Remember the phrase "form follows function?" Well, it aptly describes the concept behind Birkenstock footwear. While most shoes are designed to follow the whims of fashion, Birkenstock sandals and shoes are made with a different philosophy in mind: Create shoes to fit the human foot.

Click here to see the Anatomy of a Comfortable Shoe.

A resilient footbed.
Comfort starts here. Made from cork and natural latex, and shaped like a healthy footprint, our footbed actually helps guide your foot into a correct walking position.
                                    
Natural, healthy contours.
Your feet have distinct curves. You'll notice Birkenstock footbeds also have distinct curves. They mirror the arch structures in your feet, ensuring proper support and even distribution of weight.
                                        
A deep heelcup.
A Birkenstock heelcup is deeper than what you'll find in most shoes - and for good reason. Your heel has natural padding that absorbs shock when you walk. Our heelcup helps make sure this padding rests directly under your heel bone, where it can do the most good.
                                       
A supple suede liner.
The entire footbed is lined with suede, which is especially soft, absorbent and comfortable. Inside the footbed itself are jute fibers that wick moisture away from your foot.
                                        
A firm walking surface.
Shoes are a little like mattresses. A soft mattress may feel great at first- but the longer you linger, the less good it will do for your back and hips. The same is true for shoes. You're better off with firm support. Birkenstock footwear distributes your weight evenly across your foot, allowing you to walk farther - comfortably.
Tough - but flexible - EVA soles.
You put around 500 pounds of pressure on your foot with every step you take. Our soles are designed to absorb this weight, yet they're also remarkably lightweight.

How To Know When The Shoe Fits
Getting the right Birkenstock size is actually pretty easy - you just need to know what to look for. First, our footwear is measured in European sizes. Check the sizing chart below to find your Birkenstock size. If you're between sizes, start with the larger one. Please bear in mind that this is only a guideline. Also note that sizes vary slightly between some of our brands. Go easy before you pound the pavement. For the first couple of weeks, don't wear them more than a couple of hours. Take a walk around the block, a quick jaunt to the market, or a casual stroll. Give your feet some time to get used to your new comfortable footwear. The rest is destiny. As you break in your Birkenstock footwear, they actually adapt to your feet - and vice versa - which means they get even more comfortable the more you wear them.
Our Unique Footbed