Birkenstock
At that time, Johann Adam Birkenstock registered as a shoemaker in Langen-Bergheim, Hesse. Today, the company is based in Linz am Rhein and part of the production is also located in Rhineland-Palatinate. A large part of Birkenstock's shoes is "Made in Germany".
In 1896, Konrad Birkenstock opened two shoe stores in Frankfurt am Main and began manufacturing footbed insoles. In 1925, he acquired a large factory where he had the "blue footbed" produced, which was exported throughout Europe. The well-known inner sole made of cork was introduced by Carl Birkenstock after the war in 1945. Konrad Birkenstock's grandson laid the foundation for the company's worldwide success in 1963, when the first Birkenstock sandal was launched on the market, which is still available almost unchanged today as the Birkenstock Madrid model. The rapidly growing product range initially found little sales. There was an important boost when doctors and members of the nursing professions discovered the products for themselves. The comfort and durability of the products were perfect for professions that required standing for long periods of time. The final breakthrough came in the USA, of all places, when the hippie movement reached its peak at the end of the 60s and Birkenstock sandals became an important part of their clothing. Birkenstock expanded its range to include the Arizona in 1973 and Boston in 1977, both of which are still part of the portfolio today and are among the brand's most popular models. In February 2021, the family-run Birkenstock company was sold to the luxury goods group LVMH.
Birkenstock Arizona - The classic among Birkenstock sandals
Birkenstock's Arizona model has been around for 50 years and is the brand's best-selling model. The minimalist design has not changed during all this time, but there are countless versions of the Birkenstock Arizona. The model has two cross straps with buckles, which can be adjusted to provide the optimal support. The basis for all Birkenstock shoes is the anatomically shaped footbed, which in most cases is formed from the natural material cork. The sole made of cork also has excellent cushioning properties and insulates the foot from heat or cold. The cork granules are mixed with natural rubber and pressed into the sole shape. The complete sole consists of a first jute layer, on top of which comes the cork-latex mixture, followed by another layer of jute and finally a suede covering. The straps are made of either leather, suede or synthetic material. The outsole of the Birkenstock Arizona sandal is made of EVA, making it very sturdy and providing the best grip.
Birkenstock Madrid - The oldest model of the brand
The Birkenstock Madrid model was designed with a strap, which is optionally supplemented by a small or large buckle. Here, too, there is a wide choice in the material used. The footbed, as with many other models, is also made of a cork-latex mixture.
Birkenstock Vegan - sustainability is an important component
Some models of the brand are also available as vegan Birkenstock shoes. Strap sandals, clogs or toe separators, are all wonderfully comfortable and come without animal products. In general, Birkenstock attaches great importance to sustainable production. A high proportion of natural raw materials is used. Cork, natural latex, jute, wool felt, (vegan) leather, copper and brass are among the most important natural materials.
Birkenstock Boston - The sandal closed at the front
The Boston model from Birkenstock, unlike its relatives, comes with a closed front. Here, too, there is a buckle to adjust the shoe to his foot and, of course, the comfortable sole comes into play. Like all models, there are also the Birkenstock clog in countless designs and different materials and color.
Birkenstock Gizeh - The alternative to the Flip-Flop
Over the years, Birkenstock has steadily expanded its range of models. In the Gizeh model, the strap sits a little further back and is also equipped with a toe separator. The Birkenstock Gizeh also has no limits when it comes to color and material.
Even though Birkenstock sandals are not necessarily among the most fashionable, there have been various collaborations with prestigious fashion labels in recent years. Previously, various labels had already made use of Birkenstock sandals and showed them together with their collections on the catwalk. Dior and Birkenstock worked together for the first time in 2022 and with Ader Error they also collaborated with a label from the streetwear segment.
