Birkenstock Sizing: How Do They Fit?

So, you’ve finally given into the Birkenstock hype, have you? You won’t be disappointed. Once the footwear option of choice for our parents, Birkenstocks have actually been doing the rounds on the fashion circuit over the past couple of years, and actually, we’re pretty happy to see it. Following collabs with the likes of Rick Owens, Stüssy and most recently Dior, the humble cork-based sandal is likely to be summer’s must-have shoe, but if you’re looking for Birkenstock sizing help, you probably already know that.

Known for being comfortable and supportive, Birkenstock’s history can be traced all the way back to the 1700s, when Johann Adam Birkenstock started his family shoemaking business. 120 years later, his descendant, Conrad, developed flexible footbed insoles, which became the base of the footbed we know today. Fast forward to 1963, Karl Birkenstock developed the first Birkenstock sandal, and changed the market forever.

Featuring a packed line-up of summer-friendly styles, finding a Birkenstock to fit you couldn’t be easier, and to help you out, we’ve put together a handy Birkenstock size guide. For this, we’ll be focusing on their two bestselling styles – the Arizona Sandal and the Boston Clog.

Firstly, before we even start with the sizing, it’s worth noting that Birkenstocks will take some wearing in, but when they get there, it’ll be 100% worth it. To help speed up the process, gently flex the base of your Birks with your hands, and wear them for short periods inside for a while.

The Boston is Birkenstock’s top selling clog, and the style that inspired the Dior collaboration. Coming in nubuck, suede, felted and even vegan options, the Birkenstock Boston has a variation to suit everyone, and its closed cap allows for the silhouette to give more support than a standard sandal.

Generally, the Birkenstock Bostons fit true to size and offer some great support. They also come in two fits which can be seen on the clog's footbed; M, which is their regular size, and N which is for a narrower fit. While this doesn't make a difference on the length of the shoe, it can make a big difference on the fit as the Boston doesn't have any support to lock in the heel. The closed toe of the Bostons can feel a little wide, so if you have slim feet, or your foot moves to the side when you wear a regular fit, the narrow are likely to fit you better.

Once you get the fit right and break them in, Birkenstocks are extremely comfortable. The support comes from the footbed and strap, which should make it feel as if you are wearing a sealed shoe. If your feet are very sensitive, the brand does make a ‘Soft Footbed’ version of most styles, which means that a cushioned layer of natural rubber has been added between the cork and latex for extra comfort.

Yes, Birkenstock Sandals are also true to size and come in a medium or narrow fit depending on your needs. When you're selecting your size online, opt for your usual EU size to get the most wear out of your Birks. If you didn’t already know, those two-stap Birkenstock sandals you’ve been seeing everywhere are called the Birkenstock Arizona sandals, and they’re probably the brand’s best-selling style. Minimalist and timeless, it’s easy to see why the Arizona is so popular.

Again, taking note of the width of the sandals is important. If you’re wearing your sneakers or your sandal straps at their tightest and your feet are still slipping to the side, you should try a narrow pair instead to get a better fit.

If you're unfamiliar with your EU size or you just want to make sure you get the perfect fit, there are a couple of tricks you can use to make sure your Birkenstocks fit properly. If you’re not convinced your usual EU size is right, try measuring your feet on a sheet of A4 paper. Place the paper on the floor, and standing with your heels to the wall, mark the widest and longest parts of your foot. You can then input this measurement into Birkenstock’s own online shoe fitter to get your results.

Once you have a pair of Birkenstock clogs, check they fit properly by making sure you can fit a finger between your foot and the top of the clog.

Birkenstock Bostons and Arizonas are both very quick to break in – just remember to flex the base a little bit and wear them around the house for a while. However, if you do struggle, a ‘Soft Footbed’ version is available which allows the shoe to mould to your feet more quickly and easily.

The Birkenstock Boston looks great worn with socks and tailored trousers (hello Grandad vibes!) but the range’s earth-toned colour palette means they’ll go with pretty much anything.

Looking after your Birkenstock sandals couldn’t be easier, as they really don’t require much cleaning. If they are starting to look a little tired, how to clean your Birks will depend on what material they’re made from. If your Birkenstock sandals are made from smooth leather, simply wiping them over with a soft dry cloth should do the trick. If they’re suede, you’ll need to use a suede brush, and if they’re nubuck, opt for a nubuck block.

To keep your Birkenstock sandals in tiptop shape, be sure to look after the cork footbed too. When the cork base no longer looks shiny, it’s time for another layer of cork sealant. Making sure you keep your Birkenstock’s footbed clean if the best way to extend the life of your pair.

While you're here, why not check out some of our other size guides below!