A few years ago, I was searching for a new pair of running shoes. I had just begun training for my first triathlon, and I was excited to find a pair of lightweight, cushioned shoes that would help me prepare more effectively.
My partner and I visited a local running store, where we were both fitted for shoes. He tried several pairs and finally settled on a pair he liked and felt comfortable in. I, on the other hand, wanted Crocs clogs, but first asked my friend, “Can Crocs be used for running?”
Crocs Clogs are not designed as running shoes. Although they may support your feet during sprints, these shoes will do more harm than good to your feet if worn for long-distance races.
Crocs also sells loafers, sneakers, and other shoes, but none of these are designed for running.
If you are wearing Crocs and need to run a short distance, then go ahead. I’m not saying that you can’t run in them at all. However, if you want to run a lot—say 10 miles per day or several miles per week—there are better shoes for that purpose.
What Makes a Good Running Shoe?
When you are shopping for running shoes, you should consider several factors, including:
- The terrain on which you run
- Your gait and the support your foot needs
- Stability of the shoe
- Breathability of the fabric
The Terrain on Which You Run
If you are someone who runs for the sake of running, and you stick to roads, sidewalks, and local parks, then a road runner’s shoe would be great for you. However, if you prefer trail running, which often involves maneuvering around obstacles like rocks and tree branches, then trail running shoes will serve you best.
Road running shoes are lighter than other athletic shoes and are designed to strike repeatedly on flat, hard surfaces. They have soles that provide the right amount of traction on smooth terrains.
Conversely, trail running shoes have soles that are more rugged and uppers that are stronger than regular running shoes. The extra support from the soles is ideal for your runs on uneven trails or rocky terrains.
If you run on paved and rugged terrains, a pair of hybrid shoes will do the job. But if I were you, I’d buy two pairs of shoes—one for the road, one for the trail. In my opinion, a good all-around shoe will work well for both environments, but it won’t be perfect for either one.
Your Gait and the Support Your Foot Needs
The best way to determine if you need extra support for your feet is to look at the shape of your arch and how your foot hits the ground when running.
There are three types of runners:
- Overpronators: They have low arches.
- Neutral runners: These have normal arches.
- Underpronators (also called supinators): They possess high arches.
If you overpronate, you tend to put more weight on the inner foot than the outer foot when your foot hits the ground.
If your feet are parallel to the ground when you land and your toes are pushed forward when you take off, you’re a neutral runner.
If you underpronate, your weight will be distributed more toward your outer foot, causing you to push off with your outer toes and ankles.
Try to find running shoes that are supportive and cushion your feet each time they take off and land on the ground.
People who underpronate (or have a strong foot impact) need shoes with extra cushioning. They are more prone to plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and ankle strain.
If you have neutral feet, you can wear a wide range of running shoes. I have neutral feet and used to love my Asics, but I have recently been enjoying my Sauconys.
People who overpronate—their feet roll inward too much as they run—should look for running shoes with extra arch support or well-cushioned insoles. Like underpronators, overpronators are prone to plantar fasciitis, shin splints, heel spurs, and bunions.
One way to check your gait is by looking at the wear pattern on your old running shoes. If they are worn inside, you may be an overpronator and need stability shoes. If they are worn outside, you may be an underpronator and need motion control shoes. Or, if they are worn evenly across the sole, you may be a neutral runner who would benefit from neutral running shoes.
Here are some inserts that will help with the pronation of your foot. I would buy these for regular shoes, but it’s best to choose running shoes with built-in support features.
Stability of Your Ankle
If your ankles tend to dip down as you walk, you likely overpronate. In this case, it would be a good idea to choose a shoe with firm arch support.
If your ankles are stable as you walk and run, you can wear most athletic shoes without a problem.
If you tend to roll your ankle outward slightly as you walk and run, choose a shoe that offers stability.
Fabric and Laces
Ideally, you should be looking for shoes whose uppers are made of soft, breathable, waterproof fabric. Your feet will breathe better, and you won’t have to worry about the fabric getting wet and sloppy as you run.
Most runners prefer running shoes with hook and loop closures, instead of laces, for several reasons. Hook and loop closures provide stability and enable you to adjust the tightness of your shoes. Asides from that, your feet will slide around less in a pair of hook and loop shoes—this reduces chafing and soreness.
