Your Crocs may look comfortable, but they don't offer the best support for your feet. Here's when to wear them and when to opt for another shoe.
Crocs are a controversial shoe option. Some people don't like how they look and feel, while others find them comfortable, lightweight, and trendy.
In addition to the debate about how they look, you may be wondering if Crocs are good for your feet.
The answer to that question depends on a few different factors, including the health of your feet and the activities you plan to do while wearing them.
Read on to learn all about the ins and outs of Crocs for your feet and some comfortable alternatives.
Wearing Crocs regularly can have some downsides.
They have no arch support.
One of the main concerns with Crocs is their lack of arch support, according toSidney Weiser DPM, a podiatrist based in Florida and Illinois and president of the Quality Podiatry Group.
Weiser says this lack of arch support can strain the plantar fascia, a thick ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. The plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and supports the arch of the foot.
If you regularly wear shoes that lack arch support, you may eventually developplantar fasciitis, a condition in which you experience pain in the bottom of your heel and sometimes in the middle of your foot. This condition can make walking, standing, or climbing stairs very difficult.
Weiser recommends avoiding Crocs altogether if you'repie plano. In accordance withPreventive Foot Health InstituteStill, being boring can contribute to plantar fasciitis and other health conditions, especially if you don't wear shoes that support your arches.
These conditions include:
- Achilles tendonitis
- juanitas
- hammer toes
- tendinitis tibial posterior
- shin splints
They have no heel support.
“Crocs don't have a back and don't support or control the heel,” Weiser adds.
As a result, you can develop heel pain and heel tendinitis.
Lack of heel support can make it difficult to maintain stability when walking, making you more likely to trip or fall. In fact, someexams 2021suggests that Crocs don't help you balance any better than flip-flops.
They can cause sweating and irritation.
Also, Crocs are made of plastic. Although they have drainage holes that can make them breathable, plastic can still make yoursweaty feet. In some cases, the friction between the skin and the plastic can also cause irritation and discomfort.
Weiser says that wearing Crocs for long periods of time can cause:
- frictionbubbles
- excessiveperspiration
- smelly feet
To avoid these drawbacks, it's best to only wear Crocs for short periods of time. When you plan to do a lot of walking, consider switching to breathable, non-plastic shoes with better arch support.
However, crocodiles are not all bad.
For one, they're quite roomy, so you might find them more comfortable to wear if your feet tend to swell.
Crocs are also relatively easy to slip on, as the baggy design means you can just slip your foot inside. no need for arch support.
In general, it's okay to wear Crocs once in a while, as long as they don't cause you pain. They can work well for activities that don't involve a lot of walking, such as:
- gardening
- doing homework
- desk
- a trip to the cinema
In some circumstances, you may want to opt for another shoe.
high impact activities
You'll want to leave your Crocs in the closet when you're doing high-impact activities like running.
Crocs are also not a good shoe option for:
- long walks
- walk
- Weight lifting
When exercising, it's always a good idea to wear shoes specifically designed for the activity you have in mind.
When standing or walking for a long time
If you spend most of your day on your feet or walking, you may be tempted to wear Crocs as they are comfortable.
They may feel good on your feet, but they don't provide the support you need when walking or standing for long periods of time. As a result, you are likely to have foot pain later on.
That's why Weiser suggests choosing a shoe that offers both arch and heel support.
If you are an older adult
"I generally recommend that older adults avoid wearing Crocs unless their feet and ankles are very swollen," Weiser says.
This is because Crocs can cause some people to fall off. As mentioned, Crocs aren't particularly good at helping you balance, especially since they don't provide heel support.
In accordance with
If you are choosing shoes for your child
Weiser also recommends that children avoid wearing Crocs, especially if the child is very physically active.
“Kids should wear more protective footwear, as they can easily injure themselves if they wear Crocs while running,” he explains. "Crocs lack what it takes to control the heel, support the arch and maintain stability."
