by Bridget Webber

Created on: May 12, 2009   Last Updated: September 19, 2009

By being slightly wacky and a little kooky, Crocs have somehow managed to steal the hearts of the general populace. But how has this come about? When most of us saw Crocs for the first time, we eyed them with suspicion. Their artificial looking exterior, coupled with bright color and a clumpy appearance made many of us wonder if they were just a flash in the pan, set to disappear as a passing fad.

Crocs, however, have surprised us, and managed to wheedle their way into the affections of some of us. As those of us who do like them took so long to make up our minds as they grew on us, we would probably be reluctant to alter our decision about giving them a fair trial.

As people tested Crocs out they discovered that they were comfortable. Their foam body, which is bacteria resistant, moulded to the wearers feet. Not only did the ethylene vinyl acetate that the foam consists of provide wearers with a comfortable stride, but the shoes turned out to be non slip with non marking soles, making them perfect for walking on just about any surface.

When viewed from the side it is said that Crocs, indeed, look like crocodile snouts, sniffing the air in anticipation. This is why the founders of Crocs, Scott Seamans, George Boedecker and Lyndon Hanson gave them their name in the first place.

Another reason why Crocs are so popular, apart from the comfort they provide and their odd appearance, is the fact that they can be decorated and jazzed up to suit the wearers mood. The addition of 'Jibbitz', snap on accessories, made Crocs even more fun, as they could become personalised and altered to a degree, when their owners saw fit.

Some of the latest designs of Crocs look more serious, incorporating suede and leather into their design in plainer colors than we have seen before. Could it be that their creators are now hoping to reach a new market of office workers? It may soon become the norm to see employees and employers alike, dashing for their morning train into work with their cute, crocodile friends firmly planted on their feet.

In the meantime though, one of the the main places that you will see them being worn is on the beach. The modern producers of flip flops are trying to compete, by designing their footwear to be ergonomically sound, aligning the wearers spine, and with pattens and embellishments, tickling their fancy.

However, it looks like wacky, clog like Crocs are set to stay. Giving them up and replacing them with flip flops would be like abandoning a pet, and just like puppies, they are likely to become life long companions.

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