Birkenstock Buyer’s Guide: Sizing, History & More

In the post-pandemic world, there is a trend toward more comfortable, laid-back footwear that you can throw on with anything. This has worked in the favor of Birkenstock, which is selling more of its famously comfortable, ergonomic, and low-maintenance sandals and clogs than ever before. The brand traces its roots all the way back to 1774 (that’s two years older than the USA!), so you know it must be doing something right. 

If you’re just now considering purchasing your first pair of Birkenstocks, you’re in the right place. We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about the brand and its footwear, including finding the correct size, the most popular styles, a brief history of the brand, and more. 

History of Birkenstock

The Birkenstock brand’s story began in 1774 when Johann Adam Birkenstock was registered as a shoemaker in the church archives of Langen-Bergheim, Germany. The Birkenstock family’s tradition of crafting quality footwear began centuries ago, but the modern Birkenstock as we know it today can be attributed to Konrad Birkenstock, who developed the contoured footbed in 1896. This footbed design was revolutionary for its time, as it provided support and comfort by mimicking the contours of a healthy foot.

Throughout the 20th century, Birkenstock continued to innovate and expand its product line. The brand's reputation for comfort and quality grew steadily, particularly in Europe. Birkenstock’s popularity surged when the brand was introduced to the United States in 1966. The sandals quickly became a staple footwear choice for people seeking comfort and support, especially in casual and outdoor settings. In the 1960s and ‘70s, Birkenstock sandals gained popularity among hippies and the counterculture movement thanks to their durability, comfort, and laid-back aesthetic. Birkenstocks are still considered more on the “earthy” side of footwear than the more modern, technical sneakers on the market today.

Birkenstock is also committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The company emphasizes using high-quality, natural materials in its footwear and promotes responsible manufacturing processes.

Why are Birkenstocks so comfortable?

The renowned comfort of Birkenstocks can be credited to one main component of the brand’s footwear: the contoured footbed. The signature Birkenstock footbed is designed to promote foot health and comfort, and it can even help alleviate common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, overpronation, and arch pain. This footbed is anatomically shaped to mimic the natural contours of a healthy foot, featuring a deep heel cup, longitudinal arch support, and a raised toe bar, all working together to promote proper foot alignment and weight distribution.

The deep heel cup cradles the heel and provides stability to the foot. It helps cushion the heel bone and absorb shock with each step. The footbed includes a built-in arch support that follows the natural shape of the foot’s arch. This helps distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing pressure points and fatigue. The raised toe bar is positioned at the front of the footbed, just below the toes. It encourages the natural gripping motion of the toes, which promotes circulation and strengthens the foot muscles.

The footbed is made from a combination of cork and latex, providing shock absorption and cushioning. Over time, this material also conforms to the contours of the foot, creating a custom fit and enhancing comfort even more.

What are the most popular Birkenstock shoes?

Birkenstocks are everywhere these days, but if you’re unfamiliar with which style it is you’ve seen that you like, it’s likely one of these two:

Arizona Sandal

The Arizona sandal is perhaps the most iconic Birkenstock style. Featuring two adjustable straps and the signature contoured footbed, Arizona sandals are available in various materials, colors, and finishes, with the original leather or suede constructions being the most popular.

Boston Clog

The Boston clog combines the comfort of Birkenstock’s contoured footbed with the closed-toe design of a clog. They feature a single adjustable strap across the instep and are most commonly available in leather or suede options.

How do Birkenstocks fit?

Birkenstocks are known to fit true to size, which means you should go with your normal shoe size when purchasing a pair. There is definitely some leeway in Birkenstock sizing, as many of the most popular styles, like the Arizona and Boston, also feature adjustable straps, allowing you to customize their fit to perfectly match your foot. 

How do you clean Birkenstocks?

Many wearers love Birkenstocks for their no-nonsense, easy-to-care-for characteristics that require little or no maintenance. Many prefer their Birks to look worn in or beaten up, and they won’t bother cleaning them at all. But if you prefer your pair to look clean and shiny all the time, proper cleaning techniques are determined by what they’re constructed with. For leather or synthetic materials, you can simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth, dish soap, or any sneaker-specific cleaning solution. For suede, you won’t want to get it wet, as water can damage the material. Use a suede or soft brush (even a toothbrush will do the trick) and brush out any dirt and debris.