Birkenstock Suede Soft Footbed Arizona Sandal

This is my first Birkenstock experience ever. I have a very high-arched foot and need good, comfortable shoes that will not hurt my feet. After reading and seeing endless reviews, I got my first pair straight from their USA website. Although these are not the Arizona style (these are the Sydney’s) I went ahead and decided to review these, since the Sydney’s are not available to review. First of all, the packaging and presentation was on point. The packaging was practical but had that European feel. You can tell the leather and craftsmanship are of high quality. The rose gold color is also different and compliments my skin tone very well. I didn’t expect to like the color so much since I wanted something more neutral but I fell in love with the color. The fit and ... MoreThis is my first Birkenstock experience ever. I have a very high-arched foot and need good, comfortable shoes that will not hurt my feet. After reading and seeing endless reviews, I got my first pair straight from their USA website. Although these are not the Arizona style (these are the Sydney’s) I went ahead and decided to review these, since the Sydney’s are not available to review. First of all, the packaging and presentation was on point. The packaging was practical but had that European feel. You can tell the leather and craftsmanship are of high quality. The rose gold color is also different and compliments my skin tone very well. I didn’t expect to like the color so much since I wanted something more neutral but I fell in love with the color. The fit and sizing was a bit hard to figure out since they have narrow and wide width options. I went with the 39 narrow and it was a good fit. As far as comfort goes, I was impressed. Yes, they were a bit hard at first but they quickly started to mold to my own footbed after a few uses. Yes, they are a bit hard, but somehow they don’t hurt my feet and I love how easy and practical they are, especially for a busy mom. I also love how it compliments so many outfits. Overall, I believe they are worth the hype and cost. I’m not sure about long-term use and comfort but so far, I am impressed and will continue to use.

Beware - narrow fit, not regular!

I just bought these yesterday from the Flannels store in Kingston. I briefly tried them on, but wasn’t really worried as I’ve had 7 pairs of Birkenstock Arizonas all the same size.When I got home I realised the box said Narrow Fit, and upon trying again and comparing to another pair at home, they are much narrower!I took them back to the store today to ask for an exchange for Regular Fit, they said they only stock Narrow Fit Birkenstocks. I asked for a refund, but the manager refused as it’s not their policy to give refunds.I’m now left extremely frustrated, with a credit note that I can’t spend on any Birkenstocks. The shop did not make it clear that they were Narrow Fit (I’ve never seen these in any shop before!) and the website listening doesn’t even ... MoreI just bought these yesterday from the Flannels store in Kingston. I briefly tried them on, but wasn’t really worried as I’ve had 7 pairs of Birkenstock Arizonas all the same size.When I got home I realised the box said Narrow Fit, and upon trying again and comparing to another pair at home, they are much narrower!I took them back to the store today to ask for an exchange for Regular Fit, they said they only stock Narrow Fit Birkenstocks. I asked for a refund, but the manager refused as it’s not their policy to give refunds.I’m now left extremely frustrated, with a credit note that I can’t spend on any Birkenstocks. The shop did not make it clear that they were Narrow Fit (I’ve never seen these in any shop before!) and the website listening doesn’t even mention this at all.I definitely won’t be shopping at Flannels again.

EVA ARIZONA-disappointing changes

I always appreciated the orthopaedic factor of Birkenstock. Now, surprised & disappointed.Unfortunately the quality is lacking quite a bit in material, width, durability, longevity, & also Depth of footbed as well as depth of sole (& thus lacking support, relief, & comfort, too) Which is the whole point of buying shoes like this-for orthopaedic support. Especially those of us with anatomical differences. The price is ridiculous for what it's become. Very disappointing.I called Birkenstock directly to ask if the model has changed in the EVA -Arizona sandal- or if it was because maybe it was pre owned, or was it quality control... They admittingly had no idea-or where to begin. I was read random description off internet.Remember when you could call anywhere on the ... MoreI always appreciated the orthopaedic factor of Birkenstock. Now, surprised & disappointed.Unfortunately the quality is lacking quite a bit in material, width, durability, longevity, & also Depth of footbed as well as depth of sole (& thus lacking support, relief, & comfort, too) Which is the whole point of buying shoes like this-for orthopaedic support. Especially those of us with anatomical differences. The price is ridiculous for what it's become. Very disappointing.I called Birkenstock directly to ask if the model has changed in the EVA -Arizona sandal- or if it was because maybe it was pre owned, or was it quality control... They admittingly had no idea-or where to begin. I was read random description off internet.Remember when you could call anywhere on the phone, talk to shop owners/workers, & they actually cared & were knowledgeable or atleast determined, about their product/work/item/company/customer/person?The first pair i got last time, instantly eased my pain in feet, ankles, shins, knees & hips, & felt supportive, & marshmallowy--similar to the anti-fatigue floor mats at a worksite--Though they wore out quickly, condensed, worn down, ripped & had me tripping only 5/6mos later---This new 2024 pair-tried on--No marshmallow comfort upon arrival-& No soothing support-the pain not eased at all.They definitely aren't the same... less material? less quality control? The backs had sections where material was not filled in on the machine-mold. Maybe the material should still have an attached rubber sole-SEWN on. --If that's possible.I cannot wear regular Birks because of Latex allergy... interestingly most whom have Latex-allergy are also sensitive to things like Vinyl, Nylon, & their combinations, etc. EVA is related to vinyl. So still react. But there seems to be not many options at all for a quality shoe made for longevity, that's actually sewn in-not glued, or not just a molded piece of plastic or foam, that is (actually) safer for those with allergies & sensitivities, as well as kinder to the environment. Exchanging for... Not sure as i'm tired of soles almost melting-falling off shoes, or grating away.Good shoes last. What happened Birkenstock?

