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

  • This is my all time favorite shoe. Sydney is my fav. Don’t wear them with socks in January and you’ll stay in style. I have back problems and these make your posture and feet work the way they’re supposed to. Warning…you won’t go back!

  • would be 5* but i dont think the price is fair. i bought a pair in greece for 80€ i think and that was my first pair because i refused to spend $160+. they did last me years at least. about 4-5 and probably could have got them repaired but after a certain point, the straps start to fall apart. so the next time around i wanted to try the vegan ones. 1. they were a bit more affordable and 2. i was curious if they would last as long. they definitely surprised me by staying together for over a year, maybe two, but didn't last nearly as long and inwore them half as much as the others, so definitely not worth all that money in my opinion. they do have an option to repair most styles, but im not sure how much it costs. i would hope that it's not outrageous being that you already paid a ridiculous amount.

  • I have been buying the same Birkenstock sandals for 40 years. This last pair I received were different. I have tried to work them in, but they are like wearing bricks on my feet. They have given blisters and actually after wearing them for almost 2 months they still make my legs ache and feet hurt. I called in and Birkenstock said basically what do you want us to do about it? You have worm them so will not give a refund or replacement. BEWARE of this company now as they have seemed to change. For $130.00 sandals they should be more accommodating

  • I really liked my birks until the toe strap broke. The shoes weren’t new, but had a lot of wear left in them. I was surprised the strap fell apart. The one on the other shoe is still solid.

  • I’ve had my Birkenstock Arizonas since 2018, and they are reasonably sturdy. However, after 6 years the cork sole is falling apart while the top leather part looks almost brand new. I have mixed feelings about throwing out the pair considering what good condition the top is in, as it feels wasteful. I’d happily pay to have the sole replaced but I don’t see that suggested as a fix. Also, despite wearing them every summer for six years, I still get friction blisters on the arch of my foot when I wear them for more than 10 minutes which is unfortunate. The rest of the footbed has become smooth with wear, just not that area. Despite these issues, maybe with better maintenance and if the sole was less rough, these are really practical and comfortable.

  • Most comfortable sandals ever. Any Birkenstock is a great choice for an everyday shoe.

  • Well I just love them

  • Very comfortable and durable. I highly recommend

  • Really long time to break sandals in. Once broken in they’re not terrible but I prefer madden girl’s version!

  • Bought for my mom and grandma initially and found myself with two pairs myself. I don’t think that could show anymore how in love all 3 of us are!

  • Omg I’ve been wearing Birkenstocks for literally 30 years now. They’re ALWAYS quality made, last a long time and and very durable. I always choose function over fashion but that being said I think they’re in a timeless fashion class and they go with most wardrobe styles.

  • Comfortable, cute, easy to clean, float in water.

  • I have the traditional Birkenstock sandals and clogs. I absolutely adore them both for how comfortable they are, their design, look, and versatility.

  • I’ve loved birks since my college days and I was ecstatic when they were coming back in style. I have 4 pairs, Gizeh, Milanos, clogs and the Arizona and I wear them interchangeably. I’ve recommended birks to everyone I know!!

  • I love Birkenstock! It is so easy to walk with these sandals!

  • Birkenstocks are the perfect everyday shoe, in my opinion. Super quick to slide on and also very comfortable, I've gone everywhere with my Birks (hiking, shopping, etc.) and I've never experienced any pain from walking long distances. The Arizona Sandal is true to size and no matter which kind you get (varies in style and material), it's clear that it's built to last. One downside to the sandal is that, since the sole is made out of a cork material, after a while it DOES darken and becomes pretty noticeable throughout the years but it's purely a cosmetic problem. I'm on my second pair so far and my first pair lasted me around 5 years! A great shoe if you're looking for something casual that goes with any outfit, an even better shoe if you're a fan of socks and sandals!

  • Best quality shoes for summer ever. My husband has already second pair. Comfy and stylish.

  • Hurts my feet after a while. Overall a classic love their clogs.

  • My feet love Birkenstock….have multiple pairs.

  • I’m obsessed with birks. I have 15 pairs probably. As a woman with a wider foot flip flops and sandals aren’t always the most comfortable but these are!