If you're a Croc lover, you may want to change your shoes, or at least visit a podiatrist, if you're experiencing foot pain.
The following signs may suggest that it's time to get rid of your Crocs for good:
- sudden and prolonged pain in the arch
- smelly or itchy feet
- sudden onset of heel tendinitis
- newly developed blisters
- heel pain
If you change shoes but foot problems persist, it's a good idea to make an appointment with your primary care doctor, podiatrist, or physical therapist.
If you like comfortable shoes but need better arch support, some alternatives to Crocs can promote better overall foot health. Many brands also make clog-like shoes that resemble Crocs.
For running and other forms of exercise, try opting for shoes that are specially designed for exercise. Different exercise shoes are suitable for different activities, so it can help to start by double-checking what your shoes are designed for. For example, walking shoes may not work well for lifting weights, and vice versa.
Slip-ons can also be a good option if you like the ease of slipping on your Crocs but need extra support. Mules offer another lace-up option, but since they also have no heel support, they may not be the best option if you have foot pain or plantar fasciitis.
shopping tips
It's always a good idea to try on a shoe in person if possible and walk around the store to get an idea of how comfortable it is. Consider the following:
- Weight:Is it light enough?
- Breathability:Does the upper shoe allow airflow?
- Heel and arch support:Do my toes grip the shoe to keep it from falling off? Does the middle part of my foot feel supported?
Still don't know which shoes to choose? You can always ask a podiatrist or physical therapist. This can be a good first step if you have a foot problem or want a shoe that provides support when you run or do other high-impact activities.
Many people like to wear Crocs. They are light, comfortable and roomy, making them ideal for a variety of activities.
On the other hand, the lack of arch support can cause problems like plantar fasciitis, while their plastic construction can cause sweating.smelly feet.
So while Crocs can work perfectly fine in some situations, you might want to skip them if you plan on doing high-impact activities like running, or if you're flat-footed or prone to foot pain.
If you wear Crocs regularly and experience foot pain, see a doctor and try a different type of shoe.
Sian Ferguson is a freelance cannabis and health writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She is passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based information delivered with empathy.
FAQs
Do podiatrists recommend Crocs? ›
Podiatrists agree that Crocs aren't necessarily the best option on the market, but they are a great option for anyone recovering from a foot surgery. They also offer a wide toe box which is great for people with hammertoes or wide feet, but that's where the list ends.
Why do doctors recommend Crocs? ›Easy to Clean
As they're made from rubber, clogs are easier to clean. When working in a hospital, it's easy for water or medical liquids to splash onto your shoes. Fabrics can easily stain and can be stubborn to clean.
When Crocs aren't used as intended, the sole and heel pads in your feet have to bear additional strain during active muscle contractions (e.g., in walking and standing for long hours). Tendonitis, corns, calluses, and other toe deformities can result from Crocs, while preexisting foot conditions can also worsen.
Do Crocs have good arch support? ›While Crocs provide some cushioning to the foot, they don't provide the firmness and support you need to correct your flat feet as they're too flexible. If you're planning to wear Crocs, you can make up for their lack of arch support by using custom orthotics.
Do Crocs cause plantar fasciitis? ›Using crocs for long periods can cause foot pain because of its flexible shank and limited heel support. While they are usable for plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia, they can also cause tendinitis, worsen toe deformities, and cause nail problems, corns and calluses. Best to use them with care.
Can Crocs cause foot problems? ›Long-term wear of Crocs may also cause other serious foot conditions. “You're not thinking about it, but when you're wearing a shoe that wide, you're gripping with your toes, and when you grip with your toes to keep a shoe on, you can get tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and hammertoes in the long-term,” Dr. Barrow notes.
Are there any benefits to wearing 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.
What were Crocs originally made for? ›History. Crocs was founded by Scott Seamans, Lyndon "Duke" Hanson and George Boedecker Jr. to produce and distribute a foam boat shoe, whose design they acquired from Foam Creations, Inc. of Quebec City. Seamans loved that the comfort, the slip resistance, and that they could float.
