Crocs of Shit

I think the downfall of this country is arguably not violence on television, or what exactly high fructose corn syrup is doing to our brains, but really, what the hell people see in these shoes:

You think foreigners believe we're snobby or mannerless and that's why they turn their nose down at us? Um, no. It's because they can't believe we're walking around with those clodhoppers on our feet.

Sorry. Even the Ballet Flats scare me.

I imagine at one point in time, someone, somewhere said the same thing about flip flops. "You put WHAT between your toes? And you're calling them WHAT? Because they make that sound?"

Well, let me be the one to say the same thing about Crocs.

I know. They're incredibly comfortable! They don't slide off! They're "garden chic!"

And if you get stranded on a desert island, a passing airplane will be able to see those ridiculously large, floppy orange shoes on your feet!

I'll take two pairs. You can never be too prepared.

"But you won't fall off your boat" they tout on the website.

Thanks. I was really worried about that. I think I'll just risk slipping on my totally non-existent BOAT. Oh, that's why all of America is wearing them. They all have boats and I don't. Bastards!

And not only will you not slip on your boat, they'll keep you married! (Seriously, go read the website. Their marketing tactics are fascinating). Yes. Because no one else will want to have sex with you if you walk around with those large clunkers on your feet.

And while I find the fact that they resist bacteria somewhat interesting, when did that become a criteria for a good pair of shoes? And is it really that the material resists germs or that you just scare the shit out of bugs when you clop around in their direction?

I've tried to figure out the appeal. Maybe it's because I have gigantic (and as you remember from all lovely commenters -- very sexy) feet and calling attention to them -- sort of like wearing a big sign on my ass that says "Hi. I'm HUGE. In case you didn't notice" would not be my smartest fashion move.

Don't go getting all pissed at me. I'm wearing a breastmilk stained nursing bra and I haven't shaved my pits in two days. It's not like I'm the epitome of fashion here at Casa de Inlaws. Perhaps a pair of crocs might just be the pick me up my sorry post-partum wardrobe needs.

But I'm not the only one who hates Crocs, or thinks they are incredibly dangerous. Okay, I didn't really think they were dangerous but apparently they are. Who knew?. In fact, there are whole organizations that exist to rid the world of the evil that is Crocs.

Here's my new moral compass: What would I do with them if they accidentally fell in the back of my stroller?

I'd return them immediately.

And you thought me devoid of a conscience.

--

So, how do you feel about crocs? If you love them, tell me why. If more people LOVE them vs. HATE them, then I will go and steal myself a pair and wear them at Blogher. Okay. I'll actually buy them. But I will do it. So, vote carefully people.

And congrats Vicky. You won a shirt for your wee one. Email me for the details!

Comments

[Rickie]

I hate to admit it, but I do LOVE Crocs. I actually thought they were hideous and I still won't wear them in public unless I am going to a garden center, etc. But I have diabetes and am supposed to wear shoes with a wide footbox. Also, my house has a lot of tile floors. When doctors and nurses started wearing them, I thought, okay, I'd try them. They are WONDERFULLY COMFORTABLE. After I had been wearing them around the house, I saw some of the knockoffs/cheap versions for sale. I tried them on.....NOT AT ALL THE SAME. Much less comfortable than the originals. And, I didn't think of it until now....but no, they never smell. Try them, at least around the house. Your feet will thank you.

[Jennifer]

Okay folks. I couldn't agree more that these shoes are God awful ugly. So bad that only Austin Powers you would think would wear them. UNFORTUNATELY, I have a job that requires these now and have to see about getting some. I am shooting for the closed toe and most plain pair available so long as it doesn't cost and arm and a leg. Cheapest places to find them? Question though - Do you guys wear socks and/or other shoes with these or just the crocs themselves? Never really cared til now.

Signed,

Forced to wear

[natalie]

haha...i have to say, i hated them with a passion! thought they were really only cute on little kids! my sister got herself a pair of the lined ones for winter time to just wear in the house (they offered her more support than normal bedroom slippers) and i balked at her for buying them! but then...i gave in...got my mom a pair for her 60th b-day! the second i put hers on just to "try" my feet felt lighter and i had to snag myself a pair! i of course, went for a more fashionable pair...the mary janes! i thought my husband would shun me when i told him i wanted a pair! his parents wear them and he's embarrassed! but the second i pulled them out of the bag he told me they weren't as hideous as the normal ones, so i guess he won't leave me for caving into the trend!

[E]

1. Crocs are ugly.
2. You want comfortable? wear sneakers, flats, wear dr.schools shoes, naturalizer. There is plenty of choices out there!
3. I am embarrassed for you.
4. If your feet stink put talcum powder on them or soak them on tea, don't subject yourselves to that ugliness.

[Kat]

Might i add, every kid i know loves them and wants more - there is no forcing kids to wear them, they just want to, and the school that my kids go to - absolutely loves them, and they are able to wear them without worry. Might i also add - they are very warm in the winter, not to mention extremely comfortable...especially with the new ones that have fleece lining...!!!! so no i think whoever dosent have one is an extreme "freakin dumbass".

[Kat]

To all you people who hate crocs - dont knock them till you try them - my whole family has several different styles and we love them to death. Everyone needs to stop being so damn closeminded and live a little. As for dangerous - dont think so no matter what the news stories say, if you dont want your kids to get hurt on an elevator - dont let them get on with them... try them you might like them and your stories might change. they are a very hot item and i dont see them going away any time soon. As for easiness, I have four kids and do you know what its like dealing with shoe tieing??? my kids get them on in a cinch and are ready and out the door without worrying about ties and velcro and all that craziness. My husband even wears them, and he is very picky when it comes to shoes. give it a try...I bet you will own about 6 pairs by the time your done.

