Whether you inherited your love of the orthopedic sandal from your wise and well-intentioned parents or you jumped on the Birkenstock train much later when the ugly shoe trend reared its cute (read: ugly but adorable) head, there's no denying that the German footwear label has dug its heels into the zeitgeist over the last decade.
If there's one thing we love most about the humble Birkenstock it's that aside from comfort, it is also the king of variety and reinvention. Like a snake shedding its skin, we've witnessed the signature Arizona and Boston Birkenstock silhouettes be reimagined by high fashion designers like Dior, Proenza Schouler, Rick Owens, Jil Sander, and even Stussy as part of its 1774 line. Often resulting in a drop of highly covetable and uber cosy sandals snatched up in the blink of an eye.
Then there's the simple fact that we can never go past classic, no frills quality. Birkenstock pride themselves on still largely manufacturing their products in Germany, and using only robust and natural materials like cork, suede, jute, copper, and brass to do so. And considering that we've all been seeing more of our homes over the past two years, our Birkenstocks have quite literally carried us through, standing in as the perfect isolation slipper — thank you for your service.
So as we make our affection for the Birkenstock plain, we're extending the love by helping you source your very own pair of Birkenstocks that we can only hope will bring you even half as much of the joy we've experienced. Without further ado, below find a list of where to buy Birkenstocks if you're in need of a cosy sandal.
Birkenstock
It may sound like an obvious place to start but when it comes to classic Birkenstock silhouettes, the first place they'll always be restocked is at the source. Especially if you're after the season's favourite pair, the Boston clog which is currently a rigmarole to source.
THE ICONIC
If like me, when you decide you want to purchase something, you don't want to wait then head to THE ICONIC for same and next day shipping. They'll have you sitting with your feet up in a pair of Arizona's before your head hits the pillow. You can thank us later.
Net-A-Porter
For luxe Birkenstock drops that are hard to come by, head to Net-A-Porter for your fill of shearling lined and suede sandals. Plus the retailer offers alternative payment methods like Klarna for a more accessible shop. Enjoy!
Incu
If your idea of Birkenstocks solely revolves around the brands collaboration with Proenza Schouler, then you're in luck. The best place to snatch up this highly sought after partnership is at Incu, where as we speak, three styles are on offer. Just take your pick.
Matches Fashion
A gals best friend. Matches Fashion is a London-based retailer offering up a heady selection of the most of the moment brands. Considering that the ugly shoe trend has stuck, we don't expect Birkenstocks to disappear from the site anytime soon, especially since the German manufacturer is a known purveyor of quality.
SSENSE
A constant comfort in this ever-turning world. Not only does SSENSE stock some of our favourite designers like Coperni and Collina Strada, but the luxury retailer is also a treasure trove to visit when you're in need of a new set of Birkenstocks. Find classic styles alongside more experimental iterations, like the Arizona with large chrome buckles or it's taller platform cousin.
More of a Croc person? Here are the places we go when we want to buy Crocs.