When it comes to footwear that’s stood the test of time – and we’re talking centuries, not just decades – few names carry the same weight as Birkenstock. Rooted in Germany with a shoemaking legacy dating all the way back to 1774, the brand has evolved from orthopedic heritage to a symbol of elevated minimalism and effortless style. Yet despite the global spotlight it enjoys today, Birkenstock’s philosophy hasn’t wavered: quality, functionality, and form-follows-foot.
The backbone of that philosophy? The footbed. First envisioned in the 1930s and refined over generations, the contoured cork-latex footbed has been the brand’s signature since the 1960s – designed to support the anatomy of the foot, promote proper posture, and offer all-day comfort. It’s not an afterthought; it’s the foundation.
The Arizona, first introduced in the early 1970s, brought that concept to a broader audience. With its dual-strap design and instantly recognizable silhouette, the sandal became a go-to for free-thinkers and functionalists alike. The model’s no-frills construction and durable build quickly made it more than a comfort shoe – it became a canvas for cultural expression, adopted by everyone from artists to normcore aficionados.
Hot on its heels, the Boston offered a more covered take on the footbed classic. With its closed-toe clog design and suede or leather uppers, it bridged the gap between home and streetwear – perfect for transitional seasons or just not giving in to socks. Whether paired with linen trousers or techwear fits, the Boston’s versatility has kept it a mainstay in fashion rotations for decades.
Models like the Naples, Zürich, and Tokio showcase Birkenstock’s deeper range: While the Naples leans into a (comfortable) workwear aesthetic, the Zürich – first introduced in 1964 – blends the stability of a closes-toe shoe with the breezy ease of a sandal.
The Tokio, on the other hand, was developed with professional settings in mind: it comes with an adjustable backstrap and slip-resistant sole, and serves as a versatile reminder of the brand’s utilitarian DNA and its origins in supportive, ergonomic footwear via the cork-latex footbed.
And while the aforementioned Tokio puts a fresh spin on the Boston silhouette, the Birkenstock Kyoto takes its inspiration from the Zürich model: Featuring an asymmetrical strap and Velcro closure, it’s a streamlined remix of Birkenstock’s philosophy, built for the modern day but grounded in foot-first thinking.
So even as its legacy styles remain staples, Birkenstock couldn’t’ be further from resting on its laurels – as proven by the hybrid sneaker-sandal Shinjuku whose future-forward design language shows Birkenstock’s willingness to experiment. Add to that modern takes on the Arizona – from EVA foam versions to shearling-lined drops and high-profile collabs – and other classic models, and it becomes clear: Birkenstock isn’t just a legacy brand. It’s a tradition that refuses to stand still.
