Birkenstock Fitting Guide

By Sole to Soul Footwear Calgary

Birkenstock sandals and shoes are at their most comfortable when they are properly fitted to the length and width of your foot.

Size Guide

Birkenstocks originate from Germany so naturally they use European sizing for their footwear. For many of us around the world this can be confusing and lead improper sizing. See our complete sizing chart below for proper size conversion of Birkenstocks.  

Fitting / Size Chart

Widths 

Birkenstock sandals and shoes come in two foot bed widths. Selecting the correct widths is equally important length. 

Narrow The narrow foot bed is recommended people with slim feet.	Regular The regular foot bed is the common recommendation and fits most normal to sturdy feet

 Not sure? Try Birkenstocks size calculator.

How Birkenstocks Should Fit

It is important that when wearing Birkenstock sandals and shoes that your feet properly fit within the molded foot bed. If your feet are too wide or tall and spill over the edges it can lead to discomfort and foot damage. Refer to the images below to ensure all pinch points of the foot have proper space and support.

POINT 1 You want approximately .5 - 1cm of space between your toes and the end of the foot bed.   POINT 2 There should be a space of approximately 10 mm between the strap and the top of the foot. POINT 3 Your heel should be inside the cup of the foot bed with approximately 3 - 5 mm of space.

 Image Source: benexy.com

Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ

Q: My Birkenstocks hurt my feet?

Often times our feet can hurt when they are placed into a new environment, Birkenstock are no exception. We suggest if you experience foot pain that you reduce your wear and slowly ramp up. Starting with short periods of 1 - 2 hours and slowly building up over a 7 - 10 day period should allow ample time for your feet and new Birkenstocks to get to know each other.

Q: My Birkenstocks smell?

Birkenstocks cork foot beds have proven to be great at absorbing smells. Don't worry its not just you. If you notice your Birkenstocks have started to smell it normally a sign they need a good cleaning. There are multiple ways to clean your sandals including Birkenstocks Shoe Care Kit, Sandal Rescue cleaning wipes, and baking soda + sunlight.

Q: Are Birkenstocks good for nurses?

Yes, but not every style. Our recommendation to nurses and other healthcare professionals is the Tokio Super Grip Clogs or the Birkenstock Linz Shoe. Both offer the comfort and support of Birkenstocks with the added stability in the heel. 

Q: Why are Birkenstocks so expensive?

Birkenstock create high quality footwear that offers its wearers great support, build quality, and longevity. Many of our customer keep their Birkenstocks for years with minimal maintenance. 

Q: Why are Birkenstocks so popular?

Birkenstock was founded in 1774 and has operated ever since. They have become a part of families, heritage, and tradition. For nearly every generation in the last 250 years Birkenstocks have come into and left popular culture and fashion. 

Continue Reading: What are Birkenstocks made of?