Are Crocs Considered Open-Toe Shoes?

What are Crocs?

Crocs, Inc. is an American footwear company headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado known for creating special lightweight shoes made from a unique patented closed cell resin foam composite that is exclusive to the brand. Officially released in the market in 2002, the shoes were originally created with the intention to be worn by seafarers. As they offered practical features that boaters look for, such as:

• Reliable sole grip
• Waterproof protection
• Ease of wear with its slip-on-slip-off design

To be worn on land or sea, the boat-shaped shoes were appropriately named ‘Crocs’ after the amphibious reptile. Professionals in the medical field also found the closed-toe shoe useful in operating rooms as they offered added features that normal footwear did not. Wearing closed-toe Crocs offered better:

• Comfort
• Hygienically anti-microbial qualities
• It is made from non-toxic materials
• Is easy to clean
• Prevents bad odor on feet (thanks to its 13 ventilation holes located at the top of the upper)

Over the years, the comfortable closed-toe shoes became more popular as they moved into the mainstream market by branching out through a network of distributors and shops all over the world. Eventually Crocs spread into a spectrum of colors, size range (aiming to appeal to a wider demographic from adults to preschoolers), and moved into acquiring Jibbitz.

Jibbitz are accessories specially designed to be pinned into the ventilation holes of the closed toe Croc upper. Capturing a simple, but lucrative niche of its market. 

Crocs achieved a unique milestone in the shoe industry by carving its own special category niche. Regardless of being called an ugly shoe and shunned by well-heeled footwear aficionados, the amphibious clogs generated a momentum of success until the 2008 home mortgage crisis hit. The company’s growth faltered as distribution channels were struggling financially, in turn forcing the brand to face inventory issues. 

However, the brand cautiously strategized a steady comeback. Recovering its losses and expanding its collection beyond their foam slip-ons to a wider range of styles alongside their spectrum of color choices and sizes as well as introducing a broader range of price points to match any customers’ budget.

But are crocs considered open-toed shoes or closed-toe shoes?

This article takes a deep dive into Crocs’s collection. In the end, you’ll discover more about the brand than ever before. Keep reading for more!  

Key points

• Crocs are available in different styles and sizes.
• Crocs shoes can be worn for different occasions.
• Ensure you select the right Crocs for your needs!

What type of shoes are Crocs?

The original Crocs shoe was the iconic foam clog named the ‘Beach’. Lyndon “Duke” Hanson and George Boedecker Jr. founded the company in 2001 specifically to produce and distribute the closed toe shoes, later acquiring Foam Creations, Inc. (the Canadian company that manufacture Crocs’s exclusive patented foam composite). The boating shoes were unveiled in 2002 at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show held in Florida.  All 200 pairs made specifically for the event were sold out. 

Over the next few years after the financial crisis in 2008, the brand slowly started trending back again. Thanks to diversifying their collection that included flats, wedges, boots to even golf shoes, followed by clever marketing campaigns, and attention grabbing collaborations with fast food giant KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) with i’s Crocs adorned with chicken nuggets, to the luxury house of Balenciaga with its famous closed toe stilettos. It is no wonder the name ‘Crocs’ has returned to become a household name again.

As of now, Crocs have reportedly sold over 720 million pairs of shoes. This includes not just their signature closed toe shoes, but also other styles such as: 

• Slippers
• Sneakers
• Loafers
• Pool sliders
• Flats
• Platforms
• Wedges
• Boots
• High heels
• Golf shoes

Therefore, it is important to highlight that Crocs are not a one style shoe brand of just closed Crocs, but it is a label that manufacture Crocs in a range of open and closed toe shoes. It is also known as the brand that offers a collection of footwear using its unique foam composite technology, Croslite (which consists of closed cell resin). 

Sixteen years later, the company was determined to introduce a new improved version of the composite and appointed product development specialist Stefano Ferniani (a veteran in the field for over a decade). With Croc’s support and Stefano’s expertise, it took two years of research and development to achieve the company’s goal. In 2018, the more premium ‘LiteRide’ foam was introduced to fans. Offering a composite that is: 

• 25% lighter 
• 40% more comfortable 
• More durable material

While still maintaining some original key features like preventing bad smell in closed toe shoes. The new LiteRide is only introduced to Crocs shoes that are from the Premium line. These special styles are priced at an additional cost and retail 15% higher than the mainstream collection.

What is considered an open toe shoe? 

