The
Unique Birkenstock Footbed
Remember the
phrase "form follows function?" Well, it aptly describes the concept
behind Birkenstock footwear. While most shoes are designed to follow
the whims of fashion, Birkenstock sandals and shoes are made with
a different philosophy in mind: Create shoes to fit the human foot.
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The
Anatomy of a Comfortable Shoe. |
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A
resilient footbed.
Comfort
starts here. Made from cork and natural latex, and shaped
like a healthy footprint, our footbed actually helps guide
your foot into a correct walking position. |
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Natural,
healthy contours.
Your feet
have distinct curves. You'll notice Birkenstock footbeds also
have distinct curves. They mirror the arch structures in your
feet, ensuring proper support and even distribution of weight.
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A
deep heelcup.
A Birkenstock
heelcup is deeper than what you'll find in most shoes - and
for good reason. Your heel has natural padding that absorbs
shock when you walk. Our heelcup helps make sure this padding
rests directly under your heel bone, where it can do the most
good. |
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A
supple suede liner.
The entire
footbed is lined with suede, which is especially soft, absorbent
and comfortable. Inside the footbed itself are jute fibers
that wick moisture away from your foot. |
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A
firm walking surface.
Shoes are
a little like mattresses. A soft mattress may feel great at
first- but the longer you linger, the less good it will do
for your back and hips. The same is true for shoes. You're
better off with firm support. Birkenstock footwear distributes
your weight evenly across your foot, allowing you to walk
farther - comfortably. |
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Tough
- but flexible - EVA soles.
You put
around 500 pounds of pressure on your foot with every step
you take. Our soles are designed to absorb this weight, yet
they're also remarkably lightweight. |
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How
To Know When The Shoe Fits
Getting
the right Birkenstock size is actually pretty easy - you just
need to know what to look for.
First,
our footwear is measured in European sizes. Check the sizing
chart below to find your Birkenstock size. If you're between
sizes, start with the larger one. Please bear in mind that
this is only a guideline. Also note that sizes vary slightly
between some of our brands.
Go easy
before you pound the pavement. For the first couple of weeks,
don't wear them more than a couple of hours. Take a walk around
the block, a quick jaunt to the market, or a casual stroll.
Give your feet some time to get used to your new comfortable
footwear.
The rest
is destiny. As you break in your Birkenstock footwear, they
actually adapt to your feet - and vice versa - which means
they get even more comfortable the more you wear them. |
Footbed descriptions
& images © 1999 Birkenstock Footprint Sandals, Inc.
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