It was an unexpected monumental return, but this week, Crocs are making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

The iconic brand of noughties shoes is now facing bans in several US schools due to child safety concerns.

The shoes made their comeback in the 2020s (undefined undefined/Getty)

Not everyone was excited about the foam footwear brand's resurgence in the 2020s, having been originally founded in 2002.

Although they temporarily fell out of fashion, the shoes have recently surged in popularity once more, with Gen Z enjoying the chance to buy a variety of colors and decorate their feet with charms again.

However, staff at several schools across America have voiced their opposition to the brand's renewed popularity.

A recent report by Bloomberg suggests that up to 12 different states have prohibited Crocs in their classrooms following numerous accident reports.

Lake City Elementary School in Georgia has a section in its dress code specifically mentioning the brand, stating, 'All students must wear closed-toe shoes for safety (No Crocs)'.

And according to 11 Alive, Jonesboro High School, another educational institution in the same state, warned of potential suspension for students who disobey strict footwear rules.

Crocs have been banned in the schools of several states (Paulo Sousa/Getty)

The same situation occurred at LaBelle Middle School in Florida, where the dress code similarly states: "Safe footwear shall be worn at all times. No open-toe shoes, bedroom slippers, or shower shoes.

"All shoes must have a strap or back at the heel. Proper lace-up athletic shoes must be worn during P.E.) NO CROCS allowed."

But what exactly is the issue with Crocs?

Fortunately, a nurse at the Florida school revealed that the reason was a sudden increase in foot-related injuries in recent years.

Discussing a group chat with other school nurses, Oswaldo Luciano told the press: "Whenever someone mentions a foot injury, the first assumption is, 'I bet you they were wearing Crocs'."

Interestingly, concerns from teachers were echoed by a podiatrist who discussed the shoe's potential health risks.

"I've observed more structural issues like heel pain, arch pain, and sometimes more hammertoes because you have to grip the shoe to keep them on, causing the toes to overwork," Priya Parthasarathy told NPR recently.

The brand has issued a statement in response to the ban (clovercity/Getty)

Following the controversial ban in numerous states, a TikTok meme went viral, featuring millions of Croc-wearing kids humorously stumbling over their reportedly impractical footwear.

The shoe brand seems aware of its stumbling reputation over the years and even commented on one viral TikTok, joking: "Only the cool kids get it."

Crocs also issued a statement to the press: "The Crocs Classic Clog is a comfortable, casual shoe suitable for everyday wear but not designed for athletics or more strenuous activities.

"We are unaware of any confirmed health and/or safety issues related to wearing our products. Since our brand's inception, students have worn and continue to wear our Classic Clog in their daily activities, whether for pre- or post-sport, as part of a school club, or simply as a way to express their personality.

"For many, our shoes foster community and allow for personal expression—factors that are important to students. Banning them feels unnecessary."