Customer Reviews Birkenstock Yara

I took a chance on these. I loved how stylish they looked, but read all the reviews which said they ran large. I already own a pair of Arizonas and they fit me perfectly in a 39. I went back and forth trying to decide if I should order my normal 39 or take the advice and go with a 38. (I normally wear an 8.5/9 in most shoes.) I took the chance and ordered the 38, but I was nervous, because $125 is a lot of money for me and I wanted to get the right size first and not have to deal with returns, etc. Catherine, my Zappos representative, emailed me and reassured me that if they didn’t work, I could get the 39s no problem. That really made me feel better about my purchase. My shoes came in and I was surprised and delighted - the 38s, a full size smaller than my Arizonas, fit me perfectly. How can there be such a variation between shoes with an identical foot bed? Baffles me. But in this shoe, I’m glad I ordered down a size and went with the 38. My big toe does touch the edge in these, but I know if I had gone with the 39s there would be way too much of a gap. They are still a bit stiff but I know after a few weeks’ wear they’ll be broken in. They’re already my new favorite shoes. I got them in black because I felt that color would be more versatile. They’re gorgeous. Also, I have rather thin ankles and I have to fasten these on the absolute loosest size so please be aware, you might have to punch another hole in the straps if they’re too tight. They also feel more narrow in the heel than my Arizonas, but not enough to be bothersome. Overall, extremely happy with this purchase!

I wish it worked out. The shoe style is fantastic!! Sexy yet practical. They were comfortable BUT the company cheaped out on the leather strap and I couldn’t buckle them. Too short. Talk about giving a girl fat ankle complex. Hey, Birkenstock, halla at me when you make a longer strap and I’ll buy them in every color.

So I wear a size 9 usually, sometimes 9.5. Rarely, I need a wide width. I wear a 40 in Dansko and also in Birks; after reading the reviews, I ordered a size down, so, a 39. They fit perfectly until I walked in them, and my toes extended just enough over the footbed to wear the shoe was rubbing on the bottom of them. It was awful. I should have went with my gut and ordered a 40. I measured my foot according to Birks website, and it confirmed 40 was my size. I returned the 39's for the 40's, and they are a perfect fit, so I would caution you in sizing down, and I would also advise you measure according to the Birks site. As for the straps being uncomfortable, I don't agree. Keep in mind when you get up and put your shoes on, you haven't been on your feet all day. Even if you are thin, your feet and ankles still swell, whether visible to your eye or not. Don't strap them down tight, give some room for movement and natural swelling through the day and I think that will solve any comfort problems you may have. This is a lot of money to pay for sandals, yes, but there's a reason people shell it out. These are comfortable and supportive and you don't have to worry about slipping out of them thanks to the ankle strap. Cutest Birks I've owned. I actually bought them last season, but the black was sold out. I saw they were back in stock so I came back to buy them and decided to write a review as well. Hopefully this will be of some help to those of you with comfort/sizing issues.

These shoes really are awesome. I ordered both 38 and 39 after reading mixed reviews on sizing, and they did run a full size too large on me (I'm normally an 8.5). I ended up keeping the 38's. I wore them on a recent trip where I was walking at least 9 miles a day on trails, roads, and cobbled streets. I was shocked at how comfortable they were - absolutely no blisters! The longest distance in these was 13 miles and they kept my feet happy! And they're cute and timeless too. :)

I am a Birkenstock wearer for 15 years, and was surprised to find this new sassy pair. The ankle strap lends a nice air of flirty femininity and makes them feel very Romanesque. I didn't need any breaking in with them, and recently wore them on a 24 hour travel to Sri Lanka. I get compliments on these Yara all them time. I wear 41 in 3 other types of Birks and these fit perfectly, true to size. I will always own a pair of these. Thanks, Birkenstock, for years of happy and cute feet!

