Birkenstocks - FAQ's and What is Birko Flor, Birkibuc and the Leathers

Care tip: Keep your Birkenstocks looking their best by wiping them clean, applying Cork Sealer to protect the edges, and refreshing the footbed with Birkenstock Footbed Cleaner.

How long do they last?
With regular care, leather Birkenstocks can last for many seasons. Uppers and footbeds can be reconditioned, and if the soles are not worn down to far they can be replaced by authorized repairers, making them a sustainable long-term choice.

How do I clean Birkenstocks?

Click to go to our deadicated Birkenstock Shoe Care Guide

What’s the best fit for me – Regular or Narrow?

Regular Fit is ideal for average to wider feet, while Narrow Fit suits slimmer feet. Both feature adjustable straps for a secure and comfortable fit. It's really hard to gauge and the only real way is to try them on. It is important for Birkenstocks to fit correctly.

Why is the correct fit important? Please see the video at the bottom of the page

Birkenstocks unique foot bed means that it is aligning your whole body including the back, hips and knees. The arch support helps with pronating (rolling inwards), however for some it will have the opposite effect. If you are unsure please consult a medical professional.

Sizing

It is also important to have the correct length. Due to the rounding up of the toe area with wear, a 5mm gap at the toes is recommended and no hard pressure at the heels. Incorrect length can mean the break down of the cork and also discomfort for the wearer.

The arch support must be in the correct place under the foot and also the toe ridges under the toe knuckles.

What is Birko-Flor in Birkenstocks

Is Birko-Flor vegan?
Not necessarily. Birko-Flor is Birkenstock’s synthetic upper material made from durable PVC with a soft fleece backing. While it contains no animal-derived material itself, most Birko-Flor styles – including the Arizona – have a suede (natural leather) footbed lining. Only models specifically labeled “Vegan” use microfiber linings instead of suede.

What’s the difference between Birko-Flor and leather?
Birko-Flor is a smooth, easy-care synthetic upper designed to look like leather. It resists scuffs, doesn’t require conditioning, and keeps its color and shape. Leather uppers – whether smooth, oiled, or nubuck – are natural materials that break in, breathe, and develop a unique patina over time.

Are Birko-Flor sandals durable?
Yes. Birko-Flor is tear-resistant, skin-friendly, and built for daily wear. Many customers choose it for its long-lasting finish and easy-care qualities.

Leather vs Birko-Flor: which should I choose?

Leather: natural feel and breathability, breaks in and develops a unique patina. Requires occasional care and conditioning.

Birko-Flor: easy-care synthetic upper with a smooth-leather look. Minimal break-in, holds its finish, simple wipe-clean care.

Footbed: both versions use the classic Birkenstock cork-latex footbed with a suede (natural leather) lining. Only items explicitly marked “Vegan” use non-leather linings.

Shop our options here: The Birkenstock Collection

Smooth Leather & Habana What are the differences

What’s the difference between Dark Brown Smooth Leather and Habana Oiled Leather?
Smooth leather has a uniform, polished finish with one consistent tone. The Habana oiled leather version has a more rustic, vintage appearance with visible grain and shading. Both use the same cork-latex footbed and suede lining for comfort.

How should I care for smooth leather Birkenstocks?
Wipe clean with a damp cloth and condition occasionally with Birkenstock Footbed & Shoe Protector. Keep cork edges sealed and avoid direct sunlight or high heat when drying.

Are smooth leather Birkenstocks waterproof?
No — like most leather sandals, they are not waterproof. If your Birkenstocks get wet, dry them slowly away from direct heat.

What’s the best fit for me – Regular or Narrow?
Regular Fit is ideal for average to wider feet, while Narrow Fit suits slimmer feet. Both feature adjustable straps for a secure and comfortable fit.

What is Birkibuc?

What’s the difference between Mocha Birkibuc and Dark Brown Birko-Flor?
Mocha Birkibuc has a soft, suede-like finish and a lighter brown tone, while Dark Brown Birko-Flor has a smooth, polished surface that looks more like leather.

Is Birkibuc leather?
No. Birkibuc is a synthetic material that mimics the feel of nubuck leather but contains no animal-derived materials in the upper. The footbed, however, still features a suede (natural leather) lining.

How does Mocha compare to Habana leather?
Habana Oiled Leather is a richer, darker brown with a vintage finish, whereas Mocha Birkibuc is lighter and has a matte, velvety texture.

Are Birkibuc Birkenstocks waterproof?
No, they are water-resistant but not waterproof. If they get wet, let them dry naturally away from direct heat.

About Our Brands

Birkenstock – The original comfort sandal, loved for its contoured cork footbed and timeless two-strap design. Explore styles like Arizona, Mayari, and Gizeh.

Dr Martens – Iconic British boots and sandals built for comfort and attitude. Discover classic 1460 boots and bold new sandal styles.

Los Cabos – Modern sandals and slides designed for effortless style and comfort, inspired by summer living.

Laguna Quays – Relaxed Australian footwear in soft synthetics, from easy sandals to wedges and boots.

Rollie Nation – Lightweight, colourful sneakers and shoes that blend fun design with all-day comfort.

Woden – Scandinavian sneakers crafted from natural and recycled materials for everyday style and sustainability.

Crocs – Casual comfort reimagined. From classic clogs to colourful slides, Crocs make every step easy.

Barbour – Heritage British outerwear and footwear known for quality craftsmanship and timeless country style. Explore classic boots and casual shoes designed for comfort, durability, and sophistication.

Archies – The ultimate comfort flip-flops with built-in arch support. Designed by a physiotherapist for all-day wear — lightweight, supportive, and perfect for summer adventures.

ECCO – Scandinavian-crafted footwear that pairs innovation with elegance. ECCO shoes use premium leathers and anatomical designs for everyday comfort and effortless style.

Blundstone – Iconic Tasmanian boots built to last. Blundstone combines rugged durability, comfort, and easy pull-on style — made for work, weekends, and everything in between.

Bay Lane – Stylish Australian-designed footwear offering everyday comfort with a modern edge. From casual sandals to easy sneakers, Bay Lane makes relaxed dressing effortless.

Teva Kids – Adventure-ready sandals built for play and exploration. Teva Kids combines comfort, durability, and quick-dry materials — perfect for little feet on the move.

Keen Kids – Rugged, water-friendly footwear made for outdoor fun. Keen Kids sandals and shoes protect growing feet with all-terrain grip and signature toe protection.

Bobux – Award-winning New Zealand brand specialising in quality leather shoes for babies, toddlers, and kids. Designed for healthy foot development and natural movement.

Skechers – Global comfort leader blending sporty design with innovation. From performance trainers to everyday sneakers, Skechers brings lightweight cushioning and all-day comfort.

Pretty Brave – New Zealand-designed baby and kids’ footwear with a playful, modern twist. Ethically made, comfy, and stylish for little explorers.

EMU Australia – Premium sheepskin and wool-lined boots designed for warmth, comfort, and natural breathability. EMU footwear blends classic Australian style with everyday durability.

EOS – Contemporary European-inspired leather footwear crafted with soft leathers and modern styling. EOS delivers comfort, confidence, and timeless appeal in every pair.

Ziera – A New Zealand born comfort brand blending podiatry-based design with everyday style. Orthotic-friendly with removable, anatomically contoured footbeds, adjustable arch support, and multiple width options for a personalised, all-day cushioned fit.