The origins and mission of the Crocs brand
Crocs was founded by Scott Seamans, Lyndon “Duke” Hanson and George Boedecker Jr. Their goal was to manufacture and distribute foam boat shoes, whose design they acquired from Foam Creations, Inc. of Quebec City. Sailors raved about the comfort, the non-slip sole and the ability to float. Initially, Hanson and Boedecker did not like the design. Eventually, however, they decided that the shoes were incredibly practical. The first model designed by Crocs was “The Beach,” which was presented at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in Florida in 2001. At that time they managed to sell 200 pairs of the shoes they produced.
Since its inception, the Crocs brand has focused on innovation and functionality, striving to provide products that combine comfort and practicality. The first models of Crocs shoes quickly gained popularity not only among sailors, but also among a wide range of consumers who appreciated their unique features and comfort.
Technological innovation and development of the Crocs brand
In June 2004, the Crocs brand bought Foam Creations along with their manufacturing operations to secure exclusive rights to a foam resin called croslite. Croslite is a closed-cell resin described as injection-molded EVA foam. This foam adapts to the shape of the wearer's foot and provides medical benefits.
Croslite technology has become a key part of Crocs' success, offering unique properties such as lightness, flexibility, as well as anti-microbial, which prevents the development of odors. These innovations have made Crocs shoes an ideal choice for those seeking comfortable and practical footwear for everyday wear.
As it grew, Crocs expanded its offerings to include a variety of footwear models, including sandals, flip-flops, casual shoes, as well as specialty footwear such as work shoes and medical shoes. Each of these products combines comfort and durability, attracting customers from a wide range of ages and occupations.
Crocs' global success
By 2017, Crocs had collectively sold 300 million pairs of shoes. In August 2018, the company announced that it was closing its last company-operated production facilities in Mexico and Italy. And in June 2020, Crocs moved its headquarters from Niwot, Colorado, to Broomfield.
Despite these changes, the Crocs brand has continued its global growth, capturing more markets and expanding its product offerings. Through innovative marketing campaigns and collaborations with celebrities and influencers, Crocs has maintained its position in the market, becoming one of the world's most recognized footwear manufacturers.
Crocs has also become a popular choice among health care, food service and other industries where comfort and functionality are key. The company is constantly striving to improve its products, introducing new technologies and materials that further enhance the comfort and durability of its footwear.
Crocs in culture and brand social responsibility
The Crocs brand has also gained a prominent place in popular culture, becoming a fixture in casual and streetwear fashion. Collaborations with fashion designers and artists have contributed to the creation of limited edition shoes that have become objects of desire among collectors and fashion fans. Crocs has become a symbol of a casual, laid-back lifestyle, which has further boosted its popularity.
Crocs is also committed to community and environmental protection. The company introduces eco-friendly initiatives such as recycling old shoes and using more sustainable materials in production. Crocs regularly supports a variety of charities and non-profit organizations, which is part of the brand's social responsibility-oriented philosophy.