The best shoe ever: The Birkenstock

Almost everyone has had a job where you stand all day, your feet ache and you can't wait to take off your shoes and lay down. Once you discover the Birkenstock, the pain will be no more.
There are so many benefits of the shoe in terms of orthotic support, amount of bang for your buck, the lifespan of the shoe, Birkenstock USA as a company and the popularity and fashion of the shoe.
Birkenstock prides themselves on their orthotic support and the lifespan of their shoes. The eight main parts include more toe room, raised toe bar, contoured footbed, deep heel cup, shock absorbing sole, jute fibers, cork footbed and footbed liner. All of these provide better circulation, natural toe movement, even weight distribution, natural spine alignment and moisture absorption.The shoe will adapt and conform to the shape of your foot over time for the most comfortable fit.
The lifespan without repair is an average of four years. When the shoe starts to wear down you can send it in by mail or take it to the local store, and for a low cost, they will repair it to an almost brand new state.
By purchasing this show you are also supporting the great company, Birkenstock USA. All employees are encouraged to spend four hours a month on charitable or non-profit work, all on Birkenstock's tab. The company is fully employee owned and employees are encouraged to speak their mind and share new ideas.
Birkenstock doesn't spend money on advertising because they care more about people and a lifestyle than marketing. The company is also eco-friendly with the material they use for their shoes and packaging.
"The only time I see Birkenstocks are on an Oregonian's feet, but I do think they are comfortable," said sophomore Sarah Cutler. "They are the epitome of the hippie culture."
Birkenstocks never go out of style, as they have been around for 225 years, with at least 40 of those years in the United States. The shoe used to be a hippie tree hugging shoe but it has progressed to encorporate a morewide spread fan base, especially with the different styles that are coming out.
"The challenge is getting beyond the hippy image," said Birkenstock USA CEO Matt Endriss. "There's a huge opportunity to increase our position in the marketplace."
Birkenstock plans on expanding its market to children, athletic, edgy fashion-forward lines and even apparel. You have to have a certain sense of self-confidence to wear these sandals, so ditch those Rainbows and wear your Birks proud.