At first glance, they’re just sandals, right? But when you see the price tag, you start wondering if there’s gold hidden in the cork.
The truth is, Birkenstocks aren’t your average sandals. There’s way more behind that price tag than you’d expect.
So, if you’re itching to find out what’s really making Birkenstocks so expensive, stick around and read till the end to cure that curiosity.
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Reason for Why Are Birkenstocks So Expensive?
Just as I always say, no brand sets a high price tag without a reason. There are always key strategies and factors behind the scenes that influence that cost.
In case of Birkenstock, here is what I found:
Orthopedic Benefits
Birkenstocks get expensive because of the orthopedic benefits they offer.
In each one of their shoes, they feature their signature footbed, which molds to your foot over time and provides customized support.
This support isn’t for running marathons or hitting the gym. Nope, it’s all about bringing your feet into their natural position. That means aligning your feet to a better position.
When your feet are properly aligned, your spine benefits too. Over time, you might find relief from conditions like plantar fasciitis, arch pain, or even arthritis.
Along with that, their legendary footbed is great for shock absorption and pressure relief. It helps regulate temperature, keeping your feet comfy whether it’s hot or cold.
So yeah, Birkenstocks might cost more than your average sandals, but they bring a lot of benefits that just aren’t there with cheaper options.
Expensive Production Costs
Another reason Birkenstocks are expensive is the use of high-end materials and advanced manufacturing techniques in each shoe.
They start with premium leathers, textiles, and synthetic materials for the uppers, all sourced from top-quality suppliers to maintain their reputation. Along with the uppers, they use cork wrapped in leather and a rubber sole for durability. The leather lining makes them soft to the touch, while the cork molds to your foot, providing a comfortable fit for any foot shape.
And you guys know, good leather, cork and rubber are no cheap. As a result, the cost increases.
Plus, each one of their pairs goes through strict social and environmental standards, with a lot of different steps involved to uphold their values. And once they’re completed, each pair goes through rigorous quality control, and anything less than perfect doesn’t make it to the shelves.
All these factors add to the overall cost of each pair.
Unmatchable Comfort and Durability
Another reason for Birkenstocks’ higher price is the exceptional comfort and durability they provide.
When a brand uses high-quality, sustainable materials, it’s likely to create something both cozy and long-lasting.
In the case of Birkenstocks, they use leather that’s treated in various ways to enhance its smoothness and flexibility. This leather is also made highly resistant to wear and tear, which is why their sandals stand up well over time.
Additionally, the cork sole is a standout feature. It serves as a durable base that performs well on various terrains. It also offers excellent support and shock absorption during regular walks.
So, even though it’s rare to find comfort and durability combined so seamlessly, Birkenstocks have truly nailed it. And for that, they charge a bit in the price tag.
Must Read: Why are Blundstone Shoes So Expensive?
Brand Reputation
With a history spanning around 250 years, Birkenstocks have more than lived up to customer expectations. Their sales show a consistent upward trend each year, proving that people truly love their sandals and shoes. They have firmly established their reputation in the footwear world.
Despite their ugly look, Birkenstocks remain highly trendy and have surpassed many competing brands.
Sure, they might not win beauty contests, but their reputation for being lightweight, firm, comfortable, and durable speaks volumes.
So, when considering their popularity and longstanding reputation into account, it’s no surprise that the brand charges a bit more, adding a touch of luxury to their otherwise practical footwear.
Huge Sales
High sales can signal to a brand that their products are hitting the mark. When retailers and resellers notice this, they’ll ask the brand for more stock to keep up with demand.
As a result, the brand might raise prices due to their high demand. Retailers, in turn, also increase prices even more to make sure they make a good profit.
The same goes for Birkenstocks. They are timeless and have been super popular for decades. So, because of their such demand, a slight price increase won’t likely keep them sitting on shelves for long.
Related Article: Why are New Balance Shoes So Expensive?
Work On Sustainablity
Sustainability also plays a role in the pricing of Birkenstock footwear. For those who don’t know, Birkenstock’s commitment to sustainability is truly impressive.
From responsibly sourcing materials to operating in ethically approved environments, Birkenstock has made sure to cover all bases. They also prioritize paying fair wages to their workers, ensuring they can support their families. Plus, all of their shoes are only made in Germany under good working conditions. (No China, No Vietnam, No USA; just Germany)
For nearly 200 years, Birkenstock has upheld these values. And to continue these practices, they need support from customers. As a result, they charge a bit more than the production costs and profits.
Honestly, I’m with them on this—if they charge a bit more to keep these standards, I think it’s worth it.
Final Words: Does Birkenstocks Worth the Money?
Yes! Birkenstocks are totally worth the money, and if you care about your feet, you should definitely check out their sandals.
I get it—they might look a bit “hippie,” but the comfort will seriously surprise you. What’s even funnier is how quickly you’ll get used to wearing sandals you once thought were ugly. I had the same experience. At first, it felt awkward, so I only wore them at home. But once I realized how comfortable they were, I stopped caring about what others thought and started wearing them out. Now, I’m all about comfort, and let people talk—I’m doing me!
So, yeah! Even if they’re a bit pricey, I still believe they offer a great new experience that everyone should try at least once.
FAQs
Can I Wear Birkenstock everyday?
Yes, you can wear Birkenstocks every day! They’re designed for comfort and support, making them great for daily wear. Just make sure to give your feet a break now and then to avoid overuse.
How Long Do Birkenstocks Last?
It depends on the user, but generally, Birkenstocks can last several years with proper care. Mine are going on their 6th year and still look great. Their durable materials, like cork soles and high-quality leather, hold up well over time.
Regular cleaning and occasional repairs can help extend their lifespan even more.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Birkenstocks?
Doctors mainly recommend Birkenstocks for their orthopedic benefits. They provide great support and comfort, thanks to their cork footbeds that mold to your feet. This helps with arch support and shock absorption, which can ease foot problems and keep your feet healthy.
