The deep heel cup in Birkenstocks gives you some stability and can also help control pronation (which contributes to flat feet), Sayed says; whereas the average sandal or flip-flop offers little to no support and have flat footbeds.
Birkenstock sandals are podiatrist-approved and highly favored for their built-in arch support and cushioning.
Our Contoured Footbed Encourages Foot Health
The Birkenstock footbed is made of resilient cork/latex and is shaped to create a healthy walking environment for your feet. Additionally, the cork/latex blend is pliable and reacts to natural body warmth.
BIRKENSTOCK is the inventor of the footbed
The unique BIRKENSTOCK footbed ensures a correct, natural position of the foot and a natural rolling movement. Thanks to this part of footwear, BIRKENSTOCKs are so comfortable to wear, and you can walk with them on your feet all day.
The cork footbed allows your feet to feel cushioned with firm arch support while walking, making them comfortable for long periods of time when exploring cities or wandering the countryside. Other benefits for choosing Birkenstocks for travel: Require no break-in period. Supportive and comfortable.
This is because they have not moulded and adapted to ones walking pattern and feet. Over time, you may notice cracking at the flex points of your Birkenstocks. Do not be alarmed by this! If they did get this cracking in the cork and latex, your Birkenstocks would not become flexible or nearly as comfortable.
They are regarded as one of the best sandals for long-distance walking, provided that they have been properly broken in. If you haven't had a chance to break them in, wear your Birkenstocks on shorter trips to avoid discomfort when you do take them on longer ones.
It can take time for your foot to adjust to the contours of the footbed, and for the cork/latex to flex and mould. Ideally an hour or two at a time until you feel comfortable to increase to a longer period.
Birkenstock and Finn Comfort have footbeds which provide superior arch support. Both have similar lateral and metatarsal arch support, but vary in their medial arch support. If you identify your arch type as “Flat” or "Normal" you will find the most comfort from wearing footwear with a soft footbed.
From Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner to the Olsen sisters—along with the chicest style-setters—Birkenstocks have become one of the most beloved pairs of "ugly" sandals in the closets of fashion lovers everywhere.
Some people keep their Birkenstocks for 10 years, while others may only get one summer out of them. How long your Birkenstock footwear lasts is determined by how well you treat them, and how hard you are on your shoes in general. Remember, Birkenstocks are made to be repaired.
Some reasons why some podiatrists are hesitant to endorse these light weight style Sketchers shoes includes: Minimal to no stability in the heel to counteract a heel that “rolls-in” excessively. No stability in the midsole.
Birkenstock sandals, shoes and boots are good for plantar fasciitis for these reasons: Firm arch support - essential for recovering from a flare-up and providing proper support to the fascia in your foot, so you can prevent pain in the future.
Birkenstocks are often popular sandals for plantar fasciitis runners for this reason—the cork molds to your foot's shape and reduces strain on your arch by providing firm, rigid support along the length of your foot.
Birkenstock's sandals fit true to size, so you do not need to size up or down in them. Again, taking note of the width of the sandals is important. If you're wearing the sandal straps at their tightest and your feet are still slipping to the side, you should try a narrow pair instead.
There should be a space of approx. 10 mm between the toes and the footbed edge. If your toes touch the edge of the footbed or if they jut out over it, the sandal is too small. If your toes touch the edge of the footbed or if they jut out over it, the sandal is too small.
A: You may have very low arches or flat feet. In that case they would hurt. If you feel the arches are too high..as someone suggested here, perhaps you could gently tap the arches down a bit.
We highly recommend not wearing your new Birkenstocks all day, everyday to begin with, especially if you have not worn Birkenstock's before. Birkenstock's take time to break in and mould into ones foot.
While we do offer a line of water friendly footwear, most styles should not be immersed in water. Over saturation can compromise the integrity of the sealant materials. It can also change the look and finish of the materials. If your shoes become wet, allow them to air dry slowly, away from direct heat.
The Class Boston clogs. Slip them on, and you'll forget that you have them on. As described on the official Birkenstock website, the Boston clogs provide the highest level of comfort. No cramped toes and no uncomfortable pressure points thanks to thanks to its signature cork sole and latex footbed (source).
Wear the sandals for 30-45 minutes the first day and then 1-2 hours the next, gradually increasing the time till they become comfortable. It might take 2-3 weeks. After the break-in period the shoes will feel custom made, you won't even realise you are wearing them.
The deep heel cup in Birkenstocks gives you some stability and can also help control pronation (which contributes to flat feet), Sayed says; whereas the average sandal or flip-flop offers little to no support and have flat footbeds.