[derek]

and sure, they've got air ventilation. so do skirts, guys. and guess where all ur stink goes. out ur holes, and into our noses. ur spreading ur goddamned stink.

[derek]

and finally, im not poor. im richer than you are, no offense. i wear armani exchange and abercrombie. and i have enuff money to purchase better shoes than these cheap-assed pieces of bullcroc.

[derek]

lemme take a DEEP berath before my rant...

YOU CALL THESE PIECES OF CROCS SHOES?! they're MADE OF RUBBER, they've got HOLES IN THEM, and they're colored FLUORESCENT!! what non-color-blind person-with-fashion-sense will wear ANYTHING with FLUORESCENT COLOR in them?!! and now, they've got winter ones as well! heavens help us all, FURRY SHOES WITH HOLES?! wat are u, screwing with me?! u put fur around them and call them warm when its made out of plastic and has holes in them?! LOOK AT REALITY PEOPLE!!

SURE, they're comfortable. and to what extent, you will sacrifice your pride? you look like a frickin dumbass. especially when fatasses wear em. next thing you'll know guys will be wearing skirts cuz of "its brilliant air ventilation." wats the hell's wrong with you?! society looks at you like your a frickin 80's hippie retard. and you probably are.

thirdly, to those kids out there. its child abuse, how parents are forcing kids to wear em. they are frowned upon by classmates, and when they wear them to high school or even middle school, sucks for you, ur reputation for the year gone down the drain.

i can go on ranting, but this should suffice.

[maggie]

Just ordered Cleos. They are really cute. Can't wait to get them. I saw them on my electrologist's feet and had to have a pair.

As for the original ugly ones, I'm not crazy about spending 30+ on plastic shoes, which is why I bought the knock-offs for $5. These are in black so they don't call too much attention to my feet, but they're not all that comfy either. Glad I only spent 5 and not 30!!

[mldubose]

I do love my Crocs, but I admit that they are a little on the ugly side. But I am a woman with size 12 feet who has bunions and flat feet (bad genes-go figure) so most shoes drive me crazy. And going barefoot is out of the question since I will ache from the pounding stress of 2 feet of metal attached to my spine (scoliosis surgery). BTW, I'd be about 6'3"-6'4" with a straight back.

The fact that they don't stink is a plus since most sockless shoes will smell like ass-cheese after a day of wear.

And the kids who got caught in the escalator? Maybe mom should have been paying more attention to them. You can get flowery flip-flops caught in those things too.

[Gillian]

I have just read all the "Shit" about the crocs. If not for them I would not have survived the recovery of a foot operation.
My granddaughter of 6 has 14 pairs & love them to death.
So to all the people out there passing such ugly comments must be UGLY themselves or just can't afford to buy them. Croc haters remember we can take them off at night but your face will never change. Love them from South Africa!!!!!

[SubstanceOverStyle]

Yes, they're ugly on adults. For those who value substance over style, they're great. The anti-bacterial properties mean no stinky sandals. My Tevas stink to high heaven, even with detergent washing, but they look pretty good. What I find ridiculous is people who buy shoes that look great but are damaging to their feet. Ever heard of corsets? These shoes are incredibly light, cushioning, and easy to slip on. They are growing in popularity for many reasons.

[Kate]

I could give two flying shits about how friggin comfortable they are. Who stinkin' cares? They are they most god-awful, vomit-inducing, plain & simply UGLIEST thing to ever exist on this earth, and I mean ever. They make fashions from the 70's and 80's look genious.

[Ella]

why do people like them so much there so ugly !

[Melanie]

I just want to say that crocs are one of the best things ever invented. I am in the medical field and I am on my feet all day long. I no longer have an aching back or feet when I return home each day. Don't knock them til you try them. OH and by the way the cheap imitation ones are really not comfortable. Trust me spend the money and you will get your money;s worth.

[Rod Gozinya]

They are comfortable and very safe. They really grip your feet. The knockoffs are equally as good. They are great for a house slipper and if you need to run out for something quick, you don't have to change shoes. You want something ugly, most feet wearing tongs or flip-flops; that is nasty. At least these hide ugly feet and do it comfortably.

[Haute Concept]

These. 'Shoes'. Are. Ugly.

I don't get it and I don't want to get it.

[Denise]

Love them, I work at a pet grooming salon. I'm on my feet allday bathing dogs. Its the best shoe ever. and I don't care what people think about them. I just know when I get off work my back and my feet ar'nt killing me anymore.

[Sharon]

I like them! My sister makes fun of me for wearing them and tells me she doesn't know why I like those ugly shoes---well they're comfortable, and I think they are cute, especially on kids, so my sister and all of the other people out there can close their eyes if they don't want to see those lovely shoes because I think they will be around for a while!

[Molly]

First of all, LOL about the title "crocs of shit." OK, I live in Italy and just the other day I saw a fellow mom wearing them at the supermarket. The funny thing is, when I saw her wearing them, I didn't even know the name of those shoes, I only kind of casually thought to myself "Jeez, those clog things are ugly" and made a mental note never to buy any for myself. Whodathunkit, a whole website dedicated to their destruction?!?!!?

[mai]

They are ugly!!! :P

[Camille]

I hate Crocs. I don't care how comfortable people claim they are... it doesn't make them any less ugly. There are plenty of comfortable shoes out there - go expand your resources.

[bellevelma]

Thank you! You said exactly what I've been thinking. I've tried those ugly things on several times wondering if I had missed something. Perhaps there WAS some hidden appeal in them... I couldn't find it, that's for sure. I suppose I'm just not hip.

