Birkenstock

Boston - Oiled Leather (Unisex)

Unisex

I am not going to comment on the aesthetics of Birkenstock: you like 'em or you don't. However, they are, in my humble opinion, the most comfortable shoes that exist. And I would argue: they can be stylish. It's a matter of execution. But back to comfort: there is a reason that many people buy a pair of Birks and then refuse to wear anything else. I developed a horrible case of plantar fasciitis from running, and nothing I did would make it go away. Not foot exercises, orthotics, barefoot...out of desperation I tried it all. But Birkenstocks gave me immediate relief. The shoes look clunky, but they're like walking barefoot on soft earth, and after a period of time they become an extension of one's foot (in the best possible way). The Boston's are my favorite because they, to my mind, are the most versatile (they go with practically anything clothing-wise). They can be worn in winter, too, with thicker socks. Birkenstocks also last longer than almost any shoe, making the investment much less than it appears. I recommend these with great enthusiasm. They are phenomenal shoes.

These shoes have a big toe box and fit like Birks always fit under the foot. I laughed at one of the reviews where the reviewer said he/she didn't like them - felt like walking on rolled coins. Well, they do take some getting used to but they are great if you have a high arch and wide feet like I do. I wear a 7.5 M in normal shoes and a 38 in the Birks. Also, if you ever have foot surgery, these shoes will be your best friend after the "boot".

This was my first pair of clogs, but I have worn Birkenstock sandals for years, they are my favorite casual warm weather shoes. Lately, after wearing Dansko shoes to work for years (criminal prosecutor) I started developing leg pains, which does not occur with Birk sandals. As I could not wear my sandals to work I decided to try the Birk clogs. In sandals I am a 40, but went with 41 for the clogs. They fit and work great, and although not the best work shoes, I pass them off as therapeutic. I was surprised, happily, at how much like the sandals they are constructed, but are actually even easier to walk in. Same Birk break in period, but that is just part of the process and not a problem. They are a great shoe, and I only wish I had started wearing them sooner. And, I do not miss the occasional Dansko ankle twist. Odd look to wear to court, but I will go with comfort any day as I get older.

These do not fit like the London's, or the Arizona styles. The strap is too far up to hold the shoe in place without coming off with every step. The London shoe is closer to the ankle like it should be for a secure fit. Also, I can appreciate that Zappos needs to send out tons of returned shoes, but I hate it when I get a pair with worn buckle straps. I'm still paying full price for them. Zappos has great shipping and returns and I have bought hundreds of shoes from them, and I can spot previous return in seconds, and I usually return them myself then. So, sorry to the next person who's gonna get them.