Why Should You Invest in Crocs?
Crocs shoes are lightweight and portable, so you can wear them with ease.
Lightweight
Crocs shoes are lightweight and portable, so you can wear them with ease.
Protect Your Feet
Crocs are designed to protect your feet from rocks and other debris you might find on nature trails.
High Comfort Level
Every pair of Crocs brings you the comfort you need and deserve. You will no longer experience foot problems such as plantar fasciitis.
Comes in Different Sizes
The shoes come in all different sizes, so no matter your age, you can find the ones that fit you perfectly.
Practical
Are you tired of spending too much money just to get the perfect pair of shoes? Why not try Crocs? The affordable price tag is sure to put a smile on your face.
Durable
All models of Crocs are built to last. They are sturdy and made from quality materials that can withstand the test of time.
Assorted Colors and Designs
With many colors and designs to choose from, you can find Crocs that suit your taste.
Breathable
Crocs have air holes that keep your feet fully ventilated. These holes create an environment in which fungus, bacteria, and foul odor have no place at all.
Easy to Clean
When shoes are worn regularly, they become home to all sorts of germs, from bacteria to fungi. They might not sound too bad, but having fungus in your shoes or infection in your feet is incredibly uncomfortable and can be unsightly.
With Crocs, you needn’t worry about this because the shoes are so easy to keep clean – all you need is some running water and a bit of soap to keep them looking good as new.
Can Crocs Be Used for Running? Yes or No?
As I mentioned earlier, Crocs shouldn’t be used for running. They offer high comfort but not the support you need for long-distance running. You can wear them for walking and water sports, though, because they’re comfortable and waterproof!
Tips for Buying the Best Crocs Shoes
Shoes are essential items that keep your feet comfortable and protected. But finding the right pair is tricky, so we’ve put together some tips to help you choose the best Crocs shoes for your needs.
Materials Used
Try to pick shoes made from sturdy materials. For example, Croslite, a durable closed-cell compound, is used to manufacture most Crocs shoes. If your shoes are made from Croslite, you can them to last long and withstand damage.
Design and Style
In the end, however, it all boils down to what design appeals most to you. Some Crocs models come with straps, and some don’t. Be comfortable with what you choose before pulling the trigger.
Size
Size is the most critical factor in choosing your shoes. If you wear shoes that are bigger or smaller than what fits you, you may have blisters and other foot problems. Therefore, ensure you buy the right size of shoes. And, by doing so, your feet will remain happy and healthy.
Cost
It’s true that Crocs shoes are not the cheapest available. However, if you compare them to other types of footwear, you’ll see that they are a good value for your money.
Flexibility
If you want to use your shoes for a variety of activities, they should be flexible and provide good support.
Do Crocs Come in Standard Sizes?
Yes, Crocs come in various sizes to accommodate different foot widths. You can select the pair that fits your feet best and wear them comfortably.
Do Crocs Stretch over Time?
The idea that Crocs stretch over time is a myth. If you purchase a new pair that is too tight, exchange them for a larger pair immediately. But if you’ve worn your Crocs so often that they’re not eligible for exchange, and you’d like to stretch them, please come with me.
How Does Running in Crocs Feel?
While Crocs are light and easy to wear, they’re not a good choice for long-distance running. They don’t provide the stability you need for running on hard surfaces, and after a few miles, you may find them uncomfortable.
Why Should You not Run in Crocs Shoes?
Crocs shoes might be comfortable to wear and lightweight, but they’re not ideal for running because of their soft outsoles that offer little resistance to penetration by sharp objects on the ground.
Conclusion: Crocs Aren’t the Best for Running
Crocs run the gamut from being comically bad to having a dedicated fan base. But regardless of where you stand on the spectrum, there’s one important fact that everyone can agree on: Crocs aren’t the best for running.
Despite how well-made and comfortable they feel, their outsoles simply aren’t strong enough to handle the forces applied during running. So while they might work just fine as a casual walking shoe, they’ll cause you numerous foot problems when put to the test during something like a 5K race or a long run through the neighborhood.