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. Our proprietary Crocs Lock™ tread provides slip-resistance that exceeds industry standards.
Are Skechers good for your feet? ›As a consequence, Skechers can cause ligament and muscle stresses and strains. The memory foam could take on the 'memory' of a poor gait style causing destabilising foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back pain.
Are Crocs good for bad knees? ›
Dr. 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.”
Are Crocs good to wear around the house? ›So, rather than wearing Crocs all day long, Dr. Leahy said the shoes can be worn for short periods of time: puttering around the house, gardening or a trip to the beach are all OK.
Should you size up or down in Crocs? ›If as a slip-on, I'd round Down - That's because Crocs do appear to run a tad bit large, and you could probably get a perfect slip-on fit. If you want to wear these as clogs with strap down, then you should round UP.
Are Birkenstocks good for feet? ›"They're really good for if you have a flat foot or you have arch pain because they have a supportive longitudinal arch. But I would recommend them to most people — unless you have some kind of severe ailment that obviously needs a more personalized approach."
Why do my feet hurt after wearing Crocs? ›They lack heel support
“Crocs are backless and do not support or control the heel,” Weiser adds. As a result, you could develop heel pain and tendonitis of the heel. The lack of heel support can make it more difficult to maintain stability as you walk, so you may be more likely to trip or fall.
Not wearing supportive shoes
You should avoid shoes that put a lot of pressure on your feet, such as high heels. You should also avoid wearing cheap flip flops, which usually lack sufficient arch support.
Crocs is facing backlash for co-sponsoring a drag event that features a "kids fashion show." The show was touted as part of the upcoming RuPaul's DragCon event in London. Jimmy Failla, host of "Fox Across America," said Wednesday the left is making political statements at the expense of children.
Why are there 13 holes in Crocs? ›There are exactly 13 holes on each pair of Crocs.
Whether you're looking at a pair of kids' Crocs or men's size 15 Crocs, each pair has 13 holes on the top of the shoe. But they aren't just there for aesthetics. The holes serve as ventilation and let out excess moisture to keep the shoes fresh.
Then, consumers grew tired of the unchanged, no-frills design that originally seemed so sensible. Within a decade, the company had seemed to rise, fall, rise and fall again. In 2018, Crocs announced it would close all of its manufacturing facilities, as well as 160 of its retail stores.
How much did a pair of Crocs cost in 2002? ›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.
Why do nurses wear clogs? ›
The main reason that clogs are a popular choice of footwear for nurses and have been since the 1800's is quite simply the level of support they offer over a long period of time. Good support will improve posture and help prevent and relieve pain in the foot, ankle, knee and lower back.
What do podiatrists say about Skechers? ›Sketchers DO NOT have appropriate stability in the upper fabric and the heel counter to complement an orthotic. As such, you will probably find the orthotic redundant, or in worse case contributing to the cause of injury. Remember, an orthotic does 50% of the work.
Are Crocs an OSHA violation? ›Plain and simple – OSHA does not forbid employers from setting protocol for prescribed work attire. Nor does the agency say employees can't wear casual footwear—including sandals, clogs and Crocs.
Why do athletes wear Crocs? ›While Crocs are not designed to run in, they are an extremely lightweight shoe, with a heel strap for a secure fit. They are also a lot cheaper than the Next%'s many runners opt to wear on race day.
What are medical Crocs? ›Comfortable Nursing Shoes
Crocs are slip resistant, easy to clean and light weight with a Croslite™ material foot bed, all of which make them the perfect medical shoe for hardworking nurses, doctors and medical staff. Discover our chef crocs for safe and comfy restaurant shoes.
- Best Orthopedic Shoes for Seniors in 2023.
- Spenco Yumi Orthotic Flip Flops.
- Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandal.
- Sketchers GOwalk Joy.
- L.L. Bean Comfort Mocs.
- Dr. Comfort Merry Jane.
