Birkenstock Is 247 Years Old, But the Newest Designs Keep It Fresh for Summer 2021

Photo: Getty Images/Kirstin Sinclair

Birkenstock has earned its loyal fan base, celebrity recognition, and podiatrist approval because of its unmistakable ergonomic design. The shoes are simple, breathable, versatile, structured, and most of all, comfortable. And they've got some serious staying power. Based in Germany, Birkenstock has been around since the 1700s, but they werent introduced to the U.S. fashion market until 1966. That said, just because the design is timeless, it doesn't mean that Birkenstock doesn't launch new and on-trend designs for its sandals, clogs, boots, and sneakers for men, women, and children every season.

Birkenstock footbeds are crafted to mimic the wearer's natural footprint in the sand, which means that while many of the slides in your collection may cause foot cramping or strain on your tendons after wearing them for long periods of time, Birkenstocks have a bit more arch support and durability.

The brand also gets bonus points for being one of the original trailblazers in the world of eco-conscious footwear. Each pair of Birks is crafted using sustainable manufacturing practices and uses natural materials like cork, copper, brass, and ethically-sourced leather. And Birkenstock was one of the first brands to prioritize reducing its carbon footprint by using water-soluble and solvent-free adhesives in the production process.

Whether you're looking for a casual pair of slides to wear to the beach or a more elevated summer sandal with a bit of a platform or heel, these are the new Birkenstock designs you'll want to rock all season long.

New Birkenstock Designs for 2021

Arizona Big Buckle — $150.00

The classic Arizona style has been a favorite year after year. This new iteration features a bigger, statement buckle and comes in two bright shades—fuchsia tulip and apricot—that are perfect for spring and summer.

Madrid Birko-Flor Patent — $90.00

This patent leather style is the epitome of ease. The single strap makes it quick to slip on and off, while the shine and bright color are there to give any laid-back, beach outfit and extra pop.

Arizona Essentials EVA — $45.00

This pair of Arizona Essentials is made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which is a high-quality, lightweight, shock-absorbant, waterproof, and cushiony elastic material that makes each step feel soft.

Mary Leather — $160.00

The Mary is Birkenstock’s take on the classic Mary Jane style, but with a lightweight wedge. The closed-toe makes it perfect for city living, when you don’t want to come home to your soles feeling grimy and in desperate need of a wash. The subtle V-notch on the instep is also there for added ease while walking.

Tatacoa Birko-Flor — $170.00

The Tatacoa is the perfect shoe for all of your adventures from camping and hiking to regular travel. It features hook-and-loop closures, a microfiber footbed liner, and a rugged outsole for added traction and durability. The upper is made from an easy-to-care-for synthetic fiber that’s lined on the inside with a soft. breathable layer of fleece.

Boston Super Grip Leather — $260.00

This new take on the brand’s signature slip-on clog is perfect for year-round wear. The unique animal-print style is trendy, while the neutral shade makes it easy to pair with any laid back outfit. The ergonomic footbed is lined with smooth leather to round off the look and make it comfortable enough for long-term wear.

Arizona Split Birko-Flor — $115.00

The Arizona Split takes everything we love about the traditional Arizona Birkenstok and adds a bit of edge by introducing color blocking. This sandal features the brand’s signature cork footbed and comes in four colorways: black/poppy red (pictured), white/bold sage, black/white, and white/lemon sour.

Milano Soft Footbed Birko-Flor — $110.00

Upping the comfort, the Milano Soft Footbed Birko-Floor style features the traditional cork footbed topped with an additional foam layer. This shoe also has a sturdy, adjustable ankle strap for added security.

Gizeh Vegan Birko-Flor — $110.00

Florals? For spring? Always. This vegan, thong-style sandal features the brand’s supportive footbed as well as a new watercolor floral pattern that elevates the look. Just like flowers, the hand-painted effect of the print also means that no two pairs are the same.

Soley Leather — $140.00

Perfect to pair with skirts and sundresses, this wedge heel sandal from Papillio is the perfect combination of style and comfort. The soft, natural leather and supportive dual-strap design makes the pair comfortable enough to wear all day, while the slight lift makes them perfect for a summer lawn party or dinner.

Buckley Leather — $140.00

This slip-on moccasin-style loafer is the epitome of business in the front and party in the back. The Buckley features a silver metallic finish as well as an exposed cork sole and breathable design that make it supremely versatile.

Florida Fresh Vegan Birko-Flor — $110.00

This vegan-style features three upper straps that are there to keep your foot supported and in place all day. The multi-colored geometric print also adds a bit of flair and means that you can match it with any number of summer and spring outfits.

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