People describe Crocs in many different ways. Some call them shoes, others call them sandals, and many simply call them clogs. So which is correct? The short answer is that the famous Classic Crocs is a clog, but the Crocs brand makes many different types of footwear.
In this guide
The Classic Crocs Is a Clog
A clog is a slip-on shoe with a closed front and an open back. The Crocs Classic Clog fits that description exactly. It covers the toes and the top of the foot, leaves the heel area open and adds a pivoting heel strap for security.
Its ventilation holes make it feel airy, which is why some people think of it as a sandal. But the closed toe area makes it a clog. Our guide to classic Crocs explains the design in more detail.
Crocs Also Makes Sandals
Crocs does make sandals too. These are open-toe styles held on by straps, rather than a closed front. They include strappy sandals, sporty sandals and wedge sandals. Our guide to Crocs sandals explains the main types.
Slides are another open style. They have one wide strap across the foot and no back strap, which makes them quick to slip on. See our guide to Crocs slides for more.
And Shoes and Boots Too
“Shoes” is a broad word that covers all footwear, so all Crocs are technically shoes. The brand also makes closed styles such as work clogs, sneakers and boots. Our guide to Crocs boots covers the wetter and colder-weather options.
A Simple Way to Tell Them Apart
Imagine three pairs of Crocs lined up by the door. The first covers the toes and has a heel strap: that is a clog. The second has an open toe and straps across the foot: that is a sandal. The third has a single wide strap and no back: that is a slide.
Looking at the front and the back of the shoe usually tells you what type it is.
Why the Difference Matters
Knowing the type helps you choose the right pair. Clogs give more coverage and are good for everyday wear. Sandals and slides are cooler and better for hot weather and water. Boots are better for rain and cold.
Our guide to the different types of Crocs shoes compares the main categories side by side, and our guide to what Crocs are covers the brand as a whole.
Final Thoughts
The Classic Crocs is a clog. But because the brand makes clogs, sandals, slides, boots and more, all of them can be called Crocs. The easiest way to tell them apart is to look at the toe and the back of the shoe.
Do you usually call your Crocs clogs, sandals or just “my Crocs”?
