Birkenstock sandals are among the most iconic and popular, especially for their comfort and the quality of their materials.
For this very reason, in recent years, there has been an increase in non-original models, which are often very similar to the authentic ones.
It is a question we are often asked in our shop as well, by those coming in for the first time or considering a purchase.
If you are thinking of buying them — online or in store — it is important to know what to check.
In this guide, I will show you 5 simple but essential signs to determine if a pair of Birkenstock sandals is original.
👣 When they look the same… but they aren't
In recent years, it has become increasingly easy to find models that are very similar to original Birkenstock sandals.
Sometimes they are obvious copies.
At other times, however, they are well-made. So well-made that you start to have doubts.
And so the question becomes simple:
how can I tell if they are truly original?
You don't need technical skills.
You just need to know where to look.
1. The footbed: the first thing you feel
The footbed is the heart of the shoe.
It is the part that truly accompanies you, step by step.
An original footbed:
- follows the shape of the foot
- has well-defined edges
- features embossed lettering, not printed
These are small, but important details.
Because that is precisely where you feel the difference, even after just a few hours.
2. The buckle: a detail that carries weight
The buckle is one of those details that often goes unnoticed.
But when it is not well-made, you can tell right away.
On original Birkenstock sandals:
- it is solid
- it has a precise engraving of the logo
- it never gives a “lightweight” feel
These are simple details.
But they say a lot about the quality.
3. The cork: the material that makes the difference
The cork is one of the most recognizable elements.
And also one of the most difficult to truly imitate well.
The original material:
- has a natural, slightly grainy texture
- has a warm color, never a "flat" uniform look
- is compact, but not rigid
It is a living material.
And when you look at it up close, it shows.
4. The serial number: an additional sign
Not everyone looks for it, but it's there.
Often, on original Birkenstock sandals, there is a code engraved into the footbed.
- every pair is different
- it is not always present on older models
It is not the only element to check.
But when it is there, it is a good sign. In slightly older models, it might not be present yet.
5. The box: the packaging matters too
Sometimes you only look at the shoe.
And you forget everything else.
The box can say something too.
Original packaging:
- has a clean logo
- is well-printed
- uses solid materials
It is not an absolute guarantee.
But it is a detail worth observing.
🌿 Choosing well is a matter of attention
When talking about shoes, it is never just a matter of aesthetics.
It is a matter of how you feel while you walk.
And often, the most important differences
are the ones you see the least.
For this reason, when you can, take a few extra seconds.
Look closer. Touch. Try them on.
If you are in Milan and want to see these differences up close,
you can stop by Calzature Pli-Pla, where we help people choose with more awareness every day.
Because choosing with care
doesn't mean making life complicated.
It simply means
taking one more step toward your own well-being.
👣 One step at a time
This is one of the things we repeat most often in the shop:
you don't need to choose in a hurry, you need to choose well.
And that is precisely where this column comes from:
from the idea that even a small detail
can change the way we walk every day.
If you are in the Milan area and are looking for a shop specializing in Birkenstock,
at Calzature Pli-Pla you can find support, advice, and carefully selected models.
If you'd like, let's continue from here.
One step at a time.