The footwear landscape has undergone a seismic shift, transcending the traditional dominance of legacy brands such as Nike and adidas. Although these titans maintain a formidable presence, the terrain has become increasingly fertile for many other players who have long occupied the periphery. The playing field has been evened, and everybody wins.

These days, the unorthodox, the unconventional, and the unique have found their place in the mainstream. Crocs, a long-standing champion of this ethos, has reaped considerable benefits from this paradigm shift, opening up the floodgates for more niche and alternative footwear such as HOKA, Salomon, Merrell, and the like. Similarly, Birkenstock has experienced a commensurate surge in prominence. So, for those wondering, let’s expound on…

Why Did Birkenstock Clogs Become Popular (Again)?

In the cauldron of the 1960s and ’70s American counterculture, Birkenstock emerged beyond as a mere sandal but as a sartorial emblem of rebellion and a paean to naturalism. Embraced by the bohemian spirit of the era—the hippies, the seekers of unconventional paths—the brand carved its initial niche, a haven outside the mainstream’s rigid confines.

This association, albeit relegated to the fringes initially, proved foundational, giving Birkenstock a distinct identity—a whispered promise of comfort and authenticity in a world often clamorous with artifice.

From these nascent beginnings, the gospel of Birkenstock spread through the most organic of channels: word of mouth. The sandals’ inherent comfort and resolute durability became their best advertisement, rippling testimonials echoing from foot to foot.

This grassroots endorsement was further fortified by the imprimatur of healthcare professionals, lending an air of scientific validation to the brand’s commitment to orthopedic well-being. The once-maligned footwear ascended from the realm of the purely practical to the pedestal of podiatric virtue.

Yet, the most compelling chapter in Birkenstock’s narrative is its unlikely metamorphosis within the fickle fashion space. Once deemed decidedly déclassé, the sandals underwent a gradual, almost alchemical transformation.

The glittering pronouncements of celebrity and influencer culture, supposed arbiters of taste, cast a new light upon the humble sandal, imbuing it with a newfound desirability. Akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes of unfashion, Birkenstocks graced the feet of tastemakers, trailblazers, and trendsetters, their image subtly but irrevocably altered.

Furthermore, strategic collaborations with the titans of fashion’s upper echelon—those design demigods—catapulted Birkenstock into the rarified air of haute couture. These partnerships, like carefully orchestrated symphonies, blended the brand’s utilitarian ethos with the avant-garde sensibilities of established designers, creating limited-edition masterpieces that blurred the lines between comfort and high art.

Finally, and perhaps most significantly, the very zeitgeist of fashion began to shift, embracing a newfound appreciation for comfort and utility. As the tyranny of impractical trends dissipated, Birkenstock’s inherent virtues—its orthopedic footbed and commitment to natural materials—were no longer liabilities but assets.

The sandals, once relegated to the periphery of style, found themselves squarely at its center, a testament to the enduring power of practicality and the cyclical nature of fashion’s capricious embrace.

Best Birkenstock collaborations in recent years:
Rick Owens, René Magritte x Opening Ceremony, Dior, Futura Laboratories, Toogood

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Perhaps the most compelling evidence of Birkenstock’s enduring appeal lies in its effortless navigation across disparate sartorial spaces. From the hallowed halls of high fashion to the gritty pavements of streetwear, the brand finds itself equally at home.

Even the sneaker-centric aesthetic of streetwear—a sphere typically defined by its own distinct codes and conventions—has welcomed Birkenstock into its fold.

This cross-pollination of styles speaks volumes about the sandal’s versatility and its ability to transcend transient trends. Thus, for our discerning reader, now perhaps intrigued by this narrative of comfort and style, we offer the following curated recommendations for…

The Best Birkenstock Clogs for Streetwear

Birkenstock Boston

The Birkenstock Boston, characterized by its closed-toe design, offers year-round wearability and enhanced protection compared to the other brand staple, the Arizona. Its signature contoured cork-latex footbed provides exceptional arch support, molding to the wearer’s foot for a personalized fit. A single adjustable strap ensures a secure feel, while various materials, from suede to leather and synthetics, cater to diverse preferences.

Birkenstock Zermatt

The Birkenstock Zermatt reimagines the traditional slipper with its cozy, closed-toe design, often crafted from wool felt or suede. The signature cork-latex footbed offers exceptional support, with some models featuring a shearling lining for added warmth.

While primarily designed for indoor relaxation, select Zermatt styles boast durable outsoles for light outdoor use. Maintaining Birkenstock’s minimalist aesthetic, the Zermatt is a stylish and comfortable choice for lounging.

Birkenstock Tokio

The Birkenstock Tokio is a clog engineered for more demanding work environments. Adjustable backstrap ensures a secure fit, crucial for stability, while the “Super Grip” sole provides exceptional slip resistance.

The signature cork-latex footbed offers all-day comfort and support, and durable leather uppers and robust outsoles withstand rigorous use. Prioritizing stability, slip resistance, and enduring comfort, the Tokio is a favored choice in healthcare and food service professions.

Birkenstock Zürich

The Birkenstock Zürich features a partially enclosed design—closed sides and open toe/heel. Its two adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, while the soft suede upper molds comfortably to the foot. The signature cork-latex footbed provides enduring support.

Birkenstock Kyoto

The Birkenstock Kyoto leans toward an intimate fit and adjustability with its compact silhouette and single, wide strap. Combining soft suede and nubuck leather, it exudes a more refined aesthetic. The signature cork-latex footbed provides enduring comfort and support. This blend of secure fit, adjustability, and modern styling makes the Kyoto a versatile choice.

Birkenstock London

The Birkenstock London is a refined take on the classic Birkenstock, with a fully enclosed design crafted from premium suede or oiled leather. Its minimalist design makes it the perfect complement to many styles and settings.

Where To Buy Birkenstock Clogs

Birkenstock clogs are readily available through the brand’s own network of brick-and-mortar boutiques and online emporium, with particularly special releases at their exclusive 1774 channel. Select purveyors of fine apparel, such as End Clothing, Mr Porter, and Farfetch also curate a selection of the brand’s offerings.

However, for those seeking rare collaborations and limited-edition releases, SNKRDUNK emerges as a treasure trove. As a point of departure, we present a curated selection of Birkenstock models currently available on SNKRDUNK.

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Source: Birkenstock; GQ; Shelflife

For the latest releases, breaking news, and exclusive interviews, stay tuned to the SNKRDUNK Magazine and @snkrdunk on Instagram. Explore the SNKRDUNK App and use the welcome code from the banner below before making your first purchase. Additionally, if you want to try a pair out, visit our stores in Singapore and Japan!

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