Summary
I’ve always loved the comfort that Crocs clogs provide, but there were times when they seemed a bit too chunky – which is why I was so happy with the introduction of the Crocs LiteRide Clog. I was quite impressed with the brand’s goal to improve on what was already a comfortable and supportive Croslite material that’s used in the insole. This resulted in the development of the LiteRide material that’s 40% more lightweight and 25% softer, delivering a whole new level of comfort that I got to enjoy even for extended periods of walking or standing. The Croslite material was still utilized in this clog’s outsole, offering a supportive structure without the rigidity that would’ve had a negative effect on the sole’s softness and comfort level. Aside from being more comfortable compared to classic Crocs, this clog also showcased a more streamlined silhouette. It provides the same level of functionality that generations have loved about the brand but had a sleeker look, addressing the need for a less bulky profile.
The clog’s more low-key silhouette made it easier to pair with more clothing options, delivering increased versatility that I readily maximized for a variety of activities and in different settings without worrying that my footwear would look out of place. I’m glad that this clog still had the same sporty look that Crocs is known for without sacrificing comfort and support for a truly enjoyable walking experience. I liked the upper’s super flexible structure, as it made the clog very comfortable out of the box, allowing it to adjust to my steps so I didn’t feel like my foot’s movements were being restricted. In this article, we’ll have a chance to explore the clog’s details to see which features make it better than the original Crocs clog structure and if there are aspects that still need to be improved.
If you love Crocs clogs but want a less chunky option, you’ll love this clog’s sleeker silhouette that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
I’ve always relied on Crocs footwear to deliver uncompromised comfort, and I wasn’t disappointed with my experience while using the Crocs LiteRide Clog.
I liked the proprietary Matlite material that was used in the upper because it was very pliable, easily flexing along with my foot’s movements.
The upper accommodated my steps without issue, adjusting instantly so I didn’t feel the discomfort that would’ve been present if I used shoes with a very rigid upper. This flexibility allowed me to walk comfortably without stiff materials biting painfully into my skin, so I didn’t need to worry that my toes and the top of my foot would have blisters at the end of a long day of walking. One of the first things that caught my attention about this clog is the structure which was considerably slimmer than what I was used to seeing in a classic Crocs clog. This streamlined silhouette resulted in a less bulky design that was even more comfortable to use than the original clog structure. The clog’s sleeker profile felt easier and more comfortable to wear because I didn’t need to deal with the awkward feeling of using unwieldy shoes, which can sometimes get caught in objects in the surrounding area. The component that significantly enhanced this clog’s comfort level is the insole that’s made with the exclusive LiteRide material. Crocs developed this material to provide a higher level of comfort than the original material, resulting in an insole that’s 40% softer and 25% more lightweight compared to Croslite. It’s worth noting that Croslite was already a very comfy material, to begin with, based on my experience while using OG Crocs clogs. The LiteRide insole offered superb cushioning for an airy sensation that protected my foot from feeling the impact of walking on hard surfaces.
I loved the slight bounce that came with every step as it propelled my movements, making it easier for me to walk around and stay on my feet for much longer without suffering from intense pain.
What’s remarkable is that even if the insole had an exceptionally soft structure, it still managed to cradle my foot supportively. I was expecting my foot to feel unstable because of the remarkably soft base but was pleasantly surprised that the insole still promoted a stable walking experience with my foot kept in proper alignment. The innovative LiteRide material also provided enhanced shock absorption, soaking up the force that comes from continuous walking on unyielding surfaces. The impact was then dispersed throughout the clog, protecting my foot from getting fatigued even when I’d already been upright or walking for prolonged periods. I felt the raised dots on the insole offered a massaging motion from underneath, encouraging better blood circulation to support comfortable walking for extended periods. I wore this clog with and without socks and it felt wonderfully comfortable either way, allowing me to enjoy the versatility of use.
Weight
This is an incredibly lightweight clog that’s truly comfortable to use even for long periods since it doesn’t pull the foot down with excess bulk. It weighs even less than the comfortable OG Crocs clog, thanks to the innovative LiteRide insole that’s 25% more lightweight compared to the original Croslite material. While using this clog, I felt like I almost had nothing on my foot – especially because it had a profile that’s significantly slimmer than the classic Crocs clog style.
Traction
This clog offered good traction and felt grippy enough on a variety of surfaces, allowing me to walk without easily losing my steady footing. The Croslite outsole offers an additional layer of cushioning underfoot that feels supportive enough to stabilize my movements. However, I don’t think this clog’s traction level is strong enough to prevent slipping in conditions that are extremely unstable or slippery.
