Podiatrists Urge Adults Over 60 to Rethink This Widely Worn Shoe

There’s a reason so many people keep reaching for the same shoes day after day. If something is simple to slide on, soft to walk in and doesn’t pinch, it can be hard to choose anything else—especially for quick errands or casual time at home. Comfort is important, but as people age, footwear has to do more than feel good.

Feet naturally change over time. The cushioning under the soles can become thinner, muscles and tendons may lose strength and flexibility, and balance can become less reliable. Those changes are a normal part of aging, but they also mean shoes matter more when it comes to stability and support.

That’s especially important because falls are among the most serious health risks for older adults. They can lead to broken bones, hospital stays and a reduced sense of independence. Since many falls happen during routine activities, such as walking through the kitchen or stepping off a curb, podiatrists pay close attention to what people wear every day.

Older woman talking to doctor. — MoMo Productions/Getty Images

Why Foot Specialists Say Older Adults Should Be Cautious

The shoe podiatrists want people over 60 to think twice about is Crocs. The lightweight clogs are popular because they are cushioned and easy to slip on, but experts say those same features may contribute to weakness and balance problems over time.

Dr. Jerry Roberts, DPM, a podiatrist with Upperline Health, previously told Parade that the softness many people enjoy can also be a drawback. “The cushion that many Crocs fans enjoy can also lead to instability and increase chances for a fall,” he said.

Dr. Anne Sharkey, DPM, a podiatrist with Solely Podiatry, also told Parade that Crocs come up short in several key areas. “Crocs are known for being lightweight, easy to take on and off, for their cushioning and their water-resistance, but they lack significant structure, stability and arch support,” Dr. Sharkey said.

She added that the shoes do not adequately support the midfoot and heel, and the loose fit creates another problem. “Due to the loose fit of Crocs, the toes have to work overtime to grip and hold the shoe on, which can result in strained foot muscles. Loose shoes are also a risk factor when it comes to trips and falls,” she said.

When Crocs Can Work — and When They Shouldn’t

That doesn’t mean Crocs have no place at all. Both podiatrists said there are situations where they can be useful. “For children with developing muscles who generally have less foot pain, for use as a recovery device after athletics or for use in the garden or dirty environments where easy cleaning is important, Crocs can certainly be helpful,” Dr. Roberts said.

Dr. Sharkey said they can also be practical around the house, in a locker room, at the beach or for short errands. The shoes are less appropriate during long periods of standing, walking or working. In those cases, she recommended footwear with stronger arch support, a deep heel cup, a firm heel counter and a more secure fit.

Foot shape also plays a role. Dr. Roberts said people with flat or highly flexible feet generally do better in motion-control or walking shoes, while those with stiffer feet or medium to high arches may find Crocs provide a reasonable mix of support and shock absorption for light to moderate activity.

His bottom line: choose shoes based on the task ahead. Gardening or a quick trip to the pool? Crocs may be fine. Spending hours on your feet? Supportive sneakers are the better option.

Adapted from Parade’s I’m a Podiatrist, and This Is the One Thing I Wish Everyone Knew About Crocs by Emily Laurence Sardinha.

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