The Birkenstock experience - Step into timeless comfort

A brief history of Birkenstock

Birkenstock boasts a long heritage rooted in traditional and high-quality craftmanship spanning centuries. Since 1774, Birkenstock has grown from a humble German cobbler's workshop to a worldwide shoe company by passing down its commitment to creating the best quality, most comfortable and supportive shoes.

From flexible footbeds at the end of the 19th century to the first contoured arch support at the turn of the century, Birkenstock has always been at the forefront of innovation for comfortable and supportive footwear and still is today.

In the 1930s, Karl Birkenstock launched a training course endorsed by leading physicians and podiatrists to further their cause for the most comfortable and supportive footwear. And in 1963, he launched the Madrid, the first fitness sandal with a deep, flexible footbed.

The Birkenstock icons

Original footbed and timeless designs

The Arizona

The Arizona took the world by storm upon its release in 1973. The two-strap sandal evolved from the closed Zurich model but instead provided much more breathability. Encapsulating style and functionality with the footbed, the style created a versatility evolution.

The Boston

Inspired by traditional clogs, the Boston emerged in the 1970s and quickly became a favourite thanks to its unique blend of style and functionality. The Boston has a distinctive profile that has been maintained over years of evolution – a testament to its timeless design.

The Madrid

With its inception in 1963, the Madrid was the first sandal to feature the Birkenstock cork-latex footbed. The one-strap sandal instantly became a symbol of premium design and craftsmanship. As a gender-neutral sandal, the minimalist strap design provided unbeatable air circulation for men and women, defying all trends and eventually taking its place in popular culture.

The Gizeh

With company growth, shoe designer Karl Birkenstock wanted to embrace the bold new aesthetic of the era. In 1983, the Gizeh was born. The T-shape form of the toe bridge and the distinctive wide silhouette footbed quickly became a new icon. Providing a fashion-forward aesthetic while promoting good foot health, the Gizeh remains a favourite for anyone who appreciates form and function.

Shop these iconic models at Daniel Footwear and other popular Birkenstock styles. Discover Birkenstocks available at Daniel Footwear today!

More about Birkenstock

How to clean your Birkenstocks

The Daniel Footwear way

Discover how to clean your Birkenstocks in our helpful step-by-step guide to help them last for years! Keep them looking as good as the day you bought them!

Birkenstock buyers guide

Everything you need to know

Unsure which Birkenstock model is best for you? Read our Birkenstock buyer's guide to discover everything you need to know about the different Birkenstock models to help you choose the perfect pair for you!