I sat down for few minutes (six to be exact) with my colleague and podiatrist Dr. Jordan DeHaven to talk about foot arthritis, especially in big toe. We also chatted about foot-gear choices we make.

One of the topics of interest to me is how crocks are a popular choice for shoe-gear again. I remember the first time around, over decade (or perhaps closer to two) ago when this ridiculously expensive rubber shoe showed up in the stores. I did not love how they looked and finally got a pair when they produced flat Mary Jane kind of shoe. That fascination did not last long. Look and comfort was not what I expected. Each time I wore them I felt like I am wearing water shoes or rubber shoes that one wears for gardening. Or fishing. Or in rain. They were cleaned and donated to local second-hand store in a “like-new condition”. Then crocks petered out and were replaced by the next seasonal flavor. But just few years ago crocks came back with vengeance. They are back and the sentiment seems to be stronger than before. I blame the teenagers who discovered them just before and during pandemic. Easy, and no fuss on and off. And the colors! With that notion we have a generation of people to convince that crocks may not be the best choice for shoes to wear all day long. Listen to the full talk with Dr. DeHaven on feet related issues.

The written version of this audio track is available here.