[toni]

Hi, yes we wear them here in the UK as well. They are becoming quite popular over here, mainly for adults but i have seen some small kids in them.
i have brown ones, bought from Florida as they are cheaper over there than here. However they do sell the jibittz here and i have just bought a daisy for mine !! They are kind of like marmite, you either love them or hate them, nothing in between. As soon as i can afford it, im going to buy some more pairs. My 10 yr old son wants some for our forthcoming holiday to the dom rep, but has said he will only wear them on holiday and not over here. Now my husband has admitted he might get a pair as he is always moaning about other shoes hurting his feet.
love the crocs :-)

[Teresa]

You are SO right! I hate them, and hate seeing little kids trip around in them. Let's put our kids in real shoes please!

[Steph]

I love them! Same reasons as everyone else... they're comfy, light and easy. And I can admit that they're hideous. I just don't care. I'd be barefoot otherwise.

[SingleParent]

Just thought I'd add some additional fuel to the fire ;-)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/21/AR2007062102403.html

[Meaghan]

Everyone, stop buying them. Your just encouraging the companies to make more. STOP IT! I can't stand to look at them, serouisly you would look better with computer monitor strapped around your feet.I don't care if they are comfortable! There are plenty shoes more comfortable and more stylish then those blobs of rubber.So what if they are really easy to slip on? Is it really all that hard to tie your shoes!

I HATE THEM.

[Naomi]

I like them. They make everyone look like garden gnomes, which is hilarious. Kids can put them on and take them off themselves. They can be washed in the dishwasher. They are the only things that seem to be fitting on my swollen 33 week pregnant feet aside from flip flops. They have better traction.

Of course, I was a holdout when Jellies were popular in the '80s so this might just be my lame-o comeuppance.

[Gunfighter]

I think Crocs are the ugliest shoes on the planet. They are the modern day equivalent of wooden shoes like the Dutch used to wear.

For some reason, they are very popular in the UK, according to a British friend of mine... go figure.

[Lacamm]

LOVE THEM !!!!
They are soo so comfortable and I haven't had my usual bad knee flare up since I started wearing them!
They add a bit of colour into our lives and don't do anyone any harm! -not that I'm aware of anyway!!
Live and let live!

[Callista]

It's actually funny that I stumbled upon this post today as I was just thinking of blogging about crocs! I don't like them but have never actually worn a pair. So I figured I'd try out my mom's first for a while and then could give my honest opinion. If I do blog about them, I'll link here!

[Mommy Macchiato]

I love mine, I have 2 pair of the mary janes, they are the only ones I like though!!! I wear them ALL the time, they are super comfy and cute, not like the original ones....my daughter has them and my son has the originals - we rock out with our crocs out!

Anyhow - their stock went from $40 a share to $90 in 1 year...or something crazy like that.

[RunMum Run]

Crocs, Crack, what is the differnce? Just Say No People! Have some respect, for yourself and others.

Can you tell I don't like them.

[Krisco]

Well, you know. I'm from Boulder, they're from Boulder. (Started by a guy who lived down the street from me growing up.)

They're great for the yard. Easy to put on, easy to take off, who cares if they get muddy or wet....And then they're so comfy I do want to wear them inside....But they do kind of stick on some flooring, so eventually that bugs me and I take them off. (Thanks for the heads up on the actual danger of them. I had no idea!!)

[Scatteredmom]

Hate, hate, hate Crocs. They are just too damn ugly.

[Stacy]

Hope I am not too late on responding to get added to the poll (I am sure I am, but oh well) I LOVE my crocs...well, I have a cheaper version of Crocs..Airwalks and I love these Gawd awful ugly shoes...
I swore up and down I would never own a pair they were rubber and UGLY!! My MIL had them and she swore by them....well one day we were shopping in the mall together and my feet were KILLING me and we walked to payless and she insisted I try on a pair...I tell you what. I did not even take them off for them to be rung in...the most comfortable pair of shoes ever! Love them! I vote buy a pair

[Ruby]

Only 2 days? I haven't shaved my pits in 4 or 5 days and I don't have a baby.

I plan to remedy that before going out tonight, though.

And yeah, crocs are hideous. Thank you for getting the word out!

[Cindi]

Sorry, I can't get on board with anything that can be washed in the same space as the plate and forks I use to EAT with. GROSS!!

[Bethiclaus]

LOATHE!

[Mom101]

Holy millions of comments, MU!

I'm afraid I've used up all my shoe-hating for the decade on Uggs. I'm trying so hard to hate the Crocs but...nope. No shoe hatred left in my heart right now. Try me in 2011

[JMG]

I vote for loathing. They're weird and should not ever be worn in public. Or with socks. Or by males. If you're wearing them entirely for function, that's fine. Just realize that you still look like you didn't have time to actually find grown-up shoes before you ran out of the house to the circus this morning. They're not cute. No matter what style you're wearing. That being said, I can definitely understand the appeal of a quick-and-easy shoe. (Just don't wear them to the mall. ) And I support their induction into those professions where you're on your feet for most of the day. But if you're not wearing scrubs, please don't wear Crocs.

[Dana Whitaker]

I hate them. I am not opposed to the clog style (I have multiple pairs of wooden clogs from Hanna Anderssen, which are very, very supportive and comfy, and cute in a quirky way) but cannot stand the Crocs and mock-Crocs. Rubbery shoes cause me to feel nauseated- I hated jelly shoes with a passion, and do not wear rubber flip-flops (rubber sole is OK, but my feet recoil if there is anything other than fabric or leather on my instep.)

