Crocs are all the rage for back-to-school, but are they safe?

by Rigel Celeste (Subscribe to Rigel Celeste's posts)
Aug 20th 2007 8:52AM

They first came out in 2002, and now Crocs are everywhere. Although they're mostly a summer shoe, they have been making their way well into fall and the school season on the feet of kids and adults alike. But this back-to-school season some parents and schools are asking the question: are they safe? WebMd asked the experts and found that there are both pros and cons:

Pros: In the summer Crocs are a great alternative to flip-flops, sandals, or going barefoot because they provide more support and protection, allow the feet to breath, and many have antibacterial properties that can help promote foot health.

Cons: During the school year crocs are not recommended because they aren't intended or designed for all-day wear, they may come off during activities because they fit so loosely, and, of course, as the school year moves into fall and winter, the weather can quickly become an issue.

Bottom line? Pack the Crocs away when summer is over.

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Comments (206)

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 11)

Chris A 8-20-2007 @ 9:11AM

Bottom Line: These are the ugliest things ever. I thought they went out of style last year, after the novelty wore off? I don't know why any kid would want them.

Peppy 8-21-2007 @ 2:11PM

Ugly Schmugly! Crocs are the best thing ever! I have four pairs and will add more. They are comfortable and comfort rules! They are way above "novelty" and "out of style"! Does anyone agree??? Peppy

alan 8-21-2007 @ 2:15PM

When they wear down the slightest bit(i have the sandel version)they are like ice skates on any kind of wet floor....dam near busted my ass i tell ya...so easy to mold in some better gription.....

Croclover 8-21-2007 @ 2:24PM

If you never owned a pair, then shut your mouth. Because they are super comfortable! And I wear my crocs all day, and my lil nephew does too. And he plays just fine. They are no safer than sneakers. The shoes isn't what matters, it parent and teacher supervision. If you don't watch kids, or let them do whatever they want then they will get hurt. Just like the escalators w/ crocs, who was watching the kids, while they were on the escalator. I always hold hands when I am on a escalator with little kids.

e lopez 8-21-2007 @ 2:21PM

Didn't these start out as womens garden shoes? Why do some people have their little boys wear them? Do they want to raise sissies? These things are butt ugly

Miz Liz 8-21-2007 @ 2:36PM

What a bunch of haters!
Crocs are this generations' Birkenstocks.
Throw on a pair of socks when the weather turns, or just go get another style. They have more than one, you know! And the color selection gets better with each new design. They're a heck of a lot cheaper to replace than a pair of tennis shoes.

pearl 8-21-2007 @ 2:24PM

Crocs are made for wet surfaces, so you don't slide on the boat and stuff. you idiots. Maybe you don't no how to walk, because I have a pair for years and I never slipped in them. I have 2 pairs all together, and I want another pair. I luv them!

H Clarh 8-21-2007 @ 2:28PM

Crocs make different styles. I have a pair that are like a closed shoe with laces. Very comfortable. Look on their website.

Heidi 8-21-2007 @ 2:59PM

Don't you wonder why almost EVERY healthcare worker now wear crocs? Its because they are super comfortable and Skid-proof.

Deb 8-21-2007 @ 2:36PM

I love my Crocks... yes they are ugly, but they are the most comfortable shoes in the world! Now Crocks come in different styles... Mary Janes etc... I love them, I don't care if they are in style or not!

Aymee 8-21-2007 @ 2:37PM

Oh god. I cant belive people still wear these. Their like, freaking made of rubber!!!! Im no diva, but honestly, id rather slip and fall then be seen wearing those. And who's idea was it to make men's size 12 croc's in pale pink???

Judy 8-21-2007 @ 3:19PM

They are the most COMFORTABLE shoes ever! Unlike other shoes that squeeze & pinch your feet they are very roomy inside & the utmost in comfort. People that ridicule them are those that don't have any. Read the blogs on them & you'll find... everyone that wears them, loves the comfort & winds up with several pairs in different colors. I have the crocsRX (relief) which has the softer footbed than the regular crocs. Great for those who have generally achy feet.

bl76km81 8-21-2007 @ 2:43PM

I swore to God, I would never own/wear a pair of crocs, I am just un co-ordinated that they would slip off my feet.

I found the ugliest pair in the world, they have a heel, my partner dared me to buy them and said if I did she would buy a pair too. They are sturdy, and comfortable

i wouldn't wear them if i had to dress up, but anywear i wear shorts, I wear crocs.

kermitucf 8-21-2007 @ 2:53PM

"Crocs are made for wet surfaces, so you don't slide on the boat and stuff. you idiots. Maybe you don't no how to walk, because I have a pair for years and I never slipped in them."

I have a few pair of crocs and I love them, I'm in the medical field and wear them to work every day, but when the tread wears off, they are really really slippery, more so than sneakers. Just be careful. My neice is 3 and has had crocs for over a year, she loves them!

johnd 8-21-2007 @ 2:50PM

Bottom line? Put those ugly things away for ever!!!

Sharon 8-21-2007 @ 2:57PM

I've been wearing crocks ever since they came
out. I've got nice tennis shoes that I don't
wear because my crocks are more comforable.
thanks to the person or company that
designed them.>>grn

Trudy 8-21-2007 @ 2:52PM

I Have medical condition and they are the only shoe that are I can wear without spending a money I can ill afford. I can walk all day without my cane. They are great.

Gail 8-21-2007 @ 2:54PM

Crocks are the most comfortable shoes I own--and ugly. I wear mine all day and it's like I don't have any shoes on at all.

Beware--I did slip and fall in them and was out of work for a week.

KEN HAVIR 8-21-2007 @ 2:55PM

REAL MEN DON'T WEAR CROCS.....

artabril 8-21-2007 @ 2:57PM

I've been in the shoe business over25 years I was also a childrens shoe buyer for a major department store,one thing I can say for certain is you don't know what the hell you're talking about.I live in California we don't have the crazy weather as in other states,so please keep these stupid comments to yourself unless you really know what the hell you're talking about.