Women's sandals and flip-flops: comfort and anatomical sole

Sandals Birkenstock

• Arizona: two adjustable straps, the most versatile and well-known.
• Gizeh: flip-flops, slimmer and lighter.
• Madrid: single strap, the most minimalist.
• Boston: closed clogs, to extend the season.

All share the same anatomical cork and latex sole, which moulds to your foot over time as you wear them. Find the brand on the Birkenstock women's page.

Birko-Flor, leather, suede, or EVA?

Birko-Flor is the synthetic material from Birkenstock: lightweight, easy to clean with just a wipe, it's the most practical option for everyday wear. Smooth or oiled leather develops a patina over time, and suede gives a softer look.

EVA, a lightweight and waterproof foam, is great for the beach and pool: it rinses clean with fresh water.

The Big Buckle

The Big Buckle version replaces the classic buckles with a large metal buckle, giving a more fashionable touch to the Arizona and Gizeh. It comes in several materials and colours.

Choosing the right size

Birkenstock only offers whole sizes and recommends going for the larger size if in doubt. Your foot should leave a few millimetres in front of the toes and behind the heel, without overhanging the sole.

There are two widths available: Regular, which is quite generous, and Narrow, marked "narrow," for slim feet.

Clogs Crocs

Lightweight and waterproof, Crocs clogs are perfect for the beach, garden, or home. They dry quickly and can be cleaned with water.

Sandals and summer outfits

A brown Arizona pairs well with a linen dress, denim shorts, or wide trousers. A slimmer Gizeh fits nicely under a long dress. A white or metallic version brightens up a summer outfit.

For the city, choose leather or suede; for the beach, go for EVA.

Boston clogs in leather and suede

Closed at the front and open at the back, the Boston clog can be worn from the first warm days until autumn. In suede, it gives a soft look with jeans or linen trousers; in oiled leather, it develops a patina over time.

It's often the second pair of Birkenstock after the Arizona, for those days when you want to cover your toes.

Sandals Rivecour

The range also includes some Rivecour models, alongside the big names. They broaden the choice of shapes and colours for summer.

What colour for your sandals?

Brown and taupe match most summer outfits. Black goes well with dark jeans or a dark dress. White and silver brighten up a light outfit but require more maintenance.

Sandals and socks

In mid-season, a pair of plain ribbed socks with an Arizona or Boston clog extends the open shoe season. White, cream, or grey are the easiest to wear.

Breaking in a cork sole

The Birkenstock sole is firm to begin with. Wear your sandals for a few hours a day, then gradually increase the time: in a few weeks, they will take the shape of your foot.

Sandals for long walking

For a day of exploring in summer, a sandal with adjustable straps, like the Arizona, holds the foot better than flip-flops. Its arch support reduces fatigue at the end of the day.

Maintaining leather sandals

Wipe the leather with a damp cloth and occasionally nourish it. Avoid standing water, which can damage the cork.

Maintaining suede and Birko-Flor

Suede should be brushed dry and protected with a waterproofing spray. Birko-Flor can be easily cleaned with a sponge and soapy water.

Sandals or mules?

The sandal holds the foot with its straps, while the mule slips on without a back attachment. Check out the women's mules and flip-flops for slip-on styles.

All styles are found in the women's shoes by type section.

Frequently asked questions

Arizona or Gizeh?

The Arizona, with two straps, holds the foot better and suits everyone; the Gizeh, with its toe post, is slimmer and lighter.

What is Birko-Flor?

The synthetic material from Birkenstock, lightweight and easy to clean, that mimics the appearance of leather.

Are EVA sandals waterproof?

Yes, they are waterproof and can be rinsed with fresh water, perfect for the beach and pool.

How to choose between Regular and Narrow?

Regular for a normal or wide foot, Narrow for a slim foot that floats in the standard width.

Which sandal for mid-season?

The Boston clog, closed at the front and worn with thin socks, extends the season into autumn.

How long does it take to break in the sole?

A few weeks, starting with short wear sessions.