[Jenny in Jakarta]

I love them,I love them,I love them,I love them,I love them,I love them,I love them,
WE ALL LOVE THEM!!!!!
I am lucky that I currently live in a country where I look different where ever I go, so I wear them constantly with not a worry.
In Australia I would put all of ours in the dishwasher once a week, now I am lucky to have maids that clean them for us!
I now want croc clothes......Maybe that is taking it a bit too far.....

[Her Grace]

I just don't get them, plain and simple. Maybe for gardening, possibly for the beach, boating makes sense, but otherwise? No thanks

[karrie]

First, I think escalators and little kids are a bad combination. Yes, it happens here a lot, but if he gets stuck, I'm not blaming whatever shoes he is wearing.

Crocs on kids are cute. Hell, anything I can just hose off when dirty that dries quickly and can be put back on by a 2 year-old is cute.

I do have one pair--size 11. They ride in the back of my Element with the other emergency beach gear.

[Cate]

When I was in the hospital for a week before my son was born last year, all of the nurses were wearing them. I asked around, and all the nurses L-O-V-E-D them.

I didn't get a pair till my mom gave them to me for Mother's Day. And I've gotta tell ya...they're DAMN comfy. However, you'll never see me wearing them in public...these puppies are relegated to in-house use only.

And strange-but-true...they actually helped a wierd dropped foot bone thing I have in my right foot. I'm in the middle of writing a post on it now...it will prolly be up on my blog tomorrow if you want to check it out...

[V Momma]

Hate 'em. Ugly. Clunky. Strange.

[Fairly Odd Mother]

No way, no how will I ever put them on my feet. I let my 6 year old buy a purple knockoff pair but that is about the top of the age range I can stand. She has all these little metal decals attached to them; please tell me adults aren't doing that!

[traci]

I friggin love mine! I love them so much I have 3 pair! First of all, your feet don't sweat in them and they don't make fart noises either. Way comfy and cute...maybe not with shorts, but definetely with capris or jeans.
You just have to try them to be a believer!

[Marie T]

I have size 12 feet and when I put crocs on I look like a cartoon character. Big time -- so no love coming from this Mom. There is some appeal when preg with #2 (someday) and my feet swell to size #13 -- because at least people might look at my dorky ass feet instead of my fat rear end.

[Kristina Brooke]

BTW- the AirWalks are at payless and they are on $12.99.

[Kristina Brooke]

I got my AirWalk Clogs (the cheaper brand of crocks) when I was pregnant last year, and let me say, they may be the ugliest shoes on earth, but when you are swollen, tired, and vomiting with every breath that you take, THESE SHOES ARE GREAT!

Also, as a teacher who works in a building that is so big that sometimes I feel like going to my department office from my classroom is preparation for a marathon, these shoes are great.

And they are really cute with a pair of jeans!

[motherofbun]

HATE them. Hey, I did a post on this too (Course it was like a year ago or something.)

Besides most preschools (both programs my son attended and a children's day out my son attended prior) won't allow kids to wear them on the playgrounds. Stuff gets into the little holes.

[Shannon - PHAT Mommy]

Chiming in late here, but I despise them. In every way.

[Melinda]

I'll keep my Merrills, thanks. Crocs are just too ugly and petroleum based.

[Kristen]

Okay, so as I tally the votes.

If you don't wear them in public, that's not love.

If you let your kids wear them, that's not love either.

Continue on.

[stella]

you 2 million commented upon beyotch.

i hate them. i don't own them. i think they are hideous. and you are a complete sell out if you were those boats to BLOGHER.

love,
s

[Amy]

It's like a Pug. So ugly they're cute. I have mine and love them but only wear them to jump in the car and drive my kids around. I have bright blue, which was a poor choice. I want pink. Loving ugliness is good for the soul. OR the sole.

[lori]

they are awful

[birdgal]

Yeah, I don't understand the appeal. Though it almost seems like the law around here that if you have young kids you MUST wear Crocs and your kids must too. What is up with that? Save me from the orange feet boats!! (ps, I have big ol' clodhoppers too)

[Katherine]

I am a reformed hater. I didn't like them and I didn't want to conform to the masses. But, I needed shoes to work in the garden and, hey, they were $30 and someone asked if I wanted them for Christmas. They are super duper comfy and dirt washes right off. I also wear them while cooking as standing barefoot can hurt after awhile. (I don't really cook much, though.) I wouldn't wear them outside the confines of my yard or on a quick grocery shopping trip. Don't knock 'em till you try 'em. I wear the mary jane style.

[AbsolutelyBananas]

Even though you have 2 million comments, I have to add one more... This is the funniest post I've read in a while. Totally had me cracking up at my computer. I love this line: "Hi. I'm HUGE. In case you didn't notice"
I couldn't agree more about crocs. They are the jelly shoes of 2007. The formica of this generation. Today cool, tomorrow embarassing. The few of us who abstain will be able to soundly laugh at our friends' shame when the crazy plasticky neon foot flags finally go out of fashion. There, I've said my piece! :)

[Tater and Tot]

I LOVE mine - although I have never claimed that they were cute or fashionable. With a 4 year old, almost 3 year old and a 3rd on the way - I really don't care about cute or fashionable. I have 3 pair - the original ones, the flip-flops and the mary-janes. I love the mary-janes because they are a little more feminine.
My girls each have a pair of the original and the mary-janes. They want to wear them all of the time, they are super comfortable, easy to keep clean, and they can put them on/off by themselvs.
I just don't think there is a better show out there. Ugly, but good!

So - which style are you going to pick for BlogHer?

[Kind of Crunchy Mama]

No way, no day!

