Lifestyle Summer women's clearance
The summer clearance for women features end-of-line items designed for the sunny days: cork-soled Birkenstock sandals, from the two-strap Arizona to the toe-post Gizeh, lightweight sneakers Nike, Asics, Skechers, Victoria, and Tamaris, and bikini tops Freya. These pieces are meant to be worn in the city, on holiday, or by the water, chosen for comfort as well as style.
Summer sandals and sneakers, end of line.
The Birkenstock cork and latex sole: what makes it special
What distinguishes a Birkenstock sandal is its anatomical sole made of cork and latex, indented at the heel, raised under the arch, and bordered by a rim that guides the toes. Covered with a thin layer of suede, it gradually molds to the imprint of the foot: firm in the first days, it then becomes very personal. The German brand, whose shoemaking origins date back to the 18th century, first applied this sole to a sandal with the Madrid in 1963. The versions made from EVA, a soft and waterproof foam, replicate the same shape in a material that can be rinsed off after the beach or pool.
By item type
The summer women’s clearance comes in different types:
The men's selection follows the same logic, and all the summer end-of-lines are gathered on the summer page.
Arizona, Gizeh, Mayari or Boston: which model for which foot
Each Birkenstock model supports the foot in a different way. The Arizona, launched in 1973, provides support for the instep with two wide buckle straps: it's the most stable for long walks. The Gizeh, introduced in 1983, goes between the big toe and the second toe, with a thin T-strap, lighter to the eye. The Mayari crosses a strap around the big toe, a compromise between the two. The Madrid, with a single strap, slips on in one move. The Boston, a closed clog at the front introduced in 1976, protects the toes and is perfect for cool late summer mornings as well as days of working from home.
Birko-Flor, Birkibuc, suede or EVA: the material of the straps
The Birko-Flor is a synthetic material lined with a soft backing, pleasant to the touch and easy to clean with a sponge: it's the most hassle-free material for everyday wear. Its variant Birkibuc mimics the matte and slightly velvety look of nubuck. The suede, a natural velour leather, develops a patina over time and requires regular brushing and a waterproofing treatment before the first outings. EVA, finally, is resistant to both water and sand. When it comes to sizing, Birkenstock offers two widths, normal and narrow: a slim foot floats in the normal version, and a heel that overflows from the basin indicates the shoe size is too small.
Light summer sneakers: canvas, mesh or leather
For summer, a sneaker is primarily chosen by its upper. The canvas of Victoria, a Spanish brand established in 1915 in La Rioja and known for its tennis shoes with vulcanised rubber soles, remains lightweight and pairs well with invisible socks. The mesh of the Asics Gel-Quantum, from the running world, allows for foot ventilation during long walking days, and its gel cushioning relieves the heels on asphalt. The Nike Court Vision, inspired by 1980s basketball shoes, and Tamaris models, made from smooth material, give a sharper look. The Skechers Uno, featuring a visible air bubble under the heel, focus on walking comfort.
Frequently asked questions
What shoe size should I take in Birkenstock sandals?
Birkenstock sizes are in European sizing, with a normal and a narrow width. The foot should leave about half a centimetre in front of the toes, and the heel should rest in the hollow of the sole without overflowing from the basin.
How to soften new Birkenstock sandals?
Wear them for a few hours a day for one to two weeks: the warmth of the foot softens the cork, which gradually takes your imprint. A slight discomfort initially is normal; sharp pain signals a width that is too small.
How to clean the cork sole when it darkens?
Brush the suede of the sole with a crepe brush or a little soapy water, taking care not to soak the cork, then let it air dry, away from sunlight. A special cork varnish, applied to the edge, prevents it from drying out and crumbling.
Can EVA sandals go in seawater?
Yes, EVA is a waterproof foam that withstands both saltwater and chlorine. Rinse them with fresh water after swimming and let them dry in the shade, as intense heat can deform the foam.
How to choose a bikini top with underwire?
An underwired top, like those from Freya, is chosen like a bra: back size and cup. The band should lie flat without riding up the back, and the underwire should surround the bust without putting pressure on it.
