Are Birkenstocks worth the hype? In this hands-on review, we’ll cover what you need to know about the iconic Birkenstock brand’s sandals.
Birkenstock is an extremely popular brand, but you may be wondering if their products are actually worth the price.
In this review, we’ll take a look at their Lugano sandal to help you decide if you should add a pair of Birkenstocks to your footwear collection.
Table of Contents
Quick Take
Birkenstock makes great sandals that are worth the money. The break-in process is unpleasant, but if you see it through, you’ll have a stylish and comfortable pair of sandals that’ll last you a long time.
Pros
- They’re stylish
- They offer half sizes
- The materials feel high-quality
Cons
- Breaking them in is painful
- For some people, the price is steep
Click here to check out the Birkenstock Lugano, or read on for the full review.
About Birkenstock
You’ve probably heard of Birkenstock (who hasn’t?), but you may not know that they’ve been making high-quality footwear for a very long time.
Their origins actually go back to the year 1774 in Germany. Check out the Birkenstock website for their full story.
Why are Birkenstocks so popular? In my opinion, it’s because they’re stylish and extremely sturdy sandals that look cool and rugged and last a long time.
Review of the Birkenstock Lugano
Here are my thoughts on the Birkenstock Lugano, a great-looking leather sandal that sports the classic Birkenstock cork footbed.
Breaking In
Birkenstocks are notorious for having a rough break-in process, and for good reason.
I’ve honestly never experienced so much discomfort from any other pair of footwear. But don’t let that scare you away. After you break them in, you’ll have a very comfortable sandal that conforms to your foot.
The break-in process is painful and will probably give you blisters, but it’s kind of a “no pain, no gain” situation. It’s worth the discomfort. Just wear them a little bit each day for a couple weeks and they’ll be ready for comfortable, regular wear.
Also, a pro tip is to wear socks during the break-in process to ease to burden. As you’ll read later in this article, Birkenstocks look surprisingly good with socks.
Fit and Comfort
After you break in a pair of Birkenstocks, they’re super comfortable and supportive. Not in a “fluffy, walking on a cloud” kind of way, but in a sturdy way. The cork footbed will conform to your unique foot shape and the outsole, made with EVA, make for a sandal that provides ample support.
Overall, they nailed the combo of leather, cork and EVA to make a cool and comfortable sandal.
The Lugano offers half sizes which is a big plus. I would complain that they’re a little too long, but that’s how they’re supposed to be so your foot won’t feel constricted.
Overall, I find the Lugano to be a very comfortable sandal.
Styling
Like a lot of leather sandals, Birkenstocks have a rugged vibe which I think looks great. They’re high-quality sandals, but they don’t look fancy.
They’re perfect for spring or summer casual outfits. I usually slip them on before I go for a walk, and I love wearing them to the beach.
Birkenstocks With Socks?
Bear with me here. I have to say, these sandals look great with socks. I never thought I would speak or write those words, but it’s the truth. I’ve worn the Lugano’s with socks on milder fall and winter days.
It’s a super comfortable combination, and I love the way it looks. That being said, wearing socks with sandals is obviously super controversial and some people will hate it no matter what. Personally, I like the relaxed look and the comfort.
Wearing socks with sandals is one of those odd fashion choices that’s either a lame faux pas or super cool, depending on how and where you do it. It definitely violates menswear canon, but it can certainly be done. If you are going to wear socks with sandals, Birkenstocks are probably your best choice.
Questions About Birkenstock
Here are the answers to some questions you may have about Birkenstock.
How Do You Break in Birkenstocks?
You just have to wear them for a couple of weeks, there’s no way around it. The info card that came in the box said to bend the sandals, and for the first five or six times you wear them, limit wear to a few hours.
Are Birkenstocks Worth It?
Yes, they are worth the price. Their sandals are stylish and well-made.
Are Birkenstocks Comfortable?
After you get past the initial break-in period, Birkenstocks are super comfortable! Commit to wearing them for a couple of weeks, and you’ll have yourself a comfortable pair of sandals that conforms to your foot shape.
Can You Wear Socks With Birkenstocks?
You can wear whatever you want! What’s important is that you’re comfortable and like the way you look.
Just like any other fashion choice, it’s subjective and not everyone is going to like it, but in my opinion, Birkenstocks look great when worn with socks.
My Recommendation
Birkenstock makes awesome sandals that are perfect for spring and summer. If you dig the Birkenstock with socks look, they’re great for fall too!
If you’re looking for a pair of high-quality leather sandals that won’t break the bank, I definitely recommend trying a pair of Birkenstocks.
Questions? Comments? Leave them below!
The Eva is made from faulty plastic which splits on the inside toes and causes you to trip when you walk as the fold under you just after 5 months. The Birkenstock company workshop manager did not care. I have worn many different Birkenstocks for over 30 years and now my daughter but think it is time to go elsewhere.
So… I just bought my first pair of Arizona Birkenstock sandals. I made the investment because all the reviews I read said that they are the most comfortable sandals made, as well as sturdy and long lasting. Well, I wore them for a total of 3 days. They are the most uncomfortable things I’ve ever had on my feet! I will try again, and I will limit my wearing them to 2 hours the first day, building up by one hour each day, until I can wear them all day comfortably. If they ever get comfortable LOL!
Are you positive you got the right fit? Did you get the soft or hard sole? Are you used to flexible/soft running shoes? Because Birks are the opposite of those (but most people find them to be very comfy after break in).
I’ve had my pair of Arizona Birkenstocks for over 10 years. I wear them almost everywhere. My husband can’t stand it when I wear them with socks, even around the house!