We can say from experience that we see a LOT of Crocs around the Disney World parks. But could that be changing in the future?
We literally go to Disney World for a living, so we know that one of the most important tips for hanging in there during a Disney day is to wear shoes that are comfortable for lots of walking. But if Crocs are your go-to choice for comfy shoes, here’s why you might want to think twice before packing them for your next trip.
We see tons of people wearing Crocs around the Disney parks. In fact, you can even find some adorable Disney-themed pairs in the gift shops around the resort.
But could the golden age of Crocs in Disney World potentially be coming to an end?
Many schools around the country have started banning Crocs in their dress codes due to the safety hazards they can present. Bessemer City High School in Alabama is one such school that specifically banned Crocs, and school Principal Stoney Pritchett explained the decision, “It’s actually a safety hazard,” he said. “Man, they can twist the knees, twist, twist the ankles, things like that.”
The movement has gained momentum recently, with dozens of schools in at least 20 states now specifically banning Crocs in their dress codes. Podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy further commented on the potential danger, saying, “Crocs can easily get caught in equipment, causing the child to fall or injure their foot or rip a toenail off. Things I see in the office on a daily basis,”
Dr. Parthasarathy clarified that Crocs are safe to wear in certain circumstances, however, they aren’t her recommended choice for performance shoes or situations with potentially dangerous equipment.
We’ve actually experienced some of the potential dangers of Crocs in the parks ourselves — we found out the hard way that they can be super slippery in rainy conditions. Between their “slippery when wet” nature, the potential to get caught in equipment, and the reports of twisted ankles and knees, is it possible that Crocs could be banned in Disney World in the future?
Currently, the only type of shoes that are specifically banned from all Disney World property are “shoes with built-in wheels” (like Heelys). Other potentially dangerous footwear like flip flops, stilettos, and Crocs are not mentioned in Disney World’s rules and policies.
However, Disney World’s policies do state, “Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must be worn at all times,” and the policies are subject to change. So, just because these types of footwear aren’t currently banned doesn’t mean things can’t change in the future.
For now, that means Crocs are still allowed in the Disney World parks, although things could change if Disney sees a trend of lots of Crocs-related injuries.
So, you’re still in the clear to pack those Crocs for now according to Disney World policy. But it’s still important to be careful about potential hazards while wearing them. For example, you may want to choose different shoes for rainy days to avoid slipping. And be sure to use extra caution around any moving parts near the rides to avoid getting caught.
If you’re looking for tips on the best shoes to wear for your Disney World vacation, we’ve put together a list of our favorite shoe recommendations based on the thousands of steps we take in Disney World every year.
We’ll continue to report back with all of the important updates you need to know for your next Disney World vacation, so stay tuned to AllEars for the latest!
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What are your go-to Disney World park shoes? Share with us in the comments!
Ok Disney this is an overreach on your part! Who are you to tell anyone what they can wear on their feet! Do you ban flip flops? Those are awful for your feet. What about a person (big or small) who wears Crocs because they’d the only shoe that fits their feet? Or have you ever had a child who has a meltdown over which shoes they want to wear? As a parent you pick your battles & a young child doesn’t understand logic. This is Disney overstepping! Here’s another question do they band high heels? Yes I have seen people wearing them in theme parks!
Doesn’t make sense to ban a shoe that they sell in abundance. Maybe they should change their policy to say they are not responsible for injuries found to be caused by any footwear. I only wear sneakers or hiking shoes when walking for long periods of time, but people should be able to wear what they are comfortable in. Sandals, heals and flip flops can be dangerous too but they are worn by choice. If they ban them then don’t sell them!
Our family has been wearing Crocs at Disney since 2006. To prevent slipping on wet surfaces, Crocs shouldn’t have any treads that are worn down. And avoid wearing them on escalators – kids especially!
So do you take them off on an escalator and go barefoot instead? That woudl be a really good idea…