[tori]

Holy cow look at all these comments! I absolutely do not have time to read them, but need to throw in my "I love mine" vote. I don't know what I would do without them. I have four kids, plus 2-4 additional day care kids and I need to be ready to go in an instant. Crocs are super comfy for standing all day, and easy to get on and off too. I think they are sort of ugly on me, but adorable on my kids. My husband will not be getting any.

[Kendra]

Oh honey, I LOVE THEM! Of course they are ugly as sin, but the comfort they give me is unmatched. I love the fact that I can wear them in my last month of pregnancy and after and have no issues with swelling feet! I love them so much that I just bought my daughter her first pair for her 2nd birthday. I'm obsessed!!!!

[JailDiet]

doesn't walking in plastic shoes (crocs) make fart sounds?

who wants to walk around with people thinking you're farting all the time? no thanks.

[Cecilia]

I think my 4 yr old looks cute in his red crocs. I wouldn't want a pair...too clunky for me.

[Lori]

Love my Crocs. Nothing new to add to other people's comments. Maybe we should have a Croc showdown at BlogHer - Croc Lovers on one side vs. Croc Haters on the other. Force us to swap shoes and feel the other side's pain. Whether it be in the actual lack of comfort of fabulous fashionable shoes or the lack of style in the chunky, rubbery "shoes".

[Nancy]

I was fiercely opposed to the crocs until Mimi decided she'd like a pair, and Rosie decided she had to try them on all the time. So I got them each their own pair, and they love them. They were great at the beach.

I still think they're fugli as all get-out, and you wouldn't catch me wearing them myself. But I'm not a huge fan of other ugly but popular shoes either (Uggs, Birkies.)

[mommyt]

I do not care for them at all. I started making fun of them a few years ago and I swore I would never wear them. However, just a mere 14 hours ago I purchased a pair of knock offs for my 2 year old. They were made to look like Spongebob, and I forgave myself because they brought such joy to my son. Then my husband said he would like a pair (without Spongebob) and I wonder what I have started.

[Jenni]

Heinous pieces of crap, can't believe anyone wears them in public. That excludes folks in the med biz who need comfy shoes and have to wear pajamas with ducks on them anyway.

Thanks for their new name -- love it!

[Jenni]

Heinous pieces of crap, can't believe anyone wears them in public. That excludes folks in the med biz who need comfy shoes and have to wear pajamas with ducks on them anyway.

Thanks for their new name -- love it!

[Right Brained Gal]

I personally think pointed shoes are ugly and are not flattering on most women. Let's face it, women are fashion whores and wear whatever everyone else is wearing. At least Crocs are comfortable. I work at a hospital where all the doctors and nurses wear Crocs and are not embarrassed by it. I think they are here to stay.

[Kristi]

I have a pair, so that means I like them. You could always get a VERY PALE yellow like mine!

[FENICLE]

I actually hated them at first when my mom bought me a pair. Then I wore them around outside some...and now I'm in LOVE!!!

They maybe ugly as hell, but they are comfortable. And the bonus is that they can be washed in the dishwasher people!!!! HOW COOL IS THAT?

[hartini]

Adults who wear Crocs look like Ronald McDonald sans the clown's wig.

Seriously!

They're HUGE and ugly and look at those colors screaming out for attention. Ugh!

And then some idiot pirated it and made them more affordable... yup, where I'm at, even ugly shoes like that are cloned. So I get double eyesore.

They're cute on kids though, that I won't deny.

[jozet]

Very ugly.

Extremely comfortable.

Sort of the opposite of lace underwear.

[Kara]

I think that they are totally ugly and would never wear a pair myself. My three year old daughter, Miss Shoe Thing, loves them and has been eyeing them for a while. I bought her the Sketchers knock offs - still ugly.

[sam]

Love them for my kids and have to say after reading all the escalator scare-a-noia that if people would teach their kids not to fuck around on the escalators...and actually pay attention to what they are doing...the escalator should be feared and respected! Why just crocs? what about flip flops? I think those heinous things should be outlawed! Crocs., like anything we use- should be used responsibly.

[Kristen]

okay. if your kid is wearing them and you are not, that's not a love.

that's like.

just sayin.

[crunchy]

Are they not just the "Jelly's" of this generation?

Maybe 2007 Jelly's ..er Croc's don't make your feet stink

I don't have any..but haven't found the real one's yet..just the knock off's and am wondering about the price.

I don't even wear flip flops..I like a nice slip on clog.. a good practical shoe

[Leigh]

Love them. I know they're the ugliest things ever made, but they are so comfortable. and easy. I even got a pair of the ballet slippers so I could wear them to church without being shunned. My husband and I used to laugh at people with them - until we tried them on. Me first, then he took over my pair so I got him his own.

[PunditMom]

Beware the Crocs! Can't we all just decide our own foot fashions without succumbing to outrageously colored plastic? When I want cheap shoes, I just head over to the Isaac Mizrahi collection at Target! ;)

[The Fashionable Housewife]

I am SUPER anti-crocs!!!

Don't EVER put a pair on your feet!

Read here:

http://thehousewife.blogsplot.net/?p=832

http://thehousewife.blogsplot.net/?p=1349

[wife soup]

How funny, I didn't particularly like the shoes until last year when I got them for my then 3 year-old. Now I love them! He can put them on and take them off quickly by himself AND they clean up easily. I am a big sucker for anything that makes my life easier. I haven't made the plunge myself yet as my FLIP-FLOPS are my summer shoe of choice.

[ali]

i'm VERY anti-croc. i even posted about it at urbanmoms...
http://urbanmoms.typepad.com/fabulous/2007/05/hot_topic_frida_2.html

[Cakehead]

I am so glad that I am not the only person who sees zero appeal in those monstrosities. Everytime I see a child dressed in those I feel sorry for them. Half the time they have a nice getup on, and then you see the shoes. Oh. my. gosh. THE SHOES.

