Birkenstocks have been a go-to choice for people who value comfort and durability in their footwear for over two centuries. Whether you are shopping for the iconic Arizona sandal, a pair of Boston clogs, or one of the newer EVA styles, knowing where to buy matters. Not every retailer carries the full range of sizes, widths, and limited editions, so finding the right source saves you time and money. This guide covers the best places to shop for Birkenstock sandals and shoes both online and at physical stores, what features to prioritize, common buying mistakes, and specific product picks to help you choose with confidence.
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What Are Birkenstocks and Who Needs Them
Birkenstock is a German footwear brand that has been crafting sandals and shoes since 1774. The company is best known for its contoured cork-latex footbed, which molds to the shape of your foot over time and provides longitudinal arch support, transverse arch support, and a raised toe bar that encourages a natural gripping motion. That anatomically shaped footbed is the reason podiatrists frequently recommend Birkenstock sandals to patients dealing with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or general foot fatigue.
These shoes appeal to a wide audience. Nurses and teachers who stand all day rely on them for all-day comfort. Fashion-conscious shoppers pair them with everything from denim to dresses. Travelers pick them for their durability and easy-to-clean construction. People with mismatched foot sizes also benefit, since the brand offers half sizes and two width options that accommodate feet that differ in length. If you spend any significant time on your feet and want footwear built around genuine foot health rather than just appearance, Birkenstock sandals and clogs deserve a close look.
What to Look For: Features and Buying Criteria
Footbed type. The original Birkenstock footbed is made from cork and latex, shaped to mirror the natural contour of a healthy foot. The soft footbed version adds an extra layer of foam for cushioning. EVA footbeds are made entirely from lightweight foam and are waterproof, making them ideal for the beach or pool. Choose based on where you plan to wear them most.
Upper material. Options range from oiled leather and nubuck leather to suede, Birko-Flor (a synthetic with a leather-like finish), and vegan microfiber. Leather uppers age well and develop character, while Birko-Flor is easier to clean and more affordable. Suede has a softer feel but needs more care to avoid staining.
Strap configuration. The Arizona features two adjustable buckle straps for a secure fit. The Gizeh uses a single thong strap, and the Madrid has one wide strap across the forefoot. Boston clogs wrap the entire forefoot with an adjustable buckle. Consider how much adjustability you need and whether you prefer an open or closed-toe silhouette.
Sizing and width. Birkenstock uses European sizing and offers two widths: regular (for a standard to wide foot) and narrow. Your heel should sit within the heel cup without touching the back edge, and your toes should not hang over the front. Ordering the wrong width is the most common sizing mistake.
Sole durability. The standard EVA sole is lightweight and shock-absorbing. Higher-end models feature a dual-density sole for extra support on hard surfaces. Check the sole material before buying if you plan to wear them on concrete or pavement daily.
What to Avoid When Buying Birkenstocks
Buying from unauthorized resellers. Counterfeit Birkenstock products are common on discount marketplace listings. Fake pairs often use cheap foam instead of the genuine cork footbed, and the arch support is nonexistent. Stick to authorized retailers or the official site to ensure you get the real thing.
Choosing the wrong width. Many first-time buyers select narrow when they need regular, or vice versa. A pair that is too narrow pinches the sides of your foot and prevents the footbed from working properly. Always measure both feet and consult the size chart.
Expecting instant comfort. Cork footbeds require a break-in period of one to two weeks. Wearing them for short intervals at first lets the cork mold to your foot shape. Returning a pair after one day because they feel stiff is a common mistake.
Ignoring care instructions. Leather and suede uppers need occasional conditioning. Cork footbeds should be sealed with the Birkenstock care kit once or twice a year. Neglecting maintenance shortens the lifespan of an otherwise durable shoe and can lead to the cork cracking or the sole separating prematurely.
Falling for deep-discount fakes. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic pairs hold their value well, and prices significantly below retail almost always indicate counterfeit products or returned items sold as new. Buy from the retailers listed in this guide to stay safe.
Where to Buy Birkenstocks In Store
Official Birkenstock Retail Stores
Birkenstock operates its own branded stores in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. The store at 8606 West 3rd Street in Los Angeles carries the full lineup, including limited editions and seasonal colorways. The Sherman Oaks location at 14447 Ventura Blvd is another excellent option in the Los Angeles area, and staff there have been known to hold pairs for up to four days while you decide. Staff at these locations are trained to measure your foot and recommend the right model and width. You can try on several styles side by side, compare the soft footbed against the original, and get honest advice on sizing. If you are near an official location, it is the best place to shop before committing.
