At Birkenstock, tradition and heritage are important hallmarks of a brand that dates back not years or even decades, but centuries. Birkenstock is deeply rooted in the fine art of crafting premium quality shoes that are good for you. Since 1774, Birkenstock has passed this commitment down from one generation to the next. The result is the absolute best in quality, comfort and support. The original is also the most extraordinary. At the heart of every Birkenstock sandal, clog, boot and shoe is the footbed that started it all. That's right, Birkenstock invented the contoured footbed, introducing the concept in the 1930s for anatomically shaped insoles with incredible support. Since then, many have tried to copy the idea, but there is only one that can proudly bear the Birkenstock name.