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| FAQ provided by Birkenstock |
18th Century Beginnings
Is there really a Mr. Birkenstock? The answer is yes! As a matter of fact, generations of Birkenstock family members have been designing and crafting footwear since 1774, when Johann Birkenstock worked as a shoemaker in a small German village.
A Revolutionary Idea in Comfort
In the 1890s, Konrad Birkenstock, Johann's descendant and a custom shoemaker himself, had a revolutionary idea. Why not create a curved shoe that reflects the true shape of the human foot? The shoes were a great success, but unfortunately the next decade brought the introduction of cheaper factory-made shoes and a subsequent decline in the demand for custom-made footwear.
Konrad remained undaunted. He knew he had a good idea, so he decided to develop a flexible, contoured arch support that could be inserted into these new factory-made shoes. The result was a uniquely comfortable shoe. Thus, the century-old Birkenstock shoe making operation shifted from the production of custom footwear to orthopedic shoe inserts.
Konrad and his son Carl improved and refined the arch supports over the next 50 years. Their unique and popular product became known as "footbed supports" and the word "footbed" was registered as a Birkenstock trademark.
A New Kind of Sandal
In 1954, Konrad's grandson Karl joined the family business. Not content to limit the Birkenstock product line to footbed supports, Karl dreamed of creating a shoe that would allow the wearer to feel as comfortable and healthy as walking barefoot. To create this shoe, he combined his grandfather's flexible, contoured arch supports with his own knowledge of foot structure and movement.
In a little more than 10 years, his dream became a reality with the introduction of the Madrid.
From Germany to America
In 1966, Margot Fraser bought her first pair of footbed sandals while vacationing in her
native Germany. She discovered that the sandals greatly alleviated the chronic foot pain
she had experienced since childhood. Margot realized that this was a shoe that had to come
to America, and she began to sell the shoes to friends from her home in Santa Cruz, California.
She is now the exclusive distributor for Birkenstock in the United States.
The Innovation Continues
Today, Birkenstock offers more than 400 styles of sandals, clogs, and shoes. Birkenstocks are available in a wide range of materials, colors, and sizes, and new materials and styles are introduced each year. Yet Birkenstock remains faithful to the idea that footwear should be designed first for the feet and should be built to last.
BIRKENSTOCK and The Green Team
The cork used in the insoles of Birkenstock sandals is a renewable resource, and is harvested by skilled laborers within the European community as by-product of the bottling industry (Birkenstock Story). The footbed can be replaced easily and repeatedly for longer product life. This appeals to the "reduce, reuse and recycle" concept instead of the high consumption aspect of buying a new flashy pair as the old ones wear down or fall out of style. Unlike the competition, Birkenstock only puts out a few new styles and colors each year, sticking with a base of classics. This leaves less to accumulate and to throw away on the consumption side. On the production and retail side it also means less shipping, packaging and inventory.
The Birkenstock Green Team is a US Birkenstock institution, started at its inception in the sixties. It consists of a "small group of employees who meet voluntarily to monitor, research, and resolve environmental issues in the workplace, and to educate fellow employees about sound environmental practices" (Birkenstock Green Team). The Green Team works with the Birkenstock Managerial Team, and with the "full support and encouragement of Margot Fraser" to create a sound environmental workplace. Its Eco-Mission Statement reads:
-Educate ourselves and our associates about environmental issues
-Minimize consumption and re-use when possible
-Purchase recycled products from environmentally responsible companies (Birkenstock Green Team)."
These ideas also come through in the packaging Birkenstocks uses for its shoes, care products and shipping, with the majority being recycled and recyclable (Birkenstock Green Team).
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| Recently reviewed Birkenstock products:
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Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed | Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed
2008-09-30 08:32:21
Reviewer:
from Pennsylvania
Overall Rating:
Bought these Birkenstocks and thought I would try the soft footbed out. I absolutely love them. They fit great and are super comfortable. Had a pair of the old hard footbeds and they were great too but took a long time to wear in. These felt great from day one.
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Birkenstock Bali Soft Footbed | Birkenstock Bali Soft Footbed
2008-09-30 08:14:14
Reviewer:Anonymous
from NYC, NY
Overall Rating:
These boots are BEAUTIFUL! They look amazing with everything! So happy that I found a pair of flat boots that are made with beautiful leather. Well worth the price because you don't want to buy a new pair of flat boots every season and these are sure to last a while! Thanks Zappos for overnight shipping!
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Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™
2008-09-29 18:03:28
Reviewer:
from Houston
Overall Rating:
These shoes are very comfortable, as are most Birkenstocks. The strap comes up higher on your foot, so your foot does not slap with each step. Thus, giving a decent look without the "flip flop" sound and discomfort. They are not the prettiest - but most people don't wear these shoes for appearance only.
