The Birkenstock FootbedUpdated a year ago

The original Birkenstock footbed is the heart of all our models. While today it is synonymous with exceptional comfort, the word “footbed” was first used by Birkenstock in the 1930s to describe anatomically shaped inner soles with special support elements.

At the heart of every Birkenstock design is the legendary footbed. The details are all in the design; each element of the footbed serves a purpose to encourage proper foot wellbeing and health. The result is signature style coupled with all day comfort.

• The deep heel cup cradles the heel and keeps your natural cushioning right under the heel bone. This provides the foot with nearly as much support when it is in a sandal as when it is in a closed shoe. Helps activate the calf muscles, stabilises the back of the foot, and improves gait and coordination. 
• The longitudinal arch supports that run alongside the sides of the footbed surround the tarsal bones inside and out. This gives the foot the stability it needs when it takes a step.
• The support that runs through the middle of the footbed stabilizes the metatarsal bone. In this way, the transverse arch support helps ensure that the foot has a naturally straight and solid stance.
• There are raised indentations at the front of the footbed near the toes. Thanks to the toe grip the toes remain loose and spread out in their natural position. The raised toe bar encourages the natural gripping motion of your feet, exercises the legs, and stimulates circulation.
• A roomy toe box allows toes to move more naturally, promoting better balance and correct foot alignment.
• The footbed is drawn up especially high at the front. As a result, the high footbed edge protects the toes during the rolling motion of the foot. 

THE STRUCTURE

01 | FIRST LAYER OF JUTE
The first layer of jute forms the foundation of our footbed. It stabilises the natural cork and latex core.

02 | CORK AND LATEX FOOTBED
The cork and latex footbed is the heart of all BIRKENSTOCK shoes. The shock-absorbing and highly flexible cork and latex core supports and relieves pressure on the feet. The natural materials insulate against the heat and cold and create a good foot climate.

03 | SECOND LAYER OF JUTE
The second layer of jute is placed around the sides of the footbed. This increases the flexibility of the footbed and makes it significantly more durable. This layer of thick, absorbent jute helps to regulate moisture.

04 | SUEDE LINING
The suede lining absorbs moisture. This natural property of the high-quality top layer helps to ensure a pleasant foot climate.

SOFT FOOTBED

The integrated soft footbed has the same properties as the original footbed. The additional foam insert in the soft footbed provides a cushioned experience.

05 | FOAM INSERT

The soft footbed is padded with an anatomically shaped foam insert. This insert contains millions of tiny air bubbles.