Why All the Hate for a Pair of Foam Shoes?

I’ve seen the hate. Heard the jokes. Read the rants.

And honestly? I still don’t get it.

Crocs aren’t made from real crocodiles. If they were, sure—I’d understand the outrage, especially from the fur-painting crowd. But they’re not. They’re just comfortable, bum-around shoes. Like slippers with a job to do.

I’m wearing them right now, actually.

Like anything else, there’s a time and place. You won’t catch me wearing them to the opera, to work, or on a hike. But to the hairdresser? To grab a couple things at the store? Why not? I mean, I can’t stand seeing people out and about in pajamas either—but I’ve got no beef with pajamas. There’s just a time and place.

So what’s with all the Crocs hate?

Pineapple on Pizza, Crocs on Feet

Crocs are the pineapple-on-pizza of shoes. People seem to love 'em or hate 'em, and everyone’s got an opinion. They’re oddly divisive for what is essentially a foam clog. You’d think they ran over someone’s dog—twice—then turned around to do it again, the way people react.

But here’s the thing—like pineapple on pizza, Crocs don’t have to make sense to you to be enjoyable for someone else. You don’t have to love 'em. Just let people be comfy.

They’re Not Fashion—And That’s the Point

Crocs are not runway shoes. I get it. They’re bulky, they’ve got holes in weird places—like someone designing them was a serious Cribbage fan and got carried away. And they make a distinct sound if you’ve got sweaty feet.

But they’re not trying to be on Top Model. “Next we see Adriana, wearing Elie Saab and Crocs.”

They’re not trying to trick you into thinking they’re couture. They’re just one of the most comfortable relax shoes ever. That’s kind of their charm.

The Kids Are Alright—And So Are Their Shoes

Some people act like Crocs are this ancient relic or a joke that got out of hand, but guess what? Gen Z loves them. Kids think they’re great. They’re customizing them, bedazzling them, trading little doodads that pop into the holes. My grandkids are the ones who got me into this whole craze!

It’s not a rebellion. It’s not a fashion accident. It’s just a new generation embracing comfort and creativity, and honestly, I’m here for it.

Okay, Yes—They Can Be Sweaty and Squeaky

Let’s be honest. Crocs aren’t perfect. If you wear them without socks and your feet sweat, they will squeak. And they don’t breathe like mesh running shoes. But those are fixable issues.

Socks.

Socks with Crocs?

I hear a chorus of appalled readers gasping for air, struggling to breathe as they suffer through the enormous shock of such a faux pas. Even while committing the faux pas of wearing Crocs, here comes another, more heinous crime.

Socks with Crocs?

More gasps—clutching pearls, fans waving, whispering to their friends: “Did you hear? She wears socks with Crocs. SOCKS. WITH. CROCS.”

Like I just walked into church wearing flip-flops and a tank top that says “Bless Your Heart.”

Look, it’s always something! If it’s not sweaty feet, it’s toe shame. If it’s not toe shame, it’s static cling or that weird little pebble that sneaks in through one of the holes and follows you for hours like a tiny, passive-aggressive gremlin.

"It's always something. If it's not one thing, it's another." - Roseanne Roseannadanna

Gilda Radner as Roseanne Roseannadanna (Saturday Night Live)

Here’s My Take

Crocs aren’t a fashion statement—except when they pop with the personal bling. They’re a practical choice. And I choose them when they make sense for where I’m going and what I’m doing. I respect the place and time rule. So maybe that’s all we really need: a little context and a little less judgment.

If someone wants to wear Crocs to brunch, cool. If they want to wear stilettos to Costco, fine. Just let people live.

Wear what you like. Respect the vibe. And if someone gives you side-eye for your Crocs, just remember—they’re probably uncomfortable in their shoes.

And that’s not your problem.

Let them suffer for fashion. You’ve got groceries to carry.