I've never owned Birkenstocks, but they looked the way I expected them too. Unfortunately, they are NOT made for those who are thick-ankled, like me. I couldn't close them at all. Also they felt very hard when I stood to walk on them. Maybe that is normal for Birkenstocks? But they're not for me. Had to go back.

These are the same fit as other Birkenstocks for me - I always wear a 38 in Birks and I don't find these to be any bigger or smaller than usual. The arch support is excellent and they're a really cute and comfortable shoe. My only issue with them is that the ankle strap is quite short. I have average sized ankles and wear these on the loosest buckle hole, and they're fairly snug. The strap isn't long enough to poke another hole if needed. I'm hoping since they're real leather the strap will stretch a little as I break them in, but be aware that if you have bigger ankles these will probably not fit. For reference my ankles are 23 cm around where the strap hits.

I'm usually a size 6.5-7 but I went with 36 which is supposed to be a 5.5 and they fit perfectly.

I usually wear 10-11, and bought 41 in this style and they fit perfectly. I was worried about the straps based on other reviews, and would say I have average to slightly larger ankles, and did not have an issue (I buckled it in the third hole). The toe on my left foot will need to break in a bit, but overall the fit is very comfortable. I purchased the tobacco and in my opinion the color is true on the website. I really like the lighter color that looks a bit worn in. I have attached pics from various angles in hopes of giving you an idea about the ankle straps. I would recommend these shoes, they are so cute and will be a great addition for summers in Texas!

I have to preface this by saying I was not previously a fan of Birkenstock; I thought some of the styles were downright ugly. But as my bunions got worse and regular/narrow shoes hurt, I looked to Birkenstock because I knew they were known for comfortable shoes that were wide. Enter the Yara, the cutest style I could find-- yes I still have to try and be cute and comfy! I'm an 8-8.5 in sandals and 8.5-9 in boots, but I ordered a size down because I knew from trying on another style in a store that a 38 would be better. When I wore them for the first time, it was uncomfortable for a couple of hours due to the new feeling of the leather straps, but now 4 months later, I LOVE them! They are my most comfortable pair of shoes; I barely wore any other sandals this summer. They've molded well to my feet and the arch support is amazing. The width of the shoe is wide and perfect for my (happy) feet, and I like that this style keeps my big toe separate. I can easily walk 10-15 miles in them. A long time from now, when these eventually wear down, I will definitely be getting another pair. Stylish and comfortable is a win-win.

Most comfortable shoe for high arch and bunions! They do well at disguising them as well!!!

These shoes are cute but they didn’t work for me. The straps are are at an odd length which made the buckle end up close to the front of my ankle. The look was odd. The leather is also very stiff which made it difficult to buckle and move the straps. I’m returning them.

I've never owned a pair of Birkenstocks before, so I went in blind. The footbed instantly felt comfortable and like it fit my VERY WIDE feet just perfectly. Even the toe-strap didn't rub or pinch, which was amazing. But the ankle straps simply didn't fit. I guess in addition to my wide feet, I also have extra thick ankles. I was a full 2 inches short of the ankle strap. I had ordered true to size (for the footbed), but I contacted Zappos customer service and asked if sizing up would increase the ankle strap size. They said the strap did get longer with bigger sizes, but couldn't say by how much. Rather than return these, I ended up taking them to a local shoe repair man. For 20 dollars, he took the buckle off the pre-existing strap and sewed it onto 2 inches of elastic the exact same color. You definitely couldn't tell they were modified from far away, so I'm pleased, and now they are SUPER comfortable. So I guess, buyer beware if your ankles are thick! Pretty comfortable aside from that.

I love the style of these sandals and the comfort. I almost did not keep them as at first had lots of problems at the top of my ankle, until I loosened the buckle to the second to the last notch. This made all the difference and I can keep and wear these adorable sandals in total comfort and style!! If you are having problems with the thick straps rubbing at the top of the ankle, try this to remedy.

