Crocs shoe craze has hit a bump in the road, as parents -- and schools -- wonder if the loose-fitting style of these cool kicks can actually pose a danger.

There have also been worldwide media reports about Croc-wearing kids getting their toes caught in escalators in malls, airports, and other transportation systems, including Washington, D.C.'s Metro stations. The subway system recently posted a warning to riders about wearing shoes like Crocs on the escalators, although it did not name them specifically, according to CNN.com.

Experts gave WebMD advice on kids' Crocs, including the benefits of Crocs during summer, the risks of Crocs during the school year, and when a full-coverage shoe, like a sneaker, might be a more sensible -- and safer -- choice.

Crocs Shoes in the Summer

Crocs, which were created in 2002 as footwear for boating with non-slip tread and waterproof tendencies, have morphed into a foot phenomenon for all ages. It's clear that for kids in particular, these shoes offer a hip alternative to sneakers, and when the warm weather rolls around, a better option than bare feet.

"Crocs shoes do provide protection, compared to going barefoot, or wearing flip-flops or sandals," says Donna M. Alfieri, DPM, associate professor at the N.Y. College of Podiatric Medicine. "They offer some arch support and cushion, the holes in the shoe allow air in and keep the feet from sweating, and the antimicrobial properties of Crocs could help prevent infections in kids' feet." Kids' crocs come in so many different styles and colors, kids everywhere are wearing the shoes that fit their feet and their personality.

"In addition to the support and protection kids get from Crocs, the great thing is they want to wear them," says Hal Ornstein, DPM, chairman of the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management.

Ornstein, who sells a special therapeutic line of adult Crocs, called Crocs Rx, through his private practice, says that his own children wear Crocs and love them.

"My kids wear Crocs all summer long," says Ornstein. "Instead of having to tell them to tie the laces on their sneakers and worrying about them tripping over untied shoes, Crocs are convenient and they like them -- they're cool."

Fashion aside, when the days start to get shorter and the backpacks come out, some experts say it's time to rethink your kids' Crocs in favor of some tried but true choices.

The manufacturer of Crocs was contacted for comment, but didn't respond.

Crocs at School

Crocs shoes were created for boating in warm weather, and maybe that's for a reason.

"I generally like Crocs for kids for their convenience factor in the summer," says Russell G. Volpe, DPM, a professor of orthopaedics and pediatrics at N.Y. College of Podiatric Medicine. "They make a great beach and pool shoe -- easy on and easy off."

But school is another matter, explains Volpe, with too many physical activities that make kids' Crocs a risky choice.

"I start to have concerns when a child is doing any sort of moderate physical activity," Volpe tells WebMD. "Crocs provide little support and they can easily slip off during recess, gym, or any other activity beyond walking."

Alfieri also is concerned about the risks from wearing Crocs from the morning bell to when school lets out in the afternoon. "Crocs are not the kind of shoe that should be worn all day long," she says. "This is when they cause a danger because they can fall off as kids engage in the activities of the school day."

The Thomson Elementary School principal in Andover, Mass., agrees, having enacted a Crocs ban, along with a ban on flip-flops and sandals, on school premises for both playground safety reasons as well as a precaution in case of a fire emergency.

Short of a Crocs ban at your child's school, parents and kids need to be smart about when Crocs can be worn safely and when sneakers are required, experts say.

"Other than allowing kids to wear Crocs as they walk to and from class, they should be replaced with sneakers," says Volpe.

Another school-year Crocs problem is weather. Unless you live in a climate where it's warm year-round, your kid's Crocs should hibernate for the winter and be replaced with something waterproof and warm.

"Whether it's rain or snow, when Crocs get wet they're terrible," says Volpe. "During the school year, this is something parents need to keep in mind. As soon you hit the poor weather, if your child is wearing Crocs he might as well be shoeless."

Crocs Shoes Alternatives

Kids love Crocs -- that much is obvious. Sit on a bench near a park and more than half of the kids that pass by will likely be sporting a pair. For kids who avoid shoes in the summer or consistently forget to tie the laces on their sneakers, Crocs are finally a shoe that fits.

"Other trends have really affected shoe-wearing in children in a negative way," says Ornstein. "So Crocs, which kids like to wear, have been a breath of fresh air."

Worn at the beach or the pool, or for walking short distances, Crocs are a good choice. Still, kids and parents need to remember the other shoes in their closets.

