Birkenstock / Birkis?

[learntojive]

Hi, does anyone know what the difference is? they seem to be made by the same people
...and are they really that comfortable?
Thanks

[LoftyLottie]

They are made by the same people, just different designers. All basically have the same sole.

Are they really comfortable - well I live in them all the time and hate putting 'proper' shoes on. I was also told by my rheumatologiist that I am wearing exactly what he always recommends for people with aches and pains in the legs and feet.

I have wide feet so get the standard Birkenstocks, but some of the really lovely designs are only made in 'narrow'.

I would highly recommend them to anybody.

[beanebabe]

I love mine too - I have problems with my feet and they offer more support than ordinary flip flops. I have just bought a pair of Fit Flops which are amazingly comfortable and the Birki's feel like boards in comparison!

[LoftyLottie]

Don't forget that Birkenstock make shoes, boots and clogs as well and also shoes specifically made for the nursing professions and people that are on their feet all the time.

I also have a pair of felt clogs which I use as slippers as they give support to the feet!

[chazza]

I bought a pair and I really don't find them that comfortable. They seem to be very supportive, very high ridges and arch supports, which dig into my feet and rub them and make it sore to walk.
I also found that I had to downsize as my usual size was huge on me

[LoftyLottie]

I suppose it would depend on the size and shape of individual feet. I have broad feet with high arches and a very high instep and the regular Birkenstocks are perfect. I would think the narrow birkenstocks would be more for an average foot and have noticed that most of the really lovely fashionable ones are only made in narrow (unfortunately).

[learntojive]

Thanks very much everyone, I think the best thing is just go try a few on and see what I think. I'll look out for the fit flops too, thanks