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Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™
2008-09-28 18:46:11
Reviewer:Diane
Overall Rating:
I originally purchased this shoe in an 8 1/2 but I had to return them for a size 9 as it felt like my big toe was touching the top of the toe box. I have never worn a size 9 in my life but the 9 fits perfectly. I wear this shoe to train in for my first 5K run and from the first time out, the shoe is very comfortable and cushioning. No break in time! I highly recommend this shoe but recommend getting 1/2 size larger than you normally do.
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Birkenstock Arizona Suede (Unisex) | Birkenstock Arizona Suede (Unisex)
2008-09-28 11:29:44
Reviewer:Desiree
from Sunny Las Vegas
Overall Rating:
Birkenstock Arizona -
I have two pairs of these shoes and they are great! Don't be hesitant to buy them because you might think they are ugly (they are not, ladies, just keep your toenails painted--like I know you already do!) or too expensive for a sandal. They are extremely comfortable! I have never worn a shoe that could be worn for hours and hours and not hurt my feet! Before these shoes I wore chucks and flip flops and it's hard for me to go back! One thing I will note, however, is the sizing: I usually wear a size 8 woman's shoes, sometimes 7.5 and 8.5. But for these I am buying a 37, which is for 6-6.5 feet. Choose carefully to get a good fit, but after that you will find yourself buying more and more, even with the price tag! It's worth it!
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Birkenstock Florida Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Florida Birko-Flor™
2008-09-28 10:08:10
Reviewer:Dottie
from Space Coast Florida
Overall Rating:
Birkenstock - my favorite shoes -
Birkenstock shoes are the only shoes I wear except sneakers. The "Florida" style supports my foot best, but I wear about 6 different styles for different occasions, beach, work, etc. I know, they aren't very stylish, but I just can't wear those cute little flats or kitten heels any more. As usual the shipping was fast, Zappos actually upgraded my shipping and I received my shoes the next day. Thanks Zappos!
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Birki's Tahiti (Birko-Flor™) Soft Footbed | Birki's Tahiti (Birko-Flor™) Soft Footbed
2008-09-26 20:32:30
Reviewer:Susan
from Clearwater Beach, FL
Overall Rating:
Treat Your Feet!!!!!
I have been wearing Birkenstock products for over 20 years ... this Birki Tahiti with soft footbed is absolutely one of the best styles ever!! I have owned this style in silver, khaki and black without the soft footbed and I thought they were terrific ... but the addition of the soft footbed makes you feel like you are walking on air they are simply fantastic!
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Birkenstock Kairo | Birkenstock Kairo
2008-09-26 13:01:46
Reviewer:Al B
Overall Rating:
Kairo for guys too!
I also own this Kairo style. I love them! Guys can wear stylish sandals like that too. I bought mine in Germany though. They absolutely positively do not carry this style in the US for big footed guys, (I wear a 46 EU/13 US). I have bought many Birkenstocks from Zappos too. I just felt like commenting on the Kairo since I own and love them.
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Birkenstock Zurich | Birkenstock Zurich
2008-09-26 08:19:07
Reviewer:
from Scottsdale, AZ
Overall Rating:
Birkenstock Comfort - These shoes are amazingly comfortable all day long. I am on my feet most of the day, and when I come home, I still continue to wear my Birkenstocks. Also, the customer service at Zappos is amazing! My husband ordered Merrill sandals a few days after I ordered the Birkenstocks, and his order came the next day! Thank you Zappos!
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Birkenstock Piazza Silky Suede | Birkenstock Piazza Silky Suede
2008-09-21 18:29:08
Reviewer:Steve
from Westchester, New York
Overall Rating:
Who says the Piazza is for ladies only -
My wife wrote a review about her Piazza sandals. After I bought her the pair, the girl in the shop said they would look great on my foot as I have a very high arch, so I tried on a pair in black. I wear a 42 regular width and they fit perfect. My wife bought them for me. I have worn them several times and have received many compliments. The fit well and slip on & off very easy. Super comfortable. I love the very low straps and how they keep your foot in place. The straps have stretched a bit but they can be tightened for a snug fit. A really unique style. Who says they are only for ladies??
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Birkenstock Arizona (Birko-Flor™) | Birkenstock Arizona (Birko-Flor™)
2008-09-21 14:06:04
Reviewer:Kat
from Northern California
Overall Rating:
Good support for arches, ankles, and posture. I have high arches, have had both ankles rebuilt, as well as my low back. These sandals are a perfect fit. After a couple weeks, the straps stretched and tightened back up to snug the sandals comfortably against the soles of my feet. They immediately set my body into proper posture, something my physical therapist and I have been working to achieve for the last two years. I plan to buy another pair shortly so I have several on hand. Strongly recommended.
