About Croc Shoes

Croc shoes are a line of plastic casual shoes manufactured by the American company Crocs, Inc. Crocs have been on the market since 2002 and have achieved a strong brand recognition that has resulted in a loyal customer base, but also generic imitations being made available for sale.

History

Crocs, Inc. was founded by George B. Boedecker, Jr. in 2002. Boedecker first sold his shoes at the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show. They were an immediate hit, and Crocs were soon available nationwide. By 2007, revenue had risen to $847 million. In 2004, Crocs, Inc. acquired Foam Creations to expand its manufacturing capacity. Between 2002 and 2006 Crocs, Inc. was awarded a number of patents covering its manufacturing process and shoe designs. Subsequently, Crocs, Inc. has filed lawsuit against a number of other shoe companies that produce a similar product, most of which were developed to capitalize on Crocs' popularity.

Characteristics

Crocs are notable for their simple design and practical functionality. Different styles range from clogs to sandals and slip-ons. Most styles of Crocs are available in a solid color. Many styles of Crocs feature holes that allow for ventilation and easy cleaning. Some styles feature a special gripping tread known as "crocs lock." Crocs are made from a sturdy plastic foam that is flexible and durable. In addition, over time this material will form itself to the foot of the wearer, making Crocs comfortable and supportive footwear once properly broken in. Crocs, Inc.'s patents cover the materials used in construction. Crocs shoes were formally made in Canada but are today produced in Mexico.

Specialty Lines

Crocs offers several specialty lines. These include a line of work shoes and a specialty series of medical shoes. Crocs work shoes come in several styles and are generally sturdier than standard Crocs. Some feature a closed toe and closed heel to meet dress code requirements. Crocs work shoes are also available in a lace-up version, a drastic departure from the original Crocs styles.
Crocs medical shoes are marketed to doctors, nurses, and patients. They are designed for comfort and some styles include a chemical element that helps protect against bacterial infection.

Crocs Fad

Crocs enjoyed enormous popular success in the early- and mid-2000s. This led to many retailers being unable to keep their stores stocked with Crocs. It also created conditions for the appearance of imitators, known as "croc-offs." With Crocs becoming a popular trend, many people also began to reject them as a passing fad. In popular culture Crocs became emblematic of casual youth culture.

Economic Decline

Through 2008 and 2009 sales of Crocs leveled off. Crocs, Inc. saw its revenue and stock price sink to all-time lows. Meanwhile, the company continued to pursue lawsuits against companies producing similar products. As retailers scaled back their purchasing of Crocs, the company closed its original Canadian manufacturing center and reduced its workforce dramatically.

Resources

• Crocs: Official Website