I've never been the type to stockpile comfortable shoes. I usually only have 10 pairs total, and I keep each for years, even though their daily wear-and-tear is observable. Last month, though, when my house sandals went the way of the Dodo, I surfed the interwebs to finally get myself a pair of Birkenstock sandals. I, for one, really love the look and feel of Birks (especially the Birkenstock EVA, the classic pair you've probably seen on many feet), as well as Birkenstock Teva and Nappa Quince Leather sandals), they've been lovingly nicknamed. But as soon as I got online, I saw what I deemed to be too hefty a price tag. Disillusioned but not disheartened, I started searching for Birkenstock dupes.
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, board-certified podiatric surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare
Because of the nature of the internet (and my not-so-shabby reporting skills), I found so many cheaper alternatives to Birkenstocks from searching for just a couple of hours. The best part? The ones I found are all $60 or less. No one is saying that means you should buy three pairs instead of one—because sustainability starts with you—but it’s certainly nice to have an extra $100 in your bank account whenever possible.
All that said, I live in Los Angeles, where it's perfectly possible, and even acceptable, to wear sandals year round. If you live in a place that actually gets seasons, where the temperature drops well below the usual 60 degrees of my hometown, you might be searching for comfy slippers or comfortable clogs instead of sandals. Or you might be searching for both, in preparation for the warmer months that are to come.
Whatever the case is for you, find the best Birkenstock dupes for sandals and slippers below. You’re welcome.
Shop the best Birkenstock dupes for sandals
Sizes available: 5-12, in half sizes
Instead of using synthetic materials for their soles, this Birkenstock dupe uses suede, which can help keep your feet from getting, uh, sweaty, as well as a blended cork midsole and EVA outsole for maximum comfort. Additionally, the buckles are functional (as opposed to decorative), so you can adjust the straps to your liking.
Colors: 11
Pros:
- Has adjustable straps
- Arch support
- Non-skid rubber sole
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not ideal for wide feet
Sizes available: 6-11, in half sizes
If the 23 color and material options aren’t enough to convince you that this sandal is a smart purchase, perhaps you’ll consider that, like Birks, this sandal is a combination of suede insoles, a cork footbed, and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) outsoles for a flexible sandal. Because of that, it’ll take a second for you to break them in. But once you do, they’ll contour your feet as they should. And between us, nobody will realize these aren’t real Birks.
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Affordable
- Has cork footbed
- Heel cup
Cons:
- Runs small
Available sizes: 6-11
With a name like “Aerothotic”, you know these slides are going to be comfy. They’re pretty much the same as the real Birkenstock brand, complete with a cork midsole that molds to your feet and leather-looking uppers, only they’re half the price.
Colors: 8
Pros:
- Has comfy cork insole
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Slip-on design
Cons:
- Runs small
- Select sizes sold out
Available sizes: 5.5-12, in half sizes and two widths
Classic Birk look? Check. Moldable cork footbed? Check. Durable leather straps? Check. These $24 sandals from Target tick off every box on the list of things your Birkenstock dupes should have. The only thing missing? The luxury price tag (which is the way it should be!)
Colors: 4
Pros:
- Affordable
- Coutoured cork footbed
- Adjustable straps
- Available in two widths
Cons:
- Fake leather (which could be a pro for some folks)
Sizes available: 5-12
Even though I spent hours on the web searching for Birkenstock dupes, I ended up getting these for $10 at Target. (What can I say? I love a good deal.) The sandals come in 10 different colors, so you can get whichever one catches your eye. Unlike Birks, these are made of plastic. But just like Birks, they’re very comfortable and require little break-in time.
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comes in a variety of colors
- No break-in time required
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not ideal for long-distance walking
Sizes available: 5-11, in half sizes
The Mona Black Crocodile sandals resemble Birkenstock’s Ankle Strap Sandals ($180) but for half the price. These sandals are built with a molded footbed that shapes to your foot over time, so walking is comfy. Other notable features include an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, stylish crocodile pattern and gold hardware that gives the shoe an elevated look.
Colors: 11
Pros:
- Stylish
- Gold hardware gives the shoe an elevated look
- Has backstrap for extra support
- Molded footbed
Cons:
- Pricier compared to others on the list
Sizes available: 5-10.5, in half sizes
Could this be the most beautiful Birkenstock dupe ever created? Prone to dramatics as a Leo sun, I certainly think so. On a serious note, these Freedom Moses sandals have a plastic sole and are injected with air to make for a more comfy walking experience. They’re also cruelty-free, 100-percent vegan, and (as if those two things weren’t enough) infused with essential oils to provide a milk and honey scent.
