This post is dedicated to my friend, Bochog, who loves Birkenstock as much as I do. -PT
I fell in love with Birkinstock 15 years ago. My first pair was the classic two-strap which I asked my friend, Grace, to buy for me when she went to Germany. Since then, I’ve owned several pairs most of which I have loved to death. I’m happy to report, though, that the first pair is still being used by my mother in Aklan.
As you probably know (and as if its name is not a dead giveaway), Birkenstock is a German brand of footwear which is known for its contoured cork and footbed design. What most of you probably don’t know is that its founding dates back 225 years! It was the shoemaker Johann Adam Birkenstock who registered the name ‘Birkenstock’ as a ‘subject and shoemaker’. Because of its revolutionary design, Birkenstock has gained popularity in Europe and eventually, in the US and the rest of the world.
Some people find Birks too chunky or hippy-ish. And while I don’t really mind their classic look, I do agree that Birks must get a much needed makeover if they want to appeal to the younger set. Good thing they’ve come out with some really stylish designs.
And then there’s the collection from German supermodel Heidi Klum…
I especially love this one, the Bikita Thong, which looks very current and high fashion. There’s also Heidi’s take on the classic single-strap…
If you want a little luxe on your sole, these will fit the bill. At EUR179 a pair, I don’t think you’ll see these anywhere near a hippy set of feet.😉
Well, whatever your style may be, there’s surely a pair of Birks that will suit you. My only beef with Birkenstock is that they last too long and I’m too cheap to buy a new pair unless I’ve worn out an old one. But then again, seeing the Bikita Thongs got me thinking… Would my mother appreciate a new pair of old Birks?
hurray for birks!
my first pair were navy blue birkis (with the plastic soles), 13 years ago, freshman year. my second pair were black morrocans, i think. then i did the single strap twice. the white ones are still alive and kicking as my pambahay slippers. and the pink ones i still use panlabas. i also have aqua ones. hehe.
but you’re right, it sucks ’cause they last way too long and we are way too cheap. i’m due another pair too. i like the ones with the cloth straps which come in blue and maroon. also the braided straps in leather. nice.
i’m all for tradition if tradition is a la birkenstock.
Hey divs! Waw adik! haha! If I had my way, I’d wear mine everyday. I wonder if the Heidi Klum collection has already reached our shores. Hmmm…
oooh! i never knew there are pretty birks! (sorry, di ako birk fan. haha!) i like cozumel and yara. 😀
Hey Jona! Yup, generation ko kasi yan haha. Hey, forgot to email you about the article. Click on the link at the right.:)
I got my first pair of Birks in college and wore them to the ground. I wish I had known you could replace the soles and footbeds, etc., because they don’t make the Ibiza anymore! I actually threw them away. 😉 I rediscovered Birks a few years ago. They really help with the bone spur on one of my heels and helped with the pain from my toes being crammed into a pair of shoes that were a little bit too small. (What fixed that was Yoga Toes- I highly recommend them if you have or are developing a bunion or just smushed toes!!)
I’m guessing you’re in Europe since you quoted the price in Euros, but in the U.S., Birkentstock has teamed up with one of the home shopping channels (QVC) to sell exclusive designs: patent (shiny) straps, white soles, patterned fabric footbeds, more colors – styles not available at the store, or even on Birkenstock.com! I have three pairs of Catalina (one really wide strap),two pairs of the three strap, and one grey felt clog with blue flower designs. I get compliments on all of them because they are not “typical” Birks, and then I tell everyone about QVC! Oh, and? They’re way cheaper!! Maybe they do international shipping.
Hi. THanks for the tip. I am, in fact, in the Philippines. And sadly, we get very limited collections here. Will check out the site.
By the way, just got another pair last week – a brownTatami pair with criss-cross straps and golden flecks. Wearing them now 🙂
Thanks for dropping by! I checked out your site. Really cool! Teachers rock!
Pauline