The ballet slippers, eh... uncomfortable, but they don't offend me like the Croc's do.

Oh, and flip-flops always were and always will be the original *thong* to me; not something that makes me feel like I have a wedgie all day.

[Kat]

Love 'em. It's like walking on marshmallow peeps...so comfy. They are also the best beach shoes I've ever worn. They're so danged wide you don't sink in the sand and the holes let water/sand go right out.

(I also highly recommend the Keen slides. They are the most comfortable slip on shoes EVER.)

[moosh in indy.]

Boo. For doctors (at work) okay.
For gardeners (in the garden) okay.
For anyone else-dumb.

[Laural]

Hate. Hate. Hate these shoes on adults unless you really are a boater (and don't care how ridiculous they look), are pregnant and need something comfortable. I hate that I commute to work and that people wear nice business suits and then fluorescent crocs. This is a fashion don't.
My 3 year looks adorable in his. But, really, he also looks adorable in tons of stuff that I would never consider fashionable for me.

[jen]

I love them, despite the fact that they are the Fugliest shoes on the planet. I gave up wearing shoes with ties five years ago, when the ties would slow me down, allowing my ADHD toddler a dangerous head start. I wish I'd had the Crocs when I was pregnant with both boys. I have the big honkin' clogs, which make my ski-feet look even bigger, but hey, I'm in Colorado, everyone wears them, and I don't look out of place.

[aimy Young]

I love them! Especially for my kids. We live in a very hot climate and their feet stink. When they wear the Crocs they don't stink a bit. It's great. Plus, since I'm a bit cheap on the kids shoes I love them even more. They last a REALLY long time and I even throw them in the diswasher to clean them. No... not with my dishes. If your feet are big just try the Mary Janes. I think they are much cuter!

[Lara]

LOVE them - for a bunch of the reasons already stated. When I was pregnant last summer, they were the only things that fit my feet. This summer, I'm still off work so I still wear them every day. I don't think I've ever gotten more wear out of a footware purchase. So comfy. And the not-stinky thing is a real plus too. They aren't particularly attractive, but I got a non-glaring colour, and I've never really cared that much about being all that fashion-conscious anyways :)

[Tuesday]

I hate crocs with the intesity of 1000 suns!

[Chichmama]

I love the crocs for my kids, because they can get them on and off by themselves and they stay on, unlike flip flops which they keep walking out of.

I think they are horrifically ugly though, and they can only wear them while we are running a quick errand or going to gymnastics or swimming when shoes must be removed and put on quickly...

[mom of 3 boys]

Everytime my older son wears a croc he gets some type of pointy thing that goes THROUGH the croc to his foot. He has had some wounds from it. Why can't they make the bottoms thorn/pointy thing proof?

[Tabitha]

Love, LOVE, love my Crocs. They are so comfy AND they don't make my feet stink the horrendous stink that my flip flops do. I totally heart my wine red Mary Jane Crocs. And my daughter loves her crocs.

I'll have to wear them at Blogher just to piss people off ;) Because I'm evil like that....

[heather]

I love my crocs. They are comfortable and way practical but would I wear them outside of my own garden? NEVER!

[Lara]

HATE them. they look like rubber versions of little wooden clogs from holland. with holes in the toes, too. i seriously do not get the appeal.

[metro mama]

I'm sorry, if you're wearing those at BlogHer I won't be able to be seen talking to you.

[Erika From "the OC"]

love my crocs, i have 3 pair!
they are the only shoes that fit my 25 week pg feet(my feet are more pg than my belly, pinky swear)

[Ashley]

I LOVE Crocs! They are very comfortable. My husband and I each have a couple of pairs. We have hardwood floors and they are great to wear around the house. They are also great to work in the yard or out to run errands. The Crocs for kids are absolutely ADORABLE! I'm buying some for my nephew for his birthday.

[RLGelber]

I LOVE them. I have three pair. They are the most comfortable shoes I've ever put on my feet. EVER. I really don't care if they're ugly, my dawgs thank me when I have them on.

[d]

I LOVE them for my daughter...hot pink & i think they are cute but again i have size 11 shoes and don't need them too look any bigger. That being said...i tried some on...NOT a fan of the clogs becuz it felt like my toes kept hitting the top BUT the Flip flops!!!!!!! TO DIE FOR!!!!! Seriously, i haven't found a pair of flip flops that haven't ripped up between my toes or on the side of my feet in YEARS. THESE are FABULOUS!!! And super cushiony!! and they are light pink and light gray so they don't DRAW attention to them as much. just go TRY them...you may be surprised!

[Jennifer]

I hate them for all people. They are all sorts of wrong. Ugly, dangerous, weird, ridiculous...I could continue with my unflattering adjectives, but I'll stop now.

[Jamie]

Crocs for toddlers = cute. Crocs for adults = wrong.

I do own a pair of crocs, well, knock of crocs actaully, but let me explain. I was in vacation in Panama City, walking around town in a new pair of sandals that were cutting my feet to shreds. I stopped in a little store to find some cheap shoes to wear back to the hotel. Hello $2 fake crocs. Loose fitting and comfy compared to my beautiful yet painful wedge sandals. I still wear them occasionaly when gardening or a midnight run to the grocery store.

[Kate]

I think they look dumb on non-gardening adults. The "mary jane" and "ballet flat" styles are particularly stupid, I think. Although I suppose it might be handy every once in a while to be able to hose down your shoes and call it a day.

My 16 m.o. daughter was given a pair of tiny, mint green crocs a few weeks ago... and I must say, I LOVE THEM on her. She walks easily in them... if they fall off, I can slam them back on her feet in a split second... and, they are super low-maintenance in terms of cleaning (esp. after a muddy play session).

