Esports League Takes a Stand Against Comfort: Crocs Banned in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
After years of people making fun of them and not understanding why they exist, Crocs are finally becoming popular. They are cheap, incredibly comfortable, and you can personalize them with cool charms and decorations.
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Healthcare workers and young people especially love wearing them because they prefer comfortable fashion over the impractical stuff we used to wear when we were teenagers. I’m even wearing a pair of Crocs as I write this! But, surprisingly, the ESL (Esports League) doesn’t seem to like them.
#ESLProTour Rule Book Update:
Today we're releasing the mid-year update to our EPT CS rulebooks, with the biggest change being the addition of regulations around the usage of academy teams and players.
Check out all the updates in our changelog! 👇https://t.co/PiIL6fBUAP pic.twitter.com/0DetBZ0uW0
— ESL Counter-Strike (@ESLCS) July 20, 2023
Kotaku spotted that the major esports league for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has banned Crocs, the comfy footwear, as part of its dress code regulations for the upcoming IEM Cologne 2023 tournament. They clarified that Crocs are considered open shoes and not allowed, even though most of them have closed toes.
The ban puts Crocs in the same category as flip-flops, shorts, and headwear, which are also not allowed to be worn by players. Those caught wearing Crocs could face a fine of at least $250 or be prevented from participating in matches until they change their footwear.
Some pro players and fans joked about the ban on Twitter, with one player saying it was an attempt to nerf him, and others suggesting they might wear Heelys instead.
While it makes sense for the ESL to want a consistent and professional dress code, some players feel that comfort should be a priority, especially when playing on a big stage in front of a large audience. If Crocs help them perform better, they wonder why they shouldn’t be allowed to wear them. However, for those who won’t play CS:GO professionally, this won’t be an issue.
For now, as Crocs continue their journey from ridicule to redemption in the world of fashion, they may find an unexpected ally in their fans among esports enthusiasts. As esports leagues adapt to the ever-shifting cultural landscape, the future might yet see a day when comfort and style coexist seamlessly on the gaming stage.
