For over two centuries, Birkenstock has been an exception. The German shoe company is known around the world for its expertise, comfort and quality of its products. Since the 1970s, Birkenstock has been available in more than 90 countries across Europe and the rest of the globe for men and women.
With its signature styles such as the Madrid single-strap sandal, the Arizona double-strap sandal and the Boston mules, Birkenstock has been around for generations. The brand has always been innovative, reinventing itself and creating new feet.
The footbed, a mythical sole
In 1902, Konrad Birkenstock's experiments resulted in the production of the first "insole". These were insoles for the treatment and cure of foot ailments, which were previously made of metal. After several tests of materials, it is an alliance mainly composed of cork and latex that will prove to be the most effective. The product officially became the "Fußbett" or footbed. An insole that allows for overall health beyond healing and ensures foot comfort. The launch of the Birkenstock Orthopaedic Footbed marks a revolution for both the family business and foot health.
The general public was initially shy about using the shoe on a daily basis. In 1954, Karl Birkenstock took the concept of his father and grandfather and introduced the Birkenstock "footbed sandal". The structure and the construction are visible and desired, taking inspiration from the brutalism in modern architecture. We find the same cork sole simply embellished with an adjustable strap.
This sandal will be adopted first in the households as a shoe of interior for its comfort and its simple aesthetic, then by the alternative movements which wish to express this nonconformity via this sandal which breaks the rules. It was named the "Madrid" in 1979, before giving way to the Arizona.
1973, the ARIZONA
1 cork sole, 2 adjustable straps, the Arizona shoe is born. This silhouette represents hundreds of variations and millions of units sold. Birkenstock innovates in materials with leather and nubuck for comfort. The colors are also varied, the favorites remaining black, mocca and beige. Respecting the design, we find the essence of Birkenstock and the emblematic sole. The Arizona model is now a best-seller, available worldwide and considered as a classic shoe for both women and men.
Birkenstock BOSTON
In paradox to the rigid and heavy wooden clogs, Birkenstock offers the Boston model, light and flexible mules. This silhouette was as successful as the Arizona. Boston mules are worn by workers for comfort and safety, as well as by tourists on the go. This foot has as many variations of materials and colors as the Arizona, with the same comfort. Today, this foot is available for both men and women, or recently in collaboration with high fashion houses such as Dior.
An ecological commitment
Directly manufactured in Germany, Birkenstock is committed to its ecological investment as a corporate position beyond the marketing aspect. The majority of the materials used are from sustainable sources such as cork, latex and leather. Birkenstock collects cork from cork oaks every 7 to 9 years, an inexhaustible resource.
The soles made from cork grains are made from liquid rubber (or latex milk), a binder with a much lower energy balance than synthetic latex.
Birkenstock is committed to manufacturing in Europe to minimize its carbon footprint.
Birkenstock, everything you need to know about their shoes
How to clean birkenstock?
How do you clean your future pair of Birkenstocks? This question will most likely come to mind when you have purchased your pair of Arizona sandals or Boston mules. But be careful, each material has its own specificity, as full grain leather is not cleaned in the same way as suede. In our article, how to clean Birkenstocks? We give you all the tips and tricks to maintain your pairs in the best possible way for a minimum of effort.
Where to buy Birkenstock?
With the warm weather starting to show, you're bound to be tempted to buy your best pair of Birkenstocks. Luckily for you, in our article, where to buy Birkenstocks, we help you choose your future pair. Hesitating between an Arizona or a Boston? Nothing could be more normal! And the same goes for the point of sale, where to go to have the largest choice and the best experience? But as they say, every question has its answer.
Birkenstock mules?
Birkenstock, cette marque de chaussure vous dit forcément quelque chose. As soon as the sunny days and milder temperatures arrive, Birkenstock shoes are the first to show up. In our article on the history of Birkenstock mules, we trace the history of the German brand step by step. From the making of their first footbed to the manufacturing of their Boston mules, Birkenstock will have no secrets for you.
How do you size Birkenstock?
Before buying a pair of Birkenstock shoes, there is one key step: choosing the right size. Luckily, we have written a guide on how to size Birkenstock? to help you choose your ideal size. Depending on the model, whether it's an Arizona or a Boston, the size can vary greatly between the two models and without good advice, a mistake can be made.