Birkenstock

About Birkenstock

Birkenstock's beginning can be traced way back to 1774 with shoemaker Johann Adam Birkenstock, whose craft was passed down through the generations. Some 120 years later his great-great-grandson Konrad Birkenstock began making flexible footbed insoles, leading to the invention of the now legendary Birkenstock footbed – a contoured cork footbed that conforms to the shape of your foot and features anatomically shaped insoles with pronounced arch support, deep heel cup, and roomy toe box. Over centuries, the German footwear brand has built its reputation on this footbed, carefully constructed for maximum comfort and support so you can enjoy more hours on your feet.

German Designed; Kiwi Worn for Decades

If you’re after a pair of sandals to keep you cool but need more support than the humble jandal – a pair of Birks is your go-to. The brand prides itself on producing footwear that is durable and made with premium, natural and sustainable materials. The original Birkenstock footbed is made from natural cork, latex, jute and suede – all natural, renewable materials that are sourced sustainably. Uppers are usually crafted using either leather (in natural, suede or nubuck) or a manufactured Birko-Flor® high-quality synthetic material that looks like leather but with a soft-fleece lining for extra comfort. There are even cosy uppers made from Wool Felt, a 100% natural material made from sheep’s wool.

Find your Perfect Pair of Birkenstock Sandals at Pat Menzies

At Pat Menzies we have been stocking the world’s favourite sandal for over 25 years and carry one of the largest ranges of Birkenstock sandals for men, women and children in New Zealand (although many are unisex!).

If you’re after the classics then check out the ever-popular two-strap Birkenstock Arizona, a between-the-toe Gizeh or the original one buckle Madrid – all featuring the contoured cork footbed and available in leather or synthetic uppers and various colours. If you’re after water-friendly styles with a pop of colour, check out Birkenstock EVA – they’re waterproof, washable and ultra-lightweight making them perfect for warm days at the beach or by the pool. When winter hits but you still want the comfort of Birkenstock, discover the clog styles of Boston and Zermatt – the closed toe makes them perfect for year-round wear, while the backless design remains practical. If you’re a chef, nurse, gardener or anyone seeking comfort for long days on your feet, Birkenstock offer professional styles including Boston Super Grip, Profi Birki and Super Birki that deliver lightweight protection and grip.

Birkenstock Size Guide

Birkenstock sandals can come in Men’s, Women’s and unisex sizing, and some even have a regular or narrow foot option for an optimum fit. Check out our Birkenstock size guide to convert your foot measurement to your Birkenstock shoe size. If you’re between two sizes, we recommend sizing up. When sizing your Birkenstocks, you want to make sure that the footbed arch corresponds to your foot arch, and the toe grips fit comfortably under your toes. Your toes should not touch the cork at the front, and your heel shouldn’t touch the back. Birkenstocks are designed to mould to the contours of your feet, so once you’ve worn them a few times their comfort and flexibility will only increase.

Many have tried to imitate, but none have replicated the true craftsmanship and quality of Birkenstock. Make sure you shop genuine Birkenstock sandals at Pat Menzies: visit our Auckland store, or buy online today with fast free shipping NZ wide and free 30 day returns!