Open toe shoes got their inspiration from sandals worn by beachgoers in the 1940s to 1970s. Over the years, there were several resurgences and like Crocs, the shoes evolved to serve the trends of the times. Technically in the shoe industry, the term ‘open toe would be considered styles that exposes the toes. But there are variations of this:

1. Peep-toes: Not all toes are exposed in full view but just a few. It’s a cheeky design feature that previews a tease or peek of the toes (usually coordinated with well manicured nails). An attention to detail that reflects a care for personal presentation. Shoes that feature this design tend to be found on fashion shoes such as sling-back uppers and pumps. 
2. Open-toes: Designed with the intention to expose most toes in full view. Examples include sliders and high-heels. 

There is a common misconception that both are the same. Therefore, as a footwear expert, I would like to clearly outline the difference and explain the distinction between the two before delving further.

Do Crocs count as closed toe shoes or open toe shoes?

This is a typical question many people ask before they buy Crocs. Clearly as open toe means shoes that display toes in full view, closed toe shoes completely conceal the toes. As Crocs footwear have diversified their collections into either closed toe or open toe styles, it is just a question of which do you prefer? 

Are Crocs closed toe shoes?

Crocs do also feature closed toe shoes. The most important Crocs closed toe shoes are a  specialized line designed for working professionals. These are tailored to follow common work dress codes that reflect a sense of professionalism, offer safety aspects or special hygiene purposes. Because of such work rules, many do prefer wearing completely closed toe shoes from Crocs’s work range particularly individuals from the hospitality, kitchen and medical industry. These styles all offer added value features that provide better comfort, prevent toe pain and body aches from long walks and endless hours running around your feet, and of course offer the primary protective nature of closed toe shoes- covering one’s feet from spillage and chemicals. Here are the different types of closed toe shoes that Crocs provide  for the work place:

Crocs On–The–Clock clogs

The On-The-Clock closed toe shoes are a work-friendly transition from common Crocs. Recognised for the absence of open heel strap and a higher closed heel counter, it is the most ‘enclosed’ style in the work range. Beside still having the common characteristics of being lightweight and comfortable, this one piece shoe also have added key features like:

• Weighs 0.84 lbs
• Protective covered toe box
• Higher closed heel counter
• Closed toe upper to protect the feet from spilled chemicals
• A relaxed roomy fit
• Secure fit at the back of the heel 
• Enhanced arch support for added comfort
• Trademark slip resistant Crocs Lock outsole treads
• ASTM F2913-11 tested that meet safety footwear friction standards for the US market
• CE Certified to Europe’s health, safety and environmental standards
• Meets the EN ISO 20347:2012 requirements in occupational footwear used for general purposes
• Offers Croc’s trademark Dual Crocs Comfort of extra support and softness

Crocs Specialist II clogs

These Specialist II look similar to a pair of classic Crocs clogs but the only difference is it is missing the perforation holes on top of the upper (to protect from spills). Typically made with standard Croslite foam composite, it offers additional key features like:

• Weighs  0.6 lbs (the lightest of the Crocs work range)
• Protective covered toe box
• Higher closed heel counter
• Extra comfort with its matching Croslite footbed
• Provides a roomier fit
• Offer additional arch support
• This style comes in two options: ventilated or non-ventilated along the sides

This is a great choice for those that are in jobs that require employees to be on their feet on a regular basis, e.g. cooks or chefs. 

Crocs Bistro clogs

The Bistro Clogs are similar to the classic Crocs but provide some convenient features that make them the perfect workplace shoe. A point of difference of the Bistro clog is it does not feature any perforations on its upper but still provides the signature Crocs open  heel strap. The Bistro offers:

• Weighs 0.73 lbs
• Protective covered toe box
• Reliable slip resistant outsole using Crocs Lock technology
• Higher closed heel counter
• Easy to clean with soap and water
• Thicker metatarsal composite walling at the forefoot to protect from spills.
• Contoured footbeds for extra comfort.
• Signature Crocs Comfort technology that provides flexibility and lightness
• ASTM F2913-11 tested that meet safety footwear friction standards for the US market.
• CE Certified to Europe’s health, safety and environmental standards.
• Meets the EN ISO 20347:2012 requirements in occupational footwear used for general purposes.
• An alternative option is the Bistro Pro Literide clogs for a more premium quality, lighter and more durable alternative.

All these additional features make it a better option for the workplace than the typical Crocs. 

