Comfort and Style since 1774 (Birkenstock Shoes)

Member Name: cloudwood88

Product:	Birkenstock Shoes
Date:	18/01/09 (112 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Classic Shape, High Quality Material

Disadvantages: Despite the large range you won't stand out in these

Birkenstock are a classic German shoe company - stocking shoes for men and women. They do a few ranges, but I only have experience of their classic Birkenstock Sandal range for ladies

Birkenstocks have shaken off their hippy image - and are now a shoe choice for teenage fashionista and aging hippy alike! Because of their recent revival during the summer months shops are now packed full of Birkenstock wannabes - but don't be fooled - they never make the grade. The one time I crossed over to the dark side and purchased a 'fake' pair (They were cute and diamonte studded - I couldn't resist) I was massively dissapointed with the ill fitting sandals - I'll stick to the real thing from now on.

Birkenstock sandals are characteristed by their cork/latex contoured "footbed" and shock absorbing sole - They are designed to allow you to walk in comfort, and generally succeed - although I do find them a bit wide for my narrow foot - tightening the buckle helps a bit, but I still don't get a great fit - mustn't grumble though, as they are still more comfortable and better fitting than many other flipflops and sandals.

There are loads of styles, colours, and patterns to choose - all with the moulded base for the foot. The expanded range has not diminshed the quality. The classic styles are "Madrid" a single strap style and "Gizeh" which has a toe post. Arriving for Spring 09 is the Piazza - which consists of a toe loop and narrow strap - I'm really liking the look of these and can't wait until they are in store. I'm planning on getting some flourescents, like were showing last week during NY fashion week. Hopefully they'll come in orange.

Ladies sandals range in price from about £30 - £50 and are available in loads of places so shop around. The Birkenstock website is functional, but not fancy - http://www.birkenstock.co.uk - Office and Schuh stock these on the high street, along with loads of smaller and independent stores.

If you want to splash out a bit there are some nice designs in the Heidi Klum for Birkenstock range - but I dont think the y are tempting enough for me to pay the extra (they cost about £140 - £160)

Summary: Oldies but Goodies