Birkenstocks are a very popular shoe for traveling, but they’re also a bit of a challenge to break in. This is largely due to the unique blend of cork and latex that make up their footbeds, which naturally mold to the contours of your feet.
They also have a deep heel cup and adequate room in the toe area that distributes weight evenly across your feet. This is a very important feature for barefoot shoes, because they allow your feet to move naturally without being squashed into a small shoe.
You’ll know if a pair of Birkenstocks fits you well if your heels sit flush in the heel cup and your toes are not touching the front lip of the sandal. You’ll want to pick a size that’s close to your foot’s length and a few millimeters larger than the widest part of your foot.
This will help to make your feet feel more comfortable in the shoes while walking, and it will also prevent them from sliding around inside the shoe. You may also find it helpful to wear thick socks with the shoes during the breaking in process, as the extra thickness will help to absorb some of the friction that can cause your feet to ache.
The first few weeks that you wear the shoes are going to be uncomfortable as they adjust to your feet, but the more you wear them, the better they will get! This is why it’s a good idea to wear them for only a few times a day at first, and gradually increase the amount of time that you do so.
Some people have reported that it can take as long as a month for the shoes to start feeling comfortable, so don’t be discouraged if it takes that long! If you’re experiencing discomfort, apply bandaids or mole skin over hot spots to keep them from getting blistered.
It’s also a good idea to wear socks or a thin fabric tape on your feet while wearing the shoes. This will help to stretch out the leather straps and footbed, as well as prevent blisters.
During the first few weeks of wearing your new Birkenstocks, you’ll likely notice that they’re very stiff, especially when you’re standing or walking. It is normal to experience this in the first few months that you’re wearing them, so just wear them a little more frequently and adjust the straps if needed to keep them comfortable.
One way to ease the discomfort is to soak your shoes in water for a few minutes before you wear them, as this will soften the rubber material and help them follow the natural curves of your feet. It is also a good idea to wear your new Birkenstocks with thick socks on during this period, as this will assist with the breaking in process and make them feel much more comfortable!
Birkenstocks are not only incredibly comfortable, but they’re also extremely durable. They’re a great choice for those who prefer to wear sandals during the day, but also have jobs that require them to be on their feet all day, like nurses or doctors. They’re also a great option for those who love to go hiking, as they’ll provide excellent support and stability while you’re hiking.
