A Beginner’s Guide to Birkenstocks: Stepping Into Your First Pair

Birkenstocks: Stepping into your first pair

Why Getting the Right Birkenstock Size Matters

Birkenstock makes amazing shoes.  You have to find your correct size and width to ensure that the shoes have a custom made feel.  If you have a size that is too big or too small the benefits of the shoe will be negated.  If you have a wide foot and are trying to squeeze it into a narrow footbed the arch support will feel lumpy because it is in the wrong spot.  On the flip side, if you have a narrow foot and get a regular footbed you will feel like the shoes are flopping around with each step.
 
I highly recommend that you find a local retailer that carries the Birkenstock brand and get properly fitted before you purchase your first pair.  If you are not in an area that carries this brand then be sure to purchase your shoes from an authorized Birkenstock dealer.  There is a lot of counterfeit Birkenstock merchandise online.  Consider purchasing directly through Birkenstock or Zappos. 
 
In regards to sizing, Birkenstock shoes come in European sizes. 

How to Use the Birkenstock Size Conversion Chart

Birkenstock has a Size Conversion Chart to help you find your European size.

Birkenstock Size Conversion Chart (Women, Men & Kids) — US to EU guide to help you find the right Birkenstock size.

For reference, I typically wear a size 8/8.5 wide in my running shoes (Saucony) and a size 8 in boots.  If I followed the Birkenstock conversion chart, I would wear a size 39.  However, after getting fitted, I learned that my foot fits best in a size 38 in Birkenstock sandals and a size 39 in Birkenstock boots.

Understanding Birkenstock Widths (Narrow vs Regular)
 
Now comes the tricky part: width.  People get confused with the widths that Birkenstock offers.  Birkenstock makes shoes in narrow and regular widths.  Narrow width Birkenstocks are really not what Americans consider “narrow”.  A narrow Birkenstock fits people with a narrow or medium width foot.  A regular width Birkenstock accommodates a regular or a wide width foot.  The beauty of Birkenstocks is that they can be adjusted with the straps.  One can easily add extra holes (either to loosen or tighten) on a strap with a leather punch.  You just need to make certain that the arch support of the footbed is in proper alignment with your arch.
 
I recently purchased a new pair of Birkenstock sandals from Birkenstock USA and they came in a newly re-designed shoebox.  On the inside panel of the box was a guide to help one determine one’s size and width.  If the side of your foot falls outside the blue line it is recommended that you purchase your shoes in a regular width.

Birkenstock shoebox sizing guide – how to find your perfect fit straight from the box.

To determine if the shoe is a narrow width or a regular width you need to look at the footbed.  To the left of the shoe size is an imprint of a foot.  If the shoe is narrow the foot icon is solid.  If the shoe is regular width the foot icon is shown as outlined.

A narrow width foot icon would look like this:

Birkenstock narrow width icon – how to read footbed size and fit markings.

The regular width foot icon looks like this:

Birkenstock sizing icons – narrow vs. regular width footbed markings explained.

Choosing the Right Birkenstock Fit: Narrow vs. Regular Footbed

When choosing the right pair of Birkenstocks, it’s important to understand the footbed width icons stamped inside each sandal.  A regular width Birkenstock is marked with an outlined foot symbol and is designed for medium to wide feet.  A narrow width Birkenstock is marked with a filled-in foot symbol and offers a slimmer fit, ideal for people with narrower feet or those who prefer a closer feel.  Both options include the size (e.g., EU 38, 245mm) and the classic “Made in Germany” imprint.  Knowing the difference between these icons ensures you get the best fit and comfort from your Birkenstocks.

Final Thoughts: Your First Pair of Birkenstocks

Once you nail down your shoe size and width you have to decide whether you prefer the original footbed or the soft footbed.  Deciding between an original and soft footbed is an entirely different blog post topic.
 
The beauty of the Birkenstock brand is that you can customize the fit of your shoe without having to pay for custom made shoes.  Another reason why I Love Birkenstocks!

Here are answers to some of the most common questions first-time Birkenstock buyers ask:

How do I know my Birkenstock size?
Birkenstocks use European sizing. Use the Birkenstock size conversion chart to find your EU size, but always try on in person when possible for the best fit.


What’s the difference between narrow and regular width Birkenstocks?
Narrow width fits slim to medium feet, while regular width accommodates medium to wide feet. Check the foot icon on the footbed: solid = narrow, outlined = regular.


Are Birkenstocks supposed to feel tight at first?
Yes, new Birkenstocks may feel snug until the cork footbed molds to your foot. With proper break-in, they become extremely comfortable.


Should I choose the original or soft footbed?
The original footbed offers firmer arch support and molds to your foot over time. The soft footbed has an extra foam layer for easier break-in and more cushion.
​

Where should I buy my first pair of Birkenstocks?
Purchase from authorized retailers such as Birkenstock, Zappos, Nordstrom, or specialty shoe stores to avoid counterfeits.

If you liked this blog, don’t miss these other guides to help you choose the perfect pair of Birkenstocks: Learn the difference between the Original Footbed vs. Soft Footbed and why each has its loyal fans. Explore the pros and cons of Birkenstock Uppers from leather to vegan synthetics to find the right material for your lifestyle. Check out my breakdown of Birkenstock Styles, from Arizonas to Bostons, and get tips on Caring for Your Birkenstocks so they last for years. Struggling with stiff straps? Read How to Break In Leather Birkenstock Straps. For something fun, discover my Birkenstock & Tequila comparison guide explaining the difference between the Birkenstock vs Papillio brands, or dive into the pros and cons of Birkenstock Exquisite Leather. 

---

Follow me on Instagram @ilovebirkenstocks for more Birkenstock tips, style inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories!

How to Read Birkenstock Width Icons: Narrow vs. Regular Fit

​Join My Private “I Love Birkenstocks” Facebook Group

Birk Tribe, come hang with us! □ Get sizing help, legit checks, care tips, and early blog drops—all in my private FB group. Request to join “I Love Birkenstocks” and say hi!

---