Treading lightly on the earth
At Birkenstock Australia, we are committed to reducing our impact on the planet, and we apply this way of thinking to everything we do.
Our Commitments
We believe we have a responsibility towards people and the planet, and we strive to reflect this in every decision we make.
Download our yearly sustainability report
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Social Responsibility
The responsible use of natural resources and compliance with stringent social and environmental standards are two of our core values. Birkenstock has embraced sustainability and social responsibility long before the term “corporate social responsibility” was coined.
The exceptionally high degree of vertical integration not only ensures impressive product quality and durability, but also goes hand in hand with extensive monitoring of the supply chain, from the purchasing of raw materials through to delivery of the finished product. Thanks to its rigorous commitment to quality, Birkenstock stands against the throwaway mentality that currently prevails in the global fashion industry and is positioning itself as a pioneer of socially and environmentally responsible commerce.
Birkenstock also accepts social responsibility above and beyond its business activities. Accepting social responsibility and playing an active role in efforts to solve the challenges facing society, however, is not a faddish activity, but rather a reflection of a corporate ethos that has been deeply rooted for several generations.
Our Materials
NATURAL CORK
A SUSTAINABLE RAW MATERIAL
One of our most important raw materials is cork – a natural and sustainable product that boasts high elasticity, outstanding cushioning, and excellent heat and sound insulation. The cork layer is reproduced and can therefore be harvested again and again without harming the tree.
The cork is obtained from the bark layer of the cork oak. At least five centimetres of thick bark is stripped from the cork oak – a process that can only be repeated every seven to nine years. A single tree can provide 100 to 200 kilograms of cork during its life. To ensure that the cork is hygienically clean, the bark that has been removed is cooked thoroughly in tanks.
NATURAL LATEX
THE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ADHESIVE
Natural latex serves as a natural binding agent in the
production of the footbed. Like cork, natural latex is also a renewable resource. The latex milk that is emitted from the trees is collected in small buckets. This process begins when the trees are six years old. A rubber tree will provide about 80 grams of latex every day for 25 years.
This delicate natural material has a much better energy balance than synthetic latex, which is obtained from crude oil, and it's also free from pollutants such as solvents or CFCs. Natural latex also has beneficial natural properties, such as a high elasticity-point and superior breathability.
JUTE
A NATURAL STABILISER FROM RENEWABLE TEXTILE FIBERS
Jute provides additional stabilization to the cork and latex core of the original Birkenstock footbed. Jute, like cork, is a renewable resource as well. The annual plant is generally grown in perpetually humid tropical regions. The bushes grow to 15 to 20 centimeters before they are
harvested after about four months.
Before the fibers can be spun, the plant's textile fibers
are first roasted, peeled, combed and cleaned. The natural fibers are then
softened. During the production of the footbeds, two layers of jute fiber
braids are utilised to stabilise the top side and underside.
Don't replace, repair!
Don't throw your broken or worn out shoes away! Did you know most Birkenstocks styles can be repaired? Learn more about our repairs service.
Size assistant
Welcome to the Birkenstock Size Assistant!
Let us help you find the size you’ll be most comfortable in.
Approx time to complete: 5 minutes
OR
Or see what a good Birkenstock fit looks like
Watch fitting video
You’ll need:
+ 2 pieces of A4 paper
+ A fine-tipped pen or pencil
Approx time to complete: 5 minutes
Measuring tips
Step One
Measuring tips
Place the sheets of paper on the floor. Stand straight on the paper with your heels against the wall.
Measuring tips
Step Two
Measuring tips
Measure the width by marking the outermost points at the left and right side of the balls of your feet.
Measuring tips
Step Three
Measuring tips
Measure the length by marking the longest toe of each foot.
Measuring tips
Your recommended Birkenstock size is
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Measuring Tips
Close tips
Measuring Tips
We recommend using a pencil or a ballpoint pen.
A thick pen can distort the result.
