Men's Birkenstock sandals

The cork footbed, the brand's signature

The story of Birkenstock dates back to 1774, when Johann Adam Birkenstock was registered as a shoemaker in a village in Hesse. By the end of the nineteenth century, Konrad Birkenstock designed a contoured insole that follows the shape of the foot, the ancestor of the current footbed: a combination of cork and natural latex, covered with suede leather, that supports the arch, cradles the heel in a recess, and offers the toes a rim to grip. In 1963, the Madrid, with one strap, became the brand's first sandal, later joined by the Arizona ten years later.

The entire summer collection

Men's summer shoes are also available in:

• Espadrilles.

The whole selection is gathered on the sandals and espadrilles page.

Arizona, Gizeh, Mayari, Florida: which strap to choose

The Arizona, with two wide adjustable straps, is the best-selling model of the brand and the easiest to wear. The Gizeh, launched in 1983, combines a T-strap with a toe post, for a well-held foot at the front. The Mayari crosses its straps over the instep and adds a loop around the big toe, while the Madrid has just a single strap. The Florida, with three thin straps, rests on a soft footbed, equipped with an additional layer of foam, appreciated by sensitive feet. All adjust with a buckle for a secure fit.

Birko-Flor, leather or EVA: choosing your material

The Birko-Flor, a synthetic material coated with a leather-like touch, withstands splashes and can be cleaned with a quick wipe; the Birkibuc is based on it but has a nubuck appearance. Natural leather, whether suede or waxed, breathes more, develops a patina over time, and shapes to the foot; the waxed leather can be revived with a quick rub of a cloth. EVA, molded from a single piece, is lightweight and waterproof, rinsing off after the beach or pool, where cork prefers to stay dry. For daily use in the city, Birko-Flor and suede leather offer the best balance between maintenance and comfort.

Good deals

Great bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose your Birkenstock size?

Start with your usual European size, making sure that your toes do not touch the front edge and that your heel is resting in its recess, with a few millimeters of margin. The brand does not offer half-sizes: if you're between two sizes, it's better to try both.

Normal or narrow width: how to know?

Birkenstock indicates normal width with a full foot drawn under the sole and narrow width with a simple outline of a foot. A medium or wide foot chooses the normal version, while a slim foot opts for the narrow version, to avoid slipping in the footbed.

How long does it take to break in Birkenstock?

The cork is firm at first and gradually molds under the heat and weight of the foot. You wear them for an hour or two a day for the first week, then for longer: the imprint forms over a few weeks.

How to care for the cork of a Birkenstock sandal?

When the visible cork becomes dull, apply a thin layer of cork sealing product, which prevents it from drying out and cracking. Also avoid direct heat, such as a radiator or the rear shelf of a car in direct sunlight.

Are Birkenstock suitable for walking in the city?

Yes, the footbed distributes body weight and supports the arch, which eases the foot during a long day of walking. A two-strap model like the Arizona is preferred, as it holds the foot better than a toe post.