Fit and Sizing
I discovered that, unlike most Crocs footwear styles, this clog is true to size. I normally wear a size 10, but in this case, I chose a 9. Thus, the clog felt a bit too tight, especially in the toe area where I felt some uncomfortable pinching. If I had gone with my usual size 10, the clog would’ve fit perfectly without any discomfort. With the right size, the clog offers a relaxed fit that leaves ample room for the toes to wiggle freely to stop foot cramps. This clog is spacious and versatile enough to be worn with or without socks, giving you the freedom to use it to tweak your style as you wish without compromising a comfortable fit. I welcomed the back strap’s presence, because it allowed me to easily adjust the clog’s fit until I achieved the most secure one that kept my foot in its proper position but didn’t cause discomfort.
Waterproofing
This clog isn’t built with a waterproof construction. The Matlite material used in the upper offers a high level of liquid resistance, but since the clog has numerous holes on top, wet elements can easily get in. With the open back area and the holes on the upper, the clog won’t be able to stop liquid substances from seeping in. This can cause uncomfortable foot wetness if you’re walking or working in exceptionally wet conditions, or if you need to wade in shallow puddles.
Breathability
Breathability isn’t a problem with this clog, mainly because of the numerous holes that pepper the upper’s structure. These holes allow plenty of air to get in while encouraging moisture and heat to dissipate, maintaining a fresh and cool interior to stop overheating even with continuous use for hours. I didn’t encounter extreme warmth or sweatiness inside this clog even when I used it in humid or hot surroundings. The opening at the back also aids in breathability, as it permits more air to flow freely into the footwear.
Quality and Durability
After I had the chance to use the Crocs LiteRide Clog for a while, I can say that it’s an improved version of the OG Crocs clog both functionally and aesthetically speaking. This clog had a slimmer profile that gave it a sporty yet stylish look, compared to the much more laidback appeal of the earlier version of the footwear. By cutting the clog’s bulk, its look became versatile enough to be paired quite nicely with more outfit choices, allowing me to enjoy this pair’s superior comfort in a variety of environments and activities without compromising my style. The Matlite upper had superb flexibility and easily adjusted to my foot’s movements, making walking more comfortable since there wasn’t a rigid component rubbing and biting into my skin with every step. Unlike other footwear choices that need a break-in period, this clog can immediately be used and is comfy straight out of the box.
I loved the way the upper was built with lots of tiny holes that encouraged generous airflow, keeping the interior feeling cool for much longer.
This protected my foot from becoming overheated inside the clog, especially when I used it for extended periods in locations that tend to be hot or humid. The opening at the back also helped promote a well-ventilated interior, as it allowed plenty of air to come in, at the same time helping sweat and excess warmth evaporate with long hours of use.
I loved the way the LiteRide insole cradled my foot with remarkable softness to ward off the pain when I’d already been on my feet for a long time.
I was a bit surprised by the insole’s capability to support my foot and keep it in its properly aligned position even with the supreme softness, keeping my steps steady while I enjoyed the cushy feeling underfoot. The insole has a bouncy structure that offered a high level of energy return while delivering strong shock absorption to keep foot fatigue at bay. This innovative LiteRide foam material is considerably lighter and softer compared to the Croslite material that’s used to cradle the foot in classic Crocs clogs. The result is a clog that weighs almost nothing, enabling me to walk around comfortably and freely without extra bulk pressing my foot down. I appreciated the presence of the signature back strap that only needed to be shifted up or down to promote a secure fit. This component allowed me to modify the clog easily, so it sat comfortably around my foot while promoting a secure walking experience. The Croslite material makes the outsole feel cushy and supportive, with good traction that kept me walking steadily across different ground conditions.
However, I don’t think the outsole’s traction level is strong enough to protect me against slipping on very unstable or slippery surfaces.
I’m also a bit concerned that the sole’s structure – which is glued to the upper – may not be as strong as the classic clog that features a solid piece of Croslite material. This may or may not have a negative effect on the LiteRide clog’s strength with long-term use. It’s worth mentioning that this clog isn’t waterproof, so it’s not the best option for extremely wet surroundings.
Other Versions
The Crocs LiteRide Clog is offered in around 22 colorways, including various options such as those with plain-colored and camo-colored uppers, along with white or different colored soles. There’s also a version called Bistro Pro LiteRide Clog that’s designed for the use of professionals in the healthcare, hospitality, and foodservice industries.