Colors: 55
Pros:
- Available in 55 colors
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Non-slip sole
- Molded footbed
- Scented
Cons:
- Straps are not adjustable
Available sizes: 7-12, in half sizes
True to their name, PepStep’s sandals will put some pep in your step. You can thank the cork insoles and EVA outsoles for that, both of which allow you to stride with confidence (and comfort!) over just about any surface. Arguably, though, the best part is the assortment of styles. Choose from canvas, plastic, or vegan leather straps—there’s something for every personality and occasion.
Colors: 17
Pros:
- Cork insole
- EVA outsole
- Affordable
- Wide variety of styles and colors
Cons:
- Not as durable as other options
Available sizes: 5-11, in half sizes
While they’re not identical to the Birkenstock Arizona sandals, Reef’s Cushion Vistas have some of the same qualities for half the price. The comfy footbed, for one, is not to be missed; it’s crafted with a high-energy rebound footbed that makes walking easier and absorbs shock with every step. It also has the Birks’ signature double strap, only these are made from vegan leather and skip the buckle. There’s also built-in arch support in the footbed itself to keep your feet happy, even when you’re on them for long hours.
Colors: 4
Pros:
- Comfy footbed with built-in arch support
- Vegan leather straps
- Affordable
Cons:
- Select colors/sizes sold out
Shop the best Birkenstock Boston clog dupes
Sizes available: 6-11, in half sizes and two widths
As far as Birkenstock Boston dupes go, one Amazon reviewer says, “These shoes are exactly the same other than the price. They both adjust, they are both comfortable. Same cork sole, the insole is just as good.” That makes sense considering that the shoe, in fact, has an EVA outsole, suede insoles, and a vegan leather exterior.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Comfortable, suede insole
- Looks like Birkenstock clog
- Affordable
Cons:
- Faux leather creases over time
Sizes available: 6.5-11, in half sizes and two widths
These Cushionaire platform clogs come recommended by Miguel Cunha, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare. “These clogs are designed with a soft vegan leather upper that comes with an adjustable strap, a two-inch platform with rocker bottom sole, and a cushioned cork footbed that molds to your feet,” says Dr. Cunha. Also nice? The platform gives a wee bit of height for shorter folks.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Has platform
- Molded footbed
- Vegan leather upper
- Has rocker-like sole
Cons:
- Runs large
- Smallest size is 6.5
Available sizes:5-12
Whether you’re running down the driveway to the mailbox or across town to run errands, these clogs will have you covered in comfort and style. They’re made from genuine leather, making them durable enough to handle the elements if you wear them outside. Wherever you roam, your feet will adore the cork footbed which breaks into your exact shape over time. The adjustable buckle makes it easy to make them wider or more narrow need be.
Colors: 8
Pros:
- Genuine leather upper
- Soft cork footbed
- Adjustable buckle
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not as durable as other options
Available sizes: 5.5-12
For $30 a pop, snag a pair or two of these dreamy clogs from your local Target. They’re as versatile as the brand-name Boston clogs, only a heck of a lot cheaper.
Colors: 4
Pros:
- Adjustable buckle
- Grippy outsole
- Affordable
Cons:
- Insoles not as comfy as other options
FAQs
Are Birkenstock dupes just as good?
It depends on a few key features. According to Dr. Cunha, the dupe should be designed with a contoured arch, as this allows the feet to rest comfortably and with support. Also important to have? A deep heel cup. It “allows the heel to rest secured and support on both sides for stability and natural foot alignment,” he adds.
You’ll also want to look for quality materials and a slip-resistant outsole. Materials like cork, leather, and suede are generally more comfortable, durable, and breathable, and a slip-resistant outsole prevents you from Cha Cha Sliding.
What is a cheaper alternative to Birkenstocks?
It depends on what you're looking for! If you're looking for cheaper, manmade materials, many big-box retailers like Target and Walmart have very affordable options. If you want something that's made from natural materials and don't mind paying for something a little more expensive, brands like Steve Madden, Quince, and Cushionaire have great options, too.
What is the best alternative to Boston clogs?
It depends! Dr. Cunha is a fan of Cushionaire's Loom Cork Footbed Clog ($50), but if you don't want a platform, the brand's Hana Clogs ($40) are comfy, too.
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