- Dr. Comfort Performance.
- Hoka One One Bondi.
Ugg boots and slippers may feel comfortable and warm; however, they have little to no support for your feet. Over time, this results in the muscles, ligaments and tendons being overstretched and strained. It may lead to conditions including sore legs, 'tired feet,' or plantar fasciitis.
Why do podiatrists recommend Hoka? ›Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City-based podiatrist says that they provide comfort, support and shock absorption, which makes them a good choice for frequent walkers or anyone whose job requires them to stand for the majority of the day.
Is a croc an orthopedic? ›The cushy bottoms found on each pair of Crocs have a solid orthopedic design which provide a surprisingly high level of support. Nurse, chefs, hairdressers, and others who stand for long periods or walk on hard surfaces will tell you that this markedly reduces foot pain and leg fatigue.
When should you wear Crocs? ›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.
Should I wear Crocs with socks? ›
Are crocs meant to be worn with socks or not? The way that crocs have been designed it's actually up to the wearer if they want to wear socks or not. Crocs have a roomy toe box and easy-on style that can readily accommodate socks of various thicknesses. They're also perfectly wearable and comfortable without socks.
Is it better to have Crocs too big or too small? ›The Crocs Clog fits true to size! I wouldn't go any smaller or bigger because they're perfect as they are.
Should my Crocs be loose or tight? ›Standard fits offer a more snug (but not tight) fit than our roomy or relaxed styles. They should conform to fit your foot securely with minimal or no slipping as you walk. Your heel should rest securely and the shoe shouldn't ride up and down. Sides, top and arch area of the shoe should comfortably hug your feet.
What if you are a half size in Crocs? ›Tip: Crocs come in whole sizes only. If you typically wear a half size, we recommend you order a size Up.
Do podiatrists approved Birkenstocks? ›They are exceptionally durable, comfortable shoes that will evenly distribute your body weight for the best support possible. Recommended by podiatrists worldwide, the Foot and Ankle Clinic stocks the following examples in the Birkenstock range.
What do you wear to a podiatrist? ›If possible, try to wear clothes that you feel comfortable in and will allow your Podiatrist to assess as far as your knees. Pants that you can roll up are particularly handy if you can't wear shorts.
How many years does Birkenstock last? ›Some people keep their Birkenstocks for 10 years, while others may only get one summer out of them. How long your Birkenstock footwear lasts is determined by how well you treat them, and how hard you are on your shoes in general. Remember, Birkenstocks are made to be repaired.
What do podiatrists say about wearing Crocs? ›“Crocs are backless and do not support or control the heel,” Weiser adds. As a result, you could develop heel pain and tendonitis of the heel. The lack of heel support can make it more difficult to maintain stability as you walk, so you may be more likely to trip or fall.
Which shoes do podiatrists recommend? ›- Brooks.
- Asics.
- New Balance.
- Rockport.
- Merrell.
- Ascent.
- Mizuno.
What may come as a surprise is that Crocs can give even more support when used with orthotics. Crocs have a deep insole and footbed, which makes them suitable for use with orthotics, particularly custom orthotics designed to fit the foot.
What shoes do orthopedic surgeons recommend? ›
- Best Orthopedic Shoes for Seniors in 2023.
- Spenco Yumi Orthotic Flip Flops.
- Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandal.
- Sketchers GOwalk Joy.
- L.L. Bean Comfort Mocs.
- Dr. Comfort Merry Jane.
- Dr. Comfort Performance.
- Hoka One One Bondi.
- High-heeled shoes. Heel shoes wreak havoc on your feet. ...
- Pointy shoes or shoes with a narrow toe box. Narrow shoes may be in style, but they can contribute to foot pain. ...
- Flip-flops.
Dr. 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.”
Which Crocs are best for support? ›The Crocs Rx Relief is designed to be the most comfortable Crocs that you will ever wear. The "Crocs Relief" has extra arch support so they are great for people with plantar fasciitis.