Everyone has that one shoe. The one that’s so supremely comfortable, they can’t do without it. The one that they jump right into when they get home and take off their work shoes or daily trainers.
Oofos and Crocs are those shoes. They’re not the kind you wear out to a wedding or at work, but they’re the best part about settling in at home to relax.
If you haven’t gotten a pair yet, the question is obvious: Oofos vs Crocs clogs – which is best for you? They’re quite similar, but the truth is, there are a few slight differences that could sway you toward one or the other.
Let’s compare the two in detail so you can decide which would meet your needs.
Main Differences & Similarities
Visually, the two clogs are fairly different. Crocs are easy to spot, with their holey upper, heel/ankle strap, and stick-on Jibbitz. Oofos clogs are slightly different, with a solid upper and no strap.
Each company uses its own proprietary foam, although you can’t tell this by looking at the clogs. They both offer surprisingly strong arch support, excellent shock absorption, and a high level of comfort.
Both shoes are also water-resistant, meaning you can wear them at the beach, by the pool, or even in rainy weather. Crocs are slip-resistant, while the Oofos aren’t.
Upper
Oofos
Oofos clogs are comprised of a special, lightweight closed-cell foam created by the company, called OOfoam. It’s non-allergenic, free from harmful materials, latex-free, and painted with non-toxic paints.
The upper is smooth and protective. It has a depressed line running across the top of the foot near the ankle, mainly for aesthetic purposes.
On the inner edge of the upper, three small, half-circle holes allow air to flow through the clog, as well as letting water out if you’re walking through a puddle or wearing these by the pool.
They come in various colors, and the entire shoe is made of the same color foam.
Crocs
Crocs clogs are made of a unique soft resin known as Croslite. It’s lightweight, soft, and smooth. The toe box is broad, allowing for plenty of toe-wiggling space.
The upper is almost instantly recognizable. It features holes both on the top of the foot and around the edge that allow for excellent airflow and water drainage.
A strap fastens on either side of the ankle, and can be flipped down to support the heel, or sit on top of the foot at the front of the ankle if you want a slip-on.
Crocs come in a large range of different, bold colors. You can also customize the upper by adding Jibbitz charms, which are small, “pop-in” charms that you can accessorize with to make your Crocs more exciting and personal.
Midsole
Oofos
Just like the upper, the midsole consists of OOfoam. A thick layer of foam under the foot absorbs shock—up to 37% more effectively than other brands, according to the company.
It feels soft and has a slight bounce to it when you walk. There’s some texture inside the clog, to prevent your feet from slipping inside the shoe.
The OOfoam patented footbed contours to your feet, providing excellent arch support. This helps keep your foot aligned and reduce strain on the foot and up the kinetic chain.
Crocs
Like the Oofos, the Crocs midsole is made of the same material as the upper. It has great arch support, but in comparison to the Oofos is much more firm and less luxurious.
The chunk of Croslite foam underneath your feet does a good job of preventing the shock of impact from jarring your feet. However, it hasn’t got much bounce to it.
On the footbed you’ll find a textured pattern, designed to provide grip for your feet so they don’t slide on the foam.
Outsole
Oofos
Oofos clogs have a light traction outsole with a textured pattern that grips well to multiple different surfaces.
However, unlike Crocs, it’s not slip-resistant, which may make a difference to your decision if you’re planning on wearing them in wet environments.
The outsole also has a slight rocker in the forefoot and heel that helps you move through your gait with ease and reduces foot fatigue.
Crocs
One of the best things about Crocs is their superior traction. Their soles are non-slip, with multi-directional tread that sticks even on wet surfaces.
A mild rocker helps you transition easily from heel to toe, reducing the amount of strain on your foot muscles.
Other Features
It’s worth noting that Oofos is often recommended by podiatrists as it’s very lightweight, provides excellent arch support, and has great shock absorption.
Crocs are APMA-accepted, meaning they’ve been proven to be good for foot health. They are also often recommended for those with foot problems.
The washable nature of both shoes also means that they’re excellent for healthcare providers like nurses who are on their feet all day and need a shoe that supports, cushions, and is easy to clean.
Overall Fit and Comfort
Oofos
Oofos footwear tends to run small. If you want a snug fit you can order your regular size, but if you want a little bit of space or the option to wear socks in winter, then it may be a good idea to go up a size.
They don’t come in half sizes, so you will need to round up if your regular size is a half size. The good news is that they have a free 30-day return period, so if you do get the wrong size, you can exchange them easily.
Oofos clogs are known to be exceptionally comfortable, thanks to their soft, luxurious foam footbeds that still somehow provide excellent arch support.
Crocs
Crocs clogs offer a roomy fit, but the addition of the heel strap helps you to keep them snugly on your feet.
They seem to run true to size, although their naturally spacious fit might seem strange to those who haven’t worn them before. They also don’t come in half sizes, so you will need to order up if you’re a half size.
While they do provide exceptional comfort, they are firmer than Oofos. If you’re looking for something with a bit more structure, Crocs are good.
Pricing
Oofos
Oofos clogs in plain colors are priced at $79.95 at the time of writing. If you want a patterned clog, you can expect to pay around $10 more.
Crocs
Crocs clogs sell for around $49.95 per pair, regardless of color. However, they can become pricey when you add Jibbitz charms—or want a pair in every color!
Weight
An average-sized pair of Oofos weighs 8.4 oz, while an equivalent average-sized pair of Crocs weighs 7 oz.
Durability
Oofoam is more durable than regular EVA foam and should last for a long time even with regular use. Crocs Croslite is also of good durability.
However, neither of them are likely to stand up well to puncture damage, highly abrasive surfaces, or heat.
Summary
Oofos vs Crocs clogs really depends on personal preference. They’re both quite similar, so if you’re looking at style only, the choice comes down to personal preference.
Those who want a luxuriously soft clog should choose the Oofos, as it’s much softer than the Crocs while still offering exceptional arch support.
Anyone who wants a firmer shoe that doesn’t have as much of a sinking feeling should opt for Crocs, which also gives great arch support.
Crocs also come out top in terms of breathability, price, and their huge range of bright, fun colors.