So excited to receive these! My daughter ordered a pair of Birkenstocks about 6-9 months ago and has been raving about them. When I saw this style, had to order! I typically wear a size 8-8.5 M in other brands. I ordered a 39 in these sandals in the color "tobacco" which literally goes with everything. Right out of the box the footbed felt comfy. Wearing them the first day, struggled with the buckle straps a bit. The straps themselves were comfortable as they are wide soft leather however, where they criss-cross across the front/top of my ankle area had me concerned. They felt fine walking around but when going DOWN any stairs, the criss cross buckle straps pinched with each step-ouch! I read other reviews that said to play around with how tight you have the straps which I did without resolving the pinching problem. Alas, I found the solution! I had crossed over the buckle straps where the "short buckle strap" was laying OVER the "long strap" which I figured would be more comfortable-nope! If you have this same problem, I recommend that you try crossing the buckle strap where the "short buckle strap" is UNDER the "long strap". Note that this appears to be the opposite of the way you see the sandal buckled in photos. Crisis averted and no more pinching! Very happy I played around with the straps. LOVE these sandals and bring on the stairs now!

Absolutely love Birks!!! These are stylish and so comfortable!! I can’t stop buying these sandals! The quality is unmatched!

I normally order a 10 in regular shoes but for these I went down to a 9-9.5 (40) and they fit great! They’re also a great width. I have very wide feet and I’m so glad I finally spent the money to order birks. They’re very comfortable and have great support.

Because of the mixed reviews, I ordered two sizes, the 37s and the 38s (I normally wear a US W 6.5-7) and when they arrived I tried the 37s first and found them to be a bit big! So I decided to order the 36s because that’s the size the size guide on the inside of the box said, even though I haven’t worn a US W 5.5 for years! When I received them they fit well, but some of my toes touch the edge.. However, I decided to keep the 36s because of how large the 37s felt and the leather is slightly different on the 36s and is a little more comfortable. I’m not entirely sure they are the tobacco... they look darker.

The Yaras are my first ever Birkenstocks - & I love them! If you are on the fence, give them a try!! Birkenstock styling has come a long way over the years and now that they have come out with more delicate looking styles I thought I'd finally give them a go. So glad I did. I was interested in the Yara and the Mayari. Due to cost I chose just one pair for now. Both are super cute. And comfortable. Everything people say about the comfort is true. Mayari is next! I typically wear women's size 9-9.5 and the occasional 10, in regular width. Because of where the raised toe ridge is, I found the size 40 (9/9/5) Regular width to be the best fit. I didn't try narrow, so I don't know how those fit, but the regulars seem perfect to me. My heel fits perfectly inside the heel cup, the width is good (does not pinch or bind at all anywhere), my toes fit in a comfortable place as far as the toe ridge goes and are comfortable inside the parameter of the shoe (they don't hang over). I tried the next size down in REI in person just for feel and it felt as though it would be a touch small because of where the toe ridge lies. FWIW...the shoes on the model used in Zappos video snippet look (to me) like they are too big on her or maybe her feet are just extremely slender. In the video, the straps and entire shoe looked a bit loose and floppy. In my case I find them to be so so (!) much better fitting. If I was judging whether or not to purchase them just by watching that video I would not have gotten them. Thank goodness for Google images. Personally, I would only consider the genuine oiled leather versions of any Birks 1) because it is a natural material 2) leather has the ability to conform better than a synthetic would and 3) I read a ton of reviews from all over the web prior to purchasing these and so many reviewers mentioned that the synthetic (Birki-Flor/Birki-Buck) straps on their Mayaris ended up fraying and breaking. Would prefer to spend the extra $25 for real leather and the greater comfort and durability that comes with it. **Just wish the oiled leather came in more colors!!!** I got the black oiled leather and they go with so much. Considering getting another in the Habana brown color, too. I tried the Tobacco color, however the finish was different than the oiled leather- it seemed as though it would show scuffs and scratches more readily than the oiled leather versions, the leather seemed more "nubuck-ish" (?) and the color was a lighter brown than I was looking for. Returned those. If there was an oiled leather brown shade somewhere in between Tobacco and Habana, that would be perfect. Seriously though...more colors would be nice. As far as comfort goes- AMAZING! I have worn the Yaras walking long distances and standing about for long periods and have had no issues at all and no discomfort. They are super comfortable and supportive. I can see these being good travel shoes. The suede footbed is really soft on your feet, too. Can a sandal be cozy? (I noticed the same thing with the Mayari - love the suede footbed.) The ankle straps, while they could be a smidge longer to accommodate those who do not have super skinny ankles, they do fit me just fine. I can comfortably use the first or second hole. The toe loop feels good (by that I mean I don't notice it at all) and really helps hold your foot securely in place, not too tight or constrictive. It does not dig or twist. The leather bands are wide enough that they do not cut in anywhere, yet they still manage to look pretty feminine and delicate. There was no breaking in period. Comfy straight out of the box. They look somewhat reminiscent of Greek goddess/ballerina shoes. They go great with summer dresses and I have also worn them with leggings, jeans, and they would probable be cute with shorts, too. Due to the ankle straps this style seems to me to have greater possibility to dress up than the Mayari which seem ever so slightly more casual. Hope this helps.