"You need to switch around the shoes your kids wear to make sure they're getting the right support, and based on the activity they're doing," says Alfieri. "Shoes aren't a one-kind-fits-all sort of thing."

What about kids who are too active for Crocs, sandals, or flip-flops? The obvious choice for busy kids is sneakers.

"Any sneaker-type shoe, even one with Velcro if the child is too young to lace, is going to give your child good support and foot protection," says Volpe. "The trick is to make sure your child uses the laces. Otherwise, he's not going to get much value from it."

Kids' Crocs Checklist

Not sure when your child should be wearing a Croc, or when a sneaker or boot might be better? Here's a Crocs checklist to keep both feet going in the right direction:

ActivityOK for Crocs?

Gym Class No

Hiking No

Walking to and from class Yes

Recess No

Going to the beach Yes

Going to the pool Yes

After-school sports No

Boating Yes

Walking on a cold winter day No

Kids and Crocs Shoes: Trendy or Risky? (2024)

FAQs

Why do we consider Crocs as a trend? ›

People want to be comfortable

The reason why is more simple than you probably would have guessed: People are craving comfort. According to Today, many people have been purchasing Crocs because they offer comfort without breaking the bank, and they're super convenient for everyday life.

Is Crocs shoes a trend? ›

Are Crocs cool? Sorry to the haters, but most signs are pointing to yes. While the brand has been around since 2002, in the last year, Crocs' business has skyrocketed. According to a release from the brand, in 2022, the company reported a record-high revenue of $3.6 billion — which was a nearly 54% increase from 2021.

Why are Crocs popular with kids? ›

They're actually really practical and convenient, especially for athletes. And the Jibbitz [charms] make it fun to be able to personalize them to your taste,” Iannetta added.

What is Crocs unique selling proposition? ›

We believe that comfort is the key to happiness, and our legendary Crocs comfort makes the world a happier place, one pair of shoes at a time. We are in tireless pursuit of new comfort technologies, developing revolutionary materials that are lighter, softer and more flexible than ever imagined.

Are Crocs safe for kids? ›

Peds unanimously agree that Crocs are especially bad for younger children's developing feet. When they can't feel the ground, children are not only at a greater risk for falls and injuries, but also neurological and intrinsic muscle impairments that can lead to foot issues later in life.

What is the saying about Crocs? ›

Come As You Are | Crocs Official Site.

Is Crocs shoes a trend or fad? ›

By focusing on clogs and sandals, targeting gen Z, and partnering with celebrities, Crocs has once again gained relevance. While recent growth is undeniably unsustainable, the market is ignoring the turnaround story, and simply attributing all Crocs, Inc. success as a "fad."

What are good reasons to wear Crocs? ›

Crocs make for excellent footwear because they are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to slip into and out of. They are also breathable, promote circulation, and have enough room to avoid compression of the toes.

Are Crocs back in style 2023? ›

Crocs SA is starting 2023 off with a bang, by launching two new futuristic-inspired collections for anyone who needs a funky spin on their footwear. The Echo Collection is for those who want comfort and chic in a single step, while the Mega Crush Collection offers an unrivalled level of chunkiness.

When did Crocs become a trend? ›

After a brief surge in popularity following their release in 2002, Crocs were mercilessly mocked.

Why is Crocs hype again? ›

CELEBRITY ENDORsem*nTS. The reasons for the revival of Crocs as a brand are varied, but among them is celebrity endorsem*nts, fashion experts told CNA. In recent years, Crocs have been spotted on the feet of famous celebrities - Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Jisoo from Blackpink and Ariana Grande - to name a few.

Are Crocs a good idea? ›

The bottom line. Many people enjoy wearing Crocs. They're lightweight, comfortable, and roomy, which makes them ideal for a range of activities. On the other hand, their lack of arch support can cause issues like plantar fasciitis, while their plastic construction may give you sweaty, smelly feet.

Who is the target audience of Crocs? ›

Audience composition can reveal a site's current market share across various audiences. crocs.com's audience is 38.52% male and 61.48% female. The largest age group of visitors are 25 - 34 year olds (Desktop).

Have Crocs always been popular? ›

Crocs, which launched as a boat shoe in 2002, became a ubiquitous summer shoe by the time it went public in 2006. The popularity of Crocs was driven by praise from fans for the extreme comfort of the shoes even as they were widely derided over their looks.

Why are Crocs so unique? ›

They're waterproof and breathable. The signature whack-a-mole surface of the Classic Clog is what gives Crocs its distinct look. They also allow your feet to breathe and water to drain easily, making them an ideal summer shoe.

