Buying guide for Best Birkenstock sandals for men
In architecture, there is a principle that "form follows function." This simply means the shape of a building should serve the building's purpose. When it comes to footwear, Birkenstock sandals for men are the epitome of this principle.
Men who faithfully wear Birkenstocks claim that no other footwear comes close in terms of comfort. As a matter of fact, Birkenstock sandals for men adapt to the shape of the foot so well that they may be used to successfully treat minor foot issues that cause chronic discomfort.
To learn more about the Birkenstock brand and the factors you need to consider when shopping for Birkenstock sandals, read on.
Getting the best fit
The most important aspect of choosing the right Birkenstock sandal is finding the right fit.
Size
While Birkenstock uses European measurements, you can usually find the U.S. size listed as well. If that's not the case, simply add 33 to your U.S. size and it will give you the European men's equivalent. In other words, a size 10 in the U.S. would be a size 43 in Europe. If you are between sizes, it’s usually best to choose the larger size.
When you get your Birkenstock sandals, you'll know you have the right fit if your heel sits in the heel cup and your toes are just shy of the protective footbed lip.
Width
Birkenstock sandals are available in two widths: narrow (N) and regular (M). If you already own a pair of Birkenstock sandals, you can look at the illustration on the sandals to see which you have. An illustration of a filled in foot means you have a narrow width, while an outlined foot signifies a wide width.
Did you know?
The history of Birkenstock can be traced all the way back to a church archive from Langen-Bergheim in 1774 that lists Johann Adam Birkentstock as a cobbler.
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Materials
EVA
If you'd like a Birkenstock sandal that is lightweight, flexible from the start, waterproof, and washable — something that could be worn at a pool — consider a foam Birkenstock sandal that is manufactured using the polymer EVA.
Synthetic leather
For synthetic leather, Birkenstock uses various types of Birko-Flor. Birko-Flor is a durable, easy-to-clean material that replicates the look and feel of leather. Birko-Flor patent finish is moisture-repellent and available in a wide variety of colors.
Leather
If you'd like the very best, real leather is the material of choice. Real leather Birkenstocks offer a top-tier user experience.
Did you know?
In 1988, Birkenstock became one of the first shoe manufacturers to be eco-friendly with its revolutionary production process using water-soluble, solvent-free adhesives.
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Prices of Birkenstock sandals for men
At the bargain end of the price scale, you can get foam EVA Birkenstock sandals for around $40 a pair.
However, if you want the true Birkenstock experience, you will need to spend somewhere in the vicinity of $130 to $150.
If you see a pair of Birkenstock sandals for much over $150, do your research to be certain that you are getting what you think you are getting.
FAQ
Q. What makes Birkenstocks so popular?
A. It's not the look that makes Birkenstock such a sought-after sandal, it's the comfort. The fit is based on a cast of a healthy foot in the sand. The cork footbed is pliable and eventually yields to the specific characteristics of an individual's foot, making the sandals more comfortable the longer you wear them. Additionally, the support may help alleviate some common foot ailments.
Q. My Birkenstock sandals are not very comfortable. Did I get a bad pair?
A. Many shoes feel best straight out of the box, but often, the comfort level drastically decreases over time. Birkenstock sandals start off feeling hard and not very comfortable, but the longer you wear them, the better they feel. Because of this, a break-in period is highly recommended before judging the fit. During this initial period (which may last up to two weeks for some individuals), the sandals should only be worn for about two hours at a stretch. Once they’re broken in, you'll be able to wear them all day long without issue. If you plan to wear your new sandals on vacation or to a casual summer wedding, start breaking them in before the event.
Q. How should I clean my Birkenstock sandals?
A. Since the cork footbeds of Birkenstock sandals have special cleaning needs, Birkenstock makes accessories that allow you to safely clean, seal, and waterproof your sandals. To keep your sandals from prematurely wearing out, a Birkenstock shoe care kit is highly recommended.