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Birkenstock Rosemead Suede | Birkenstock Rosemead Suede
2008-09-18 06:47:53
Reviewer:
from Philadelphia, PA
Overall Rating:
Great buy -
Birkenstocks have always been one of my favorite brands, and these did not disappoint. Very comfortable and cute! They seem to be true to size, especially when wearing them with thick socks in the winter.
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Birkenstock Bali Soft Footbed | Birkenstock Bali Soft Footbed
2008-09-17 10:00:58
Reviewer:Janet
from Yonkers
Overall Rating:
Give them just a little time!!!!
The Bali sandal is a wonderful way to feed your Birkenstock addiction. They look daintier than the usual Birks and the soft footbed is a marvel...I think that I will only buy the soft footbeds from now on. I had the same initial problem that others reported. I felt like I had rocks under the front buckle and the back strap where it is riveted together. I think that my feet were just sensitive because the shoe touched spots that were usually not touched by other shoes. At any rate after a few days and some bandaid protection, the Bali’s were like all my other Birks...outstandingly comfortable.
They are equally at home on a hike or out for dinner. Give them a chance if they hurt a little at first!!
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Birki's Woodby | Birki's Woodby
2008-09-16 11:52:44
Reviewer:
from Albany, WI
Overall Rating:
Really cute Birk!
I bought these Woodbys to wear around the house for the upcoming fall and winter season. They are great and my kids get a real kick out of the cute dog on them!
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Birkenstock Orlando | Birkenstock Orlando
2008-09-16 05:52:30
Reviewer:Julie Q
from Detriot, MI
Overall Rating:
Birkenstock quality and comfort as expected. Perfect -
I purchased these at the last minuet as my secondary wedding shoes. I ordered on Monday and they were at my house by Tuesday noon. I didn’t even pay for the rush shipping. This is my 5th pair of Birk, so I knew what to expect. I wore ballet flats for my ceremony and had planned on switching in to the Birks if my feet began to hurt over the course of a long wedding day. I ended up changing in to the Birks right after the ceremony to cool off my feet. I left on for the rest of the night. I danced and walk around all night with no issue. Thank you!
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Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™
2008-09-15 19:51:19
Reviewer:
from New York, NY
Overall Rating:
I avoided Birks for 42 years, but after being diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, I had to give in. They're not exactly flattering, but the Gizeh is the most fashionable Birkenstock style available. They're also incredibly comfortable and relieve my foot pain. Order a size smaller. I'm a 10, but the 41 was too big. A 40 was perfect.
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Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™
2008-09-14 10:20:21
Reviewer:
Overall Rating:
Nice to find narrow widths that actually fit!
These are nice, but not quite as well fitting as my Birkenstocks. These required some wearing in - got a blister between my toes when I first used them, something that never happens with Birkenstocks. Wish there were other footbed choices (colors) - like black for example. That would dress them up a little, but all in all, I love them and am grateful to find narrow-width sandals that actually fit!
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Birkenstock Arizona Nubuck (Unisex) | Birkenstock Arizona Nubuck (Unisex)
2008-09-14 10:11:03
Reviewer:Ellen
from California
Overall Rating:
Great sandal - You can't go wrong with this sandal. Classic lines. Comfy footbed with great arch support. Adjustable straps give you the option of having a looser slip on, or you can tighten the straps slightly, and they just become part of your foot in the most comfortable way possible. I keep going back to buying more and more of this particular style, in different colors. I highly recommend these!
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Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed | Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed
2008-09-13 17:55:06
Reviewer:
from Kansas City
Overall Rating:
So comfortable! I have terrible heel pain (plantar fasciitis) and needed comfortable shoes. I'm on my feet 12 hours a day when I work as a nurse. I originally ordered the regular footbed but it was too uncomfortable for me. I then decided on the soft footbed and it's perfect. I have narrow feet and the narrow width is very good and I can adjust the strap to fit better. I wish this came in a leather so that I could wipe away the germs easier when I'm at the hospital. I bought the embossed nubuck and they are very high quality. They do run small. I am an 8 narrow normally. I got a 39 narrow and had to return for a 40 narrow.
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Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™ | Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor™
2008-09-13 14:49:11
Reviewer:
from Oakland, CA
Overall Rating:
I ordered the black size 40 and I wear a 10M (some times a 9.5M). The between toe strap was a little uncomfortable the first day and so was the sole but after 1 days wear it broke in and now is completely comfortable.
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Birkenstock Boston Suede | Birkenstock Boston Suede
2008-09-13 08:24:41
Reviewer:
from Northern Colorado
Overall Rating:
As with all Birkenstocks some breaking in is required. But a little discomfort in the beginning is well worth it. Excellent support and wonderfully comfortable. The Dream Blue suede is a surprisingly pretty baby blue.
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 |  | My order was at my door in less than 18 hours. Holy cow! Great service! Thank you! |  | ~ Roberta T., September 05 2008
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