Are Birkenstocks Still in Style? A Brief History of the Brand

Birkenstock is one of the oldest names in footwear, and its core styles are still made today. Whether they are in style is subjective, but the brand’s history helps explain their lasting appeal.

Origins

Wikipedia records a family shoemaker, Johannes Birkenstock, in Langen-Bergheim in 1774, and lists that as the founding year. In 1896 Konrad Birkenstock opened an orthopaedic workshop in Frankfurt and developed contoured insoles. Karl Birkenstock developed a standardised, anatomically shaped insole in 1962 that allowed mass production.

Classic models

• Madrid, from 1963, the one-strap Original Birkenstock Footbed Sandal.
• Arizona, from 1973, described as the most popular sandal.
• Boston, from 1976, the first cork clog.

Recent news

Birkenstock listed on the New York Stock Exchange on 11 October 2023 under the ticker BIRK, according to Wikipedia.

Wearing them

The contoured footbed is the signature feature. Choose the width and size that gives you comfortable support, and pair with simple tailoring or casual summer dresses.

Facts are from Wikipedia’s Birkenstock entry at the time of writing.

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