I'd take combat-rated military footwear over ANYTHING.
I don't like being caught in a situation where my footwear could fall off easily. Running from stray dog, auto breaking down on freeway, chasing a pickpocket, climbing a fence, knee-deep in rain flood and mud, barfights, industrial hazards, dropped equipment... jack boots laced half-way up my shins makes me feel warm and fuzzy deep down.
Crocs' fashion statement is: I'm too lazy to tie my shoes, or I'm too fat to reach the laces in the first place. Crocs are good for noodling around the house or the beach. That's it. I see you wearing them in the coffee shop, you're automatically more dorky than me in the worst Star Wars shirt.