Birkenstock For Men Review

Birkenstock is the inventor of the world's first-ever flexible cork-deep footbed. The brand has been around since 1774 when Johann Adam Birkenstock established his shoe business in the small Hessian village of Langen-Bergheim in Germany. But today's Birkenstock sandals style was first created by his great-great-great grandson, Karl Birkenstock in 1964, according to Wikipedia. (That's 5 generations later!) Still to this date, Birkenstock remains a family company. There are many licensed products around the world, but the original footbeds for their sandals are made with genuine raw materials, carefully selected by themselves.

You can read about their special footbed on their website (https://www.birkenstock-group.com/de/en/company/about-us) No doubt are they comfortable, as I mentioned at the beginning of this post, and they last for years even worn every single day.

Birko Flor®

Birko Flor has been developed by Birkenstock themselves as an alternative to leather, made of soft acrylic and polyamide felt fibers. It does look like leather and, I find the Birko-Flor straps perfectly comfortable on my feet. But Birkenstock also does use real leather material and suede leather with some of their products. Some suppliers don't necessarily state the strap material clearly. So if you need to know exactly what it is, you need to look out for the specification.

Without a doubt, these are the most comfortable lounge footwear, also for casual outdoor use. My partner amazingly uses those for country walks in the summer - he can literally walk for miles with these. Whereas I don't find them suitable, as you can imagine, they could drag and put extra pressure on my ankles.

Birko-Flor strap, cork footbed, in various colors, available from Amazon.

"Ramses" / "Gizeh" Flip-Flops

There is little difference between Ramses and Gizeh. Gizeh (right) has narrower straps and slightly higher heels than Ramses (left). These are good for longer walks, I find them perfect for walking on the beach, and of course for indoor use too.

"Milano" Sandal with Arch Support

Milano-style sandals with the extra back support strap are suitable for walking in the summer.

Clogs

Here are two types of Birkenstock clogs, Boston (left) without the back strap and Tokyo (right) with.

• Boston (left) - definitely for lounging.
• Tokyo (right) - is definitely the most comfortable and durable for a long walk (as well as the Milano type above).

Why Is Birkenstock So Good? What Do Users Say?

Is Birkenstock so good? Oh, totally. Here's the scoop on why folks really dig Birkenstocks, straight up and simple:

Super Comfy

First thing you'll hear? They're like walking on clouds. That special footbed Birkenstock has molds to your feet over time, so it's like they're made just for you. Wear them all day, and your feet still feel good. No kidding.

They Last Forever

People rave about how these shoes stick around. You buy a pair, and you're set for years. They're tough and can take a beating, which means you're not out shopping for new sandals every summer.

Good for Your Feet

Lots of fans say wearing Birkenstocks is a game-changer for their feet, knees, and back. The design makes sure your feet are sitting right, so there's less ache and more happy walking.

Look Cool, Feel Cool

Birkenstocks have shaken off their old rep and are now style icons. They slide right into any look you're going for, from beach bum to city chic. Plus, they come in so many styles and colors now, there's something for everyone.

Green and Clean

Folks also give props to Birkenstock for caring about the planet. Using natural stuff like cork and leather, and making shoes that don't fall apart fast, means less waste. People feel good wearing them, knowing they're stepping lightly on the earth.

Everyone's In

It's not just your gran or that artsy friend wearing them; everyone's got a pair. There's a real community vibe with Birkenstock wearers. They'll tell you once you go Birki, you never go back.

So, yeah, when people talk Birkenstocks, it's all about how they're a solid buy. Comfort, style, and making good choices for the planet all in one. That's the word on the street.

Birkenstock Alternatives

Looking for something like Birkenstocks but maybe a bit different? There are actually quite a few comfy alternatives out there that won't break the bank and still keep your feet happy.

Great for strolling around town, hitting up the farmer's market, or just chilling at home. They come in various styles and colors, so you'll find something that matches your vibe.

Crocs

Crocs have come a long way from being just garden shoes. They're super lightweight, which makes them perfect for those days when you're on your feet a lot. They've got a ton of different styles now, from sandals to slip-ons, so if you thought Crocs weren't fashionable, it's time to take another look.

Plus, their Croslite foam offers that cushy feel your feet will thank you for. And let's not forget about those ventilation holes – breathable footwear.

Teva

Teva sandals are the go-to for outdoor enthusiasts, but you don't have to be planning an expedition to enjoy them. These guys are built for comfort, with sturdy soles that can handle a good deal of walking and straps that keep your feet secure and blister-free.

For exploring city streets or taking a light hike, Teva is good. Their designs have also gotten more stylish over the years, so you can wear them pretty much anywhere without feeling like you've just stepped out of the wilderness.

Chaco

Chaco is another brand that nails the combination of durability and comfort. Their sandals are known for their rugged soles and adjustable straps that provide a custom fit for your foot.

If you like to make sure your footwear can keep up with your adventures, Chaco might just be what you're looking for. Plus, they have a range of designs that are as at home at a backyard BBQ as they are on a trail. So if you're after something that's built to last and looks good, Chaco could be your next go-to.