Our Birkenstock Guide

The Ultimate Birkenstock Guide

Birkenstock is back and here to stay. Birkenstock is known for its iconic styling and the invention of the cork footbed. Recently, the brand has teamed up with legendary designers and is spotted across every corner of the globe. Birkenstock is one of the only global brands that is both a fashion and a comfort statement. Worn and cherished by all ages… Welcome to our recommendations.

At Watkinsons, we have stocked Birkenstock for over 15 years and know the best products for all ages, feet and styles.

Heritage

Birkenstock can be traced back to 1774. It all started with shoemaker Johaan Adam Birkenstock and his commitment to craftsmanship which has been passed down from generation to generation. His great-great grandson Konran Birkenstock had an excellent idea to make and to sell flexible footbed inserts. He then invented the legendary Birkenstock footbed. The footbed paved the way for Birkenstock’s success and a factory was opened in Friedburg, Germany. The footbeds soon became admired by professionals and the term anatomically shaped insole was developed. 

The Original Footbed

At the heart of every Birkenstock is their original footbed. The construction helps your feet find comfort and supports the health of the foot. The deep moulding in the heel area supports the foot tissue and holds the heel bone firmly in position. The footbed provides a high level of support and is a deep cup. The heel mould activates the calf muscles and helps to improve coordination. The support that runs through the middle of the footbed stabilises the metatarsal bone which helps to ensure that the foot has a naturally straight and solid stance. There are raised indentations at the front of the footbed near the toes to help the toes spread out into their natural position. 

The Classics

Amongst the wide ranges of Birkenstock shoes, the most famous are undoubtedly the Arizona, the Gizeh and the Madrid. The double strap Arizona open toe design is a signature of the Birkenstock line. The Birkenstock classics are made out of Birko-Flor synthetic materials and has been unchanged in terms of design for many years. Iconic and temporary. 

We offer the regular fitting classic Birkenstocks. 

Our Ladies Classic Styles include Arizona, Madrid, Gizeh & Milano. 

Our Mens Classic Styles: Arizona & Milano 

EVA

The EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), is a type of lightweight plastic which is water resistant. Birkenstock offer a range of classics in the EVA including the Arizona and the Gizeh. They are the ideal holiday option, if you’re spending time at the beach or the pool the EVA’s are a great choice. 

Available in special edition summer colours!

The Boston- the hottest shoe of the year!

Known as the hottest shoe on the market at present, the Boston Soft Footbed clog is a classic. The Boston clog can be worn all year round and features a soft footbed for additional comfort. 

Available in black, mocha, mink or tobacco brown, the Boston is for everyone. 

We offer ladies and mens versions of the Boston Clog and have brought in a stunning antique white suede Boston clog for summer.