Men's sandals and espadrilles

Birkenstock and its cork sole

The history of Birkenstock dates back to 1774, when Johann Adam Birkenstock is recorded as a shoemaker in a village in Hesse, Germany. The family then developed a contoured footbed made of cork and latex, shaped under the arch and elevated at the heel, which moulds to the foot over time. The first sandal, the Madrid, with a single strap, was born in 1963. The Arizona, with two adjustable buckle straps, followed in 1973 and became the brand's signature model. The Gizeh, with a toe post, appeared in 1983, and the Florida completes a range whose shapes have hardly changed since.

By shoe type

Sandals and espadrilles come in different types:

• Sandals.
• Espadrilles.

Men's shoes are also available as flip-flops and clogs, sneakers, loafers, dress shoes, on the shoes page.

Birko-Flor, suede, polished leather or EVA

Birko-Flor, a synthetic material unique to the brand, soft to the touch and easy to clean, makes sandals lightweight and accessible; its Birkibuc version mimics the look of nubuck. Suede and polished leather, as seen on the Arizona Waxy Leather, gain flexibility over time and develop a patina. EVA, moulded from a single piece, is lightweight and waterproof, and can be rinsed with fresh water after the beach or pool. The Arizona lined with sheepskin extends wear in mid-season, both indoors and outdoors. Birkenstock sandals come in normal or narrow widths, indicated under the sole.

The espadrilles Ilse Jacobsen Hornbæk

The traditional espadrille features a canvas upper and a woven jute rope sole: lightweight and breathable, it is not suited for water, which distorts the jute. The Danish brand Ilse Jacobsen Hornbæk, founded in 1993 and inspired by the small seaside resort of Hornbæk, north of Copenhagen, reinvents this classic with the Tulip: a laser-cut upper and a sole made three-quarters from natural rubber and the rest from recycled rubber, sewn without glue using matching thread. More resistant to moisture than a jute sole, it is suited for days by the sea as well as in town.

Good deals

Good bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, sale, clearance, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, winter sales, French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between the Arizona and the Madrid from Birkenstock?

The Madrid, with a single strap, was born in 1963 and was the brand's first sandal. The Arizona, with two adjustable straps, launched in 1973, holds the foot better while walking and has become the most well-known model.

How long does it take to break in Birkenstock sandals?

The cork and latex footbed gradually moulds to the shape of the foot. Allow a few weeks of regular wear, starting with short durations, for it to conform to your arch.

How do I choose my size in Birkenstock?

The foot should have a little space in front of the toes and behind the heel, without overhanging the sole. Then choose between normal width and narrow width depending on the shape of your foot, adjusting the straps for comfort during trying on.

Can you get the Ilse Jacobsen Tulip espadrilles wet?

The rubber sole, sewn without glue, is much more resistant to moisture than a jute sole. Still, avoid soaking them for long and allow them to dry in the air, away from a heat source.

How do you maintain the cork of Birkenstock sandals?

When the exposed cork becomes dull or dry, apply a suitable sealing product to prevent it from cracking. Clean the inner sole with a soft brush and do not leave the sandals in the sun behind glass.