Premium Materials

Only the best materials are good enough for us. These materials are not used in our products until they meet our quality standards. This means that we only use the highest-quality natural materials, such as cork, latex and the finest jute for our footbeds. These materials ensure that our shoes are light and flexible for the highest level of comfort.

This quality can also be seen in our choice of leathers. These leathers can be recognised by the typical grain and colours that are visible on the surface. We do not try to hide these features; rather we maintain the individual characters of the natural surfaces. We deeply dye and permeate the leather, instead of covering it up. This allows it to keep all of its valuable, natural properties, such as breathability, longevity and durability.

With continued use, the changes in the surface, such as a fine patina, creases and wrinkles become visible. There is also a so-called pull-up effect. This means that the colour nuances of the leather depend on the type of stress it is exposed to. These characteristics are not quality errors, rather they are a sign of a true natural product, giving each Birkenstock® item an unmistakable, natural character.

Natural Upper Materials

Smooth Leather

Has a very fine grain so the surface feels smooth. The leather is durable and easy to clean.

Embossed Leather

Same as Smooth Leather above except that a special pattern or texture has been pressed into the surface.

Natural Leather/Oiled Leather

Has a visible grain and naturally occurring colour irregularities that are not removed in order to preserve the matt surface.

Waxy Leather

Leather that has been buffed and coated with a waxy finish.

Metallic Leather

Leather with a metallic finish. Please note: Avoid staining with corrosive liquids such as insect repellent and nail polish remover (acetone).

Patent Leather

The surface of this leather is finished to a high gloss. To clean, wipe with a dampened soft cloth.

Nubuck Leather

Created by sanding the natural grain of the leather which gives a fine nap.

Suede Leather

Made with premium cowhides that are split to produce soft, thick, matte leather.

Wool Felt

Made using 100% natural wool woven to create a warm, breathable fabric.

Cork

Birkenstock uses premium quality cork to provide the orthopedic contours feet need for maximum comfort. Cork is a natural, lightweight, resilient, and shock-absorbent material. Cork comes from the bark of cork oak trees that grow in Spain and Portugal. Workers peel cork by hand in a process that is harmless to the trees. After seven years of new growth, each tree is ready for harvest again. The cork used in Birkenstock footwear completely renew- able.

Latex

A natural polymer. Latex is mixed with cork to give the footbed more elasticity and flexibility.

Jute

A natural, thick fibre, obtained from the jute plant, which increases the flexibility and durability of the footbed.