Are Crocs good for little kids feet? ›

Open-toed shoes, flip flops and Crocs are not ideal shoes for toddlers because of their instability; they also encourage toe-gripping which may lead to toe deformities.

Are Crocs OK for daycare? ›

2. The Safe Slip-On. Most of the time, slip-ons, such as Crocs, aren't allowed at childcare or preschools because of how easily they slide on and off. It poses a risk when you child is running and makes it tough for them to partake in fun outdoor exercises and activities.

Are Crocs safe for physical education? ›

Sneakers and tennis shoes are the way we help keep their feet and body safe. Crocs, Jellies, and sandals that strap and may have toe coverings are still not appropriate for PE. They do not have the proper grips on the bottoms of the shoes and are not supportive of the feet in general when being active.

What went wrong with Crocs? ›

Back in 2009, Crocs was in big trouble. After sales took off in the mid-2000s, it struggled to keep up with demand, reaching $847 million in revenue in 2007. When production finally caught up, it went overboard, ending up with mountains of shoes and no one to buy them just as the economic downturn hit.

What is a positive quote about Crocs? ›

You don't have to wait until the weekend to break out your best kicks. The more you wear your Crocs, the more comfortable they get – so you just might walk in comfort all week long.” “Crocs – Shoes you can wear all day, to rediscover your world in comfort and style.” “Everywhere you want to be, there are #Crocs.

What is the Crocs controversy? ›

So when Crocs was meant to sponsor DragCon UK, the American Right-Wing fans decided to make it their problem. Instead of standing proud in their support of the LGBTQ+ community, Crocs appears to have quietly stopped supporting DragCon after receiving harassment from the right.

Are Crocs cool right now? ›

Crocs, the famous foam clogs, have experienced a surge in sales during the Covid-19 pandemic. What is especially interesting is that after the pandemic, they are continuing to grow. The company reported in a press release that Crocs sales have increased by over 30% in the first quarter of 2023.

Why did Crocs lose popularity? ›

First came announcements that the loose-fitting heel strap may cause foot issues. Then, consumers grew tired of the unchanged, no-frills design that originally seemed so sensible.

What does trend shoes mean? ›

If your shoes are the newest, coolest kind of sneakers, they are trendy.

How many years will Crocs last? ›

Crocs typically last between 3 and 5 years with everyday wear. With proper care and less frequent wear Crocs can last for up to 10 years. If used exclusively for indoor wear they can last even longer than this.

Why are Crocs so expensive? ›

Crocs are made from Croslite, a very expensive material to produce but are the foundation of its success. Crocs' durability, comfort, unique design, and brand power are some of the reasons they are so expensive.

Did Crocs used to be cheap? ›

Crocs were born of the economic boom. The colorful foam clogs appeared in 2002, just as the country was recovering from a recession. Brash and bright, they were a cheap investment (about $30) that felt good and promised to last forever. Former President George W.

What celebrity made Crocs popular? ›

Fans of the foam clogs include John Cena, Prince George, Mario Batali and Whoopi Goldberg. Here, celebrities who love wearing Crocs.

What year were Crocs most popular? ›

Sales of Crocs increased dramatically starting in 2006, with The New York Times stating that first-quarterly sales roughly tripled from 2006 to 2007.

Will Crocs ever go out of business? ›

"While accurate, some people have interpreted that to mean that Crocs will no longer be making and selling shoes. Quite the contrary, Crocs will continue to innovate, design and produce the most comfortable shoes on the planet.

Are Crocs good for walking? ›

The answer is yes! Crocs are actually quite comfortable for walking, thanks to their padded footbed and soft, flexible material. However, they may not be the best choice for long walks or hikes due to their lack of support. But overall, Crocs make great shoes for short distances and everyday wear.

Will Crocs go back up? ›

Crocs has now completed three consecutive years of double-digit revenue growth, and it's targeting sales to grow by at least 20% in 2022. If you're not impressed by an early-year forecast of revenue growth exceeding 20%, keep in mind this is exactly where we were a year ago.

Are Crocs good for knees? ›

Shakoor's study showed clogs increase knee stress. And Dr. West, who doesn't often recommend clogs, particularly lightweight plastic varieties, says, “They're not a good everyday shoe for people with arthritis in the arch, big toe or ankle, or who have stiff, swollen foot joints.”

