A brand deeply rooted in the fine art of crafting quality heritage footwear to stand the test of time providing comfort, support, and style for centuries. Taking the traditional arts of subject and cobblers since nearly 1774, Johann Adam Birkenstock started the family's fine craftsmanship into footwear production. In 1896, Master Cobbler Konrad Birkenstock began manufacturing and selling flexible footbed insoles, shortly following the sales of his insoles, in 1902 Konrad developed the first contoured arch support. In 1932, Carl Birkenstock launches the Birkenstock training courses and the “Carl Birkenstock System” is endorsed by leading physicians and podiatrists. The original Birkenstock footbed is the heart of all of their 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. Below is a specially curated collection of Birkenstock's footwear available in men's and women's sizing. Shop the full range below as well as a detailed look at Birkenstock's footbed designs.  The Structure of Birkenstock's Footbeds: 01 | FIRST LAYER OF JUTEThe first layer of jute forms the foundation of our footbed. It stabilizes the natural cork and latex core.02 | CORK AND LATEX FOOTBEDThe cork and latex footbed is the heart of all BIRKENSTOCK shoes. The shock-absorbing and highly flexible cork and latex core support and relieve pressure on the feet. The natural materials insulate against the heat and cold and create a good foot climate.03 | SECOND LAYER OF JUTEThe 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 LININGThe suede lining absorbs moisture. This natural property of the high-quality top layer helps to ensure a pleasant foot climate.