How Long Do Crocs Last (And When to Replace Them)

Crocs are unique footwear. Because of their uniqueness, many wonder about their durability outdoors.

So, how long do Crocs last?

Crocs can last between 2 to 3 years if you wear them a few times per week.
Crocs can last between 1 to 2 years if you wear them 25 hours per week.
The tread on the bottom of Crocs usually wears out after 8 to 10 months.

Avoid dragging your feet to extend the Crocs’ life. There are also other tips to make them last longer.

Let’s explore how long Crocs last and how to make them last longer.

How long do Crocs last?

Generally, Crocs can last between 1 to 3 years under normal outdoor wear.

However, their durability largely depends on how often you wear them.

If worn outside every day for over 4 hours, they typically last a year. Some people’s Crocs’ classic clogs have lasted over 10 years because they rotated between pairs, making them last longer than average.

To be honest, Crocs are some of the most durable footwear available.

The Guardian even claimed that Crocs would dominate in an apocalypse.

While that might be an exaggeration, it highlights that Crocs are more durable than typical rubber slippers and can last several years.

Do Crocs get worn out?

The tread on the bottom of Crocs will eventually wear out. Usually, the tread wears out before the Crocs lose their “squishiness”.

After several months, the little bumps inside Crocs will wear down and become smooth. If you don’t find them comfortable, give them time and they will conform to your feet.

Unique Crocs versions, like the tie-dye ones, may see their paint peel off after a few wears.

However, the shoe itself will stay solid and in shape.

How often should you replace Crocs?

You should replace your Crocs once every 1 or 2 years. Some Crocs can last up to 4 years, but the tread often wears out in about 10 months.

When should you replace Crocs?

Here are three signs that you need new Crocs:

1. When the tread is gone

The first and most obvious sign that your Crocs need to be replaced is when the tread is gone.

Once the tread is gone, Crocs become very slick on wet surfaces. If the tread on your Crocs starts getting slick, it’s time to replace them.

We’ve seen people slip and experience nasty falls as a result of wearing Crocs with worn-out tread.

An image that shows a pair of Crocs' treads. The treads are worn out because of wear. — **Crocs tread after about 8 or 10 months**.

If you haven’t replaced your Crocs with worn-out tread, be careful on wet pavement, grass, or slippery surfaces.

You do not want to suffer a nasty fall now, would you?

2. The support and “squishiness” have disappeared

Crocs are very durable and won’t lose their shape. However, over time, they may lose their squishiness because they are compressed constantly as you wear them.

When your feet hurt or do not feel comfortable anymore, it’s time to replace your Crocs.

A new pair of Crocs needs a few wears to break in. But after they soften, they can eventually lose their “squishiness”.

Usually, the tread on the bottom of Crocs wears out before they lose their “squishiness”.

If your Crocs become slick, it’s time to replace them.

How to make Crocs last longer

Here are the things you can do to make Crocs longer:

1. Don’t drag your feet

The best way to make Crocs last longer is by not dragging your feet while wearing them. By lifting your Crocs while walking, the tread on the bottom will not wear out quickly.

Walking properly not only preserves your beloved Crocs but also offers many health benefits.

A key thing to remember is “heel to toe”.

Start by stepping onto your heel, then roll onto the ball of your foot, and finally, lift your heel using your big toe. This method prevents injury, maintains stability, and keeps your Crocs in good shape.

2. Don’t leave them out in the sun for too long

It’s normal for most people to leave their footwear outside the house. However, if you are looking to maintain your Crocs for a long time, don’t expose them to sunlight for too long.

The Crocs’ unique material is susceptible to extreme heat and sunlight.

One of our writers once left their Crocs outside during a summer weekend. After that, his Crocs changed. The squishiness disappeared, and the material changed strangely.

It seems like the material “baked” in the sun.

If you want to maintain your Crocs’ squishiness, store them indoors away from the sun.

3. Rotate your Crocs

Last but not least, you can always rotate your Crocs with other shoes you have.

Crocs usually last 1 to 3 years, but some owners have had them for over 10 years.

However, the key is to not wear them every day. If you love Crocs and wear them daily, consider buying two pairs and alternating them. Both pairs of Crocs will last a few more years.

Just like any other footwear, the less you wear them, the longer Crocs will last.