Healthy Shoe Thoughts: Crocs or Not?
April 14, 2009 by Peggy Rowland
Filed under Women's Health
The bulky yet comfortable shoe many describe as “ugly” is having a hard time lately. A recent financial report mentioned “substantial doubt about our [Crocs Inc or CROX] ability to continue as a going concern.”
I have a pair of Crocs myself, but I haven’t worn them lately. I bought them because they were recommended for the job I had at the time. I stood a lot and my feet got wet. Yip, animal hospital kennel. I’ll admit that Crocs are very comfortable, even if they don’t feel exactly natural.
Comfort is an established, largely shared opinion about Crocs, but are they a healthy shoe?
WebMD took up the question in their feature, Crocs: Healthy Shoes or Just Comfy? They didn’t exactly make a final ruling, but it appears that some doctors recommend them to patients with foot problems. Other medical pros turn up their noses saying no studies have been done. However, Crocs are certified by the U.S. Ergonomics Council and the American Podiatric Medical Association.
The Smart Set also took up a Croc question in a saucy way that only they can. The writer, Greg, referred to Crocs as “antifungal clown clogs” in Crocs on the Rocks. But it’s clear he admires them too.
Even if Crocs disappear from Macy’s, I do hope they’ll stay around for the many who rely on them as comfortable work shoes. Plus, the shoes are popular with diabetics and those with foot problems. Perhaps the Rx line of Crocs can be saved. They include: Croc Relief, Croc Cloud and Croc Silver Cloud.
How do you feel about Crocs these days?
(Image via flickr.)
I’ve never understood the public’s obsession with whether shoes are ugly or not on *someone else*. I can understand not wanting to wear a shoe that you don’t like, but some anti-crocs people almost lose it about the shoe altogether.
Who give a {insert fave word} what they look like if someone else is wearing them? Personally, I can’t stand those ridiculous looking platform shoes with even higher heels. But I’m not going to wear them, so…..
I have wide feet plus they’re hard to fit for comfort. I bought a pair of crocs last year at Costco for an incredible price. I don’t think my feet have ever, ever, ever been more comfortable than when I wear those shoes.
I have to admit – I love my Crocs! I teach kids art & craft classes, so spend hours running around a classroom. Wearing Crocs mean I can still walk at the end of the day
Marijke, I agree. Calling someone else’s shoes ugly is very high school, isn’t it? Have you tried Merrell shoes? I just got my first pair and think they are also very comfortable.
Chloe, yes, teaching kids is a perfect reason to wear comfortable shoes!