Birkenstock Sizing (refer to last two pictures in the listing)

Birkenstocks (and all Birkenstock brands: Papillio, Birkis, Footprints) use European sizing for all their shoes - since they're all made in Germany and Spain.  The best way to confirm your size is to do a barefoot measurement according to the diagram (second last picture of the listing) and then consult the size chart (last picture of the listing).  If you fall in between sizes, we usually recommend to go up to the next size so your feet have plenty of room to move.  However, some people prefer a super snug fit, so it can come down to personal preference.

Caring For Your Birkenstock/Papillio Shoes

CARING FOR CORK - Kelly's Cork Renew (or other similar cork sealant) should be applied to prevent your Birkenstock Footbeds from drying out.  When the cork no longer looks shiny, apply a thin coat of Cork Renew.  Do not be alarmed by cracks which appear where the foot bends. This is an indication that the shoe is adapting to your walking pattern. These cracks are superficial and can be repaired.  Please inspect your cork footbeds regularly. If cracks appear apply cork sealant as described above. If small pieces of cork start to chip out take your shoes to a Birkenstock workshop as this should be repaired immediately. If the cork breaks down too far the only option is to replace the entire footbed including the EVA sole unit. This is called recycling.  Check out our listing for Kelly's Cork Renew here: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Kellys-Cork-Renew-Professional-Cork-Seal-Sealant-for-Birkenstock-Shoes-/172103676919?hash=item28122db3f7:g:gyAAAOSwPc9WwtVV

DO NOT IMMERSE IN WATER - Your shoes should not be immersed in water as the leather will become hard and brittle. The glues and sealants will dissolve in water. Salt water is corrosive so you should rinse the buckles whenever they have been exposed to salt water.  The buckles and rivets can be replaced.

AVOID EXTREME HEAT - Both the cork and the soles of your Birkenstocks can be damaged by exposure to concentrated heat.  Do not leave your shoes in closed cars on warm days and keep them away from radiators and fireplaces.  If your shoes become wet, allow them to dry slowly, away from direct heat.

REPAIRING THE SOLES - The heels and tips of your soles should be replaced before you start wearing into the cork.  It is possible to replace the entire sole unit this should be done when you have worn through the tread pattern under the ball of your foot.

CARING FOR FOOTBEDS - The footbed is constructed of layers of jute and cork covered in a suede lining.  The footbed is designed to absorb moisture from your feet.  It is recommended to air your footbeds regularly to prevent a build up of odours which occur from excess moisture.

How To Wear Your Birkenstocks

Birkenstocks are meant to be worn loosely.  Support comes from the footbed, not tightly secured straps. Wearing them loosely allows your feet to move naturally and also improves circulation.  Backstraps worn too tightly push the feet forward, preventing them from resting naturally in the footbeds.

Some people find Birkenstocks immediately comfortable. For others, it takes a few hours a day for a week or two to break them in. Although the shoes may feel rigid at times, remember that the firm support is essential for the orthotic benefits of Birkenstocks. They will become more flexible with wear. The uppers will become more supple and the footbeds will adjust slightly to your feet. If your feet are unaccustomed to the contour footbed, start gradually wearing them for a couple of hours a day for the first week or so.

What is Birko Flor?

Birko Flor is used in over 90% of all the Birkenstock and Papillio shoe uppers and is a patented synthetic alternative to leather which is a smooth vinyl with a compressed felt backing.  It's water-resistant, no break-in required, doesn’t stretch or fade and is easy to clean with a wet washcloth.

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