[dana]

Okay. Here's the deal. I'm only telling you this for the sake of BlogHer and fashion.

I own a pair and I ONLY wear them in my garden while gardening. They are the only shoes that resist dirt and grass stains.

You will never see these on my feet anywhere else.

I've never taken a photo while wearing them and I never will.

In fact, when I'm not gardening, the crocs are hidden in the garage under the bottom shelf behind a huge bag of lawn fertilizer.

I despise Crocs worn for any other purpose than gardening.

[BOSSY]

Bossy doesn't like them. Or any shoes that might be worn by Peppermint Patty.

[Kristen]

OH SHIT people.

I'm getting afraid.

REALLY afraid.

The question is -- how many of you are going to blogher and will check up on me?

[Amy]

I hated them. Then I put some on. Now I love them. I have mary jane style crocs. They were $5. I LOVE THEM!

[So-Called Supermom]

My daughter LOVES her Crocs. They are hot pink and clunky and ugly but she loves them. So in turn I love them because I dont have to beg her to put them on.

Now I do own a pair. And I do like them.....for certain occasions. I am an event planner and when I am on site at an event, my feet will hurt. Crocs are the only show I have found that let me survive 16 hour days without feeling as if my feet are going to fall off.

SO, what color Crocs are you wearing the BlogHer? :)

[mommiebear2]

I love me some crocs for my kiddos. I do not wear them only because I just have never bought a pair for myself, but both of my kiddos have them and I love that they easily slide on but not off - can get wet or if dirty you just spray them with a hose and their good to go.

[Jessica]

I kind of feel the same way about Crocs as I did about teen girls wearing Uggs in the middle of summer. Why? Why would you do that?
Maybe I'm just not hip enough.
That link about the dangers? It should come with a warning label. Ew. And, euh, my daughter won't be wearing Crocs any time soon.

[Amy]

Love my Croc Cleo's! My girls have 6 pairs of the Cayman & Mary Jane style between the 3 of them. You definitely have to try them on! Not sure any adult should really be wearing the Cayman style, but to each his/her own!

[Katy]

They are flipflops you can wear with socks, perfect for hot summer days that turn into cooler summer nights. When you take them off your feet are decorated with dirt from where the holes were...pretty! I have wide feet, they make my fat feet feel petite!

[mothergoosemouse]

Not only do I hate Crocs, but I won't let my kids play with any other kids who wear Crocs.

;)

[Phoenix]

I want to hate them, I do, but I kinda love them. I don't own any, becuase I'd get thrown off the island. It's only okay for kids to wear them here.

There's going to be a whole generation of kids though, who ony wear crocs. They've never been given any other shoe. It's like birkenstalks (sp?) in Colorado.

[brighton]

Loathe doesn't even come close to what I feel towards Crocs. Fugly.

[Heat]

Crocs, well I guess I don't care. Though I'm thankful for them because they do prove to me that I am above some social conforms. I do not and will not own a pair because I think they are so ugly, vogue-ness be damned.

But I do like you Kristin and will do everything in my power to make sure you don't have to wear them to BlogHer so I will say I HATE THEM just for you.

[Lene]

Ok, I do love my crocs. They are ugly as sin, but I still love them. lol That is an attitude I took on since becoming a mom.

[divrchk]

They are so comfortable. I wear my Croc flip flops often. My kids love theirs. My daughter looks so cute in her red mary jane ones. Don't knock 'em 'til you try 'em.

[kim]

Please, please, please don't support the horrible people who came up with these things! Spend your money elsewhere - ANYWHERE - and skip the giant clown shoes. They don't flatter anyone and I can't even stand the idea of my toddler in them; thank goodness she's too young to notice the fad. (And yes, I have tried them on - yuck!!!)

[Mel]

I don't understand the fascination with these shoes. Not only are they incredibly unattractive, but they are not comfortable at all! They are hot and gave me blisters! I see women all the time wearing really cute outfits and they spoil the effect by putting on these clodhoppers! Why would you choose to wear something so ugly when you take the time to coordinate a pretty summer outfit? There are so many really cute and comfortable sandals out there that there is no need to make yourself look so foolish. They are not anymore comfortable than other brands (i found them horribly uncomfortable) Anyone looking for stylish comfortable footwear should check out Born, Clarks, frank Sarto, and Cole Hahn with the Nike Air technology!

[Ginger]

HATE and despise them. They are extremely ugly, and I also have big (size 11) feet, and I am not calling more attention to them. Gosh, that web site about crocs and escalators was scary. That alone makes me not want them to be sold...AT ALL. Hilarious post!

[Evilynmo]

LOVE!!! I wear the clogs with no holes in winter with pants. When worn with pants they just look like regular clogs. They are uber comfy! I've never tried any other kinds but the ballet flat is tempting.

[Arkie Mama]

Just as I would NOT wear a floppy gardening hat ever -- not in a garden, not in public (of course, I have never ever gardened, but whatever -- if I did...) -- I would not wear flourescent gardening shoes either -- not in my garden, not in public.

What, are they supposed to scare the freaking crows away?

I HATE these shoes. And they're everywhere. It's like we're being stalked by some hideous fashion trend. Kind of like being bombarded with constant Paris Hilton coverage every time we turn on the tv.

And as I much as I can't stand her, I do have to say that I've never seen Ms. I-use-yap-yap-dogs-as-an-accessory sporting a pair of neon gardening shoes.

