The summer of 2021 was one in which I wore the same pair of boots almost every day. They were functional, comfortable, and (if I say so myself) quite good-looking. This was not an issue until I started thinking about moving back to New Paltz where I would not want to wear the same, beaten and stained leather boots each day. So, I decided to purchase a pair of sandals that a friend of mine wears all the time. The forest green closed cell foam (basically a type of plastic that does not have bubbles between the material) Birkenstocks were on the top of my list for items I wanted for school. I did some online research that brought me to the Birkenstock website. My thrifty self found a solid student discount which solidified my choice to purchase the sandals.
Birkenstock plastic sandals are branded as polymer EVAs which holds little to no meaning for the common person. Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) is a commonly used material that has desirable qualities for plastic sandals. It is lightweight, waterproof, and very elastic which makes it a versatile option when making plastic shoes. Crocs and various other plastic shoes utilize EVA to make quality footwear.

The specific manufacturer that supplies Birkenstock seems to be hidden in some hole in the abyss of the internet but based on Birkenstock’s vow to hold dealings in Germany, one can speculate the company Biesterfeld is the supplier. They are a family-owned company based out of Germany that provides over 30 countries with various plastics. They are known for EVA, so my best guess is they supply Birkenstock with the plastic used for the polymer EVAs.

The production of EVA happens through a process in which the compounds ethylene and vinyl acetate are mixed then compressed under significant pressure to create the material. It typically leaves the high-pressure reactor in long sheets that are then sent off to the companies that use the material. This allows companies like Birkenstock to work the closed cell foam in whatever way they need to.

The metal buckle that holds the straps across the sandal holds mystery when it comes to their origin. Birkenstock’s website delves into the quality of the metal but does not have any sourcing information. The nickel-free metal that is used has the company name etched on the side. The metal is enameled several times which prevents wear. The protective enamel allows the buckle to last longer while maintaining its original glory.

These sandals that typically go for $44.95 are made in Germany. The company prides itself on having their manufacturing happen in the country they are based in. From a quick Google search about where they are made one can gather the working conditions in the factories are ethically acceptable. They claim to have the best working conditions in their production factories which makes me (the consumer) feel better about purchasing new sandals. The steep price points of many products from Birkenstock reflect the fair wages paid to their employees.

Companies such as Birkenstock are fascinating in their ideas about keeping production close to home. They have created a company that consumers do not have to feel bad about purchasing from. Fair treatment of workers and sourcing locally each have their financial drawbacks that Birkenstock is willing to endure to run an ethical company.