Update: More problems - the faux leather upper is now tearing and the sandals are basically unuseable. It's only been a year and three months since purchase.  When I bought Birkenstocks back in the early 90s, I wore them for almost a decade before the leather failed.  I'm very disappointed in this purchase.<br /><br />Update - Longevity test fails.<br /><br />After only three months, the cork is cracking and falling apart on the heel of the left sandal, and the glue is giving way that holds the upper to the cork/side.<br /><br />These are not the Birks I remember. I spent a lot of money for a pair of sandals that I could have got at the dollar store.<br />------------------------------------------<br />I chose the Birko-Flor due primarily to price; they are significantly less expensive than the leather version. I was skeptical, but after wearing them for a couple of weeks (and I mean everyday, all day), I've come to really appreciate them.  They have everything the leather version offers - the quality, the comfort and fit, etc. - but at a more wallet friendly price.<br /><br />We'll see about the longevity. My previous pair (essentially the leather version of what I have now) lasted almost a decade before I had to toss them. I'm curious as to whether these will provide the same long wear...<br /><br />So far, so good.