When it comes to the question “Are Birkenstocks ethical?”, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. As a beloved and iconic footwear brand, Birkenstocks have long been associated with comfort, quality, and a certain eco-conscious aesthetic.
Birkenstocks have a rich history that dates back to 1774, when Johann Adam Birkenstock was first registered as a shoemaker in Langen-Bergheim, Germany.
However, it wasn’t until 1896 that the brand’s modern evolution began, with Konrad Birkenstock, a master cobbler, designing the first contoured insole that would set the stage for the company’s future success.
By the 1960s, the company made a significant breakthrough by introducing the Birkenstock sandal.
In 1964, Karl Birkenstock, Konrad’s grandson, developed the first flexible, deep-cork footbed sandal, rapidly gaining popularity, particularly among health-conscious individuals.
The sandals were recognized for their orthopedic benefits and started being sold in health food stores in the United States by 1966, marking the brand’s entry into the U.S. market.
Birkenstock’s popularity steadily increased in the 1970s and 1980s. In 1985, the company produced about 90,000 pairs annually.
By the 1990s, demand for the distinctive cork-footbed sandals had surged, leading to production increases; Birkenstock was producing millions of pairs by the end of the decade. 1999 was pivotal, with sales reaching 2.8 million pairs in the U.S. alone.
Today, Birkenstock has become a global brand, sold in over 90 countries, and produces more than 25 million pairs of shoes annually. The company employs around 5,000 people worldwide and remains dedicated to its core values of sustainability, quality, and orthopedic design.
However, with how educated people are becoming, one important question remains: Are Birkenstocks ethical? Let’s find out.
Are Birkenstocks Ethical?
Source: www.instagram.com/birkenstock/
No, Birkenstocks are not considered fully ethical according to various ethical rating platforms. Within the broader fashion industry, brands like Birkenstock are scrutinized for their ethical considerations. There is an increasing focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with companies striving to improve practices and create better opportunities for workers while committing to ethical manufacturing processes. Here’s why:
Mixed Sustainability Practices with Natural Cork
Birkenstocks do incorporate some sustainable practices, like using natural materials such as a cork oak and latex core in their signature footbeds. The cork oak, a crucial source of natural cork, is sustainably harvested every seven to nine years without harming the tree, ensuring a renewable supply.
However, the brand lacks comprehensive policies on reducing water usage, carbon emissions, and chemical use, which are crucial components of a fully sustainable approach. Birkenstock is also making efforts to improve production processes to enhance sustainability.
The GoodShoppingGuide also suggests that while the brand makes efforts toward sustainability, it doesn’t yet have enough transparency or policies to be considered fully sustainable.
Sustainability-focused consumers often explore ethical alternatives to Birkenstocks. Some opt for brands that use recycled materials exclusively or maintain stricter environmental standards.
Labor Practices and Lack of Transparency in the Supply Chain
Regarding labor standards, this factor is a significant positive indicator for Birkenstock.
Birkenstocks are manufactured primarily in Germany, which suggests strong adherence to European labor laws and fair working conditions.
However, Birkenstock provides limited public information about its supply chain practices, factory conditions, and worker protections.
This lack of transparency throughout the entire supply chain makes it difficult to verify whether all parts of the production process align with fair labor standards, especially for any materials sourced outside of Germany.
Animal Welfare Concerns: Can vegans wear Birkenstocks?
While Birkenstocks does offer some vegan-friendly products, including vegan shoes, most of its range includes animal-derived materials like leather and wool felt.
It also uses natural latex as a sustainable and natural binding agent in some of its vegan products.
The brand doesn’t have a clear animal welfare policy or use cruelty-free certifications, which makes it less favorable among consumers who prioritize the ethical treatment of animals.
Limited Commitment to Social Responsibility
Birkenstocks could do more regarding community engagement, charity involvement, and broader social responsibility by highlighting important raw materials such as cork, natural latex, and jute in their products.
Emphasizing the importance of protecting natural resources in their ethical practices would also position them as leaders in responsible commerce within the fashion industry.
The brand doesn’t have a clear policy or initiatives directed toward giving back to communities or supporting social causes, which is often a hallmark of ethical brands.
