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Birkenstocks for Spring and Summer!

Birkenstock is one of the oldest brands you’ll find at Whole Earth. The first Birkenstock shoemaker began his work in 1774 in the small Hessian village of Langen-Bergheim. By the early twentieth century, the company was focused on inserts and shoes for those suffering foot pain. When Birkenstocks finally arrived in America during the 1960s, they were found primarily in health food and hippie stores. The real breakthrough came in 1973 with the introduction of the Arizona sandal, an iconic Birkenstock design that remains popular to this day.

Birkenstock sandals have been a favorite with our Whole Earth customers and staff for almost fifty years.  So what’s new in our Birkenstock collection for Spring and Summer 2021? We’re calling out the Soft Footbed, the Big Buckle, the Franca and the Arizona Essentials EVA.

Birkenstock’s Soft Footbed

In the past few years, many shoe companies have been emphasizing the role of foam in creating softer, more comfortable shoes. Birkenstock actually introduced their Soft Footbed back in 2000, but as a reminder, they have been touting it more of late. The foam layer is inserted between the suede footbed and the cork layer, allowing the footbed to mold more swiftly to the foot and offering extra cushioning.

At Whole Earth, you’ll find the Soft Footbed in many versions of the Arizona for men and women, the Boston for men, and the Mayari and the Florida for women. We’re especially excited by the Mayari Soft Footbed Nubuck Leather Sandals in a new color – Apricot! This beautiful color combined with white soles will make it a go-to pair of sandals for spring and summer wear.

Birkenstock’s Big Buckle

Another Birkenstock trend is the Big Buckle. The Arizona, the Siena and the Gizeh are iconic sandals. If you want to take it up a notch in the style department, what can you do? Birkenstock opted for the simplicity of the Big Buckle. Same design with new flair! The Siena Big Buckle Suede Leather Sandals in white is a case in point. The Siena’s crisscrossed straps and white soles say summer is here!

Birkenstock’s Franca Sandals

Love the crisscross, strappy look of the Siena but looking for something a bit lighter? Take a look at Franca Oiled Leather Sandals. The Franca’s strategically placed straps keep the sandals comfortably in place. If you love your Mayaris but are frustrated that you can’t wear them with socks, the Franca is sock friendly for wearing in cooler weather. It’s a Birkenstock for all seasons.

Birkenstock's Arizona Essentials EVA

And if you haven’t yet tried the Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA, summer is coming! These Birkenstocks are waterproof and washable. Great for outdoor fun by the water or for rainy days. If they get dirty, hose them down and they’re good to go. They’re available in sizes for men, women and kids (Kids’ Arizona EVA) and in fun colors.

These are just a few of the Birkenstock sandals you’ll find in our stores and online. Take a look at our selection and get ready for summer fun with sandals from a maker known for their quality, comfort and style.