As you may have noticed in recent years, EVA-made shoes are not just limited to the almighty Crocs. While the Australian shoemaker may reign supreme based on ubiquity, there are several similar options to choose from that are as comfortable and even more stylish. There are tons of benefits to wearing EVA-constructed shoes, but two of the most integral are breathability and easy on-and-off wearability. And while this form of footwear is ideal to wear in the summer, some examples are versatile enough to stroll in all year round.
Moreover, whether you want to roll with a humble shoemaker or a household name, there are a variety of well-made alternatives to Crocs worth considering. Seeing as there are tons of budget options on the market that parallel the versatile water shoes — along with a few designer-level offerings for more discerning tastes — we figured it was only right to compile a collection of the best EVA slip-on shoes to wear instead of Crocs across a wide range of price points.
EVA shoes can be tough to come across, so it’s best to kick this guide off with a world-renowned brand. adidas’ Adilette Clog is eerily similar to its timeless Superstar silhouette — aside from the fact that it’s composed of a rubber-like substance. Its upper features small drainage holes that still do the job regardless of its streamlined design. This alternative to Crocs is a perfect way for adidas fans to maintain their look without wearing real shoes.
In a similar vein to adidas, you can never go wrong with a pair of Vans. The California-bred heritage brand’s Slip-On TRK is an EVA-composed take on its iconic Slip-On sneakers. For added authenticity, the shoes even feature checkerboard-shaped drainage holes, which should make up for the fact that it doesn’t come available in the signature black-and-white look. However, just like any standard pair of Vans, it is available in several sleek styles.
Huckberry’s adherence to outdoor gear is beyond admirable, especially since it trickled down to this stylish take on Merrell’s game-changing Hydro Moc. The shoemaker’s EVA-constructed silhouette is arguably the most popular alternative to Crocs on the market, not to mention one of the most comfortable options. Its countered arch support and articulated heel counter provide the perfect amount of lift from the ground while remaining plush enough to walk on. Plus, those big drainage holes speak for themselves.
When it comes to water shoes, Chacos — like Crocs — runs the conversation. The outdoor-centric shoemaker’s Chillos Clog sits on an abrasion-resistant EVA outsole with wave fin traction for optimized grip. This durable compound even features sustainable webbing accents crafted from recycled fiber courtesy of Repreve. As far as secureness is concerned, it boasts a Z-configured upper with an adjustable, jacquard-webbed, injected-molded lock buckle — say that three times fast.
This unique alternative to Crocs comes from KEEN, a Portland-based manufacturer that sticks to crafting high-quality, field-ready footwear. The YOGUI ARTS’ upper is crafted from injected EVA while it sits on a midsole and insole constructed from the same material, resulting in a lightweight feel and optimized arch support. Above all else, the sandal receives an anti-odor treatment for natural odor control, which makes it perfect for the summer.
When it comes to clogs, no one does it like Birkenstock, which is why it’s only fair to shed light on its polyurethane-made wonders. The Super-Birki is one of the brand’s most versatile shoes, primarily because the durable material is resistant to water, dirt, oil, and grease, deeming it an ideal choice for people working in restaurants. The clog sits on a moisture-wicking cork-latex that can be removed to wash if needed.
Kane’s sustainable take on the Revive is a recovery-centric shoe based on comfort. It has a surfeit of perforations and interior channels that promote airflow and even sits on a raised footbed to activate blood flow in vital pressure points. On top of that, it boasts a dual-density construction for maximum cushioning and active support. Lastly, the Revive is a remarkably grippy shoe with siped soles for traction’s sake.
Ales Grey’s option is your best bet if you want to wear sleek and streamlined take on a pair of Crocs. The crater-colored Rodeo Drive Slip-On boasts a water-and-UV-proof vegan-made composition durable enough to take on several outdoor activities but stylish enough to wear casually. Most importantly, the brand claims that the average pair of sneakers is three times heavier than the slip-on, which makes it the perfect choice to step into this season if you want to tread lightly.
Suicoke’s slip-on silhouettes have become as popular as any in recent years, and much of that is thanks to the traditional brand of Japanese craftsmanship that goes into every pair. The shoemaker’s Mok is no different. The mule is constructed from lightweight rubber, punched with holes for breathability, and then finished with a sleek hook and loop closure for maximum security. Overall, this is the designer fan’s best alternative to a pair of Crocs.
Kanye West has had the shoe game in the palm of his hand for a few years now, and Yeezy‘s Foam Runner is another example of how the artist-turned-sneaker-mogul has pushed the needle. The shoes take direct inspiration from Merrell’s Hydro Moc, which shouldn’t come as a surprise considering West was a big fan of the outdoor brand’s silhouette when it was first released. Ultimately, the algae-based shoe has become one of the hottest (and most sustainable) commodities on resale markets, and it’s a great Croc-adjacent choice for sneakerheads.
In case none of these have what you’re looking for — or what you’re really looking for is a pair of Crocs — then take a look at our guide to the best mules to buy this year.
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