Flip-flops and Crocs have become staples of fashion for children, but could they be an injury waiting to happen?  Studies have shown that not only are the shoes not good for your feet, they can be very dangerous on escalators and other surfaces.  The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons has an increase in reported injuries every spring and summer directly related to wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops were designed to be worn for short walks to and from the beach or pool, not as all day footwear.  In addition, there has been a sharp increase in injuries reported with people wearing Crocs on escalators. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission statistics show that there were more than 10,000 injuries on escalators in 2007, while there was only one reported in 2006.  Many parents are reconsidering purchasing these shoes or making sure they limit how and when they are worn.  The slip resistant nature of Crocs seems to be the cause of the escalator injury because the shoe catches in the step and gets sucked into the escalator causing foot injuries.  As summer approaches, it is important to consider whether these types of shoes are really a smart choice.  If you do wear them, or allow your kids to wear them, remember what uses they were designed for and limit use to the appropriate activities.  For more information go to www.IowaInjuryBook.com.