Neria Pro II Clogs

The Neria Pro II clogs are specially designed for women in mind offering female professionals a unique look. The boat shaped shoes display a slight elevated heel at the back for a little added height and the entire toe box is completely closed. Other additional details that female customers can appreciate about the closed Crocs shoes include:

• Weighs 0.625 lbs
• Protective covered toe box
• Removable and washable footbed liner made from extremely durable premium quality Literide foam.
• Provides relaxed fit while being a closed shoe.
• Higher closed heel counter and covered toes.
• Reliable slip resistant outsole using Crocs Lock technology.
• Enhanced arch support for a more comfortable experience.
• Easy to clean with soap and water.
• ASTM F2913-11 tested meeting footwear friction standards for the US market.
• CE Certified to Europe’s health, safety and environmental standards.
• Meets the EN ISO 20347:2012 requirements in occupational footwear used for general purposes.
• This style is not only ideal for staff that work in healthcare, hospitality or medical field, but this could fit nicely with the retail industry dress code too. 

The only disadvantage with the range of Crocs work shoes are that they are relatively heavier due to the added heel counter height and partially more padded foam walling for necessary protection and comfort. However, none of the above work Crocs actually count as closed-heel shoes.  

Are Fuzz Crocs considered closed-toe shoes?

One other Croc that I would like to cover that would be considered closed toe are the Fuzz lined collection that look like the traditional Crocs but are lined with faux fur.  The name “Fuzz” is an invention of netizens and Tik Tok users that use the term as an alternative for Fur line. The fluffy Crocs have a fleece lining on the inside as well, that provide the feet a soft, comfortable and toasty fit. They are the perfect winter warmers crocs shoes that could be worn indoor or outdoor. These fuzzy Crocs can be considered closed-toe shoes. This is because the shoe’s toe area is completely covered and it also provides a high back heel counter. Protecting your feet and keeping them warm, cozy and dry from the harsh winter chills.

Are crocs considered casual shoes?

Crocs are definitely categorized as casual shoes. The majority of the brand’s collections have always offered the impression of great go-to comfort shoes that are practical, comfortable, reliable, and no-fuss. Crocs are known as the easy go-to footwear when going to the neighborhood store, running errands, watching a movie in the cinema, or just wanting something comfortable to wear when switching from your work high heels on your drive home.

Their open heel and roomy footbed make them easy to slip on and off. Moreover, they are designed to provide added support if needed should a job require demanding hours of being on your feet. 

To understand what is a closed heel, open toe or closed toe Crocs, I have created this  list of typical categories normally found in a Crocs collection. I hope this table will assist in simplifying your options and help determine which Crocs shoes is ideal for you:

Crocs Categories	Open-toed Crocs	Closed-toed Crocs	Closed heel Crocs
All Clogs	No	Yes	No
Baya Slipper	No	Yes	No
All Sandals	Yes	No	No
All Flips (or flip flops)	Yes	No	No
All Slides	Yes	No	No
Walu Slip-on Loafers	No	Yes	Yes
Santa Cruz Slip-on Loafers	No	Yes	Yes
Strappy Wedge	Yes	No	No
Low Wedge/ Mid Wedge	Yes	No	No
On-The-Clock Slip-on	No	Yes	Yes
All Flats	No	Yes	Yes
All Pacers	No	Yes	Yes
All Boots	No	Yes	Yes
Fur Sure	No	Yes	No

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there is a good reason why Crocs are arguably a global footwear sensation. They come as open toe shoes and closed shoes, and even as standard proper footwear such as sneakers and loafers. Young or old, academic or professional, male or female, it really doesn’t matter as there is a pair of Crocs to appeal to people from any walks of life.

A Crocs wearer could be like most women, fashion lovers that want to be the talk of the town and wear a statement pair like the Balenciaga closed toe stilettos. Or love strenuous activities and hitting the gym so a pair of athlete friendly Crocs sneakers may be the way to go. Perhaps you’re an individual that love closed toe shoes. But secretly suffer from feet with bad odor and is seeking a way to control sweat that accumulate inside. So perhaps the better ventilated Classic closed toe Crocs may be the answer. Most importantly wearing closed toe shoes may be an industry standard at work. So Crocs’s hardy and non-toxic work shoes may be the perfect solution. There are flip flops Crocs to show off your tanned toes during summers and Fuzz lined styles to keep them toasty during the winters. In conclusion Crocs have a shoe for any need, any occasion or even any time of the year. So, are Crocs open toed shoes or closed toed shoes? I believe this post has sufficiently answered this question!