Why do nurses wear Crocs? ›

Crocs provides a number of slip resistant nurse and hospital shoes and clogs to help you stay safe during your shift.

Should you wear socks with Crocs? ›

Get the sockless style with sock comfort.

But Crocs—just like any shoe—will feel better, smell better, and ultimately last longer if you wear socks with them.

Who wears Crocs shoes? ›

It has enlisted a string of well-chosen partners including fashion companies like Balenciaga and global celebrities such as Justin Bieber, Bad Bunny, Post Malone, and Diplo to boost its credibility with young shoppers and create excitement around its brand.

What is Crocs future strategy? ›

In addition to introducing bio-based Croslite and becoming a 100% vegan brand by the end of 2021, Crocs is exploring sustainable alternatives for other elements of its packaging and working on ways to give Crocs™ shoes a second life through consumer-led donations, recycling and re-commerce programs.

What age buys Crocs? ›

Demographic Crocs have strong demographic support in men and women under the age of 25. A potential buyer should keep in mind that future Crocs is currently trying to build support in other demographics.

Where are Crocs most popular? ›

Croc Countries / Countries Where Crocs Are Sold 2023
Country2023 Population
India1,428,627,663
China1,425,671,352
United States339,996,563
Indonesia277,534,122
224 more rows

Are Crocs good for all day? ›

All Day Comfort

Why? Because standing shoes should be exceptional at one thing - keeping you comfortable when standing for long periods of time. Crocs™ has set out to design the most comfortable shoes for standing all day at work or at home and we think we've done it!

When should kids wear shoes? ›

There is no particular age at which your baby will need shoes, but a good rule of thumb is to wait until they've learned to walk and show signs of wanting to be up and about. The general milestone guideline for when a baby begins to walk is: Between 6 and 13 months: crawling.

Can kids wear Crocs as water shoes? ›

Crocs are high-quality shoes that are a type of footwear that you can wear in water. They have a few features that make them suitable to be worn in water, including slip resistance and the inability to absorb moisture. They also help your feet dry quickly, making them acceptable for water use.

What shoes should toddlers wear? ›

Shoes for your toddler should ideally have:
  • a comfortable fit in length and width.
  • plenty of room for the toes.
  • a flexible, flat sole – check the sole can bend near the toe.
  • the front of the shoe wider than the heel, to match the natural shape of the foot.
  • a solid heel counter (part that goes around the back of the heel)

Why can't kids wear Crocs to school? ›

"Crocs provide little support and they can easily slip off during recess, gym, or any other activity beyond walking." Alfieri also is concerned about the risks from wearing Crocs from the morning bell to when school lets out in the afternoon. "Crocs are not the kind of shoe that should be worn all day long," she says.

Do kids wear Crocs in winter? ›

Crocs can handle any weather. They were originally designed as boating shoes, so they can get soaked with zero consequences. That's why families wear them all summer to the beach, the pool, and through rain showers, but (drumroll) it turns out there are tons of amazing Crocs for the fall and winter, too.

Are Crocs OK to wear around the house? ›

Crocs™ slippers and house shoes can be worn wherever you go, including the grocery store, the movies, or on your ride home from a hefty day of skiing! Crocs™ slippers come in a variety of styles including boot slippers, clog slippers, mules and more. It's okay to be cozy.

Is it against OSHA to wear Crocs? ›

According to AOHP, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not prevent employers from imposing work-determined attire. It includes footwear such as clogs, crocs, and sandals.

Why don t gyms allow Crocs? ›

To answer the above question, Crocs are not good workout shoes. They lack overall stability, can fall off the feet fairly easily when working out, and lack adequate foot protection.

Do Crocs mold to your feet? ›

Unless you wash them often, all your sweat just festers in there and when you're a devoted Crocs wearer, this can lead to serious conditions such as nail fungus and athlete's foot, in the long-term.

When did Crocs fail? ›

In 2008, footwear-maker Crocs (CROX) was facing a life or death situation. The Boulder, Colo., company best known for its colorful and lightweight rubber clogs watched as its popularity sank and its inventory piled up on store shelves. Sales started to plummet, forcing the company to cut thousands of jobs.

Why are Crocs called Crocs? ›

The company was given the name Crocs™ after the multi-environment, amphibious nature of Crocodiles. Building momentum with a shoe unlike any other, Crocs™ provided consumers with innovative, fun and comfortable footwear that could be worn for a variety of lifestyle occasions.

