I've been a long-time fan of Birkenstocks - I actually got my first pair of Boston clogs close to 15 years ago (and they're still kicking!). And, I've had the gammut of styles: the Arizona, Florida, Gizeh, Birkis, Betula, Biko Flor and leather uppers. Birkenstocks (and Danskos) were my go-to shoe for as long as I can remember. Though, I usually end up buying the Betulas or Birkis, mostly on account of the fact that they're usually more affordable. However, I have discovered as a result that they last far less longer than the conventional Birkenstocks. I have owned the EVA Birkenstocks in the past, and they're great for wet weather, but they do get hot and kind of uncomfortable. So I figured I'd treat myself to a new pair of The Real Deal.

I did some research on sizing, because I've heard mixed reviews as to what exactly the sizing on the Arizona is like, and the last time I had a pair of Arizonas I was growing faster than a bean sprout.

Insert trial #1: I own a 39 in the Betula Gizehs, and my toes hit right at the edge of the shoe, but back in the day I owned a pair of 38s in the Florida, and they fit pretty alright. So, knowing that the Arizona ran large, I ended up going with a 38 in the narrow for a more secure fit. I figure, in the long run, the leather will stretch out and I'll appreciate having a more slim and true-to-size footbed. As for the width, it is more narrow than the conventional Birkenstock shoe platform - but it's very comparable in width to my Betulas, so it fits great for me. Also, I don't have any bunions or an especially wide foot.

Trial #2: What exactly is a soft footbed? Well, Birkenstock actually puts an extra layer of foam beneath the lining for comfort right out of the box. I remember breaking in my OG Boston Clogs and the stiff footbed was definitely something to get used to. Also, the lining itself is suuuuuuuuuuuuuuper plush. I'm way pleased with this feature.

Trial #3: What upper?! There's birko flor, suede, and leather! Too many choices. I've owned birko flor in the past, and while it's very comfortable, it doesn't provide that lived-in, molded feeling that I've come to know and love from my leather Betulas. As for the suede, my number one complaint about my Boston Clogs is that the suede, because it's not the most structured material, has lost its shape retention over time, so it's hella floppy! And there's only so much batten-down-the-hatches I have patience for. So, I went with the leather. Also the copper buckles - Oh hello beautiful!

Okay, so, for fit reference, I typically wear a size 8.5 across the board, wearing a 39 or 38 in Danskos: most Danskos I wear a 39 in, however I recently bought a pair of the heel-less, slip-on Sonja clogs in a 38 and much prefer the fit of them. All in all, I'm in love.

I'm completely obsessed with these and wear them EVERYWHERE!!! They're so cute and easy to slip on and go out - and not to mention they're the comfiest ever! LOVE THEM especially since Summer is coming in full swing!

Bought these for my daughter, she said they are very comfortable and her go to for everywhere, especially the beach. However, it would be nice if they had half sizes.

I bought these for my wife and she is a huge fan. Birkenstocks are known for being comfortable and she's never had a pair, now that she does, it's all she wants to wear. She has flat feet and these are always her go to shoes because they don't cause her any pain. Definitely recommend!

The reason why Birkenstock's have been around for so many years is because their quality and attention to your feet are some of the best. I suffer from plantar fascitis, and I am an avid runner and these are the savior to my feet. They have such solid stability and amazing cushion, it really helps to calm my feet down after a run or for daily use to help battle my plantar fascitis. If you want some excellent shoes to help stabilize and support your feet, you need pair of these! With the high quality sole and leather straps, they will last for years. So you're investment does not go to waste and you can count on these shoes to be a staple in your closet for years to come.