Nordstrom
Nordstrom stocks a wide selection of Birkenstock sandals, clogs, and shoes in their footwear department. Their free shipping and generous return policy make it easy to order multiple sizes and return what does not fit. Check the shoe floor or search their in-store kiosk for current availability.
DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse)
DSW carries popular models like the Arizona and Boston at competitive prices. Their rewards program can save you additional money over time. Stock varies by location, so call ahead if you want a specific color or size.
REI
REI focuses on outdoor and travel-friendly footwear and stocks several models suited for hiking and all-day walking. The Arizona and Boston are commonly available, and some locations carry EVA options for water-adjacent activities. Co-op members earn dividends on their purchase. Visit the shoe section or ask a staff member for current options.
Tip: Call ahead to confirm stock, especially for less common sizes or seasonal limited editions. Smaller independent shoe stores also carry Birkenstock in many cities.
Where to Buy Birkenstocks Online
Birkenstock Official Website
The Birkenstock official store carries every current model, including exclusive colorways and limited-edition collaborations you will not find elsewhere. The site offers a detailed fit guide, free returns on unworn pairs, and direct access to the full Birkenstock collection. This is the most reliable source for authentic products.
Amazon
Amazon lists a large selection of styles from both the brand’s own storefront and third-party sellers. Stick to listings sold by or fulfilled by Amazon to minimize counterfeit risk. Prime members get fast shipping, and the return process is straightforward if the fit is off. Look for the Arizona, Boston, and Gizeh models, which are consistently available in multiple colors and widths.
Zappos
Zappos is known for free shipping both ways and an excellent customer service team. Their selection covers the most popular models and they often carry wide and narrow widths that other retailers skip. Detailed product photos and customer reviews help you gauge fit before ordering. It is a strong choice if you are uncertain about your size.
Journeys
Journeys stocks sandals and clogs at their online storefront with frequent promotions and student discounts. It is a good option for younger shoppers looking for trending colorways and seasonal releases.
Top Picks
Best overall: Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed. The two-strap design is the most recognized silhouette, and the soft footbed version adds extra cushion for all-day wear. Available in oiled leather, suede, and Birko-Flor. Around $110 to $150 depending on material.
Best budget: Birkenstock Arizona EVA. A waterproof, lightweight version of the classic Arizona made entirely from EVA foam. Easy to clean, perfect for the pool or beach, and typically priced around $50 to $55. A solid entry point if you are new to the brand.
Best clog: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed. The closed-toe Boston clog is a year-round favorite that works with socks in cooler weather and barefoot in warmer months. Suede and oiled leather options range from $150 to $180. The adjustable buckle lets you fine-tune the fit.
Best for arch support: Birkenstock Mayari. A cross-strap sandal with a contoured footbed that provides excellent orthopedic support. Popular with people who have high arches or mild plantar fasciitis. Around $100 to $120.
Best minimalist option: Birkenstock Madrid. A single-strap slide that offers effortless style with the same anatomically shaped footbed. Lightweight and simple. Typically $90 to $110.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Birkenstocks good for your feet?
Yes. The contoured cork footbed provides arch support, distributes body weight evenly, and encourages a natural gait. Many podiatrists recommend this footwear for patients with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or general foot fatigue. The break-in period can feel firm at first, but the cork molds to your foot within a week or two of regular wear.
Why are Birkenstocks so expensive?
The price reflects premium materials, a multi-step manufacturing process, and the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship since 1774. Each pair uses a cork-latex footbed, quality leather or suede uppers, and durable outsoles designed to last for years. Budget-friendly EVA styles start around $50, making the brand more accessible than many shoppers realize.
Do Birkenstocks run big or small?
They use European sizing, which does not align directly with US sizes. Most shoppers find they need to go up one size from their usual US number. The brand also offers regular and narrow widths. Use the official size chart and measure your foot length in centimeters for the most accurate fit.
Can Birkenstocks get wet?
EVA models are fully waterproof and designed for wet environments. Leather, suede, and Birko-Flor versions should be kept dry when possible. Occasional exposure to water will not ruin them, but repeated soaking can damage the cork footbed and warp the upper material. Apply a water-repellent spray if you expect rain.
Do Birkenstocks ever go on sale?
The official site rarely discounts current-season styles. Third-party retailers like Nordstrom, Zappos, and DSW occasionally run promotions, especially during Black Friday or end-of-season clearance events. Signing up for email alerts from your preferred retailer is the best way to catch a deal.
About This Guide
Reviewed by the wheretobuyguides.com editorial team. Last updated: March 2026.
Whether you shop in store at an official location or browse online from a trusted retailer, the right pair of Birkenstocks is worth taking the time to find. Focus on getting the correct size, choosing the footbed style that matches your needs, and buying from an authorized source to ensure premium quality and timeless comfort that lasts for years.