When it comes to timeless footwear, Birkenstock stands out not only for its comfort and style but also for its commitment to sustainability. For decades, Birkenstock has been a trusted name in the footwear industry, known for its iconic sandals and shoes that prioritize foot health. But what many people don't realize is that the brand is also a pioneer in eco-conscious practices, making it a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Birkenstock’s commitment to sustainability starts with the materials they use. Their cork footbeds, which are the heart of the brand’s famous comfort, are made from natural, renewable cork oak trees. Combined with latex, jute, and wool felt, these materials are not only sustainable but also incredibly durable, meaning a pair of Birkenstocks can last for years—helping to reduce waste.
Additionally, Birkenstock places a strong emphasis on responsible manufacturing. The brand is known for using environmentally friendly processes in its factories, with efforts to reduce water usage, energy consumption, and waste. They also strive to use animal-friendly materials like vegan leather alternatives in many of their styles, so you can enjoy the same classic look without compromising your values.
Choosing Birkenstock is more than just investing in a high-quality, long-lasting shoe—it’s a step toward supporting a company that takes its environmental responsibility seriously. Whether you're slipping into a pair of sandals for the summer or opting for one of their more weather-ready designs, Birkenstock offers comfort, style, and a sustainable choice for footwear that lasts.
The Do -
- Give your Birkenstocks time to break in. Being patient and allowing them time to mould to your feet will pay off. They will not be extremely comfortable when you first wear them as they have not moulded to your feet and adapted to your walking pattern. Wearing them in slowly will allow them to become more comfortable, flexible and will give your feet time to get used to the contoured footbed/arch support.
- Birkenstocks should always have roughly 5mm of space at the front and back. Overtime your Birkenstocks will curl up and mould to your feet, resulting in a slight loss of room. This is why the 5mm of space is important. It is also important that your feet are not end to end in the sandals/shoes. Having some space at the front and back will not only prolong the life of your Birkenstocks but it will also feel more comfortable without your toes or heels hitting the front/back.
Do Not-
- Birkenstocks are not designed to get wet or be left laying in direct sunlight. Avoid extreme heat and ensure you do not dry them near a direct heat source is very important. You can wear your Birkenstocks to the beach, but a common mistake made by customers is leaving them to bake on the hot sand or putting wet feet directly back into them. As Birkenstocks are made from natural materials such as cork and suede, they do not do well with water and over heating.
- We highly recommend not wearing your new Birkenstocks all day, everyday to begin with, especially if you have not worn Birkenstock’s before. Birkenstock’s take time to break in and mould into ones foot. When you first purchase them, they will feel stiff and inflexible. Once they start to mould into your feet and adapt to your walking pattern, they will become more comfortable and flexible. We suggest wearing them for a few hours a day for the first week, to give your feet time to slowly get used to the prominent arch support and to allow them to slowly mould to your foot.
- Do not wear your Birkenstock soles all the way to the cork. A comparative view is looking at it like they are car tires. Once you see that the tread is showing too much wear, then it's time to get a resole or a new pair!
- Do not wear your straps too tight. Birkenstock's recommendation is to be able to fit a fingers width underneath the strap. If the straps are worn too tight, this will restrict your foots natural walking pattern and keep you from moving more freely. Additionally, different uppers whether it be a suede leather, oiled leather or birko-flor will need to be fitted differently. Some materials can be more loose and some can be more tight.
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