Birkenstocks Vegan Shoes Offerings
Despite the “hiccups” mentioned above, Birkenstocks still offers a range of what they claim are vegan sandals.
These vegan products often incorporate natural fibers, such as jute, to enhance stabilization and moisture regulation. Latex milk, a vital substance derived from rubber trees, is also used as a natural binding agent in these products.
Here are some of them:
1. Mayari Vegan
The Mayari Vegan Synthetics sandals combine comfort and style in a delightful package. The crisscross straps and single-toe loop create a chic look that complements any outfit. Additionally, the textured synthetic upper and soft microfiber footbed lining provide a vegan-friendly choice without compromising comfort.
The contoured cork-latex footbed, featuring a latex core, molds to the shape of your foot, delivering personalized support that feels like walking on clouds. Furthermore, lightweight EVA soles enhance flexibility and cushioning, making every step feel effortless.
We also have adjustable metal pin buckles to ensure a secure fit, making these sandals the perfect go-to for those who appreciate both fashion and function in their footwear.
2. Super Birki Vegan with Cork and Latex Core
The Super-Birki Polyurethane clogs excel in comfort and functionality, making them a favorite in professional settings.
These clogs feature a fluid-resistant PU upper that stands up to spills, while the durable outsole provides excellent traction for busy environments like healthcare and hospitality.
The replaceable contoured cork-latex footbed offers reliable support, ensuring comfort during long hours on your feet. The latex used in the footbed is derived from the rubber tree, which is harvested sustainably once the trees reach maturity.
Additionally, the textile footbed lining adds an extra layer of coziness. Easy to clean and disinfect, these clogs can withstand temperatures up to 140°F, making maintenance a breeze.
Overall, the Super-Birki clogs combine practicality with comfort, making them an essential choice for anyone needing dependable footwear.
3. Franca Vegan
Okay, even if this one isn’t 100% vegan or ethical (we don’t know for sure), we have to give a thumbs up for the design.
The Franca Vegan Microfiber sandals offer an elegant design combined with all-day comfort. These sandals feature slim crisscross straps that enhance their stylish appeal.
The iridescent, silky sheen adds a touch of glamor, while the vegan materials ensure a cruelty-free choice. Made from skin-friendly microfiber, the upper provides a soft feel against the skin. The jute used in the footbed stabilization is sourced from perpetually humid tropical regions, which are ideal for the growth cycle and fiber production of the jute plant.
The anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed delivers excellent support, adapting to the contours of your foot for personalized comfort.
Additionally, the lightweight EVA sole offers flexibility and cushioning, making every step feel effortless. Adjustable metal pin buckles allow for a secure fit, making these sandals a chic and functional option for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
Birkenstocks are not necessarily a “harmful” brand, but it certainly can’t be described as ethical either. If this was a school report, “must try harder” would probably apply.
Its mixed sustainability practices, including the use of some of the most important raw materials like natural cork, result in mixed reviews and scores among rating websites. The importance of protecting natural resources is critical in ethical practices, and brands must focus on sustainable sourcing and production processes.
So, to put things in perspective, Birkenstocks won’t save the planet, but they do a slightly better job than many regular brands, and there are at least some vegan Birkenstock sandals available.
For those wondering “Are Birkenstocks ethical?”, no – not yet is the definite answer. Consumer trends will no doubt continue to influence the future direction of their ethical and sustainable practices.
Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Logan Parker, the visionary behind EthicalSustainableClothing.com. My unyielding passion for the environment and strong commitment to sustainable living drive my journey. Growing up in the tranquil Pacific Northwest immersed in nature, I felt compelled to pursue an environmental science degree, setting the stage for what was to come. Transitioning from academics, I delved into sustainable fashion via a local environmental nonprofit, where the glaring need for change within the fashion industry's ecological impact became crystal clear.
Fueled by unwavering ambition, I laid the foundation for EthicalSustainableClothing.com—a platform with a mission to guide and inspire those who share my vision of a greener world. Equipped with expertise and a relentless dedication, I warmly invite you to join this transformative endeavor. Together, through mindful choices and EthicalSustainableClothing.com, we stride confidently toward a more sustainable future, contributing one step at a time to a revolution that embraces our planet.
