Summary

  • Crocs has partnered with legendary designer Steven Smith to debut “The Roy,” a brand-new foam slip-on silhouette unveiled at TEDxPortland

  • The experimental design features three oversized bands across the forefoot and arrives in a bright red finish that honors the TEDx visual identity

  • Accompanying the new model is a matching red Classic Clog equipped with custom Pacific Northwest-themed Jibbitz, exclusively reserved for TEDxPortland volunteers, speakers, and alumni

Legendary footwear designer Steven Smith has officially teamed up with Crocs to unveil a futuristic new silhouette directly from the TEDxPortland stage. Dubbed “The Roy,” the highly experimental foam slip-on was introduced as an exclusive offering for the event, pushing the beloved casual footwear brand further into bold, architectural design territory. Given Smith’s prolific history of shaping influential, industry-shifting footwear, this surprise collaboration immediately establishes “The Roy” as a model to watch.

Standing out with an aggressive yet minimalist aesthetic, “The Roy” is defined by three oversized foam bands that stretch across the forefoot, securing the wearer in a plush, slip-on construction. For its debut colorway, the model arrives in a vibrant, monochromatic red finish, serving as a direct nod to the signature visual identity of the TED organization.

Ensuring the brand’s heritage isn’t left behind, the project also includes a matching red iteration of the iconic Crocs Classic Clog. Keeping one foot in a more familiar lane, this accompanying pair leans heavily into local pride, featuring a curated set of custom Jibbitz tied specifically to the Pacific Northwest. Playful charms include logos for the University of Oregon, the Portland Trail Blazers, and a dedicated TEDxPortland badge, giving the clog a highly personalized, regional feel.

For now, getting your hands on this striking collaboration will require some serious local connections. The TEDxPortland x Crocs collection is currently being treated as a strict exclusive, reserved specifically for the event’s volunteers, speakers, and alumni. However, given Steven Smith’s massive influence and the undeniable presence of the new silhouette, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Crocs roll out “The Roy” for a wider public launch later this year.

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast