Looking for the best Birkenstock sandals for 2026? I tried 20+ new Birkenstock styles including Arizonas, Madrids, EVA waterproof pairs, platforms, raffia sandals, and newer dressier options – to find the pairs most worth buying this year. Below, I’m sharing the best Birkenstocks for jeans, dresses, travel, waterproof wear, and more, plus fit notes, sizing tips, and the styles that didn’t work for me.
After tons of trying on and lots of back and forth, I finally narrowed it down to the 8 best Birkenstock sandals (at least for my feet and personal style).
I know, I know…calling anything the “best” is a bold move. Especially when it comes to comfort shoes, where it all depends on foot shape, arch support preferences, and personal style. But I have thoughts I want to share. Lots of them, per usual.
If you’ve been around TME for a while, you know my feet are picky, my Birkenstock loyalty runs deep, and I don’t mess around when it comes to Birkenstock research. So I don’t say this lightly…the pairs that made my list of the best Birkenstock sandals for 2026 are really, really good.
If you’re short on time, here are my top picks:
Birkenstocks, 2026: Shop My Top Picks
If you’re looking for the best Birkenstock sandals for 2026 that work with dresses, jeans, rainy days, and more, these are the pairs I personally keep reaching for:
- For Ultimate Chic: Droplet
- For Full-Length Jeans: Platform
- Made For Blue Denim: Basalt Gray
- For Summer Dresses: Raffia
- Under-$60 Waterproof Picks: In Pink Clay or Taupe
- Classic, With an Edge: Siena
- Sexiest (Yes, Sexy Birks Exist): In Black
And because I know “best” looks different for everyone, I also included a section at the bottom of this post called “Close Calls,” plus a few pairs that were “Misses: Not For Me”…so you can see a broader range of what I tried and decide what might work best for you.
Best Birkenstock Sandals for 2026: I Tried 20+ New Styles
It’s a good time to be a Birkenstock fan. Before moving on to the reviews of the exciting new Birkenstocks, I can’t leave out my oldies-but-goodies favorites that are still in constant rotation. I’m still wearing my Arizona Big Buckles with jeans, Madrid Big Buckles with dresses, and chunky Birkenstocks for height and a little something extra.
Buuuuuuuuut….this year’s Birkenstock lineup and the new-for-2026 trends are especially good and definitely going to threaten those tried-and-true favorites in my day-to-day. Between the new textures, colors (so much pink), even more elevated details in more styles, and an expanded water-friendly EVA line, there’s a lot to fall in love with (especially for us comfort-shoe fans).
I’ll admit…I’m consistently drawn to all the new variations of the Arizona and Madrid styles (my two all-time favorite Birkenstock varieties), but there are a couple TOTALLY new favorite styles for me below as well (and several new-to-me styles in the “Close Calls” and “Misses” sections if you give this post a good ol’ scroll). I promise it’s not just Arizonas and Madrids.
In the detailed reviews below, per usual, I break down each of my top Birkenstock reviews with pros, cons, sizing, fit notes, and of course…lots of selfies so you can see how they actually look styled on a real person with a real foot wearing real summer-uniform clothes. I don’t list the supportive footbed as a pro in each sandal review because Birkenstock’s contoured footbed, which is in all of their sandals, is pretty much heaven for my feet. You can read more about their footbed in my Birkenstock FAQ at the bottom of this post or take a look at my Ultimate Guide To Birkenstocks.
Alright… let’s get to it!
My 8 Favorite New Birkenstock Sandals, Reviewed
1. Birkenstock Arizona Droplet Buckle Review
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Anthro
MY TAKEAWAY: The ones I instantly knew I would be keeping. Chic lines, elevated buckle, and the rich carafe color of the straps (and footbed) is perfection for my wardrobe.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Anthro
PROS: Minimalist design, elevated patent leather material that can go dressy or casual; clean chic lines on the straps and buckle; lots of colors including bright playful options, but also a huge range of beautiful neutrals (my personal favs), the smooth footbed looks really clean and nice over time and doesn’t look as worn-in as the typical suede footbed; the high-shine leathers hold up extremely well and show less wear and tear with time; new injected rubber outsole that’s more flexible (bendy) than the typical Birkenstock outsole.
CONS: Some people don’t like the slick feeling of the “smooth” footbed and prefer the suede that has a bit more grip; the patent leather straps take more time to soften than the suede or even the regular leather straps; this type of injected rubber sole is new so not sure yet how it will do with wear and tear, but feels substantial and good quality.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Anthro
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $175
COLORS: Carafe, (shown above), Black, Ecru, New Beige, Pure Sage, Purple, Stone Coin, Zinfandel, Oyster, and Teal
FIT: These fit similar to other Birkenstock leather Arizonas; per usual with Birkenstock sandals, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
2a. Birkenstock Madrid Big Buckle Raffia Review
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud
MY TAKEAWAY: The second pair that I absolutely KNEW I would be keeping right out of the box. This material is gorgeous, amazing with summer dresses, and I am completely enamored with the raffia material in the new carafe color in both these Madrids and the Arizonas. This Birkenstock review was easy.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud
PROS: The one-strap Madrids have a light and feminine shape that looks great with dresses and skirts, but also works with pants/denim; raffia material is summery and gives these classic styles a fresh look; the new carafe color is super rich and luxe-looking, I don’t “need” these, but they’re definitely going in my bag anyway as an “extra” sandal for upcoming travel.
CONS: People either love or hate Madrids; some people’s feet slip out of this one-strap style while they’re walking (if this is you, try adjusting the strap or go with the Arizonas in the same gorgeous material); the Raffia material is thicker and takes more time to soften than the suede or regular leather (it’s on the stiffer side); note that the naturale color (from last year, but still available) is more yellowy than I expected, this photo is more accurate than Birk’s site; the black is sold out right now (boo!).
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $190
COLORS: Carafe (shown above), Naturale, & Black
FIT: These fit similarly to other Birkenstock leather Madrids; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
2b. Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Raffia Review
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud | Anthro
MY TAKEAWAY: If Madrids fall off your feet (or you just like the look of the 2-strap Arizonas better, the Raffia Arizonas are JUST as good as the Raffia Madrids. Such a lovely new texture addition by Birkenstock for summer, and I’m SO excited they’re offering more colors for 2026.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud | Anthro
PROS: The raffia material is summery and gives this classic style a completely fresh look; the new carafe color in the raffia is super rich and luxe-looking (I’m using this color when I can’t decide on beige or black…it hits that middle not too-heavy-not-too-light sweet spot); a perfect travel shoe because of that; Arizona Big Buckles (in general) are one of my all-time favorite Birkenstock styles because of their versatility with all kinds of looks.
CONS: The Raffia material is thicker and takes more time to soften than the suede or regular leather (it’s on the stiffer side); they have a similar look to the carafe Droplets that I’ve been wearing, so having both is likely Birkenstock overkill (will it stop me, though? maybe not); the black, which is also gorgeous, is sold out right now (boo!); note that the naturale color (from last year) is more yellowy than I expected, this photo is more accurate than Birk’s site; pricier than other styles/materials (in the over $200 category).
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | Bloomies | Staud | Anthro
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $210
COLORS: Carafe (shown); Black (shown); Naturale (more yellow-toned than I expected)
FIT: So I accidentally ordered the wide sizing and they’re a little too roomy, but surprisingly not awful; I have a wide-ish, but not technically “wide” foot and these are a good enough fit that I’m keeping them to test out “wearing wide sizing even if you don’t need wide sizing”); per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
3. Birkenstock Siena Rivet Review
Where To Buy: Birkenstock
MY TAKEAWAY: The slide sandal I didn’t know I “needed”. I own WAY too many Madrids and Arizonas, and adding this cross-strap style (especially now that it’s offered in Rivets) is VERY exciting. This is the sandal to put on when my outfit is incredibly boring.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock
PROS: The Rivets detailing on all the various Birk styles is SUCH a cool addition to the full Birkenstock line-up; adds a touch of edginess and interest while still remaining an easy-to-wear neutral; this year the Rivets are offered in even more colors with the addition of the dark tan “mink”; while I love the Arizona Rivets, I was most excited about the new addition of the cross-strap Siena; gives my shoe-wardrobe something different from my typical Arizonas; soft suede leather is soft and flexible right out of the box.
CONS: This particular Rivets style is only offered on Birkenstock’s site right now; only available in 2 colorways as of now.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $155
COLORS: Taupe (shown) & Black
FIT: Fits similar to other Birkenstock slide sandals; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
4. Birkenstock Madrid EVA Waterproof Big Buckle Review
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Zappos | Birkenstock | Anthro | Free People
MY TAKEAWAY: Ummmm…who knew I’d love water-friendly Birks in wildly bright colors!!! The brand new color options in all the EVA styles are SO fun for summer!! I’m drawn to either the pink clay or pure sage. You can see the vibrancy of colors best here.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Zappos | Birkenstock | Anthro | Free People
PROS: EVA Birkenstocks are a great budget-friendly way to try a pop of something “different” (and for me that’s “color”); SO many colors available; new colors are vibrant and playful (but still somehow sophisticated with the big buckle tone-on-tone colorways); also good selection of neutrals; wildly lightweight; even in the EVA material, the footbed is countoured with just the right amount of arch-support for my foot.
CONS: The EVA Birks are significantly less $ but also less sturdy/substantial as the “normal” Birks; the EVA material gets dented, scratched, worn easily; the EVA footbed definitely feels different “grip-wise” than the suede footbeds (which can feel especially noticeable in the one-strap Madrid versions) — I have no problem keeping them on my feet, but some people do.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Zappos | Birkenstock | Anthro | Free People
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $55
COLORS: Pink Clay (shown), Pure Sage, Pink Fondant, Surf Green, Taupe, Egg Shell, Light Rose, Crocus, Mauve, & Black
FIT: The EVA Madrids feel a smidge narrower than my leather Madrids; I’m still completely happy with the fit on my wide-ish (but not wide) foot, but if you have any wider feet than mine, these might not work for you; you can find a range of wide EVA Birk styles here; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
5. Birkenstock Florida High-Shine Exquisite Review
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies
MY TAKEAWAY: Okay, I have to admit… I unfortunately didn’t change the buckle sizing in this photo and my feet look a little sausaged in, but I ASSURE you when adjusted properly, these Birks are SEXY! Strappy and sleek vibes (while still maintaining Birkenstock’s beloved walkable comfort).
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies
PROS: I was shocked I liked these as much as I did (being SUCH a Madrid and Arizona devotee), but I LOVE the strappiness in this style (especially in the shiny leather versions); gives the “vibe” of a sexy strappy sandal, but not giving up the comfort-shoe qualities I love in a Birk; I’ve been turned off at times by the regular leather Floridas, because they give off a more earthy vibe, but THESE…these are more me!
CONS: The top strap hits my foot at a different spot than my go-to Madrids and Arizonas, so if you’re not used to this style, it will take a bit to get used to and the patent leather straps do take longer to break-in/soften; pricey…in the over $200 category of Birks.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Bloomies
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $210
COLORS: High Shine Black (shown), Ecru, Blue, & Carafe (I also like these nubuck leather ones in Sandcastle if you don’t want patent)
FIT: These fit similarly to Birkenstock Arizona styles; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
6. Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle In Basalt Gray Review
Where To Buy: Zappos | Birkenstock | Free People
MY TAKEAWAY: This Basalt Gray is the “blue color” I’ve been waiting for Birkenstock to do…it is MADE to be worn with blue denim!
Where To Buy: Zappos | Birkenstock | Free People
PROS: This new blue color (technically called “basalt gray”) blends with all sorts of different denim washes without being too matchy-matchy; I’m a fan of wearing the two-strap Arizonas with denim in general, but if you’re a Madrid fan, this gorgeous color and gold-buckle combo is available in that fav style as well; the other color options are also lovely, but I am MOST excited about this particular basalt gray; the oiled leather is soft to the touch (easier to break in than some of the harder leathers)
CONS: Arizonas in general are a bit heavier looking than the more delicate one-strap Madrids (especially with dresses);
Where To Buy: Zappos | Birkenstock | Free People
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $175
COLORS: Basalt Gray (shown); Lavender, Black, Tobacco, Cognac, Olive, Pure Sage, Sand Castle, Old Rose, White, & Biscay
FIT: Fits similar to other Birkenstock leather Arizonas; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
7. Birkenstock Arizona EVA Waterproof Big Buckle Review
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | DSW | Zappos | Anthro
MY TAKEAWAY: The new “gray-taupe” in all the EVA styles is a pretty fantastic wear-with-everything neutral. I’m sold.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | DSW | Zappos | Anthro
PROS:TONS of new color options in the EVA line-up this year; exciting bright and playful colors, but also some really nice easier-to-wear neutrals as well; in the Arizona I love this gray-taupe that works easily with pretty much everything; a no-brainer water-friendly sandal for sure.
CONS: The EVA Birks are significantly less $, but also less sturdy/substantial than the “normal” Birks; The EVA material gets dented, scratched, worn easily; the EVA footbed definitely feels different “grip-wise” than the suede footbeds, but I have no problem keeping them on my feet; the taupe is easy, but a little boring.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Birkenstock | DSW | Zappos | Anthro
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $60
COLORS: Gray-Taupe (shown); Pink Clay, Pure Sage, Pink Fondant, Surf Green, Egg Shell, Light Rose, Crocus, Mauve, & Black
FIT: The EVA Arizonas feel a smidge narrower than my leather Arizonas; I’m still completely happy with the fit on my wide-ish (but not wide) foot, but if you have any wider feet than mine, these might not work for you; you can find a range of wide EVA Birk styles here; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
8. Birkenstock Arizona Flex Platform Review
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Zappos
MY TAKEAWAY: Last year, this style in the darker brown was a little too “earthy” for me, but I love the new sand colorway with contrasting black sole…feels more modern.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Zappos
PROS: I love that this style gives me just a bit of height, so I don’t have to hem full-length jeans specifically for super flat Birks; a nice “inbetween style” if you want a Birk that is updated with a platform sole and gives some height, but don’t want the bolder lug-sole chunkier look; the nubuck leather is soft to the touch (easier to break in than some of the harder leathers); has Birkenstock’s “flex” platform sole (although this sole does not feel more flexible to my feet than other soles);.
CONS: These are on the simpler side with the buckles and clean tread. The chunkier version IS more exciting and bolder than the “normal” platforms I feature above (if you’re looking for more of a statement). Brand new, but almost sold out, these chunky lug-sole ones are kind of amazing for bold Birks too.
Where To Buy: Birkenstock | Zappos
tank (s) | jeans (27 | bag | dress (s) | bag
PRICE: $144
COLORS: Sandcastle (shown), Soft Pink, Stone Blue, Eucalyptus, Pure Sage, & Dark Tea.
FIT: These fit similar to other Birkenstock leather Arizonas; per usual with Birkenstocks, I size down; I wear a 7 in most sandal brands, a 7.5 in sneakers, and I size down to a 37 in this style.
The Close Calls: Birkenstock Sandals I Tried & Liked
The following Birkenstock reviews are good, but most of these Birkenstocks couldn’t quite compare to my top 8.
- Birkenstock Rivets Arizona: These are absolutely great, but the new mink color just isn’t QUITE the shade I’m looking for, and I like the Siena Rivets in taupe better.
- Birkenstock Catalina Luxe Buckle: So pretty, really nice styling that’s a bit more structural and architectural in design compared to the Madrids, but not new and exciting enough for me to consider keeping (compared to the new raffia versions and new EVA colors).
- Birkenstock Sydney Luxe Buckle: As I’m looking at these Sydneys now in the photo above, I’m actually reconsidering…I really do like them in this new gorgeously polished glossy sand colorway, but I ended up liking the new Droplet Arizonas just a touch more.
- Birkenstock Granada: Who would have thought I would have been considering a pair of light pink Birkenstocks (NOT my style at all), but these read almost like a neutral and the Granadas are a delicate and pretty style, BUT…for pink, I’m going with the more budget-friendly EVA’s.
Birkenstocks That Didn’t Work for Me
The Birkenstock reviews below are either not good (*cough*Gizah*cough*), or they were fine, but there was something about them that didn’t work for me.
- Birkenstock EVA Florida Platform: These aren’t bad (at all!), but I wanted a lower profile water-friendly sandal and these felt too bulky in their look. They do come in tons of fun colors, though.
- Birkenstock Gizeh Rivets: Nope. Not for me. I keep trying to fall in love with various Gizeh varieties, but I just can’t with the between-the-toe thingy…these felt especially uncomfortable on my foot.
- Birkenstock Naples: The fact they’re making these uber-popular shoes in the on-trend-everywhere-pink for spring and summer is so much fun, but too much pink for me.
- Birkenstock Mayari: Absolutely fine (and the pink floral printed footbed is cute), but these didn’t wow me (for my personal style) like the others that made my list.
Birkenstock FAQ: Sizing, Widths, Break-In & Comfort
If you’re newer to Birkenstocks, sizing and how to break them in are two of the questions I get asked most often. Since these topics can be tricky (and sometimes confusing), I pulled together answers to the specific questions that come up again and again. I also created a video covering some of our most common questions about Birkenstocks (and what to think about before buying them).
And if you want EVERYTHING you’d ever want to know about Birkenstocks (including where to find them on sale, detailed sizing info, and full reviews of tons of styles), you can go to our Ultimate Guide To Birkenstock Sandals (which I will be updating with these newest styles for 2026 soon-ish).
Q. How do Birkenstock sizing and widths work?
A. Birkenstock widths can be confusing: Narrow/Medium (A–B) and Regular/Wide (C–D). An easy way to tell them apart is A-B has a solid foot icon stamped inside, while C-D shows just the outline.
Q. Which Birkenstock width should I choose (and why are labels different)?
A. Ugh. It’s confusing. Zappos calls A–B “narrow,” Nordstrom lists it as “B,” and some don’t label widths at all. A–B is the most commonly stocked option and works for most people. If you typically wear wide shoes, like more room, or plan to wear thicker socks, try Regular/Wide (C–D).
Q. Are Birkenstocks comfortable right away, or do they need to be broken in?
A. For me, some pairs feel comfortable right away (especially if I’ve been wearing other Birkenstocks already that season), but others, especially styles with stiffer straps, may take a few wears to soften and adjust to your feet. Over time, the leather straps soften and the footbed molds to your foot, making them incredibly comfortable.
Q. How do you break in Birkenstocks without getting blisters?
Start by wearing them around the house, then gradually increase wear over time. I definitely wouldn’t be out-and-about in them ALL day long right out of the box. Wear them for shorter periods of time at first and make sure to adjust the buckles to prevent rubbing (or to test out how different fits feel when you’re walking). You can also start by wearing them around the house with socks if your feet are especially sensitive. Short, consistent wear helps the leather soften.
Q. Why are Birkenstocks considered so supportive?
Birkenstock’s contoured cork footbed is designed to support the natural shape of your foot, with built-in arch support, a deep heel cup, and space for your toes to spread out. It’s firm at first, but that structure is what makes them comfortable and supportive for all-day wear. And once the footbed has time to mold to your feet…they’re heaven!
If you’re looking for a style that’s not featured in this post, you’ll likely find them in what I sometimes refer to as the “Encyclopedia of Birkenstocks Try-On Post”. It’s the Ultimate Birkenstock Guide that I’ve been adding to and updating for years! Or if you want a look at the general Birkenstock trends for spring/summer 2026, this recent post is for you.
A little P.S.: these new minimalist chic Birkenstocks are headed to me, and I have high hopes after a reader commented that they “meet all her minimalist dreams”. As Birkenstock drops more new styles this spring, I’ll be sure to update this post and our Discord Exclusive Group Chat with any new favorites.
Chime in with any favorite new or old Birkenstocks of your own! As always, I love hearing from you.
-Linzi
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I always appreciate your Birkenstock deep-dives! I’m wondering about the sole on the Droplets: they look a little more substantial and possibly stiffer?
YES! They’re made with a new “injected rubber outsole”…I’m on vacation with my family and wore them exploring markets ALLLLLL day yesterday that had cobblestone and uneven ground…and my feet felt great The rubber outsole is more flexible and has more bend than the typical Birkenstock sole…to the eye it looks more substantial, but not sure yet…will have to see how the sole wears with time and if it wears faster or slower than the typical Birkenstock rubber sole.
I’m adding to my last comment…they do have more felxibility, but they’re definitely not TOO bendy….my feet still feel completely supported in them and they’re a pleasure to walk in.
Thanks for the update! I had high hopes for a pair of their sportier sandals, but the outsole was just too unforgivingly stiff.
I know this may sound odd, but can men wear the Madrid big buckle sandals? Its not a ‘fetish’ or ‘crossdressing’ thing. I find that double straps hurt the top of my foot (I have a bone slightly sticking out and it can ache very easily) but the normal ‘narrow’ strap for me looks really odd. So I bought a black pair of the big buckle and they are really comfy all over. Would you think it odd if you saw a man wearing those?
Dave, I say wear ’em!! Honestly, with the right outfit, they’ll look really cool.
Dying to know which one you reach for the most… did the sexy 3 strappers make it into the rotation that much? Did Arizona Flex grow on you? Initially I preferred the chunky.. .but now I’m tired of mine as they aren’t really all that great for walking and after trying on the Flex I’m pretty sold despite the color option limitations…It’s nearing fall and I’m not done yet (and not that much of a clog wearer)! Floridas seem like meeting friendly but also could kind of have some quirk with socks… hmmm… Trying to find the Flex in Zinfandel, not an easy feat and there aren’t many options out there! Wish they’d done a croc or snakeskin in it… maybe it’s coming!
The “sexy” 3 strappers didn’t make it into my rotation…I have to admit I’m such a creature of habit, so I was drawn all summer long to my go-to-for-forever favorites, but in no colors/materials Big Buckle Arizonas and Madrids mostly. I LOVED the new Raffia textures….SUCH a good addition for Birkenstock and I really loved the new Droplet Arizona style. Wore those a ton. Wore the EVA Arizonas in that great gray a ton. Good luck with your Zinfandel Flex search! I can’t stop thinking about these new Birks in croc https://nordstrom.sjv.io/GbYdEn. Agreed….wish they would come out in more styles in croc and other textures….and also agreed…maybe it’s coming. :). Thanks for writing in!