The Birkenstock sandal has a legacy that stretches back to 1774, beginning with Johann Birkenstock, a skilled shoemaker in Germany. His great-grandson, Konrad, revolutionized footwear comfort in 1896 by creating the first contoured insole, and by 1902, flexible arch support became a reality. Karl Birkenstock later transformed these inserts into a full sandal design, laying the foundation for the iconic style still worn today.
Birkenstocks became a U.S. favorite in 1966 and gained even more popularity when Nordstrom began carrying them in 1986. Known for their anatomically shaped footbeds, Birkenstocks offer unmatched support with layers of natural cork, soft suede, breathable jute, and shock-absorbing soles. In this article, we’ll explore the best Birkenstock styles, highlighting their comfort, durability, and expert-recommended features that make them ideal for everyday wear.
Table of Contents
- Why Investment in Birkenstock® Sandals?
- Birkenstock® Sandal Health Benefits
- Birkenstock® Sandal Unique Features
- Reviews: The Best Birkenstock® Sandals
- Index Table: Top Rated Birkenstock Sandals
Why Investment in Birkenstock® Sandals?
Birkenstock sandals have earned their reputation as a smart investment in both comfort and durability. With timeless style and proven support, they offer long-term value for everyday wear, providing you with the reassurance that your purchase will last for years to come.
- Superior Foot Support – The contoured cork footbed is designed to support the arches and align your posture. This promotes foot health and reduces fatigue during extended wear.
- High-Quality Materials – Birkenstocks are made from premium materials like cork, leather, and EVA. These components adapt to your feet over time while maintaining durability.
- Long Lifespan – With proper care, Birkenstocks can last for years, even with daily use. The footbeds can also be repaired or replaced, extending their value.
- Timeless and Versatile Style – Their classic design pairs well with casual or slightly dressed-up looks. They remain fashionable year after year, avoiding fast fashion waste.
Birkenstock® Sandal Health Benefits
Birkenstock sandals provide lasting comfort while supporting your overall foot health. With a focus on quality materials and ergonomic design, they are a smart investment for both style and everyday wellness.
- Support for Muscle and Joint Health – The footbed promotes proper alignment and improves circulation, helping muscles relax. This reduces fatigue and offers better support than most typical sandals.
- Helpful for Common Foot Conditions – The pressure-free fit can relieve discomfort from bunions, calluses, and foot pain. Its structure helps ease strain and supports natural healing.
- Timeless Style and Versatility – Available in various colors, patterns, and strap styles, Birkenstocks blend fashion with function. Their unisex appeal makes them a go-to option for anyone.
- Durability and Lasting Comfort – Made from high-quality materials, they are built to last through seasons of wear. The footbed molds to your foot over time, offering personalized comfort.
Birkenstock® Sandal Unique Features
Birkenstock sandals merge timeless style with ergonomic engineering to support foot health and comfort. Each component is thoughtfully designed to deliver lasting durability and all-day wearability.
- Comfortable Uppers – Genuine leather or suede straps feature adjustable buckles, while newer synthetic models offer easy cleaning and water resistance.
- Supportive Footbed – Layers of cork and latex with a moisture-wicking lining are anatomically shaped for optimal arch support and heel cushioning.
- Signature Buckle Closure – Iconic metal buckles allow precise fit adjustments and contribute to the sandal’s classic aesthetic.
- Durable Outsole and Style Options – EVA or rubber soles provide reliable traction, and a range of colors, prints, and strap configurations suit diverse tastes.
Reviews: The Best Birkenstock® Sandals
Discover our expert-picked selection of top Birkenstock sandals celebrated for their unmatched comfort, support, and enduring style. We may earn a small commission through links on this page, which helps us maintain up-to-date reviews. Thank you for supporting our work!
1
Sandal with Soft Footbed
The Birkenstock Sydney, while not as popular as the Arizona model, boasts some fabulous features. Its original Birko-Flor leather uppers with two straps, each with a single buckle, and soft-sided leather for the uppers, make it a comfortable and stylish choice.
- The Sydney features the original Birko-Flor leather uppers with two straps, each with a single buckle, and soft-sided leather for the uppers.
- An anatomically contoured cor and latex footbed molds to the shape of your feet over time.
- The EVA sole is durable and shock-absorbing, featuring a patterned tread for enhanced slip resistance.
- Sydney is also available in a few neutral color designs from which you can choose.
