When Carter Waugh of Napa, CA was 8, he like many other kids started complaining about his shoes. His crocs made his feet sweat, his flip flops broke when he ran around and he had blisters. Instead of throwing his hands up, he decided to put them to work and with his families help, Carter devised a business plan.
Three years later, in June 2020, that plan blossomed into a full blown business. Thanks to kickstarter, the now 11-year-old, raised $40,615 and was fully funded in only 45 minutes. The young visionary, who is affectionately nicknamed Critt or Critter by his older brother, is now the proud CEO of Flipp-Critts, a shoe described as being a cross between a flip flop and a clog.
What Sets Flip-Critts Apart?
Critts promote what Carter calls “adventurability,” because they are comfortable, durable and secure. Despite being slip-ons, the shoes, which run $55 for the kids model, provide full support, have memory foam for extra cushioning and are made from soft materials which prevent painful blisters from forming. Their vibram soles afford the wearer stability as well as traction and toe bar nestled inside keep the shoes from falling off so kids can confidently run, jump and climb.
Supporting Schools
Carter always knew he wanted to donate some of his company’s proceeds, so when the pandemic hit and funding for extracurricular activities at his elementary school was slashed, he launched “Carter Cares,” which he is using to raise money for his school’s art program. He recently donated $400 and says that is just the beginning. Carter’s goal is to make “many more donations to schools around the world and bring happiness and adventurablity to all kids everywhere!”
Elise Edwards
Writer/Producer
Elise began her career as a Writer/Anchor/Reporter at CNN headquarters in Atlanta, GA. She also served as Supervising Producer at E! Networks and most recently, has been busy freelance producing and writing for numerous magazines and blogs.