FAKE! FAKE! FAKE!

I've owned several birkenstocks, and i can tell right away that these are counterfeits ( I bought different styles)1st, once i got them, the odor was so pungent that it was coming straight from the shoeboxes, and not a leather smell, straight strong chemicals.2nd, the inspection, I believe if these were someones 1st pair, they would think these are real, but they are not! I comparison to my other real birkenstock. The seam is not flush with the foot sole but place over. Also, my real ones: you do not see any adhesive. On these fakes, the glue is dripping. Then, finally, the bottom traction in comparison to the real birkenstock these are thiner, and the design is different. So, DO NOT BUY!!! Since out of frustration, I quickly returned them right away. So I didn't ... MoreI've owned several birkenstocks, and i can tell right away that these are counterfeits ( I bought different styles)1st, once i got them, the odor was so pungent that it was coming straight from the shoeboxes, and not a leather smell, straight strong chemicals.2nd, the inspection, I believe if these were someones 1st pair, they would think these are real, but they are not! I comparison to my other real birkenstock. The seam is not flush with the foot sole but place over. Also, my real ones: you do not see any adhesive. On these fakes, the glue is dripping. Then, finally, the bottom traction in comparison to the real birkenstock these are thiner, and the design is different. So, DO NOT BUY!!! Since out of frustration, I quickly returned them right away. So I didn't have time to take pics. The smell was way too nauseating

Great shoes. Terrible quality from Dick's Sporting Goods.

I own these shoes from other sellers, and I love the look, quality, and comfort of them. I have ordered probably 6 pair from Dick's Sporting Goods in the eggshell color over the last few weeks, and they are absolutely terrible quality. They have shown up with no tags, chunks missing out of the shoes, little pieces of the material hanging off the edges everywhere, or completely unfinished edges. I purchased them at a great price with rewards and a price match, so I'd really like to get a decent pair of them I can actually wear. Maybe it is the end of the season for Birkenstock sandals, as my size and color are nowhere to be found other than Dick's. Otherwise I would purchase them elsewhere. I believe they really should have a department at their warehouse for quality ... MoreI own these shoes from other sellers, and I love the look, quality, and comfort of them. I have ordered probably 6 pair from Dick's Sporting Goods in the eggshell color over the last few weeks, and they are absolutely terrible quality. They have shown up with no tags, chunks missing out of the shoes, little pieces of the material hanging off the edges everywhere, or completely unfinished edges. I purchased them at a great price with rewards and a price match, so I'd really like to get a decent pair of them I can actually wear. Maybe it is the end of the season for Birkenstock sandals, as my size and color are nowhere to be found other than Dick's. Otherwise I would purchase them elsewhere. I believe they really should have a department at their warehouse for quality control. I will say, their customer service has been very nice each time I have called to get help with receiving so many bad shoes. Unfortunately, no one has solved my issue yet or sent a quality pair of shoes. I'm very disappointed with my purchase.

LOVE THEM!!!!

I love these so much I got 2 pairs! At the price point and being EVA, I didn't have super high expectations for these, just thought they were going to be like the rest of my similar slip-on/slide sandals, but I have been blown away by them so far. They are SO comfortable and have an incredible footbed. I've been wearing these all summer around the house, running errands, to concerts, and anytime I'm on the way to go do a sport where I don't want to wear the sport footwear until it's time for them, like my paddle shoes or hiking boots. They're also great for hiking/backpacking, as they're great camp shoes and for river/creek crossings. 10/10, highly recommended! I recently got the gold and they are FABULOUS! I have very narrow feet and these are perfect. I wear an ... MoreI love these so much I got 2 pairs! At the price point and being EVA, I didn't have super high expectations for these, just thought they were going to be like the rest of my similar slip-on/slide sandals, but I have been blown away by them so far. They are SO comfortable and have an incredible footbed. I've been wearing these all summer around the house, running errands, to concerts, and anytime I'm on the way to go do a sport where I don't want to wear the sport footwear until it's time for them, like my paddle shoes or hiking boots. They're also great for hiking/backpacking, as they're great camp shoes and for river/creek crossings. 10/10, highly recommended! I recently got the gold and they are FABULOUS! I have very narrow feet and these are perfect. I wear an 8.5 in sandals and 9 street/running shoe and got the 39. They fit right on the money but I do think the 40 would be close enough to work, too.

