Even among those who have enjoyed Birkenstock clogs and sandals for years, there is confusion about the difference between the Birki’s and Birkenstock brands. Some people think that “Birki” is simply an abbreviation for “Birkenstock” and the two names are interchangeable. Others fear that the shoes sold under the Birkis brand are simply substandard knockoff Birkenstocks made by unscrupulous manufacturers.
In fact, Birki’s and Birkenstock are independent companies with a common ancestry, sharing over 230 years of history in making high-quality footwear. Birki’s was established in 1993 as an independent company led by Alex Birkenstock, a prominent member of the Birkenstock founding family. His vision for the new company was to design fun and colorful footwear using Birkenstock’s famous insoles, materials, designs and trade names, while leaving the more traditional color palette and muted designs of the original Birkenstock with the parent company.
This model has turned out to be a resounding success! Birki’s and Birki-Kids clogs and sandals are now sold in 85 countries around the world.
One of the first things people think of when thinking about what makes Birkenstock shoes special is the company’s famous anatomically molded cork and latex footbed. Thanks to a licensing agreement between the two companies, this same insole also serves as the base for many of the Birki shoes, giving Birki cork-latex models the same standard of comfort, support and foot health as the Birkenstock in those that are based. .
Another key component shared between the two companies is Birko Flor material from Birkenstock. This man-made fabric used in many of Birki’s uppers is as soft and durable as leather, while remaining easy to clean and maintain over the long half-life of a Birki shoe. It also allows many Birki’s and Birki-Kids shoe models to be certified vegan for those who prefer that no animal products be used in the manufacture of their shoes.
Even some shoe designs are the same between the two companies, right down to the trademark model name. In some cases like the Maria clog, the only difference will be that the Birki version will have a more colorful design on the upper part; a pink paisley or a floral print, for example. Some Birkis sandals and clogs even feature Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Tinkerbell, or Winnie the Pooh!
Quality is a priority for both companies, and using the same materials and components helps ensure Birki shoes are of the same quality as Birkenstock. But another important factor is the commitment of both companies to produce their shoes only in Germany, where they can exercise control over the entire manufacturing process, from prototype to full production. This commitment sets Birki’s apart from many of its competitors who have relocated manufacturing to Eastern Europe or Asia, often at the cost of strong quality control.
Savvy consumers know they have 230 years of quality Birkenstock craftsmanship every time they put on their favorite Birki clogs or sandals. Why not buy a fun, colorful pair of Birki’s in your next shoe?
