Birkenstock sandals are a classic go-to for any wardrobe. Their long history as a staple footwear item, along with the expansive selection of different styles, colours and designs, make them a safe bet when looking for a pair of sandals that are well-made, comfortable and fashionable.
Another great feature of these essential slip-ons is that they are incredibly versatile, since they are so easy to mix and match and can be styled with almost any outfit. Dedicated fashionistas tend to wear sandals with more casual looks, and this is also the case when it comes to Birkenstock sandals. What’s more, the cult status and celeb following of this famous footwear add an extra level of oomph that can elevate just about any outfit.
Birkenstock sandals
Birkenstock is internationally known for its high-quality products – and perhaps most of all for its comfortable and durable sandals. The German company has its origins way back in 1774, and has been developing a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship, innovative designs, durability and comfort ever since. As a result of its long-standing tradition of creating select footwear, the brand has become a key player among the big names in shoes. So long in fact, that founder Johann Adam established Birkenstock two years before the founding of the United States of America.
Besides their versatile, down-to-earth aesthetic and durability, Birkenstock sandals have attracted such an extensive following due to their extremely comfortable and supportive soles. The brand states that its original soles are “the heart of all our models,” and reveals that the term “footbed” is one they coined in the 1930’s. The brand designed its innovative footbed with support and comfort in mind, using special materials and contours to align with the shape of the foot. These original footbeds are still the ones that feature in modern Birkenstock sandals today, and the way they cradle the foot creates an experience of superior comfort for wearers.
The original footbed – superior comfort and support
As cosy and comfy as they sound, the brand’s enthusiasts claim that the original footbed in Birkenstock sandals also work wonders for the feet. The specially-designed inner soles have a distinctive structure, making them so exceptionally comfortable and durable. Their multi-layer construction consists of four individual layers of different materials. With sustainability as a primary focus, Birkenstock sandals are held together with eco-friendly glue. After decades and decades of successful footwear designs, the brand has perfected its famous footbeds down to the most minute detail, so that all wearers can have the happiest feet possible, even after many hours of standing or walking.
The innovative designer had a particular image in mind when he created the original footbeds – to impart the feeling of standing in sand. For many people, walking along the shoreline is a pleasant feeling of the freedom of being barefoot while at the same time being supported by the firm yet accommodating natural material of sand. Mimicking this has been a recipe for success, as Birkenstock sandals’ superior comfort not only makes for happy, comfortable and well-supported feet, but also instils wellbeing and promotes good health.
Construction of the soles
Since the original footbeds are the heart of Birkenstock sandals, it is definitely worth taking a closer look at how they are made and just what makes them so special. The construction features four individual layers, including the top lining. The first layer consists of jute, a natural fibre made from the bark of jute plants. The fibres are long, soft and have a natural sheen, and are spun into durable, coarse threads for use in various products. The jute layer in Birkenstocks sandals forms a stable and durable base that also serves to stabilise the second layer.
Sandwiched between the base and the third layer is the true core of the brand’s cushioned and supportive soles – the cork and latex footbed. These two materials provide a natural flexibility and insulation that make for excellent shock absorption. The materials’ specific characteristics also help protect the feet against excessive strain and pressure. In addition, the insulation is temperature-regulating, helping to protect the feet against temperature extremes.
The third layer in the construction is also made of jute. These coarse, strong fibres add durability as well as make the footbed accommodating and adaptable to specific foot shapes and weights. Both this third layer of jute, as well as the suede lining on top of it, help to manage moisture levels, so that feet don't get too sweaty and are able to air out.
Find your Birkenstock sandals at Miinto
With such a wide variety of Birkenstock styles to choose from, the most difficult decision may be deciding which model suits you the best. At Miinto, we take great care in providing an exclusive selection of high-quality products from the top names in the fashion world. We are proud to feature Birkenstock sandals among our select community of brands. We want our customers to feel inspired when they browse our collection, and shop with confidence that they are choosing among products with exquisite craftsmanship and fashion-forward styles.
With every passing season, Birkenstock sandals present an ever-growing variety of exciting models and styles. The original footbeds are traditionally made from the same natural materials including jute, latex, cork and suede, and the brand has added to the select list of materials with vegan options as well as creative colour palettes. For example, the two-strap Arizona style – which is the model that Birkenstock sandals are nearly synonymous with – comes in a variety of materials. You can find it in oiled nubuck leather, suede, EVA, Birko-flor or even a trendy shearling-lined version. The hallmark of a tried and tested brand is that it remains true to its original design – and this is most certainly the case with Birkenstock sandals. With the original footbed and the classic two-strap leather slip-on sandals, the brand has demonstrated its value as an innovative and lasting footwear maker. When it comes to fabulous footwear, Miinto has you covered – check out our attractive selection of Birkenstock sandals that are ideal for the coming fashion season.
