Pocket Change - Shopping Blog

Birkenstock shoes have come a long way since the hippie days of the late 60s and early 70s. We used to think of them as comfortable, plain brown sandals, but now the Birkenstock name is synonymous with color and style – with all the same comfort you remember. Birkenstocks are hand-stitched performance shoes with an orthopedic construction. The wide foot bed construction follows the foot’s natural shape, guiding the feet into correct alignment to encourage good posture. The longer they are worn, the more comfortable they become. They are made of durable cork, suede, and jute, and will last for years if properly cared for. There are over 400 styles of Birkenstocks including sandals and clogs. You can wear them with jeans, shorts, and skirts for a terrific casual look with all the comfort you love.

Here are some tips on how to make your Birkenstock shoes last:

• For leather Birks: Use clear or color active cream polish regularly to remove scuffs and soften the leather.
• For suede or nubuck Birks: Apply liquid color conditioner and silicone based waterproofing to the leather for stain protection.
• To clean the Birko-Flor (uppers): Wipe uppers with a damp cloth.
• Do not immerse your Birks in water or the leather will get hard and brittle.
• When the cork dries out or no longer looks shiny, apply a coat of Cork Life.
• Do not leave Birkenstocks in extremely hot places, near a fireplace, or heat source.
• If you choose to wear your Birks with socks, wear dark socks at first. The leather on a new pair may shed color. Despite the controversy, wearing socks with your Birkenstocks is a personal choice.

- Arpana