BIRKENSTOCK reviews and discussion

4.6

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Contoured footbed support
  • Long‑lasting construction
  • Iconic versatile styles
  • Adjustable strap fit
  • Painful break‑in period
  • Water‑sensitive cork sole
  • Inconsistent sizing width
  • Odor with summer sweat

BIRKENSTOCK earns strong reviews for comfort that improves as the contoured cork footbed molds to the foot and for durability that can span years, with icons like Arizona, Boston, Mayari, and EVA slides praised for everyday wear. Reviews also flag drawbacks: a painful break‑in for many, sizing confusion and wide fit, soles and cork that can crack or wear quickly (especially when wet), occasional odor and chafing in heat, and mixed experiences for flat or very high arches.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

1,208 reviews and posts

  • We live in Alberta. My wife bought these sandals over the winter And only started wearing them in the summer. As with her, many pairs of shoes They are not worn often. She has worn these sandals a total of five times including the fifth time, at which time she noticed the sandals were cracking at a strap. She contacted birkenstock. And they refuse to replace the sandals, saying that she has owned them past six months. They then requested pictures of the sandals. Which were sent in. They then proceeded to give her a lecture on how the shoes should be worn and, where they should be worn. The service received has been absolutely garbage. And with all the choices out there, we were quite surprised that this particular company does not stand behind their product. Very poorly manufactured and very, very bad warranty or customer service.

  • Disappointing Durability for a High-End Brand I had high hopes for these shoes given their popularity in Switzerland, but unfortunately, they fell short of expectations. I wore them for just 9 months while working in a kitchen, and they're already showing significant wear and tear. For the price and reputation of this brand, I expected much better durability. Before these, I had a pair of Romika Village shoes, which lasted a solid 1.5 years under the same conditions. In comparison, this well-known brand barely lasted half the time. While the shoes were comfortable initially, the quality simply doesn’t hold up in a tough work environment. Very disappointing, especially considering the brand's reputation.

  • Birkenstocks have been around for along time, they’ve always been a classic staple shoe in my opinion. I’ve had my sandals for a good 10+years and although I wear them here and there (not regularly everyday) and keep them clean and in good condition, they’ve lasted! Quality and construction is great. I love that they offer regular and narrow sizes and the variety of color/material options is nice. I am a true size 5, slightly thinner foot and I go with size 35/225 - narrow (solid filled in foot icon) which fits perfectly. The foot bed is supportive and orthopedic, not super cushiony or soft but it feels comfortable.

  • I want to complain about the quality of Birkenstock shoes. On August 15, 2022 I purchased Andermatt Shearling boots. They lay in my closet for a long time, about six months ago I started wearing them. I was just walking along the city asphalt. Recently I got caught in the rain and got my feet very wet. When I looked at the sole, it was full of holes! Attaching photo: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MNzn5rQkzvRLKLsuu4EIwi7E8zQA4pd3?usp=sharing This is already my second pair from this brand that end up with holes. My first boots of the same model wore out quickly in the same way. I replaced the soles, but they were too heavy for them, the shoes were no longer comfortable to wear, and I had to throw them away. These shoes so short-lived even though I paid 125 euros for them! I will not buy anything from Birkenstock again. When I bought them, I hoped to wear it for several years, but Birkenstock is simply mocking me by selling substandard goods.

  • I've had birkenstocks since I was 16 years old and 50 years later I am still buying them. They are worth the money, comfortable, long lasting. What more can you say.

    Bought at REI
  • I’m on my second pair of Birkies, as our family calls them They can be worn all day long and you never have to compromise on comfort, the break in time was about 6 wearing for it to form to my foot. My newest pair are just a well built as my original pair and that’s saying something! I love them and they’re worth the upfront cost as they last for years and years, an excellent investment for sure.

  • The Arizona Birks have been like an appendage to my feet for years, AFTER the dreaded “break in” period. Then Birkenstock released soft footbed. My life changed for the better. I wear them until they are so dirty on the inner soles that I am embarrassed… But I am now not even having to use the dirty ones as “lake birks” bc I discovered that they can be sanded down with sandpaper! Now they are almost as good as new. Not telling my hubs that tho, b/c who doesn’t need a new pair every spring?! Just purchased a new pair, and I went with original footbed. Y’all, it’s not even as bad as I remembered. I have worn them all day for 4 days in a row, not a blister in sight! The best sandals ever. Period.

  • My all time summer shoe, love it, extremely comfortable, stylish and practical for beach days, what can i say, i lived my whole life wearing Birkenstocks, definitely 5 out of 5, RECOMMENDED 🔝🤩 (also for long beach walks)

    Bought
  • I was super excited to buy my first pair of Birks, and after nearly 3 months of wear, the soles split a the back and under the strap (images shown). I contacted the brand, and they took no responsibility for their product. I would absolutely recommend purchasing from another, higher quality brand.

  • One of my favourite shoe brands. I've been wearing my classic suede Birkenstock's for at least 3 years now. They also look cool with socks.