[Jen]

I hate crocs for adults. I think they look silly. However, I love them for kids. We are moving right now from Seattle to D.C. via Phoenix(go figure) and with all this in and out to the rest stops I think I would die without them. The kids can put them on and off all by their lonsome. No help from me. True heaven in a traveling hell.

[Kristen]

And those jibitz things made some mom who invented them a bazillionaire.

Seriously. She was on Oprah.

[Kendra]

I wore them when I was pregnant because my feet were so swollen they didn't fit in anything else. Even then, I thought they were hideous. No one with big feet (like me) should consider wearing them, they don't make your clod hoppers look any smaller.

[Steven Rigney]

I hate them. I've never seen anyone walking around in them that looked good. My wife bought a pair, but she won't wear them when I'm around because I rant about them so much. I even saw a guy in a kahki pants and a polo shirt wearing Orange crocs. C'mon people!!!

[Kristen]

MRS. CHICKEN?????????????????????????

*Pulling myself off the ground*

[halfmama]

Dude, they are FUG. Seriously FUG.

That being said, I compromised my own taste to get my kids some. They wanted them and only them and no other shoes would do, even when I tried to push sneakers, sandals, anything else on them. The only comfort I get is this: they are our kids' generation's Jellies, and someday in the future, we will be able to pull out pictures of them wearing them so we can totally embarrass them. And really, isn't that what it's all about?

[Vicky]

I LOATHE the Crocs. They are the ugliest, dowdiest things I've ever seen. I will not buy them for T.D. or anyone! They make my feet sweat just looking at them. They look dangerous too. Seriously I have size 10 feet, I can't be wearing no boats!

[Angela]

My vote is for hate. I don't have any and I love comfortable shoes but large pieces of plastic is more than I can do. I do think they are worse on men. They are great for kids as they can get them on themselves but my daughter's feet are so skinny that she could fit both feet in one shoe. I can see the Croc being useful for certain professions but that's not fashion that simply function.

[Kablina]

Woo-hoo! New here--great blog!

Crocs--HATE 'EM! I have never been able to determine just what the price for them is at any given store, 'cos they're never marked. Hate that, too.

Whenever I have tried them on, they were always extremely uncomfortable--what arch support?

I have 3 boys, so anything that's a big fad, but everyone thinks they're only for girls? Phooey! I would ordinarily run out (to the thrift store) and try to find them in the boys' sizes, but I just can't do that with the crocs. Blech! If they're not comfortable for me, why would I make my kids wear them?

But then, I wear Z-Coils all the time, so it's hard to beat that.

[Jennifer]

They are hideous. And yet. Comfortable. I am a closet croc wearer. I never leave the house in them. And as for the foreigners, I live in Italy, and crocs are huge here. They retail at the equivalent of $60 a pair and people use them as house shoes. My son's nursery school teachers wear them at work, and so does our hairdresser and half the nurses at the local hospital. But in Italy, people in those professions have traditional worn Dr. Scholls clogs so I imagine the crocs are an improvement.

[LawyerMama]

I can't stand them. I think they're the ugliest shoes ever and they make everyone's feet look huge and unattractive. I never thought I'd ever be so judgmental about a pair of shoes! If I want comfortable shoes, I'll wear my adorable pair of pink and brown sneakers or my oh-so cute flip flops.

[Dawn]

AGAIN, woman, I reiterate my love for all that is Kristen. ROTFLMAO

I think these ridiculous things look like CLOWN SHOES, people. Seriously.

Buy some good old fashioned Dr. Schols, would ya??

That being said, my daughter looks totally cute in her 3 pair LOL

But no, Kristen, adults CANNOT WEAR THESE ugly friggin clown shoes.

[Amy Jo]

HATE! I actually wrote a little about them here.

http://peopleunderthestairmasters.blogspot.com/2007/06/file-under-what-fuck-are-they-thinking.html

[Summer]

They are ugly, for certain. But when I'm gardening I love them. I jsut know to take them back off and put them up with the gardening glove when I'm done.

[diatribal]

I am totally in love with my crocs. I own two pair...both are black. My daughter (who is wearing toddler size 4-5) has 4 pair including the dreaded "Hunter Orange".

I have been wearing them for about 4 years now, and I am so in love with my holey clogs that I can't stand it. I am a total "croc snob" and won't even buy the fake ones because they are not as comfy.

My husband works in them (he's in the medical profession) and they are totally washable.

They have not completely replaced my flip flop wardrobe (since I only have the black ones), but I do wear them the majority of the time. I know they are not cute, but if you like comfort, you absolutely MUST try them. I would be hard pressed to find something as light and comfortable to put on my feet.

[maman]

Gross, blech, yuck... oh and I hate those Heelie things too. They should be banned from the planet.

[nutmeg]

Always there for the underdog - love them! Live in them! Love the Croc flip-flop even more. Just looking for a bright orange plastic sun dress to match and I'm done shopping for the summer.

[Suburban Oblivion]

For me, hate them. Wouldn't be caught dead.

For others, love them. Why? Because in comparison they make me and my sexy summer sandals look that much better! :D

[VenturaMom]

Stop the hate! Just try the Mary Janes. C'mon, all the kids are doin' it.
http://shop.crocs.com/pc-34-4-mary-janes.aspx?reqid=34&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear§ion=products

[anna]

Love 'em. Not smart to wear in public, but I understand why people do. I love 'em.

[mayberry]

Hate them. Last summer on my blog I called them smurf shoes.

I do think they look cute on little kids. Very little.

[binkytown]

LOVE my crocs. Have you tried them yet? Seriously, once you put them on you will understand the croc-love.

[Gillian]

I hate the clogs, but have never had a more comfortable pair of flip flops than the Crocs' brand, called "Athens." Seriously, I can't recommend them enough.