What's a middle schooler without their favorite footwear? We may be about to find out as wildly popular Crocs are being banned at some schools.
The debate over Crocs has been going on since they were first introduced in 2002 and has recently gained more attention as the shoes have become a staple for Gen Alpha.
Dozens of schools in at least 12 states have banned Crocs due to safety concerns, according to Bloomberg.
Some podiatrists say that Crocs are fine to wear in moderation, but they can pose risks.
With the shoes being loose-fitting, injuries are possible.
After years of slow earnings, Crocs regained their relevance following a strategic move to target teens.
With the help of celebrities like Post Malone and Justin Bieber, the shoe is ranked in the top 10 among teens’ favorites.
Crocs are currently allowed at Pittsburgh Public Schools, the largest district in Allegheny County, but The Today Show reported that dozens of schools in at least 20 states ban Crocs in their dress codes.
At Bessemer City High School in Alabama, Principal Stoney Pritchett put the kibosh on the roomy, floppy footwear.
"It’s actually a safety hazard," he said. "Man, they can twist the twist the knees, twist, twist the ankles, things like that." He said that wearing Crocs at this high school can land kids an in-school suspension.