Good things come in threes. This month, historic German shoemaker Birkenstock – best known for its ergonomic sandals with signature contoured footbed – celebrates a trio of anniversaries for its Gizeh, Arizona and Madrid sandals, which are turning 40, 50 and 60 years old, respectively.
Three of its most memorable styles – particularly the two-strap Arizona, which is arguably Birkenstock’s most well-known export – they are worn by ‘millions of people around the world’, according to the brand. Each of the sandals features the brand’s footbed, born from ‘orthopaedic experience passed down from one generation of the family to the next’ and originally inspired by a natural footprint in the sand. ‘[They have been] “it” pieces for the creative and fashion industry, a symbol of nonconformist subculture, and faithful friends to a variety of specialised professions – their distinctive outlines have also become a brand’s hallmark and symbols of a “natural gait”,’ says Birkenstock.
