It’s summer. Your calendar’s packed with plans. The layers are lighter. 99s are on tap.
What’s missing? Birkenstocks.
But are Birks something you only pull out when the sun hits? We’re gonna surprise you here – no.
A brand that’s been around since as early as 1774, they know a thing or two about protecting their goods.
From the Madrid right through to today’s icon the Boston, Birkenstock has been developing new designs and fabrics for decades.
Want to know how to look after your Birkenstocks, or how they should fit? What about the best way to break them in?
A style that isn’t just for summer, your full guide to Birkenstocks is right here.
How to clean Birkenstocks
Take them to the beach, rep them on casual adventures, or when ticking off your to-do list. Birkenstocks’ versatility is what makes them a must-have.
Keeping your pair fresh is the key. Just grab a shoe brush, an old toothbrush, a cloth, leather shampoo and two bowls of water. Then follow our guide below.
Step 1: Get rid of dirt
Yours made from nubuck leather or suede? Start by removing dried dirt with the shoe brush.
If you’ve got a natural leather pair then a lint-free, slightly damp cloth does the trick.
Step 2: Clean the straps and footbed
Open the straps and clean the inside and outside with a damp brush.
The footbed’s a little different. Mix some water and leather shampoo together and rub it in with an old toothbrush. Then remove the lather with a wet cloth and wash the sandals with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Clean the sole
Cleaning your Birkenstock’s sole is simple. Use a damp brush then a damp cloth to get them looking box-fresh again.
Step 4: Air them out
Let your Birks dry at room temperature – not in the sun or on a radiator (trust us, it’s worth the wait). They’ll then be ready to rep again 24 hours later.
Step 5: Protect for next time
Want to keep repeating the process? Us neither.
Protect your Birkenstocks for next time by spraying nubuck leather or suede sandals regularly with a colourless waterproofing spray. If the uppers are made from natural leather, use leather grease instead.
Our tip: cover the footbed up with whatever you can get your hands on (there’s usually an old paper knocking round somewhere that’ll do the trick).
How should Birkenstocks fit?
Wide feet, narrow feet or somewhere in between – the brand has sizes for every shape. Deep footbeds in different widths and adjustable buckle straps help you find the perfect fit.
Just like trainers, sandals and clogs need a bit of wiggle room at the toe and heel for flexibility and comfort. Your foot should sit in the footbed, not on top of the edges. When you close the straps and tighten the buckle, you don’t want them too tight. Let your feet breathe.
If your pair has a heel strap that extra room is key, so your foot isn’t pushed too far forward.
How to break in Birkenstocks
Whether you’re slipping on Birkenstock clogs or sandals, the experts say you should break a fresh pair in slowly – no matter if it’s your first pair or not.
Slip them on and start wearing them in around the house. The contours of the footbed will take time to adjust to the fit of your foot.
Start with an hour or two at a time, then your Birks will begin to mould to your foot and deliver that long-lasting comfort.
How to Style Birkenstocks
Like we said, Birkenstocks aren’t just for summer. The options are endless.
Want a pair for warmer weather and another for cooler climates? We’ve got you.
The Arizona is Birkenstock’s classic sandal. A simple two strap upper with buckle closures keeps them airy yet secure. The dream sandal from street to beach, and back again.
The Birkenstock Boston delivers a little more cover and warmth. The clogs have a slip-on style and a single buckle strap to lock you in place.
Both pairs can be dressed up or down. Pool days, sofa chills, city explores, they’re all at your feet in Birkenstocks.
You’ve got the lowdown. Now it’s time to grab a pair.
