Pick up a pair of Crocs, and it is easy to see why people ask this question. The clogs look smooth and moulded, a bit like plastic, but they feel soft and flexible, a bit like rubber. So which is it? The real answer is neither, at least not in the everyday sense.
In this guide
The Short Answer
Most Crocs are made from Croslite™, a proprietary material developed for the brand. Crocs describes it as a closed-cell resin. It is not ordinary rubber, and it is not hard plastic.
Croslite is the primary material in the vast majority of Crocs Brand footwear. Our full guide to what Croslite is explains the material in detail.
Why People Think Crocs Are Rubber
Rubber is soft, flexible and water-resistant, and Crocs share those qualities. That makes the comparison natural. But traditional rubber is usually heavier and firmer than Croslite. Many people are surprised by how light a pair of Crocs feels compared with rubber boots or rubber clogs.
Our comparison of Crocs vs. rubber clogs looks at these differences more closely.
Why People Think Crocs Are Plastic
Crocs have a smooth, moulded look, which reminds some people of plastic. But hard plastic does not flex or cushion the way Croslite does. When you press your thumb into the footbed of a Classic Clog, it gives a little and then springs back.
What Does “Closed-Cell” Mean?
A closed-cell material is made up of many tiny sealed pockets. Water cannot easily soak into those sealed cells. That helps explain why Crocs dry quickly, rinse clean and can be worn in wet conditions. Our guide on whether Crocs are waterproof explains what that means in practice.
Crocs does not publicly share its full formula, so it would be inaccurate to say Croslite is made of one simple ingredient.
What About EVA?
Some people compare Croslite with EVA, a foam used in many sandals and slides. The two can share some qualities, such as being light and cushioned. However, Croslite is Crocs’ own proprietary material, and Crocs treats it as distinct from generic foams. Our guide to Croslite vs. EVA explains the comparison carefully.
Are All Crocs Made of Croslite?
Not every Crocs product is made entirely from Croslite. Some collections use other materials or comfort technologies, such as LiteRide™ foam, as well as fabrics and linings. Always check the product description if the material matters to you. Our guide to Crocs LiteRide explains that technology.
Imagine comparing a Classic Clog with a lined winter clog. Both have a Croslite base, but the winter pair adds a soft fabric lining inside. Same family, different materials.
Final Thoughts
Crocs are not made of ordinary rubber or plastic. Most are made from Croslite, a proprietary closed-cell resin that makes them light, cushioned and water-friendly. Knowing this helps explain why Crocs feel the way they do.
Before reading this, did you think your Crocs were rubber or plastic?
