Care tips

HOW TO GET THE BEST FIT

Unbuckle all the straps and place your feet in the sandals. The contours of the footbed should correspond to your own arches. Make sure that your heels are in the heelcups and the toe bar should fit comfortably below your toes.

Most BIRKENSTOCK footwear is available in two widths; REGULAR and NARROW. Your feet should rest comfortably within the protective rims of the footbed when you stand. There should be about ¼ inch of extra space at the front of your toes and at the back of your heels, and 1/8 of an inch on each side of your feet. Your feet will need extra room when you walk. Proper length and width are crucial to your comfort. A correct fit will also help increase durability.

BUCKLE LOOSELY

Beginning with the straps closest to your toes, buckle the straps loosely to allow your feet freedom of movement when you are walking. BIRKENSTOCK footwear is designed to be worn loosely. The support comes from the footbed, not from tightly buckled straps. Keeping the straps loose will allow your feet to lift slightly off the footbed, which permits the air circulation necessary for healthy feet.

COMFORT TIPS

Adjust to your new Birkenstock gradually as they may introduce new movements to the muscles in your feet and legs. Although your sandals may feel rigid at first, their flexibility will increase with wear. Leather straps will also become more supple and the footbeds will adjust slightly to the form of your own feet.

CARE FOR YOUR CORK FOOTBED

The cork and latex footbed is the heart of all BIRKENSTOCK shoes. The shock-absorbing and highly flexible cork and latex core supports and relieves pressure on the feet. The natural materials insulate against the heat and cold and create a good foot climate. Birkenstock sandals and clogs come with a light coating of cork sealer on the exposed cork edge. This protects the cork and prevents it from drying out. Your footbed will break down overtime and absorb water. If the cork looks like it’s drying out or is dull, apply a thin coat of Birkenstock Cork Sealer to protect the cork from the elements and prevent against premature wear.

AVOID EXTREME HEAT!

Like many materials found in footwear and apparel, cork footbeds and EVA soles can be damaged by exposure to concentrated heat or extreme temperatures. Keep your Birkenstock away from radiators and fireplaces. Never leave them in a closed car on a hot day or on the beach exposed to direct sunlight. If your Birkenstock become wet, let them dry slowly, away from direct heat.

COLOURFASTNESS

Although we only use the highest quality leathers and test it for colourfastness, any dyed leather will shed some colour. Please be careful with delicate or light coloured socks, especially when your footwear is new.

CLEAN AND PROTECT UPPERS

Regularly apply a water and stain protector to leather, Suede and Nubuck uppers before wearing and after each cleaning. Brush uppers with a Nubuck/Suede brush to pull up dirt and dust and restore the nap. When soiled use mild soap suds or clean with a commercial suede cleaner. For Nubuck use a Nubuck block. Clean and condition leathers with a high quality neutral leather cream. Use matching leather polish to cover scuff marks. Wipe Birko-Flor uppers with a damp cloth. The inside of the footbed may also be washed with mild soap suds and a soft brush. Dry slowly, away from heat to avoid cracking! Please bear in mind that any cleaning or treatment can change the look and finish of the materials.

AVOID WATER!

While Birkenstock 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.

REPAIR

BIRKENSTOCK footwear has been constructed using only the highest quality materials and is designed to allow efficient repair. Protect your investment and prolong the life of your sandals by applying a thin layer of cork sealant when the cork begins to lose its shine. Cracked cork is easily repairable as well. Repair your sandals with original BIRKENSTOCK soles before they have worn through to the cork footbeds. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine. Contact your nearest BIRKENSTOCK retailer or see your local repair shop.

BUCKLE LOOSELY