Are Crocs As Good for Your Feet As They Seem? A Podiatrist’s Answer Might Surprise You
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, board-certified podiatric surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare
"Although Crocs may feel comfortable for short term periods of time, they are not suitable for long term daily use," says Miguel Cunha, DPM, of Gotham Footcare in New York City . "Crocs are light and airy, they have a wide forefoot and provide good arch support. However, these shoes do not adequately support the heel enough to secure the shoe properly onto the foot." So while they might be a great option to take out the trash, they're not the best pair for extended periods of wear. The lack of support may have you repeatedly trying to grip the shoes with your toes to keep them from slipping off, which can lead to all sorts of issues including tendonitis, bunions, hammertoes, nail problems, and painful corns and callouses.
If you want to embrace that #cloglife in a more foot-friendly way, he suggests investing in the below options, instead.
1. Dansko Women’s Professional Mule, $135
"These shoes are similar to the Crocs in their design and they are a favorite particularly among healthcare workers," says Dr. Cunha. "They are spacious, comfortable, durable, and also have an antimicrobial lining to ward off odor." He adds that these shoes secure your heel with every step you take, making them far more supportive than Crocs.
Shop now: Dansko Women’s Professional Mule, $135
2. Nurse Mates Women's Dove Oxford, $63
Dr. Cunha calls this option an "excellent shoe" thanks to the fact that it's lightweight, stylish, and slip-resistant. This pair isn't technically a clog since it's got a fully formed heel, but that will help them stay on all day long, which is far better for your feet than walking around the house barefoot.
Shop now: Nurse Mates Women's Dove Oxford, $63
3. Allegria Women’s Classic Clog, $90
"This shoe has a wide toe box and comfortable footbed for excellent arch support with a rocker bottom sole to help reduce muscular tension and strain, facilitate proper posture and mechanics when walking," says Dr. Cunha. Plus, they come in leopard print, and what more could you really ask for?
Shop now: Allegria Women’s Classic Clog, $90
4. Naturalizer Marianne Slip-On Sneaker, $79
Dr. Cunha is a fan of these slip-on sneaks for a few different reasons. "They are stylish, especially in a professional setting, they come in leather with different patterns, can easily be slipped on and off, and have a slip-resistant sole," he says. Consider me sold.
Shop now: Naturalizer Marianne Slip-On Sneaker, $79
Feet need a little extra love? Try one of these easy at-home stretches.
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