2
Slide Sandals
The Birkenstock Arizona is the original and most loved design in Birkenstock sandals.
- Also, feature soft-sided leather Birko-Flor uppers with a two-strapped buckle layout and closure.
- The footbed is composed of cork and latex, which contours and molds to your feet, providing excellent cushioning.
- This model also ensures excellent arch support and features a smooth, moisture-wicking footbed lining.
- Arizona has a high-grip rubber outsole and is available in neutral color varieties.
3
Casual Sandals
Unlike the original Birkenstock styles, the Gizeh and Zurich are two different models.
- The Birkenstock Zurich for men features very soft and supple velour-feel leather uppers in two color options, along with a slip-on and off design that is both extremely lightweight and supportive.
- The Gizeh for ladies also features soft, genuine suede leather uppers, but with a more slim and comfortable fit.
- Both of these sandals feature the popular EVA midsole and a cork and latex footbed.
- You can choose from a few color options for the Gizeh style.
4
Super Grip Sandal
The Tokyo from Birkenstock is a super grip sandal that you can use for work and everyday wear.
- The front design is more closed and consists of genuine leather with air holes for ventilation.
- The design features an open back with an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.
- The footbed is contoured and arch-supportive, made from cork and latex with an EVA midsole.
- The rubber outsole is Certified slip-resistant, ideal for slippery and oily surfaces.
- The Tokyo is likewise an easy slip-on-and-off design.
5
Sandal with a Narrow Fit
The Yao from Birkenstock is ideal for a more Narrow or medium foot shape.
- A two-strap design sandal with leather and suede leather upper straps that have buckle closures.
- The cork and latex footbed features a contoured, supportive design, offering excellent cushioning and absorbency.
- There is also a very lightweight and durable EVA outsole.
- The Yao accommodates medium and narrow foot types better.
6
Casual Sandal
The Milano from Birkenstock is another favorite in their sandal range.
- The upper straps are made from 100% genuine leather and are adjustable with buckle closures.
- A contoured cork and latex footbed is paired with an EVA and cork midsole.
- The durable rubber outsole ensures excellent traction and longevity.
- The Milano is casual, and sandals are perfect for every occasion.
7
Adjustable Sandals
The Birkenstock Mayari features a strappy design that combines comfort and elegance. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a stylish sandal that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
- The Upper consists of Birko Flor materials with buckles on every strap.
- The shoe features an anatomically designed comfort and a cushioned footbed.
- The EVA and rubber sole are durable and absorb shock.
- There is also a suede footbed lining for moisture control.
8
EVA Sandal
The Arizona Essentials is similar in style to the original but constructed of a Waterproof EVA.
- The Entire sandal consists of a durable and foamy EVA material.
- The footbed has an anatomically supportive and cushioned design.
- The is a lining in the upper for comfort and adjustable buckle closures.
- The sole is durable.
- The sandal is lightweight and completely waterproof..
9
Thong Sandal
The Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials are a waterproof thong sandal.
- A thong design sandal with synthetic leather uppers and a waterproof sole.
- The sole is EVA with a molded footbed and built-in arch support.
- There is also a deeper heel cup for stability and heel support.
- As for the outsole, the EVA offers excellent grip and support.
10
Sandal for Kids
You will also find children’s sandal options in many fun colors and prints in the Arizona range.
- There are many fun color and print options available for boys and girls.
- The footbed is cork and latex with a contoured, supportive design.
- Ther is a suede sole lining and microfiber lining on the synthetic uppers for moisture management and comfort,
- The two straps are adjustable with buckle closure.
- The EVA sole offers support and good slip resistance.
Index Table: Top Rated Birkenstock Sandals
| No. | Product | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Birkenstock® - Sandal with Soft Footbed |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 98 |
| 2 | Birkenstock® - Slide Sandals |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 98 |
| 3 | Birkenstock® - Casual Sandals |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 97 |
| 4 | Birkenstock® - Super Grip Sandal |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 97 |
| 5 | Birkenstock® - Sandal with a Narrow Fit |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 95 |
| 6 | Birkenstock® - Casual Sandal |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 98 |
| 7 | Birkenstock® - Adjustable Sandals |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 96.8 |
| 8 | Birkenstock® - EVA Sandal |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 98 |
| 9 | Birkenstock® - Thong Sandal |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 97.7 |
| 10 | Birkenstock® - Sandal for Kids |  |  |
| Birkenstock | 97.8 |
