Ah, Birkenstocks. What lovely pieces of footwear. So many people think they’re ugly af and I get made fun of for wearing “Jesus shoes” frequently, but all the haters have no idea what they’re missing.
They’re ridiculously comfortable.
Birkenstocks are famous for their cork footbed, a design that allows the shoe to conform to the wearer’s feet. Even though breaking in new Birks is kind of rough, once your shoes get worn in, it’s like waking around barefoot… but better! My feet feel comfortable, relaxed, and I feel like I could walk 500 miles in my Birks.
They’re so boho.
Birkenstocks also happen to be known as the shoes of hippies (when hippies actually wear shoes, that is). Birkenstocks evoke that bohemian, carefree vibe. Their appearance is clearly earthy and retro, but also the comfort value and wearability of these shoes fit perfectly into the easy-going and laid-back lifestyle of a hippie.
They can be dressed up or worn casually.
Depending on the actual design of your ‘Stocks, they can be worn with just about any outfit! A metallic Gizeh thong sandal works perfectly with a cute maxi dress or springy sundress for a eating out at a nice restaurant or something along those lines. And at the same time, Birks can be paired with high waisted shorts and a t-shirt, and even skinny jeans and a cute top! They’re the most versatile shoes in the world because they go with literally anything. *Disclaimer: I may or may not have worn my Granadas at a wedding.*
They’re meant to last.
Most other sandals on the shelves nowadays aren’t built to last a long period of time: when we buy running shoes, boots or high heels, we generally keep them for a long time because they are made better than strappy sandals. Mainstream strappy sandals are flimsy and don’t provide, like, any foot support at all. But Birkenstocks, on the other hand, are built with quality materials BY HUMANS WITH REAL HUMAN HANDS! They’re durable and won’t break at the end of the summer.
And of course, the most important one…
They’re perfect for the “socks and sandals” look.
Make fun of socks and sandals all you want, but you’ll never know the glory that is socks and ‘Stocks until you try it. It’s like wearing slippers with the added ability to walk around in public. In fact, I personally think socks and ‘Stocks are more comfortable than slippers because your feet are able to breathe through the sock. Also, socks and ‘Stocks is the ultimate way to extend the wearability of your sandals. Yes, that’s right: you can now wear open-toed shoes in November! I have worn my Birks in 30 degree weather and I have no shame.
If you’ve ever owned Birkenstocks, there is no question that you can relate to these wonderful Pirks (note rhyme). If you’re now frantically Googling “birkenstocks” and find a single tear forming in your right eye when you see how expensive they are, do not despair! Birks are worth every penny, I promise! They’re an investment that not only lets you walk around in socks and sandals, but supreme comfort. Even though my bank account is still feeling the sting a little bit, I love mine to death.