Best Birkenstock Sandals: Which Style Should You Buy? (2026)

Birkenstock makes more than a dozen sandal styles, but they all share the same famous anatomical cork-and-latex footbed — a deep heel cup, a contoured arch, and a raised toe bar. The difference between them is the upper: how much of your foot it covers and how dressy it looks. Here is how to pick the right Birkenstock sandal, from an authorized Birkenstock retailer since 2003.

Which Birkenstock sandal is the most popular?

The Arizona is the icon — a two-strap sandal with adjustable buckles that fits almost every foot. If you are new to Birkenstock, start here. It comes in many colors and materials, in regular and narrow widths, and works for both men and women.

What's the difference between the Arizona, Gizeh, Mayari, Madrid, and Boston?

• Arizona — the classic two-strap. The most adjustable and the easiest fit.
• Gizeh — a sleek thong (toe-post) sandal. A dressier, more streamlined silhouette with one adjustable strap.
• Mayari — a toe-loop sandal with a slim cross strap. The most refined of the open styles, still on the full supportive footbed.
• Madrid — a single wide strap. Minimal, casual, and easy to slip on.
• Boston — technically a closed-toe clog rather than a sandal, but cross-shopped constantly. Pick it if you want coverage you can wear with socks into fall and winter. See our Boston vs Arizona guide.

Which Birkenstock sandal is best for me?

• Everyday, do-it-all: the Arizona.
• Dressier or sleeker look: the Gizeh or Mayari.
• Narrow feet: any style in the narrow width, or the Mayari and Gizeh, which sit closer to the foot.
• Wide feet: the Arizona or Madrid in regular width — both have room and adjustable straps.
• Cooler weather or wearing socks: the closed Boston clog.
• Heel or arch pain: see our best Birkenstocks for plantar fasciitis guide.

What size Birkenstock should I order?

Birkenstock uses European sizing and runs slightly large, so if you are between sizes, size down. Your foot should sit fully within the footbed edges, with about a finger's width of space at the heel and toe. Full details and an EU-to-US chart are in our Birkenstock sizing guide and Arizona sizing guide.

Classic cork, Soft Footbed, or EVA — which should I pick?

The Classic cork footbed is firm and molds to your foot over a week or two for orthotic-like support. The Soft Footbed adds a foam layer for gentle cushioning from day one — best for sensitive feet or first-timers. EVA is a lightweight, fully waterproof one-piece foam, ideal for the beach, pool, or rain, with less arch structure. Full comparison in our footbed types guide.

Are Birkenstocks good for walking and all-day wear?

Yes, once broken in. The contoured cork footbed supports the arch and spreads pressure across the whole foot, which is why so many people on their feet all day wear them. Give a new pair short wears for a week or two so the cork softens to your foot — see how to break in Birkenstocks.

Where can I try Birkenstocks on or get fit help?

Feet Heart has been an authorized Birkenstock retailer since 2003, so every pair is genuine (here is how to spot a fake). Not sure of your size or width? Call (310) 398-7497 or email info@feetheart.com before you order, or try them on in person at our Feet World stores in Culver City and Arcadia. Browse all Birkenstock at Feet Heart, with free U.S. shipping and free 30-day returns.