No longer just a regular sandal-maker, Birkenstock has evolved to occupy a niche space in luxury

Birkenstock, a German footwear brand with roots dating back to 1774, has long been synonymous with comfort and craftsmanship. Originally known for producing simple, reliable sandals with an orthopaedic focus, the brand built its reputation on its iconic footbed design, which moulds to the wearer's feet for unparalleled support. 

This focus on comfort propelled Birkenstock to prominence throughout the 20th century, with styles like the Arizona becoming a go-to choice for those seeking both practicality and durability, including a young Kate Moss in the 90s.

Yet, for the past two decades, Birkenstock has undergone a transformation, evolving from a functional sandal manufacturer to a brand that now occupies a space in the world of luxury fashion. This shift was driven in large part by Birkenstock 1774, the brand’s special projects and collaborations division, which aims to reinterpret its classic silhouettes through innovative design and craftsmanship. 

Collaborations with fashion houses such as Dior, Rick Owens, Valentino Garavani, Jil Sander, Manolo Blahnik, and Stussy have taken Birkenstock from basic practicality to high-end desirability. These partnerships brought exclusive, limited-edition models to the market, and feature premium materials and avant-garde design approaches that elevated the brand's status in the fashion world. 

The latest release from Birkenstock 1774, the Kyoto Tradition Sandal, takes the brand’s luxury push even further. Part of the celebrations for Birkenstock’s 250th anniversary, this design is a limited edition of only 250 pairs, each individually numbered and priced at $800. 

The Kyoto Tradition pays homage to Birkenstock’s long history of craftsmanship, with a design rooted in tradition and excellence. The sandal is crafted from premium deerskin leather, sourced from Kolesch, the last tannery in Germany that uses the ancient “Altsämisch” tanning method. 

This eco-friendly process, which relies on natural ingredients like salt, water, and fish oil, ensures that the leather remains soft and durable without the use of chemicals.

Notably, the deerskin used in the Kyoto Tradition is traditionally associated with Lederhosen (Bavarian leather breeches), emphasising the cultural and artisanal significance behind the design. Available globally immediately, this exclusive sandal highlights how Birkenstock has successfully bridged the gap between its utilitarian roots and luxury status.