I've never been the type to stockpile comfortable shoes. I usually only have 10 pairs total—and I keep each for years, even though their daily wear-and-tear is observable. Last month, though, when my house sandals went the way of the Dodo, I surfed the interwebs to finally get myself a pair of Birkenstock sandals. I, for one, really love the look and feel of Birks (especially the Birkenstock EVA, the classic pair you've probably seen on many feet), as well as Birkenstock Teva and Nappa Quince Leather sandals), they've been lovingly nicknamed. But as soon as I got online, I saw what I deemed to be too hefty a price tag. Disillusioned but not disheartened, I started searching for Birkenstock dupes.
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare
Because of the nature of the internet (and my not-so-shabby reporting skills), I found so many cheaper alternatives to Birkenstocks from searching for just a couple of hours. The best part? The ones I found are all $60 or less. No one is saying that means you should buy three pairs instead of one—because sustainability starts with you—but it’s certainly nice to have an extra $100 in your bank account whenever possible.
All that said, I live in Los Angeles, where it's perfectly possible, and even acceptable, to wear sandals year round. If you live in a place that actually gets seasons, where the temperature drops well below the usual 60 degrees of my hometown, you might be searching for comfy slippers or comfortable clogs instead of sandals. Or you might be searching for both, in preparation for the warmer months that are to come.
Whatever the case is for you, find the best Birkenstock dupes for sandals and slippers below. You’re welcome.
6 Birkenstock dupes for sandals
With a name like “Aerothotic”, you know these slides are going to be comfy. They’re pretty much the same as the real Birkenstock brand, complete with a cork midsole that molds to your feet and leather-looking uppers, only they’re half the price.
Sizes available: 6-11
Colors: 8
Pros:
- Has comfy cork insole
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Slip-on design
Cons:
- Runs small
Even though I spent hours on the web searching for Birkenstock dupes, I ended up getting these for $10 at Target. (What can I say? I love a good deal.) The sandals come in 10 different colors, so you can get whichever one catches your eye. Unlike Birks, these are made of plastic. But just like Birks, they’re very comfortable and require little break-in time.
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comes in a variety of colors
- No break-in time required
Cons:
- Not ideal for long-distance walking
If the 23 color and material options aren’t enough to convince you that this sandal is a smart purchase, perhaps you’ll consider that, like Birks, this sandal is a combination of suede insoles, a cork footbed, and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) outsoles for a flexible sandal. Because of that, it’ll take a second for you to break them in. But once you do, they’ll contour your feet as they should. And between us, nobody will realize these aren’t real Birks.
Sizes available: 6-11, in half sizes
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Affordable
- Has cork footbed
- Heel cup
Cons:
- Runs small
The Mona Black Crocodile sandals resemble Birkenstock’s Ankle Strap Sandals ($180) but for half the price. These sandals are built with a molded footbed that shapes to your foot over time, so walking is comfy. Other notable features include i an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, stylish crocodile pattern and gold hardware that gives the shoe an elevated look.
Sizes available: 5-11, in half sizes
Colors: 11
Pros:
- Stylish
- Gold hardware gives the shoe an elevated look
- Has backstrap for extra support
- Molded footbed
Cons:
- Pricier compared to others on the list
Instead of using synthetic materials for their soles, this Birkenstock dupe uses suede, which can help keep your feet from getting, uh, sweaty, as well as a blended cork midsole and EVA outsole for maximum comfort. Additionally, the buckles are functional (as opposed to decorative), so you can adjust the straps to your liking.
Sizes available: 5-12, in half sizes
Colors: 11
Pros:
- Has adjustable straps
- Arch support
- Non-skid rubber sole
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not ideal for wide feet
Could this be the most beautiful Birkenstock dupe ever created? Prone to dramatics as a Leo sun, I certainly think so. On a serious note, these Freedom Moses sandals have a plastic sole and are injected with air to make for a more comfy walking experience. They’re also cruelty-free, 100 percent vegan, and (as if those two things weren’t enough) infused with essential oils to provide a milk and honey scent.
Sizes available: 5-10.5, in half sizes
Colors: 55
Pros:
- Available in 55 colors
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Non-slip sole
- Molded footbed
Cons:
- Straps are not adjustable
4 Birkenstock Boston clog dupes
As far as Birkenstock Boston dupes go, one Amazon reviewer says, “These shoes are exactly the same other than the price. They both adjust, they are both comfortable. Same cork sole, the insole is just as good.” That makes sense considering that the shoe, in fact, has an EVA outsole, suede insoles, and a vegan leather exterior.
Sizes available: 6-11, in half sizes and two widths
Colors: 5
Pros:
- Comfortable, suede insole
- Looks like Birkenstock clog
- Affordable
Cons:
- Faux leather creases over time
This slipper is made from felt opposed to leather, making it a friendlier option for those who want a vegan style. It’s also lined with plush faux fur to keep your feet warm and has adjustable straps. Choose from classic gray or a pretty light pink.
Sizes available: 5-11
Colors: gray
Pros:
- Lined with faux fur
- Vegan
- Slip-on style
- Comfy felt upper
Cons:
- Only available in one color
These Cushionaire platform clogs come recommended by Miguel Cunha, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare. “These clogs are designed with a soft vegan leather upper that comes with an adjustable strap, a two-inch platform with rocker bottom sole, and a cushioned cork footbed that molds to your feet,” says Dr. Cunha. Also nice? The platform gives a wee bit of height for shorter folks.
Sizes available: 6.5-11, in half sizes and two widths
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Has platform
- Molded footbed
- Vegan leather upper
- Has rocker-like sole
Cons:
- Runs large
- Smallest size is 6.5
Whip out these lightweight clogs for chill days or running errands. The slip-on design makes it easy to leave the house, and the shoe boasts a contoured footbed that’s comfortable and supportive to walk on for days on your feet. Despite the clogs being available in just two colors, the tan and black are basic and can be paired with a variety of outfits!
Sizes available: 5-11, in half sizes
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Contoured footbed
- Comfortable to wear
- Supportive
- Good value
Cons:
- Only available in two colors
- Tan suede is hard to clean
FAQs
Are Birkenstock dupes just as good?
It depends on a few key features. According to Dr. Cunha, the dupe should be designed with a contoured arch, as this allows the feet to rest comfortably and with support. Also important to have? A deep heel cup. It “allows the heel to rest secured and support on both sides for stability and natural foot alignment,” he adds.
You’ll also want to look for quality materials and a slip-resistant outsole. Materials like cork, leather, and suede are generally more comfortable, durable, and breathable, and a slip-resistant outsole prevents you from Cha Cha Sliding.
What is a cheaper alternative to Birkenstocks?
The aforementioned shoes are all great alternatives to Birkenstocks, but Dr. Cunha points out Steve Madden’s Social Suede Clogs ($40) because it ticks all of the boxes. “These clogs have a lightweight faux cork midsole, comfortable suede upper, molded footbed, and buck strap for support and stability,” he says.
What is the best alternative to Boston clogs?
Dr. Cunha likes Nokout’s Boston Suede Clogs ($37). This pair is made of soft suede leather, has anti-slip soles, and an arched footbed for support and comfort. Not to mention, they buckles double as a supportive and style element.
Loading More Posts...
