Birkenstock Uppers Material Breakdown
August 24, 2020
Birkenstock are committed to sourcing the highest-quality materials to ensure that their products are durable, sustainable and provide supreme comfort and support.
The primary materials used in the uppers of Birkenstock shoes include leather (natural, nubuck, oiled and suede), wool felt, and sythetics (BIrko-flor®, microfibre, felt, EVA).
Leather
Birkenstock produce a range of premium leather sandals, boots and sneakers. Leather is a popular choice for shoes and accessories due to its durability, breathability and softness. Birkenstock respects the natural properties of the leather interfering with the natural grain and surface properties as little as possible.
With wear, natural leathers will develop their own unique character over time, depending on the elements that they are exposed to. These changes in the surface, which can include creases, wrinkles and fine patinas, are indicative of a true natural material, which allows every Birkenstock to develop a unique and natural character over time.
Premium Leather
Birkenstock Natural Leather
Leather is one of the most robust natural materials used in traditional shoe manufacturing. Birkenstock natural leather is selected for its particularly high quality and thickness.
Nubuck Leather
Birkenstock Nubuck Leather
Nubuck leather is a top-grain leather that has a softly brushed outer surface for a gentle, velvety finish in both look and feel.
Oiled Leather
Birkenstock Oiled Leather
Birkenstock Oiled Leather features an oily or waxy finish that's designed to acquire a unique distressed patina over time. Oiled Leather will pick up marks, scuffs and scratches as part of the distressing process, which will start to occur from the moment the product is produced. You can reduce the appearance of marks or buff them out with Beeswax Dressing and a clean cloth if desired.
Suede Leather
Birkenstock Suede Leather
Suede leather uppers are the perfect solution if you're after a soft, comfortable and relaxed finish in both look and feel. Breathable and flexible, suede provides the most give out of all the Birkenstock uppers, quickly adapting to your foot shape and movement. The natural finish will develop an individual patina as it ages and wears, though can be kept clean with a suede brush or suede conditioner.
Wool Felt
Birkenstock Wool Felt
Wool felt is among the oldest textiles in the world and is often the the go-to for creating warm slipper uppers. Combining a cosy wool upper with a Birkenstock footbed - the perfect combo for slippery comfort you can get away with at home or on the streets.
The Birkenstock Vegan collection features a synthetic felt free of any animal ingredients.
Birko-Flor®
Birkenstock Birko-Flor®
Birko-Flor® is a durable and easy to clean synthetic material, made to sit comfortably against the skin and used exclusively by Birkenstock. Birko-Flor® is also used in the production of the Birkenstock Vegan collection for an animal-free alternative to leather.
Birko-Flor® Patent
Birkenstock Birko-Flor® Patent
The Birkenstock Birko-Flor® in a patent finish offers a soft, water-repellent and durable synthetic alternative to leather. The glossy patent finish gives premium look to a classic Birkenstock.
Microfibre
Microfibre fabric is a durable material which encourages the circulation of air and has excellent moisture-wicking properties.
EVA
Birkenstock EVA Sandal
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is a high-quality, super light, elastic material that's soft and cushy underfoot. The elasticity and softness smooths out slight irregularities in the floor and ensures that every step is softly cushioned. The Birkenstock EVA collection is designed for light use and water-based leisure activity, such as the pool, beach or boat.
The Birkenstock EVA collection is free from animal-products and part of the Birkenstock Vegan collection.