Can Crocs Be Used for Running?

It can’t be denied that Crocs is among the most popular footwear brands in the market today. They have had many celebrity endorsements and donated over 860,000 pairs of shoes during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. With popularity rising, I was wondering… Can Crocs be used for running?

The Crocs Clogs are not designed as a running shoes. The Croslite material, a closed resin foam does not provide adequate support for every runner. You can certainly run short distances in Crocs, but these should not be your choice for regular long runs.

Crocs does also offer different styles of shoes including loafers and sneakers, but none of these are really designed for running either. Crocs is more of a casual shoe to be worn out and about, to the beach, to work, for casual activities.

If you are wearing Crocs and the need arises where you need to run for a short distance, then go for it.  I’m certainly not suggesting that you can’t run a little while wearing them. However, If you like to put in 10 miles a day or several miles a week of running, then there are several shoes that would be better for that.

What makes a good running shoe?

When you are shopping for a good running shoe, you want to consider several things including:

  • The terrain you typically run in
  • Your Gait & the Support your foot needs
  • Stability of the shoe
  • Breathable Fabric

The terrain you run on

Are you the type of person who just runs around your neighborhood on the road, sidewalk, or local parks, then a decent road running shoe would be perfect for you? However, if you are into trail running, where there are more obstacles like rocks, branches roots that you have to maneuver around, then a trail runner's shoe is best for you.

Road running shoes have a lighter-weight upper. These shoes are designed for repetitive striking on flat hard surfaces.  These types of running shoes have soles that balance traction and efficiency.

A trail running shoe has more rugged soles and stronger uppers. The rugged soles provide stability in changing conditions where the uppers are also more rugged to handle abrasions from rocks, branches, and roots that you could scuff up against.

If you mix your running between more rugged terrain and other paved routes, you may consider a hybrid, although if I were you, I’d just buy 2 pairs. One specifically for the road running and the other for trail running. In my opinion and hybrid is adequate for both, but not the best for either.

Your Gait & the Support for your feet

The best indicator for the type of support you need for your runners is to look at your arch and how your feet roll through a step. Ideally, when you run you want a shoe to stabilize your stride while keeping your lower body aligned.

There are three types of runners:

  • Overpronator – low arches
  • Neutral runner – normal-sized arches
  • Underpronator (aka suponator) – high arches

If you overpronate, that means that as your foot lands on the ground too much of your weight is over the inner foot and subsequently your big and second toe.

If you are neutral, you are balanced between your inner and outer foot when your foot lands on the ground and you are balanced when you push off with your toes.

If you under-pronate, then your weight is too much on the outer part of your foot and you will tend to push off with your outer toes and ankles.

It’s important to find a shoe to balance your foot as it lands on the ground and as you push off on your stride.

Underpronators need a lot of cushioning to help with strong foot impact on the ground. This type of stride will be prone to plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and ankle strain.

Neutral pronators can wear a wide variety of different shoes. My foot is neutral and I had a pair of Asics that I loved, then I recently purchased a pair of Saucony that feels really good.

Overpronators should look for added support or a structured cushioning shoe. This type of stride will be prone to shin splints, plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel spurs.

One way for you to check your gait is to look at the soles of your old runners. Check the wear pattern of your old runners. Are they worn on the inside (overpronator) or the outside (underpronator) or through the entire shoe (neutral)? This will help guide you to choose the shoe best for you.

Here are many inserts that you can use to help with the pronation of your foot. I would buy these for regular shoes but it's best to choose the right kind of running shoe with the support inside the shoe...

Stability of your Shoe

Choose stability based on your needs. If your ankles are dipping down as you walk, then you are likely overpronating and you should choose a shoe that has firm arch support.

If you have a stable ankle as your walk and run, then you can wear most runners and you will be fine.

If your ankle moves outwards slightly as you walk and run, then you should choose a mild stylizing shoe to help keep your ankle stable as your walk and run.

Fabric & Laces

Most runners prefer running shoes with hook and loop closures with laces, this provides stability and your ability to provide your foot with the appropriate security in the shoe.  You don’t want your feet sliding around in your shoes as you run.  That gets annoying and makes for sore feet after a day’s running.

Soft breathable fabric uppers that are waterproof are ideal. Your feet need to breathe and you don’t want the fabric getting wet and sloppy as your run.

Why should you invest in Crocs?

Even though Crocs is not a running shoe, it is still a good investment for your footwear needs.

Lightweight

Crocs shoes are lightweight, so you can wear them without hassle.

Offers support to your feet

Crocs can provide your feet with optimum support against debris and other items you can encounter as you walk.

