In this Crocs Bistro vs Specialist comparison review, learn more about these two comfortable footwear.
The Crocs company has been creating its trademark shoes since 2002. In 2006, the popularity of Crocs shoes really took off and sales tripled. Crocs shoes continue to be very popular to this day.
Since its inception, Crocs has created many different styles of shoes. Most of these styles involve foam, which gives the shoes its trademark comfortable style.
A couple of Crocs models have been introduced specifically for workers such as those in healthcare and the foodservice industry; the Bistro and the Specialist. We have created this Crocs Bistro vs Specialist comparison because both of these shoes seem very similar.
It is difficult to tell what the differences are just by looking at them. But we will outline them all here so that you can make a decision as to which would be best for you.
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Crocs Bistro vs Specialist
Crocs Bistro vs Specialist: Similarities
Before we outline the basic differences between these sandals, we would first like to let you know what makes them very similar. This way, you have an idea as to what you are getting.
Hospitality and healthcare workers:
The Bistro and the Specialist were specifically designed with hospitality and healthcare workers in mind. These workers are on their feet all day and require shoes that are especially comfortable for all-day wear. The specific requirements at these work places are that the toes and the heel be covered. These shoes meet those requirements.
Plenty of room for feet:
Crocs are generally designed to give plenty of room for the feet to bend and expand. This is perhaps the biggest selling point for the Crocs shoes.
Slip resistance:
In certain workplaces, it is important that shoes be slip resistant. At restaurants and hospitals, floors become wet and slips become imminent.
Thick material above foot:
In order to add to the safety of the shoe for certain workplaces, a thicker type of material has been placed above the foot. This provides for extra cushioning in case anything should fall on your feet.
Odor-resistant Material:
For people who are wearing their shoes all day and are always on their feet, order resistance can be important. Due to the particular substance used for the making of these shoes, orders do not seep into the shoe. This is far better than wearing sneakers all day.
Easy to clean:
As you might have guessed, Crocs are very easy to clean. You can simply clean them with soap and water. No special detergents are needed.
Jibbitz Charms:
The back straps of these sandals have holes in them to accommodate for Jibbitzâ„¢ charms. As issues tend to be pretty plain, adding a few charms can make them look very interesting.
Crocs Bistro vs Specialist: Differences
The difference between these sandals is in the comfort. There are a couple of comfort features that set them apart:
Height of a Shoe:
While the Bistro’s shaft stands 1 inch above the arch, the Specialist’s shaft stands 1.5 inches above the arch. Which of these you prefer depends on what makes you the most comfortable. With the Bistro, more ankle movement might be possible. But the Specialist gives that extra level of support for your ankles.
Comfort Nubs:
The Specialist has special comfort nubs within the insole of the shoe. These nubs are very numerous and thin and stick out of the insole. It gives the shoe an interesting feel under your feet. It is sort of like a foot massage every time you take a step. The Bistro does not have these comfort nubs.
There you have it, the main differences between the Bistro and the Specialist.
Crocs Bistro vs Specialist: Price Comparison
If you would like to compare the prices between these shoes on Amazon, please see below.
Crocs Bistro vs Specialist: The Verdict
It is clear that there is no actual winner between the Bistro and the Specialist. The decision to get one of these depends on what would make you most comfortable.
Would you prefer to have nubs on the insole of the shoe so that you can get an all-day foot massage? Sounds good to us! If so, the specialist would be the way to go. The specialist also has a higher shoe shaft, which means more ankle support. But the Bistro will allow for more ankle movement.
Which of these two do you feel the most inclined to purchase? Please let us know in a comment below.
I can’t find the date on this information and situations change. I’m writing in October, 2017.
I don’t have to deal with grease on the kitchen floor or blood on the emergency room floor, but several years ago I discovered that Crocs Bistro were fairly effective on icy Wisconsin sidewalks. Three pairs since 2009. Then, last month, having read that there is little difference between the soles of Bistros and Specialists, I bought a pair of Specialists. I found that the Specialist has a sole similar to regular Crocs. The small-triangle pattern I was used to on the Bistros is not on the Specialists. Maybe it is no longer on the Bistros either, but I am apprehensive about the coming winter. The Bistros were made in Vietnam; the Specialists in China, for what it’s worth. And I cannot measure a difference in the depth of the two models. If I can’t add pictures to this email, I can send them on request.
@ William C Marten
The Bistro’s tread is a seperate material, anOSHA approved anti-slip sole. The other one has the standard Crocs sole which is just the same material as the rest of the shoe.
I’ve found that standard Crocs instead of being anti-slip are VERY prone to slipping, especially when a bit worn and wet/greasy.
Also the Bistro Pro has a different insole that is a bit firmer and supportive.
The comparison above about the different side heights is moot, NONE of these provide any ankle support, they are effectively sandals!
That being said the Bistro Pro is easily one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn.
I’ve worked in kitchens and in the medical field and so have have had jobs that have kept me on my feet all day. I have Birkenstocks, Dansko clogs, and Crocs. Crocs are by far the most comfortable.
They don’t last as long as the others, but are less than half the price.