Why Are Birkenstocks So Expensive? Top 10 Reasons

Birkenstock is the most popular brand of slides and sandals, but they’re not exactly cheap. Despite the high cost of the brand’s slides, you can still see people from all over the world wearing Birkenstocks. If you’re wondering why the shoes have almost a cult-like following and whether they’re actually worth the money, you’ve absolutely come to the right place!

This detailed guide will cover all the different factors that go into the pricing of Birkenstock shoes, from the quality of the materials used to the brand’s trend-setting status.

High-Quality Materials

Birkenstock uses only high-quality raw materials in the manufacturing of its shoes. Until a few years ago, Birkenstocks were mostly made with genuine leather uppers, which is a premium (and expensive) material to work with.

Nowadays, you have a few more options for Birkenstock sandals. The brand now also includes vegan options for customers who prefer to switch to more sustainable footwear, but also an EVA version of the shoe as a more affordable alternative.

Arizona EVA Birkenstocks are almost half the price of their leather counterparts; they’re still a little pricey for what is essentially a rubber slide, but worth the money because of the design and quality.

I’ve only covered the uppers of the shoes. Birkenstock also manufactures their own stainless steel (and plastic) buckles, plus they manufacture their own footbeds and outsoles. The shoes are entirely made in-house, which is the main reason for such excellent quality and durability.

But it also takes a lot of money to research and develop all the different technologies the brand uses, especially if you also consider that they’re always developing new materials and technologies and expanding their product range.

High Production Costs

Birkenstock company manufactures all their products in Germany, which means that the production cost of these shoes is high. It’s a lot more expensive to manufacture footwear in Germany than in China, especially because they have to adhere to EU labor laws and pay their workers EU wages.

Also, the materials the shoes are made from are expensive to begin with. Genuine leather was never a cheap material, and Birkenstock also uses Nubuck leather and natural leather in some of their most expensive models of shoes.

Natural cork is not a cheap material either, and most Birkenstocks are made with cork footbeds. The same goes for the Birkenstock buckles, which are made from nickel-free metal, coated for corrosion resistance, and enameled multiple times.

Another thing worth mentioning here is that more than 4,000 people are employed by Birkenstock in Germany. That’s a pretty hefty payroll, especially considering that that’s a quarter of everyone employed in the German shoe industry!

Ethical & Sustainable Production

Birkenstocks are some of the most sustainable types of shoes you can buy because they are already made from sustainable materials. Cork, natural latex, felt, and wool are just some of the sustainable natural materials the company uses to manufacture products, and they’re found in the majority of their shoes.

This company also tries to source environmentally friendly glues, and approximately 98% of the adhesives they use are water-based. Birkenstock was actually one of the first shoe manufacturers who started using adhesives that were water soluble and free of solvent.

Additionally, in recent years, Birkenstock has started to produce more products with Vegan leather instead of the natural leather they’ve been known for using since the beginning. That’s just one of the brand’s many efforts to move towards a more ethical production process while keeping the quality of its footwear at the same level.

Superior Craftsmanship

The premium craftsmanship of Birkenstocks is one of the main reasons why people are willing to pay the hefty price tag for the real deal. The manufacturers who try to copy this brand cannot come even close, mostly because they use significantly cheaper materials. But also because the craftsmanship quality simply isn’t there.

The company was initially founded in 1774 by Johann Adam Birkenstock, a shoemaker. They’ve been in the business of making shoes for more than two centuries, and during that entire time, they’ve adhered to the same standards when it comes to craftsmanship quality and ethical production.

All Birkenstock sandals are manufactured in Germany even today, while the boots and some other types of shoes are made in other countries in Europe. All the products manufactured in their factories are subject to rigorous quality control, and everything less than perfect will not make it on the shelves of stores.

Durability & Longevity

Just like any other high-quality leather shoes, Birkenstocks are extremely durable and will last you a long time. You will need to take good care of them though, especially if you pick up a pair with genuine leather uppers. You can purchase a care kit directly from Birkenstock, or you can use other products for leather care.

While it generally depends on how you treat your shoes, quality footwear like this can often last you for 10 years, even longer. But that’s only if you take really good care of the shoes, and if you’re willing to take them to a shoe maker every now and then.

