Skip to Content

Birkenstock vs Teva

Birkenstock vs Teva

All outdoor lovers, explorers, hikers, and people who love the ocean often cannot wait to participate in various activities, especially when the weather is favorable. Their biggest challenge is what to carry to make their trip as light and memorable as possible.

The type of shoes you decide to wear might determine whether you will make it through that trip or not. You will need shoes that will offer you better heel support and also have a good grip on the terrain. This article will help you decide after a review of two popular sandals; the Birkenstock and the Teva. Both sandals are well-loved by many people, are chosen for their unique qualities, and have multiple repurchases by the owners.

Birkenstock vs Teva: Overview

The Birkenstock

The Birkenstocks have a long family tradition. Since 1774, the family has been in the shoe industry, developing their well-known brand and unique sole that is designed to model your specific foot. The name “footbed” was popularized by the Birkenstocks family business.

At a point in time, in the history of the family business, the company was only producing contoured arch supports, sold as separate sole inserts. In the mid-1950s, the company made a shoe, by adding straps to the sole, that had all the benefits of the contoured sole inserts and mimicked walking barefooted.  

The Birkenstock sandals come in various styles with two distinct categories; the classic and the soft-footbed. The soft footbed has extra cushioning, making them more comfortable. Shoe styles are differentiated by the upper cover materials and the foot size designs, narrow and regular. The regular size is recommended for those with a wider foot, whereas the narrow design is recommended for those with a narrow foot.

The sole is similar in all style models. The footbed is made of cork and latex, and suede covering on the top. Cork, a pliable material molds to your feet after continued use. The suede cover is made to absorb moisture, thus preventing the feet from sliding in the shoe.

Many people who have owned the Birkenstocks claim that these are the most comfortable, supportive, and fashionable shoes that they own. Since the shoes have arch support, many foot doctors will recommend this shoe to their patients who have foot problems.

 

Let’s examine some pros and cons of Birkenstocks.

Pros

  • They are durable and last decades. Many owners have had a pair of Birkenstocks for over 10 years.
  • The footbed is designed to ease the pressure on the foot and encourage balance and a proper posture.
  • They are comfortable once you break them in.
  • They mold around your feet and create a personalized feel and ownership of the shoe.
  • They have several different styles with natural hues and tones.
  • Straps are adjustable and can therefore fit different-sized feet.
  • They are easy to clean. Use a cleaning solution or either use baking soda and a damp cloth to clean the inner soles. Let them dry in the air.
  • They are easily repairable. All the parts of the Birkenstock sandals can be replaced at regular cobbler shops. For this reason alone, many people will stay with the same shoe for an extended period.

 

Cons

 

  • They are pricier as compared to other sandals like the Teva. Prices range from $100 and above.
  • It may take a while for you to get used to the shoe. Some people will find that their feet will hurt and have bruises and keep the shoes away. However, you’d have to continue wearing it to break in and have them used to your feet.
  • The Birkenstocks will wear out quickly when exposed to wet surfaces. Be careful not to go to the river with them or a place where they would quickly get wet. If they do get wet, you are advised to let them air dry.
  • Some people consider these shoes ugly and old-fashioned.

 

Teva

The Teva sandal was invented in 1984. Since then, the brand has grown and transformed from just a sandal to a global shoe company. It has transcended from a simple leisure shoe to make an appearance on fashion runways. Teva has been collaborating with fashion companies and now features more colors and designs.

 

Their signature straps have numerous designs and colors and are made from recycled materials. The footbed is made of EVA, a rubber that dries quickly when wet and can handle different terrains and surfaces. The rubber is durable and can also be recycled again, which makes this shoe truly sustainable.

The Teva is really made for adventuring outside, to be worn at rivers, lakes, parks, and even hikes. The Teva is lightweight, has a soft cushioned footbed, and supports your feet all through.

 

Let’s examine some pros and cons of Teva Shoes.

 

Pros

  • The shoes offer great support and comfort.
  • They are made of light materials and therefore are lightweight.
  • The cost starts at a lower price point as compared to the Birkenstocks
  • Are unisex shoes
  • The straps come in different print designs and colors
  • The footbed that is made of rubber is soft and cushiony, making them very comfortable.
  • The shoe has many uses and can be used on the beach, hiking, or even for everyday wear.
  • Easy to wear and clean with water.

 

Cons

  • The shoes do not last long.
  • While some people love the Velcro strap, it might belong to others and they find that they have strap ends hanging free.
  • Others find that the Velcro strap is short, and your foot may slide when walking.
  • The simple minimalist design of the Teva shoes may alienate some people.

There is no clear winner among these two shoes, and you might choose them based solely on your needs. If you are planning a trip to the beach, go ahead and order the Teva’s. You can be sure that you will enjoy your trip and get back home with shoes in good condition.