Sorry Crocs Fans, We’ve Got Some Bad News

A couple of podiatrists recently delivered quite the blow to Crocs-lovers.

Turns out, the foam clogs beloved by the likes of chef Mario Batali, kids and laid-back folk everywhere aren’t all that good for your feet. The Huffington Post interviewed two foot doctors about Crocs, and while they said that wearing the uber-popular clogs are acceptable in moderation, they had a few concerns.

Lack of heel support

Dr. Megan Leahy, a Chicago-based podiatrist, explained that “toes tend to grip” in shoes that lack heel support, “which can lead to tendinitis, worsening of toe deformities, nail problems, corns and calluses.”

“The same thing can happen with flip flops or any backless shoes as the heel is not secured,” the doctor said.

Leahy pointed out that she wouldn’t recommend Crocs for all-day use, but did note that they “offer nice arch support.” So there’s that. In other words, it may be okay for your daughter to wear these adorable sparkly Crocs or your son the cute Crocband version for a few hours, just don’t keep them on their feet all day every day.

The Flexible Shank

Dr. Alex Kor, the president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine pointed to the “flexible shank”—the part of the shoe that lies between the toes and heel as the culprit for many of his patients’ foot problems. He said that arch and heel pain can often be attributed to wearing shoes with a flexible shank, like Crocs.

If you happen to fall for Crocs sandals this summer, like the very cute Huaraches pictured below, the best advice is again to wear them in moderation.

The Good News

Dr. Kor did point out to HuffPo that two types of patients would benefit from wearing Crocs: Those with very high arches, and those with edema (swelling) in their legs or ankles. In other words, if you’re pregnant and retaining water, purchase away!