Crocs have been banned in dozens of U.S. schools over concerns that wearing them daily could negatively impact children’s foot health.
The brand, known for its rubber and resin shoes, has faced a significant setback in the U.S. Recently, schools in at least 12 states have restricted students from wearing Crocs daily, citing safety concerns. School administrators report that children wearing this type of shoes without the heel straps are at greater risk of tripping and falling.
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Since their 2002 debut, Crocs have sold over 300 million pairs worldwide. Hollywood stars like Matt Damon, Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, and Jack Nicholson are known to wear them casually. Despite this popularity, the shoes have long faced criticism from fashion icons—and now from orthopedic specialists.
While many people find this shoes comfortable, orthopedists advise against extended wear due to three main concerns: limited heel stability, inflexibility that can lead to toe stiffness, and the shoe’s wide fit, which doesn’t support the foot’s natural shape.
School staff members have also noted that students often wear Crocs without the straps, leading to frequent trips and falls. Additionally, teachers have raised concerns over distractions, as students tend to play with the small accessories that adorn the shoes and even toss the shoes to one another in class.
Schools such as Lake City Elementary in South Atlanta and LaBelle High School in LaBelle, Florida, have added this shoes to their dress code bans.
Anne Mehlman, President of Crocs and Executive Vice President, remarked that the company is not aware “of any substantiated data showing an increase in bans” on their footwear.
