How Birkenstock Shoes Won Over The Hearts Of Travelers

Traveling puts your feet to the test. It often means walking longer, over greater distances, and on more uneven terrain than usual. Enter BIRKENSTOCK, the brand that seamlessly blends practicality with style.

The easy-on/easy-off design of BIRKENSTOCK footwear makes them ideal for breezing through airline security and lounging on a plane. The footbeds make them comfortable to wear while touring a new city, and the styling is versatile enough to wear to dinner.

Although the look of these sandals and clogs is rarely described as pretty, BIRKENSTOCK have remained a perennial favorite among travelers who value well-made products built to last.

The functional orthopedic design—the company calls it “walking as nature intended”—has garnered a cult-like following around the globe.

The Birkenstock family’s shoemaking legacy in Germany dates back to 1774.

Amazingly, the iconic Arizona two-strap style, first released in 1973, has recently been spotted on A-list celebrities, including Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Reese Witherspoon, and Tracee Ellis Ross.

Margot Robbie unexpectedly slipped into a pair of pink BIRKENSTOCK sandals in a central scene in the 2023 Barbie movie.

And the footwear, sometimes disparagingly called “Jesus sandals,” experienced another viral moment when John Cena wore them without clothes at the 2024 Oscars.

Why have they captivated the hearts of travelers?

Built to Roam

The contoured footbeds mold to the feet with a deep heel cup that allows the toes to stretch and provides better cushioning and arch support than most conventional shoes. The shock-absorbing EVA models are flexible, and designed to help lessen potential foot or leg pain from being on one’s feet for long periods.

BIRKENSTOCKS are so comfortable that many travelers use them as de facto slippers in hotel rooms or cruise ship staterooms when they need to throw on their shoes quickly.

Made to Last

BIRKENSTOCKS are the shoes that helped define Apple founder Steve Jobs’ iconic minimalist look: Levi jeans, a black turtleneck, and BIRKENSTOCK Arizona sandals.

While the exact lifespan of his trusty sandals remains a mystery, one of his well-worn pairs fetched more than $200K at auction in November 2022.

Even when they show age cosmetically, BIRKENSTOCK are known for being high-quality, sturdily constructed, and long-lasting. They wear in—not out—over time. The leather uppers soften with wear, and the patina adds character with age. Not only do they look better as they “wear in,” but the footbed maintains its ergonomic support.

Pack Light, Travel Smart

Travelers always worry about adding weight or heft to their bags. BIRKENSTOCK weights vary based on styles and materials, but they are relatively lightweight. Many models pack flat, take up minimal space, and can be wedged into the side of a jammed suitcase.

The popular Boston Clogs (recently a TikTok sensation) weigh about 12 oz. per shoe, less than most running shoes. The newer, water-friendly Birkenstock Arizona and lightweight Boston EVA models, ideally suited for summer vacations, weigh only 6 oz. per shoe and can be easily washed before hitting the road again.

Beyond the Sandals

BIRKENSTOCK has demonstrated a rich 250-year history of innovation. While best known for sandals, the brand has introduced other options for travel.

The Boston, Uji, London, and Kyoto silhouettes offer more coverage with the same benefits as the iconic footbed models. Uji and Kyoto feature a hook-and-loop closure for ultra-adjustability, which is optimal if feet swell. Oswego, a casual slip-on with a deep heel cup and interior and excellent arch support, offers all-day comfort for sneaker lovers.

A Timeless Classic

While the popularity of BIRKENSTOCK have waxed and waned, these practical shoes are now firmly entrenched in contemporary culture. They allow comfort and style to coexist so even fashionistas can embrace travel-friendly footwear.

As fashion journalist Alexandre Marain wrote in Vogue Australia, “Birkenstock-mania is nowhere close to stopping.”