The Challengers
Adidas Adilette Clog
The Adidas Adilette Clog has a silhouette that’s closely inspired by the classic Adidas slide, resulting in a comfortable clog that can be maximized in various environments. The casual silhouette pairs well with jeans, shorts, and other attire, so it’s quite easy to pair this clog with your different clothing options if you want to go for an effortlessly laidback vibe. The synthetic material used for the upper and outsole is flexible, so it doesn’t cause a restrictive feeling. This material quickly adjusts to the foot’s movements to promote unhampered mobility and comfort. The EVA footbed conforms to the foot’s shape, creating a supportive base for a more stable walking experience. It also cushions the foot to prevent the pain that can be produced by hours of walking on hard surfaces. The clog’s sizing runs large, though, so it may be a good idea to consider getting a smaller size, especially if you have narrow feet.
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog
The Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog is made with an ultra-thick leather upper that keeps the foot protected while adjusting easily to every step, promoting a comfortable walking experience. The leather’s fine surface adds a premium touch, making this clog a stylish addition to different outfits that you can enjoy in a variety of settings. The signature Birkenstock soft footbed cushions the foot for long-lasting comfort that you’ll be able to enjoy even with long hours of walking or standing. It’s designed to follow the foot’s natural contours, promoting correct alignment to protect the foot and leg muscles from becoming fatigued, especially with prolonged periods of staying on your feet. This footbed offers good arch support, at the same time it delivers continuous support to keep you walking steadily over various floor conditions without the fear of easily slipping when you need to move at a quicker pace. The suede footbed lining embraces the foot with a welcoming texture to prevent painful chafing that may lead to blister development. The single strap on top with the distinctive metal pin buckle makes it convenient to adjust the clog’s fit, ensuring that you’ll always have a secure fit that feels perfectly comfortable. It’s worth noting that this clog has a relaxed fit, though, so it’s best for those with thin feet to get the narrow width option.
OOfos OOcloog Clog
The OOfos OOcloog Clog is constructed using closed-cell foam that’s moisture- and odor-resistant, giving you the assurance of being able to use this clog while avoiding sweaty or stinky feet problems. The streamlined design blends nicely with various outfits for an effortlessly casual appeal. The footbed with its proprietary OOfoam technology delivers ample cushioning to ward off pain, absorbing considerably more shock compared to conventional footwear. This shock absorption helps relieve the stress on joints and muscles for pain-free walking for hours. The footbed is designed to support the arch and conform to the foot’s curves, promoting proper foot alignment so it’s easier to maintain a balanced gait. The outsole’s tread has a good grip on surfaces to protect you from losing your balance while walking. However, this clog doesn’t have ventilation holes, so it tends to feel much warmer when used for a long time in hot or humid settings.
Merrell Juno Clog
The Merrell Juno Clog has a very lightweight design that promotes superior comfort, as it won’t drag heavily on the foot. The full-grain leather creates a protective shell around the foot while delivering a sleek style that goes well with a variety of attire options. The proprietary COMFORTBASE Active footbed is shaped to mold to the foot’s natural contours for increased support and stability on various surfaces. The EVA midsole provides strong shock absorption, soaking up the impact that’s produced by walking on unforgiving surfaces to relieve joint pain. It also returns the energy to every step, making it easier to walk pain-free for much longer. The rubber outsole is built with sawtooth treads that offer strong traction, helping sustain your stable gait on tricky surfaces. It tends to feel overly warm, though, because it doesn’t have ventilation holes.
Skechers Foamies GOWalk 5 Clog
The Skechers Foamies GOWalk 5 Clog is made with lightweight EVA that flexes along with the foot’s movements, promoting unrestricted and comfortable walking. The footbed is designed to follow the foot’s curves, offering increased support to keep you walking steadily across different surfaces. The exclusive Comfort Pillar Technology quickly responds to every step, giving off a bouncy feel that helps prolong comfort with hours of standing or staying upright. The upper features plenty of ventilation holes to keep the air flowing freely throughout the clog, keeping the heat and moisture dissipated to maintain a cool feeling for longer. The heel strap aids in convenient adjustment, ensuring a secure fit to help you walk comfortably while preventing an unstable feeling.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Crocs LiteRide Clog is a great choice if you’re after the comfortable experience that Crocs clogs offer but prefer a sportier silhouette. I liked the clog’s much slimmer construction compared to the classic Crocs clog, making it more stylish so I was able to maximize its use in various settings and with different outfits. I loved the LiteRide insole’s superb softness, as it cushioned the blow of walking on hard surfaces, making it more comfortable to walk for longer. The incredibly lightweight structure didn’t pull my foot down with extra weight, enabling me to use this clog comfortably for long periods. However, this isn’t a waterproof clog and its traction isn’t that strong, so it’s not the best choice for working in extremely wet and slippery conditions.