Why did they put holes in Crocs? ›

The holes in Crocs make it easy for water to escape

Though you're more likely to see them being worn by someone on a quick errand or by a nurse at work, Crocs were originally designed for boaters and other types of sailors, though they have a bit less frat-guy appeal than other popular boat shoes, like Sperry's.

What is so popular about Crocs? ›

As a boating shoe, Crocs were designed to be comfortable and easy to keep clean. This meant they also appealed to anyone who was on their feet a lot and needed to clean their shoes often — like restaurant and healthcare workers. And to anyone who wanted a super comfy shoe, really.

Why are Crocs important? ›

Crocodiles have an important role in the environment. As adults they regulate the populations of other animals – stopping them from overcrowding and degrading ecosystems. Crocodiles also create habitats for other animals by burrowing and nest building.

What is Crocs values? ›

The Crocs Promise, Vision And Values

Unafraid to try and fail. Accessible, affordable, and comfortable. For one and all. For everyday – where life is lived, inspiration is found and innovation rules the day. Promise.

Why do podiatrists hate Crocs? ›

"[Crocs] offer nice arch support," ... but "these shoes do not adequately secure the heel. When the heel is unstable, toes tend to grip which can lead to tendonitis, worsening of toe deformities, nail problems, corns and calluses.

Why has Crocs made a comeback? ›

CELEBRITY ENDORsem*nTS. The reasons for the revival of Crocs as a brand are varied, but among them is celebrity endorsem*nts, fashion experts told CNA. In recent years, Crocs have been spotted on the feet of famous celebrities - Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Jisoo from Blackpink and Ariana Grande - to name a few.

What you didn't know about Crocs? ›

Interesting Crocodile Facts
  • Crocodiles are carnivores, which generally means they eat only meat. ...
  • Crocodiles can go through 4,000 teeth over a lifetime. ...
  • A crocodile's jaws can apply 5,000 pounds of pressure per square inch – the strongest bite of any animal in the world.

What is the competitive advantage of Crocs? ›

Competitive Advantage: Crocs has a competitive advantage over other competitors because of its unique design; Strong Product Line: Crocs has various styles and colors. This allows it to appeal to many different types of customers; High-Quality Products: Crocs makes quality products.

Did Nicki Minaj start the Crocs trend? ›

Yes, you read that right. Nicki Minaj put away her Balenciagas this week and chose to model a pair of hot pink Crocs on Instagram on Monday — and it went viral. The rap star shared her first social media post since Jan. 9, where she teased an upcoming project that will release on Friday.

What are the pros and cons of Crocs? ›

The bottom line. Many people enjoy wearing Crocs. They're lightweight, comfortable, and roomy, which makes them ideal for a range of activities. On the other hand, their lack of arch support can cause issues like plantar fasciitis, while their plastic construction may give you sweaty, smelly feet.

When did Crocs regain popularity? ›

Sales for the shoe skyrocketed during the pandemic, and in the first quarter of 2021, Crocs saw an increase of nearly 65% in sales, BBC reported.

What is the appeal with Crocs? ›

Universal Appeal

It is one of those rare fashion brands that really has something for everyone. “Crocs have comfort, combined with style. It's on trend and right for a whole variety of wearing occasions. You can personalize them, and they are a great value.

Who is Crocs biggest competitor? ›

Crocs competitors include Converse, Nike, Skechers U.S.A., Dr Martens and Timberland. Crocs ranks 2nd in Diversity Score on Comparably vs its competitors.

Who are the target customers for Crocs? ›

The target audience for You crocs are women with an age of 25-50.

Why are Crocs struggling? ›

Crocs' sales struggled between 2016 and 2019 as interest in its infamous foam clog style waned and the brand was forced to shutdown 160 retail stores. However, after an investment in buzzy collaborations and a pandemic-driven sales boost, Crocs became cool again. The brand sold 69 million pairs of clogs in 2020 alone.

When was Crocs most popular? ›

Sales of Crocs increased dramatically starting in 2006, with The New York Times stating that first-quarterly sales roughly tripled from 2006 to 2007.

Who wore Crocs first? ›

1. Crocs first appeared on the shoe scene in 2002. Colorado natives Scott Seamans, Lyndon “Duke” Hanson, and George Boedecker, Jr.

Who wears pink Crocs? ›

Nicki's pink pair were an immediate hit, and reportedly caused a 4,900 percent spike in pink Crocs sales. Some customers also reported experiencing technical difficulties on the brand's website following Nicki's post.

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