They look wider than most shoes because the design follows the natural shape of the foot. Many shoe styles feature a narrow toe area, which not only compresses the toes, but throws the foot out of alignment. The shape of Birkenstocks guides the toes and feet into correct alignment so the weight is evenly distributed and good posture is possible. Feet that have been squeezed into traditional shoes may resume their original natural shape, depending on the flexibility of your feet. The Birkenstock footbed is made of resilient cork and latex that is precisely molded to create the best possible environment for your feet.
Shoes are a little like mattresses.
But the longer you linger, the less good it will do for your back and hips. Much like a firm mattress, the Birkenstock footbed is designed to be highly supportive. It is flexible and over time yields to the contours of the individual foot, while retaining its corrective features and support. Birkenstocks distribute our weight evenly across your foot, allowing you to walk more comfortably - and with better posture. Cushioning is great for performance shoes designed for high impact sports.