After several teases, designer Salehe Bembury finally unveiled Crocs' first-ever sneaker. And I must tell ya: it doesn't look real Croc-y at all.
Let me explain: Crocs' debut sneaker doesn't look anything like the label's classic foam slip-on. Well, the shoe preserves those classic Crocs ventilation holes on the toe (just smaller).
The Crocs sneaker, apparently called "Juniper" going off the tongue, falls more in line with Crocs' newer, innovative models, like Bembury's own Pollex series of clogs and slide sandals.
It makes sense, really — the debut sneaker is but another advancement in this new era of Crocs, taking designs beyond the brand's typical clogs. And the Juniper sneaker already fits bill, based on looks alone.
In Bembury's preview, Bembury's signature fingerprint pattern informs the translucent trail-worthy outsole.
Those exact semi-transparent details worm up the sides of the Crocs Juniper sneaker, wrapping the midsole in an eye-catching design.
More air holes cover the Juniper sneaker's heel while a classic lace system and collaborative branding hit elsewhere, subtle enough to keep the shoe stylish. It does feel weird to see a Croc with laces but maybe it just takes some getting used to.
The Crocs Juniper sneaker's debut colorway wears several peachy hues and spring-worthy greens and blues, making for a fitting color palette for what's presumably a Spring/Summer 2024 footwear release.
And yes, Crocs does already make "sneakers" even prior to the launch of the Juniper but those were more purpose-driven experiments, like the Echo slip-on and a work shoe called the "On the Clock."
But Bembury's sneaker is clearly Crocs' first stab at a more stylish sneaker option and it bodes well for the footwear company's future laced-up endeavors.
Salehe Bembury and Crocs joined forces for their first collaboration in 2021 for the Crocs Pollex Clog, which proved so popular that it was eventually followed by several other hugely coveted colorways and then Bembury's appointment as creative director of the entire Crocs Pollex collection in 2023.
Bembury also appears to exert plenty of influence over Crocs as a whole, given how stylish some of Crocs' recent offerings are. Consider the Crocs Echo line and the Off-Grid clog.
As for the Crocs cowboy boot, well, who's to say should have to answer for that? But it's here now so no use crying over spilt milk. At least the little spurs spin.
Anyways, in between his many collaborative Crocs escapades, Bembury has dished out equally great shoe collaborations with New Balance and Moncler, resulting in whistle-equipped sneakers and chunky trail steppers, respectively.
With each partnership, we always see Bembury's love for the outdoors shine, whether it be through his earthy colorways, textural design details, or hiking-approved silhouettes.
The same energy translates to the Juniper sneaker.
In Crocs world, the footwear brand continues to ride on a foam high, coming off yet another big year with comfy, fun shoes. Lightning McQueen slip-ons, anyone? How about some Shrek clogs?
Now, Bembury and the brand are prepping Crocs' first sneaker, which is looking to enjoy the same popularity as Crocs' other immensely popular shoes (Bembury's included). An instant sell-out is all but guaranteed.
Indeed, a lot of fans are ready to make the shoe "MINEper," as one commenter put it. Hard to deny that Bembury knows his way around a sneaker, even if it was born from a clog.