  • I normally do not like to complain however, I purchased Birkenstock sandals 4 months ago and the soles are warring off. I had a pair a few years back and I loved them. I could not afford new ones until now. I paid $140.00 at Dillard Department Store in Country Side area in Clearwater Florida. I did not keep my receipt from the store so I can't take them back to Dillard's. Maybe I should have purchase them from the Good Feet store like I did the first time. Joseph L Maynard 1583 Amberlea dr south Dunedin Florida, 34698 7272776769

  • Bought a top end expensive boots. One cut of the leather was full of wrinkles. Coustom service was responsive about an exchange. Very sad that the shipping dept sent me the exact same boots I mailed back to them, as in the very same pair. Have photos I sent to Coustom service. I am very said. This was a gift to myself to feel some happiness. Because things have been real hard lately. I sent Coustom service an email, again and explaned. It was after hours. So kept feeling sad. Never have I ever spent this much on Shoes. I knew they were the same pair when the top boot was not wrapped in tissue, I looked at the boot right away, scratches that were not on it when I wrapped it back up in tissue, turned it over,same bad cut of leather, and matched up the original photos to the boot send back to me. The people I emailed with were good. However it has to be a team effort. The ball was dropped. I am a loyal Burkinstock owner. This leaves me very sad. Old photo blur blanket and cat, new photo dancing bear blanket and self dyed burkinstock swade bendlow shoes.

  • Milano by Birkenstock is the most comfortable and reliable sandal I have ever worn. I hate to even call it a sandal because it had the stability of a shoe but the breeziness of the classic summer slip-in. The leather was absolutely beautiful and the cork sole was supportive and cushioned in the right places. Would highly recommend everyone get themselves a pair.

  • I have the Boston clog as well as the two strap Birkenstock, both suede. I find them comfortable and versatile (you can wear socks with them so wearable in cooler weather as well as warm!) I have to say, the Boston Clog is my favorite. It’s the most comfortable and so cute with many outfits. I have it in black, but I want more colors. Both styles last a long time too! I have had my two strap style for almost 10 years now and my Boston Clogs for a year.

  • We bought the sandals and my son ware for an hour feet start bliding with lots of calluses. It's un expecting quality. Not recommend .

  • Birkenstock... You don't make it easy leave it positive review.. not sure why... I have two pair of Birkenstock that I bought prior to 1980 that I still wear... Your website needs a major updating to give positive reviews. My sandals are as comfortable now as they were 40 years ago... Yes I still wear them. Your review site sucks if this is how I have to post a positive review.

  • I am a Birkenstock fan through and through. My favorite ones are the shearling Arizona ones - they’re a perfect combo of cozy comfort. Although they’re a true sandal - would not recommend for actual heat as the shearling really does warm up your foot! But for those who crave a winter sandal - this will be your best friend. Love how Birkenstock has so many different styles and options for material. I have a pair in white in the birko material which helps me make sure the white stays white! Great for people of all ages (got some for my dad too) as they offer good arch support and durability

  • Birkenstocks are the ultimate everyday shoe. They’re incredible for foot health, molding to your natural shape so your feet do not have to mold to the shoe like with most other shoes. They also have such a classic and timeless look. The styles available make Birkenstocks perfect for everyday wear as you can be as casual or as elevated as you’d like!

  • I was really sceptical when I initially thought about getting a pair of Birkenstock sandals. I was hesitant because I typically don't wear open-toed shoes. But I was intrigued enough to give them a try because of the positive reviews and the brand's reputation for comfort. All of my reservations were put to rest the moment I put them on. My feet were well cushioned by the trademark cork footbed, and the premium leather straps were kind on my skin. I was astounded at how quickly the footbed took on the form of my feet, giving me a custom fit. I soon discovered that I wore these sandals for a variety of activities, including extended walks and informal outings with friends. I could walk with confidence on various terrain thanks to the sturdy sole's superior support and traction. I have to admit that the classic style of these Birkenstock sandals has made them a useful addition to my collection that goes with many different outfits. My happiness was further increased by the eco-friendly methodology and products that were procured sustainably. In conclusion, I'm glad I made the choice to try these open shoes because it forced me to venture outside of my comfort zone. My Birkenstock sandals have established themselves as a mainstay in my shoe collection because they provide unmatched comfort without sacrificing design. If, like me, you've been wary of wearing open-toed footwear, I strongly advise giving Birkenstock a try. Their focus on quality and attention to detail may just win you over as well!

  • I recently bought my 3rd pair of Birkenstock Gizeh sandals. I’m on my 5th week of wearing them, mostly inside at work, and the cork under the ball of my foot is completely split down to the rubber sole. I contacted Birkenstock and they would not repair or exchange. They stated, “ There are many factors that contribute to how long the footwear lasts, such as: how often they are worn, the conditions they are exposed to, the level of shoe care they receive, how they are stored, and the individual walking pattern of the wearer. Some people may get less than one year of wear while others may get two or more.” I’ve own two other pairs which have not split until their 4th year, so it cannot be due to my walking pattern. Worn mostly inside for 5 weeks, & stored in on individual cubby shelf. I’ve always loved Birkenstock for the quality, but after splurging on the braided Gizeh at $175 cdn and only lasting 5 weeks, I will never buy another pair of Birkenstocks again.