Where Are Birkenstocks Made?

You might have seen Birkenstocks that were made in China or other countries. When purchasing Birks, it’s really important to know that you are purchasing original Birkstocks.  So, where are Birkenstocks made?

Birkenstock sandals are made in Germany and some closed shoes are made in Birkenstocks workshops in Portugal.  Birkenstock sandals made anywhere else may not be original Birks.

While counterfeit Birks won’t cause a dent in your savings account, nothing can beat the original. Although authentic Birkenstock sandals are costlier than fake ones, the quality is superb. 

Every pair of sandals is of the highest quality. It is stylish, appealing, and can complete your outfit of today. It is also comfortable, safe, and perfect for bunions, plantar fasciitis, and other foot problems. 

The footbed is water-absorbent, durable, shock-absorbing, and long-lasting. It is well-contoured and can adjust to your feet after days, weeks, or months of use. While counterfeit Birks may not cause you a fortune, original Birkenstock sandals are the best. 

What Was the First Type of Birkenstocks Manufactured? 

Birkenstocks have been in the footwear industry since the 18th century, 1774 to be exact. Yes, the sandals that we wear have a long history. Isn’t it amazing? 

In 1896, master shoemaker Konrad Birkenstock began manufacturing and selling footbed insoles. In 1902, Konrad Birkenstock developed the first-ever contoured arch support. 

With its growing popularity, Konrad Birkenstock bought a factory in Friedberg, Hesse. Then, it marked the onset of the legendary blue footbed. 

In 1963-64, Karl Birkenstock launched the first fitness sandal with a flexible, deep, and wide footbed. Again, it was a big hit. It was called gymnastics sandal. It is composed of a latex and cork core blend that is still used in today’s Birkenstocks. 

With Birkenstock’s sustainability goals, they began using environmentally friendly adhesives in 1988, recognizing the company as one of the first footwear manufacturers to utilize solvent-free and water-soluble adhesives. 

From then on, Birkenstock continues to grow. It even expanded its product line, including legwear, bags, belts, belt collection, and more. 

Birkenstock Unisex Arizona Sandal,Mocha Birkibuc,39 M EU

Birkenstock Arizona Women's Sandals

How Did They Design the Footbed? 

Birkenstocks still offer its first-ever and original footbed in the 1930s. Birkenstocks design its footbed with four different layers, helping the company stand out from the competition. 

The first and second layers are made of jute, resulting in a strong foundation. It is water-absorbent that keeps foul odor at bay. It is thick and flexible. 

The third layer is a blend of cork and latex. Like jute, latex and cork core is shock-absorbing and flexible. Both materials relieve pressure and avoid tension on the feet. They also serve as a good insulator that can withstand extreme cold and heat. 

Birkenstock footbed is also designed with suede lining, famous for its moisture-absorbent, soft, and sturdy qualities. 

Additionally, the Birkenstock footbed consists of a foam insert that has millions of air bubbles. It is comfortable and strong that can withstand the test of time. 

Are Different Styles of Birkenstocks Made in Different Locations? 

Super comfortable? Good for feet? Used by younger generations and massive celebrities? Contoured to match our feet? Name it! Birkenstocks have them all. 

What I really like about Birkenstocks is that there are multiple styles to choose from. Some of my favorites are the following: 

Birkenstock Amsterdam Felt Clogs Anthracite for Women 9 US Anthracite

Birkenstock Amsterdam Clogs

Amsterdam

Although it is a new addition, Birkenstock Amsterdam has created a buzz over the internet. Available in narrow and regular width, it comes in a variety of colors. It is a complete slip-on shoe without straps you can adjust. 

Arizona

Another popular Birkenstock style is Arizona. Ideal for both men and women, the Birkenstock Arizona is tailored with adjustable straps. Like the Birkenstock Amsterdam, this style is available in both narrow and regular widths. Popular color choices include oiled leather, smooth leather, and suede. 

Boston

Ideal for men and women, this Birkenstock classic clog slip-on style has an adjustable strap that allows for a customized and comfy fit. It also comes with different color selections, including oiled leather, smooth leather, and suede leather. 

Birkenstock Unisex Professional Boston Super Grip Leather Slip Resistant Work Shoe,White,44 M EU

Birkenstock Unisex Professional Boston Super Grip Work Shoes

Gizeh

Looking for a perfect gift for your special someone, mom, or female friends? There is no need to look further than Gizeh. Recognized as the women’s classic thong sandal, Gizeh is developed with a deep and comfy footbed. Like other options in this list, it comes with an adjustable strap. 

London

The Birkenstock London is one of the company’s first closed-toe styles. Yes, it is a clog made with a buckle strap that you can adjust without any trouble. 

Made with the highest grade leather, the Birkenstock London is long-lasting and can exceed your unique requirements. 

Birkenstock London Sandcastle Suede Leather R 42 R EU

Birkenstock London Women's Shoes

But are these various styles made in different locations? Unfortunately, it is not! All sandals are manufactured in Germany and sold in approximately 100 countries across the globe.

Are They Manufactured By Hand or Automated? 

Both. Birkenstocks are manufactured by hand and automated. 

Although the company does not disclose the technology they use, they claim to employ energy-efficient machines. 

But there is a minimal use of automated machines. It is also assumed that the company makes its own molds for its footwear. They cut the raw materials that go thru an assembly line. Yes, Birkenstocks sticks to its traditional methods to provide a handmade, custom, and quality footwear their clients from more than 100 countries deserve. 

Also, much of the work is handmade, requiring extensive human labor and making the manufacturing process time-consuming. But it is worth it. 

Birkenstock Gizeh Vegan Watercolor Flower White Birko-Flor 38 (US Women's 7-7.5) Regular

Birkenstock Gizeh Women's Sandals

How Many Birkenstocks Are Made Each Year? 

Birkenstocks are available in more than 100 countries across the continents. Imagine how many Birkenstocks are made annually. That’s massive. The company produced and manufactured around 7.1 million pairs of Birkenstocks made of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) every year, making the company the largest producer of EVA over Europe. 

How about the sales? It is estimated that Birkenstocks sold more than two million pairs of its sandals, shoes, and other types of footwear to people of all ages in the US alone. 

One of its highest sales was in 1997. It recorded a whopping $82 million in sales, which is not surprising at all. 

What is the Most Popular Style of Birkenstocks Sold? 

The Birkenstock Arizona is the most popular sandal among men and women. It is made with eco-friendly and natural materials. 

Birkenstock Women's Arizona Birko-Flor White

Birkenstock Arizona Women's Sandals

The straps are packed with natural leather. The buckles are made of metal. The sole comes with Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). A type of plastic, ethylene-vinyl acetate, is sturdy and flexible. 

The Birkenstock Arizona can last for years. It is relatively durable. It is also possible to repair the cork footbed to extend its lifespan. It is comfortable, and its footbed is contoured to support the feet of any size. The style is also something you can boast to your close friends and relatives. 

Conclusion

Want to know more about Birkenstocks? Do not hesitate to browse our site! We have different articles about Birkenstocks that will catch your attention! 

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