Outstanding sandal for muddy or wet areas

I've worn Birkenstock for more than 30 years. I love them, comfort, fit and (nearly always) durability. More than twenty years ago, I did have the strap separate from the sandals, while traveling in rural Mexico, without a second pair of shoes. That was an experience: I wear size 14, not available in thatarea with citizens typically a foot shorter than my 6' 3"! We survived by using a leather belt from another member of the group… tough for a while.But, it's the only time I've managed to wear out a pair.This pair is the first that I've owned in plastic instead of leather. Perfect for the beach, and exercise swimming. Lovely sole, with just the right contours. I don't expect to be able to wear them out!My only complaint- I wear a size 14 shoe. This sandal is a ... MoreI've worn Birkenstock for more than 30 years. I love them, comfort, fit and (nearly always) durability. More than twenty years ago, I did have the strap separate from the sandals, while traveling in rural Mexico, without a second pair of shoes. That was an experience: I wear size 14, not available in thatarea with citizens typically a foot shorter than my 6' 3"! We survived by using a leather belt from another member of the group… tough for a while.But, it's the only time I've managed to wear out a pair.This pair is the first that I've owned in plastic instead of leather. Perfect for the beach, and exercise swimming. Lovely sole, with just the right contours. I don't expect to be able to wear them out!My only complaint- I wear a size 14 shoe. This sandal is a bit on the small side.

Takes patience-Great Sandal

When I first bought these, they were the most uncomfortable sandals I have ever worn!!! The cork/foot bed was HARD! Worn for long periods of time in the beginning, my feet started to hurt walking in them. I had to change my shoes to get a break!!! I use to think "why does everyone say these are comfortable in reviews, are they crazy and who would waste their money on these?!?!?" I almost gave up in wearing them then I was considering how the sandals were quite costly, and I couldn't return them anyways. I am glad I did not give up, but I also had no choice. After the sandals were broken in, they are the most comfortable sandals you can ever wear!!! I walked through Disneyland all day (and you now how much walking that is) in them as they mode onto your feet and the ... MoreWhen I first bought these, they were the most uncomfortable sandals I have ever worn!!! The cork/foot bed was HARD! Worn for long periods of time in the beginning, my feet started to hurt walking in them. I had to change my shoes to get a break!!! I use to think "why does everyone say these are comfortable in reviews, are they crazy and who would waste their money on these?!?!?" I almost gave up in wearing them then I was considering how the sandals were quite costly, and I couldn't return them anyways. I am glad I did not give up, but I also had no choice. After the sandals were broken in, they are the most comfortable sandals you can ever wear!!! I walked through Disneyland all day (and you now how much walking that is) in them as they mode onto your feet and the footbed will soften. I loved them so much that I bought a second pair which I am in pain now wearing them on and off, but I know it won't be painful when they are broken in. Once the footbed/cork soften, it feels like pillows on your feet!

These are terrific

I usually buy wide softbed Arizonas. They seem great at first, but the leather gets soooo wide that they end up being sloppy and extra wide. LLBean is correct to label these as 'normal' width, because they are normal, even if listed as 'narrow' by Birkenstock. I have a normal to wide foot and like a spacious toebox, and these feel just terrific, snug right now, but I am sure they will be loose-ish later because the leather gives. I like the classic footbed as well and don't think I'll go with the soft footbed anymore. The classic feels nice. It's not squishy like the soft footbed, but I think after feeling classic that I don't really like squishy. These are solid and comfortable.

Uncomfortable rubbing on bottom of feet

While these can be quite comfy for SHORT walks, they quickly become uncomfortable, and even unbearable, after 15+ minutes of consistent walking because the insole has a weird hump in the sandal mold that likes to rub between the ball of the foot and arch of my feet. That area of my feet can quickly become tender and blister if the rubbing continues for lots of walking. Why is this hump part of the insole?! It serves no purpose but to cause discomfort. The plastic material is also not breathable, so your feet starts to sweat. Perhaps that's why the bottom of my feet start to get tender and blistery from the sweat and rubbing against the unbreathable plastic.Birkenstock, please reconsider how you mold the insoles for these slides because they are not in the correct ... MoreWhile these can be quite comfy for SHORT walks, they quickly become uncomfortable, and even unbearable, after 15+ minutes of consistent walking because the insole has a weird hump in the sandal mold that likes to rub between the ball of the foot and arch of my feet. That area of my feet can quickly become tender and blister if the rubbing continues for lots of walking. Why is this hump part of the insole?! It serves no purpose but to cause discomfort. The plastic material is also not breathable, so your feet starts to sweat. Perhaps that's why the bottom of my feet start to get tender and blistery from the sweat and rubbing against the unbreathable plastic.Birkenstock, please reconsider how you mold the insoles for these slides because they are not in the correct places for your customers. I think having a flat insole like other slides in the market is most comfortable and the best choice you can make.I would not recommend these slides to anyone.