As we approach IEM Cologne 2023, which kicks off on July 26, the Electronic Sports League has made a peculiar sartorial announcement that’s shaking up the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive esports world.
In an unexpected turn of events, the league has decided to ban Crocs, the polarizing foam clogs beloved by many for their comfort and derided by others for their aesthetics.
Established in 2015, the ESL has grown into one of the largest CS:GO leagues globally, boasting over a dozen teams spread across four regions. Ahead of the upcoming competition in Germany, the league has announced a series of over 50 rule changes, including a new regulation that explicitly targets Crocs.
The change is rooted in the league’s rules concerning appropriate attire for ESL Pro events. Players are already forbidden from wearing shorts, flip-flops, and headwear, and now, according to Rule 4.3 in the ESL Pro Tour General Rules Book, Crocs are also prohibited. Players failing to adhere to this could face a fine of at least $250. Even more severe, ESL plans to deduct the cost of rule-compliant replacement clothing from any prize money won by players caught flaunting these dress code restrictions.
This news has caught the attention of fans and players alike, many of which are just making fun of the latest ban. But, in all honesty, the decision is understandably baffling, considering the popularity of Crocs. Once the butt of many fashion jokes, Crocs has made a substantial comeback, largely due to its affordability, comfort, and customization options. It’s particularly popular among healthcare workers and younger generations leaning towards comfortable fashion.
So, why the ban? The answer lies in the ESL’s goal to foster a sense of uniformity and professionalism among its teams. For better or worse, the league seems to be following the dictum that how you present yourself impacts your performance.
However, this new rule doesn’t take into account the fact that comfort plays a crucial role in how a player performs. So, why shouldn’t esports players, who find themselves on a grand stage, watched by thousands of people, be allowed to dress for their comfort?
The ESL isn’t the first league to impose a ban on Crocs and it definitely won’t be the last. As recently as last year, the League of Legends professional, Joseph “jojopyun” Pyun, was fined for wearing them during the World Championship. So, perhaps the controversy isn’t about the Crocs ban itself, but the trend it represents in esports. Are we sacrificing players’ comfort for the sake of looking professional?
While the world discusses and debates the ban on Crocs, let’s remember that it’s just one of many changes in the rulebook. As much as the topic has dominated conversations, it shouldn’t overshadow the anticipation and excitement for the upcoming tournament.
So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re an esports player eyeing the ESL tournaments, don’t forget to pack your closed shoes and leave the Crocs at home. It would indeed be a tragic irony to see a promising career stumble over something as inconsequential as a choice of footwear.
Speaking of Counter-Strike, don’t forget, Counter-Strike 2 is still scheduled to be released later this year.