That’s another reason to appreciate Birkenstocks – the shoes are made to be easily repaired. They might need a new sole, footbed, or straps eventually, and you can always take them to your preferred shoemaker for repairs. The company makes spare parts easily accessible to all professionals.

Comfort

Birkenstocks are some of the most comfortable sandals and slides money can buy, and anyone who wears Birkenstocks will vouch for them. They’re supportive and offer plenty of cushioning, and the uppers are soft and won’t make your feet blister.

There’s a reason why you’ll see so many people walking around in Birkenstock sandals the moment summer comes around the corner, and it’s because there’s hardly a better option in the price range.

Also, the sandals are suitable for people with medical problems. The footbeds are designed to follow the contours of the human foot, but also to adapt to your feet for maximum comfort.

Versatility

Birkenstocks are great for everyday wear, they’re perfect for the beach, and they can even work for hiking adventures (if you get the pairs that are designed for hiking). The sandals are extremely versatile and you will be able to wear them everywhere and with any outfit.

Birkenstocks go with jeans, shorts, dresses, and skirts. I draw the line at formal wear, but if the brand came out with a slightly more formal shoe, I would definitely be one of the first in line to buy it.

If you haven’t owned and worn Birkenstocks before, you might disagree with the fact that they’re wearable everywhere and with anything. But, go to a store and try on a pair of shoes, and you’ll see just how easy it is to adjust any outfit to look great with these insanely comfortable slides.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of Birkenstocks is long and complicated, and that’s another reason for the high price point of the shoes. It’s not as simple as gluing two parts together and slapping a high price tag on them.

Most of the models are manufactured in Germany, and approximately a quarter of all the people who work in the shoe industry in Germany are employed by Birkenstock. It’s important to keep in mind that this company manufactured everything from raw materials, so first, they need to produce all the individual parts, and only then can the shoes be put together.

Trendy & Fashionable Shoes

Whether they’re your own personal cup of tea or not, you can’t deny the fact that Birkenstock is a trend-setting brand. They might not be the most stylish sandals and slides out there, but they’re definitely the best-looking shoe that offers that level of comfort.

Also, the Birkenstock brand can raise their prices as much as they want because they are a trendsetter. Just look at how many counterfeit Birkenstocks there are, and how many fast fashion brands are selling slides and sandals that are very similar to Birkenstocks. While they might look similar, the fakes don’t offer the same level of comfort or support as the genuine shoes.

Famous Brand Collaborations

Birkenstock X Manolo Blahnik

Birkenstock is no stranger to collaborations with famous brands. In the past, they’ve done collaborations with luxury fashion brands like Proenza Schouler, Dior, Valentino Gavarani, Rick Owens, and many others. Their most recent collaboration is with Ader Error, a popular fashion brand from South Korea.

Slides and sandals that are the results of these collaborations are usually available in limited editions and they’re more expensive than the classic Birkenstock shoe.

It depends on the brand they’re collaborating with, but limited edition Birkenstocks have been priced at more than $1,000. Despite the high price tag, the shoes sell out quickly and are some of the most popular styles from the brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Birkenstocks waterproof or water-resistant?

Some Birkenstocks are waterproof/water-resistant, but most models are not. The shoes with leather and suede uppers aren’t waterproof, but the EVA Birkenstocks are, and they’re the perfect slides and sandals for the beach.

Can Birkenstock be used by people with plantar fasciitis and other foot problems?

Yes, people with plantar fasciitis and similar foot problems can wear Birkenstocks comfortably. The sandals offer plenty of arch support, plus the cork footbed will mold to your foot for maximum comfort. It’s why you can often purchase Birkenstocks at stores that sell footwear for medical purposes.

Can I use Birkenstock for outdoor activities?

You can use some Birkenstock sandals for outdoor activities. The traditional slides might not be the best choice for rough outdoor terrain, but the brand also manufactures lots of hiking sandals (and even boots) that are perfect for outdoor exploration.

Is Birkenstock worth buying?

Birkenstock shoes are absolutely worth buying if you’re in need of comfortable and stylish sandals. If you’re not in a rush to get a pair, it’s best to wait for end-of-summer sales when you can get excellent discounts on the popular brand.

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