The look. The feel. The everyday comfort.

These shoes are so great! I bought it in both brown and black. I wear them everyday...easy to dress up or down. Definitely a spring/summer staple. Lots of support, so comfortable its like your not even wearing shoes!

Beautiful sandal, but dang it! Loved the style and weight of the shoe as well as the oiled leather straps. I REALLY wanted these to fit. However, the transition of the sandal around my ankle was odd. Sadly, they are going back.

It broke within a couple hours of walking on flat, paved terrain. Very disappointed

These run large (length and width). I'm normally an 8/8.5 and ended up having to exchange for a full size smaller. In addition, the ankle straps pull on your ankle with every step making it really uncomfortable if you're planning on doing a lot of walking. Also, the coloring from the straps rubs off so your ankles end up being all black when you take them off. These are really cute but for the price and comfort level, I would not recommend buying these.

OVERALL Overall the Birkenstock Yara is absolutely comfortable and not to mention adorable. I purchased the color Habana Oiled Leather I received compliments especially the cute ankle strap since it’s not the typical Birkenstock’s look. I still gave these sandals the 5 stars it deserves. I did knock 2 stars off for comfort since they were the incorrect size recommendation. SIZING I purchased the recommended size I normally wear (8-8.5); however, it ended up being too big. Even after adjusting the toe and ankle strap, my feet kept slipping and I wasn’t able to feel nor enjoy the full use of the toe bar and arch support. So I ended up giving that pair to my mom who is normally a size 9-9.5. It fit her perfectly! I’d recommend sizing down. I purchased the size 38 Regular (7-7.5) since I’m quite flat footed. WEAR It does take some time for your feet to conform to the footbed. I got blisters near the ball of my foot the first week I broke them in. It was quite painful, but after I got through that bump my feet have now conformed to the footbed. These are hands down the most comfortable sandals I own. I no longer get lower back pain even after hours of walking. It has excellent support! Another tip is how I lay the straps so it doesn’t move too much. I actually lay the shorter strap underneath (closets to my skin) and then wrap the longer strap over and then buckle. I find that in this position the straps rub less causing any friction and blistering. FINAL THOUGHTS I’ve had this pair for almost a year and they’ve become my absolute favorite pair of sandals. I’m now 7 months pregnant. With pregnancy comes lower back and hip pain. These sandals eliminated that issue. In addition, it has become more of a challenge to bend down to buckle and unbuckle the straps so to remedy that, I’ve purchased the Mayari in Tobacco Leather and in the same size. I will include a review for that after I’ve had some time to try it out. So get these pair of Yara Birkenstock’s! You won’t regret it!