History aside, there are several reasons that Birkenstock is a household name: their products are incredibly comfortable; the brand was eco-friendly when it still wasn't easy being "green," and the sandals and shoes have a simple, casual look that appeals to people of all ages, and from all walks of life.
Birkenstock Shoes are Comfortable
Since the comfort of footwear is so subjective, I typically have to append my own statements by saying something like "these shoes were comfortable for me." With Birkenstocks, no such disclaimers are necessary, because you don't have to take just my word for it; a quick glance at the customer reviews at any online retailer will show you just how well this brand ranks for comfort.Personally, I've always been able to wear a pair of Birkenstock sandals right out of the box with no discomfort whatsoever, but if you're not used to their arch support system, you may need time to adjust to it.
Information on how to acclimate to Birkenstocks is available on their web site, under the "Once you get your Birkenstocks home" section of their "How to Fit" page.
Eco-Friendly, Renewable, Repairable Birkenstocks
Long before it was the "thing to do," Birkenstock was very eco-friendly. Over the years, they've continued using premium quality, natural, renewable, recyclable and naturally insulating material.The footbed used in all of their products is made of jute, latex and cork. Their famous cork soles are made from Cork Oak trees, without any trees being cut or destroyed in the process -- they're made using from the bark, which is removed and then allowed to re-grow.
Another aspect that a lot of people like about Birkenstock shoes is that they're completely repairable and renewable, keeping more shoes out of landfills, and giving the customer a little more bang for their buck.
You can use their online repair and retailer locater to find a repair shop near you. Birkenstocks can also be mailed in for repair, for more information, visit their web site for the customer service phone number.
Are Birkenstock Shoes Cool or Fashionable?
Naturally, that depends on who you ask, but there is a legion of fans who'll tell you that there are few things cooler than a pair of Birkenstock sandals or shoes. They love the traditional, simple look of their legendary Birks -- the more basic, the better.And for anyone who isn't already a fan, I suggest you have a look at their most recent collection.
Of course, they still look like Birkenstocks, but there are now more than 30 distinct styles and a huge variety of options, including patent, suede, metallic, nubuck, leather, braided or EVA uppers; slide or thong styling; buckles or laces; and occasionally even bead or rhinestone embellishments.
Personally, my favorite style is the "Gizeh," because I'm such a fan of thongs, but for those of you who prefer slides, there are even more options.
The Price of Birkenstock Shoes
If your shoe-shopping budget only allows for a trip to the shoe section of your local general store, then you may find Birkenstocks a little pricey, but their prices compare with most mainstream brands, and they're actually more affordable than many other high-end comfort shoes.Prices for the famous 'Arizona' sandals range from about $70 to $125, while the popular 'Madrid' slide starts at $49.95. The lovely patent 'Gizeh' thongs I've been wearing for the last few weeks retails for $79.95.
Compare Prices on Birkenstock
Official Birkenstock Links
- Birkenstock World Site
- Birkenstock U.S.A.
- Birkenstock Customer Service (USA)
- Birkenstock's Green Steps (USA)
Additional Online Retailers of Birkenstock Sandals and Shoes
- Zappos.com - (Buy Direct)
- Endless.com - (Buy Direct)
- BirkenstockCentral.com (Buy Direct)
- Footsmart.com - (Buy Direct)
