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Birkenstock vs Fitflop

Birkenstock vs Fitflop

Everyone wants to feel comfortable throughout the day. Among the best ways to ensure that you stay that way is by getting fitting shoes. If you wear sandals that pinch you in any way, you can experience a long and strenuous day.

No one likes pain, and that’s why people take time before buying shoes. At the same time, there are many things to consider, including style and size. 

People have different feet, and there is no one shoe perfect for everyone. Some have flat feet, high arches, and others suffer from strenuous conditions like Plantar fasciitis.

If you are looking to buy your next pair of sandals or shoes, the following guidelines will help you decide between two of the renowned shoe choices available. 

Birkenstock vs Fitflop: Overview

Birkenstock Shoes

Birkenstock shoes have a reputation that spans many decades, and people have grown fond of them. It’s understandable why. 

The fundamental design of Birkenstock shoes lies in their footbed design. The idea is to produce shoes comfortable for all kinds of feet and sizes. 

Birkenstock executes this by using a cork footbed that gives comfort and support that absorbs the pressure and a grip that follows the motion of your feet. The result is that you will have better circulation.

But there are also other reasons why people opt for Birkenstock shoes besides comfortable wear. Its anatomical moldings provide relief on your back and joints, suitable for people with various conditions, including Mortis neuroma, Plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and high arches. 

If you are new to Birkenstock shoes, you might need some help deciding between two options. The regular footbed and soft footbed. 

Difference Between the Regular and Soft Footbed:

Like many other new shoes, Birkenstock regular shoes might take some time before your feet adapt and fit snugly. It’s the reason Birkenstock creates soft-footbed shoes that you can buy and wear straight from the box and still be comfortable in them. 

The only alteration between regular and soft footbed Birkenstock shoes is the soft foam layer between the cork and suede.  

Regular Footbed Pros

  • They match the shape of your feet after you break into them. 
  • Suitable for long-term comfort and fit. 
  • Great for all kinds of feet, including people with low or high arches. 

 

     

Regular Footbed Cons

  • It takes time to break into them. The first two weeks may feel uncomfortable as your feet slowly adapt. 
  • At least wear in intervals of 2-4 hours to get a gentle break. 

Soft Footbed Pros

  • You can wear them straight out of the box, and they will take the shape of your feet immediately. 
  • Especially beneficial for people with low arch feet. 
  • You can easily transition between Birkenstock shoes and your other shoes. 

Soft Footbed Cons

  • Some people complain that it also takes longer to conform to their feet. 

FitFlop Shoes

Fitflops are also comfortable shoes for both men and women. The company has had a solid reputation since its conception in 2007. 

People who buy Fitflops enjoy the most is their support and comfort, especially if you walk a lot. The idea behind Fitflop shoes is to mimic the same feeling as if you were walking barefoot. 

Fitflops have excellent shock absorption and create a toning effect superior to your average flip-flops. Fitflop shoes use biomechanic midsoles that make your leg muscles work harder while relieving you of underfoot pressure. 

A simple walking routine can be the same as exercising when wearing Fitflops. 

Fitflops are also comfortable to wear because of the way they are cushioned. The micro wobble board minimizes shock from your feet by up to 22% more than your ordinary shoes. 

As a result, they are suitable for people that suffer from pain that comes from Plantar fasciitis. 

FitFlops Pros

  • It uses a science-backed design to support people with flat feet
  • Have soft cushioning that makes them comfortable
  • Work your leg muscles as you walk
  • Suitable for prolonged wear

Fitflop Cons 

  • Some people find that they are not comfortable with wide feet
  • Others complain of pain in the ankles and knees after prolonged wear

How To Choose Between Birkenstock and Fitflops

When you have the tough choice between buying Birkenstock or Fitflop shoes, there isn’t much separating the two. It usually comes down to personal preferences. 

However, here are some identifiers that make your selection process easier. 

 

  1. Affordability

If you need to buy shoes with an orthotic design, they can be slightly more costly than regular shoes. Both Birkenstock and Fitflops offer high-end designs for all kinds of feet.

  1. Lifestyle

Buy shoes that fit your lifestyle. Sandals are comfortable and ordinarily suitable for all-day wear. If you plan to walk on the beach and perform other outdoor activities, there are comfortable designs from both Birkenstock and Fitflop.

  1. Comfort

Look for comfortable shoes that target your problem areas. Cushioning is essential for your arches and heels. 

  1. Fitting

Buy shoes that fit you so that you won’t struggle by dragging them because they are too loose or painfully tight. Fitting shoes encourage blood flow and follow the motion of your feet. 

  1. Slip-Resistant

Non-slip shoes are safe to wear because they prevent unnecessary injuries. Check for gripping soles and footbed. 

  1. Packaging

Birkenstock and Fitflops are renowned brands. It’s no surprise to find companies that produce knock-off versions. One way to identify cheap imitations is from the packaging and materials. Birkenstock sandals are easily identifiable by their leather straps and unique footbed design. 

  1. Recommendations

Before buying shoes for health reasons, check if they are certified by medical experts. Fitflops and Birkenstock shoes are highly recommended. 

Conclusion

Comfortable shoes are fun or stylish to wear and offer you comfort to concentrate on your daily tasks. 

But people have different feet, and therefore one design will not be suitable for everyone. It’s why choosing a shoe that fits you is essential. 

Wearing a shoe that hurts even the slightest bit can have devastating ramifications on your feet, heels, joints, and back. When buying new shoes, Birkenstock and Fitflop brands are the best for out the box wear.