Aug 23, 2007

Crocs earn rave reviews for their versatility and comfort; Imitators are sprouting like wildflowersBy Jean PattesonOrlandoSentinel.com

Crocs are the ugliest shoes on the planet. Even Crocs fans admit it.

Even so, the clunky, funky clogs — and their many imitators — are well on the way to being among the most popular footwear in the world.

Crocs’ bulbous Beach model was launched in November, 2002. Since then, 50 new models in 30 different colors have encased millions of feet in more than 80 countries — and spawned a dozen Croc-alikes.

The original Crocs shoe was the roomy Beach model for men and women. Made of lightweight, odor-resistant Croslite foam, it had a heel strap, orthotic footbed, ventilated toe box and slip-resistant, nonmarking sole.

Since then, 50 models have been introduced. Styles include flip-flops, slides, ballet flats, Mary Janes, lace-ups and rain boots. There’s an off-road model with protective toe caps, a professional model with a closed top, and collections sporting collegiate colors, or NASCAR and Disney logos. There’s even a model with a high wedge heel. For details, visit crocs.com.

Especially popular with kids are Jibbitz, foam charms that snap into the air holes on Crocs. Available at jibbitz.com.

Given the choice of fashion or function, plenty of people are choosing the comfort, versatility and durability of style-challenged Crocs, which are priced from $25 to $40.

Like sneakers, Crocs cross age and gender lines. These days, it’s almost impossible to go anywhere and not spot someone wearing Crocs — or shoes that look a lot like them. They’re the new favorite footwear of everyone from boaters to gardeners, chefs, doctors, potters, beachgoers, travelers and back-to-schoolers.

When cruising on her Harley Davidson Street Glide, Lake Mary biker Lori Rosdail wears “Harley orange” Crocs with her black leathers.

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