High comfort level

The footwear comes with a high comfort level. With that, you will not suffer from severe pain while walking with it. Well, Crocs is considered to cure foot problems like plantar fasciitis. 

Crocs Women's LiteRide Pacer Sneakers, Black/Camo, 4

Crocs LiteRide Pacer Women's Sneakers

Comes in different sizes

The footwear can be purchased in different sizes for a perfect fit. There are ideal sizes for children and adults, so you don’t have to worry about wearing tight or loose shoes.

Practical shoes

Another benefit of using Crocs as your shoes is that it is practical since you don’t need to spend a huge money amount to get the best shoes for your regular wear.

Comes with great durability

Crocs have a high level of durability. It is built to last, so you can expect reliable quality and performance when it comes to your shoe needs. It is tough and made from quality materials, so it will not be damaged easily.

Wide options of designs

Crocs come with wide options of designs that you can choose from for your standards. There are many available attractive colors, so you can get your favorite ones.

Crocs Men's LiteRide Pacer Sneaker, Almost white/slate Grey, 4 M US

Crocs LiteRide Pacer Men's Sneakers

Breathability

Crocs has great breathability. With that, you can avoid your feet from fungal and bacterial infections. In addition, you can also avoid bad odor.

Quality

It has excellent quality you can trust for your casual shoes. They are made from durable and superior materials like rubber to make sure that they can withstand damages.

Easy to clean

Crocs shoes are easy to clean to avoid bacteria buildup. With this, you can use it regularly without worrying about bacterial and fungal infections. It is easy to put on and remove for a hassle-free experience. 

Is it worth it to use Crocs as running shoes?

Just like what we mentioned earlier, Crocs is not a good option as running shoes. You can run with it but not in a marathon and long-distance running. Meanwhile, the Crocs offer high comfort and durability, which can make it stand out compared to other shoes. You can use it while walking or for your water adventure. Since it is comfortable to wear, you can enjoy more on your water activities.

What are the tips for buying the best Crocs shoes?

With lots of shoes in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your shoe needs. Don’t worry because we will give you some tips to get the best Crocs shoes for you.      

Materials used

The materials used are one factor to consider in buying your shoes. Most Crocs are made from rubber for optimum support and protection for your feet. If the shoes are made from durable and tough materials, you can expect to have long-lasting shoes that can withstand damages.     

Design and style

You must also choose the design and style that fit your standards and specific needs. Some models come with straps, and some don’t. You can also pick the color that best suits your personality. Get the design that you feel comfortable with.

Size   

It can be a hassle for you if you get loose or tight shoes. Therefore, make sure to choose the right size for your feet. With that, you can be comfortable while wearing your shoes.

Crocs Unisex Men's and Women's Classic Clog, Army Green, 4 US

Crocs Classic Unisex Clogs

Cost

Crocs come at various costs. You can buy one that matches your budget and needs. Fortunately, Crocs shoes are available at an affordable cost. You can have quality shoes without spending much of your budget.  

Flexibility

Does it have great flexibility? With flexible shoes, you can use them for walking and other activities except for long-distance running.

Do Crocs have a similar size to regular shoes?

Yes, Crocs come in similar sizes to regular shoes. You can pick one that best fits your feet size. In this way, you can wear comfortable shoes.

Do Crocs stretch out over time?

Just like other brands of shoes, Crocs can also stretch out over time, especially when you use them on a regular basis. However, the footwear is built to last, therefore, you can expect its high level of comfort and efficiency for a long period.

Crocs Men's and Women's Classic Tie Dye Clog, Electric Pink/Multi, 2 US

Crocs Classic Unisex Clogs

How does it feel while running with Crocs?

Running with Crocsfor long distances is not a great idea. While they are made from light material, they just don't provide the stability you want when running long-distance running.

You may also find it uncomfortable if you use Crocs for running.

Why should you not run in Crocs shoes?

Crocs shoes are comfortable to wear but not for running. Thus, there are some instances that you may feel pain during prolonged running.

It is lightweight, so you can feel like your feet touches the ground. With that, sharp debris on the ground may hurt your feet.

Conclusion

To sum it up, Crocs can be used for running, but it is not recommended to use as running shoes. Thus, it can’t provide enough support for running longer distances. However, it is still a good investment for your other needs. You can use it for walking, swimming, and other activities.

If you’re conscious of budget and quality, Crocs can be the best solution. It can provide your feet with great comfort and protection as you wear it. Aside from its impressive efficiency and performance, you can also be amazed by its different attractive designs and styles that suit your taste, budget, and needs.  

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