Francesca Biagioli Lately, Crocs, shoes loved all over the world, have been heavily criticized in the USA where several schools are banning them due to safety concerns.
Crocs, the colorful plastic slip-on shoes that have captured the hearts of millions around the world since their launch in 2002, are now facing a backlash in U.S. schools. Known for their comfort and practicality, these shoes became a symbol of casual style, particularly favored by younger generations. However, many American schools are now prohibiting them for safety reasons. What’s behind this trend?
Crocs pose a real danger to students
The first school to take action was Bessemer City High School in Alabama. Principal Stoney Pritchett stated that Crocs present a significant safety hazard for students.
Why are U.S. schools banning crocs?
According to Principal Pritchett, Crocs can lead to knee and ankle injuries, especially in crowded hallways. He further explained that wearing these shoes could result in suspension. The main issue is that although Crocs are incredibly comfortable, they lack sufficient lateral support, which can cause them to slip off easily, resulting in accidental falls. School officials emphasize that students may struggle to walk properly, which could be particularly dangerous in an emergency situation.
Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist, also supports these concerns. She notes that Crocs can get caught in school equipment or cause foot injuries like abrasions or even toenail loss. The risk of tripping is heightened in busy hallways, where students are constantly on the move.
Another issue is the use of the safety strap, which many students neglect to wear, thus increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Additionally, some schools highlight other problems, such as distractions caused by the shoes. The customizable charms that are often added to Crocs can become a source of play and distraction during lessons.
Crocs’ response
Despite these criticisms, the company continues to defend the suitability of its footwear for daily wear, claiming that their shoes are safe for all-day use.
In conclusion, even with these school policies in place, Crocs has not been significantly affected by the bans. The company insists that its sales have not been impacted by the recent school restrictions.
Nevertheless, Principal Pritchett and many others remain firm, explicitly banning Crocs in their school dress codes.
