Bringing Birkenstocks back

By Kimmy Siu,

HUB Correspondent–

David Van Muyden, chemistry teacher at Davis High, keeps the old Davis trend alive as he rocks his Birkenstocks on a daily basis. Alongside Van Muyden is a growing group of hip high school girls who might just be bringing the classic hippie sandals of the 60’s.

Birkenstocks is a German shoe company that is mostly known for their super comfy sandals with conforming footbeds. The footbeds are made of cork and natural latex that mold to the shape of the wearers foot, creating an ultra-comfy shoe.

“It feels like I’m walking on a bed of marshmallows,” sophomore Claire Dicker says. Comfort is a definite popularity boost among any shoe; although so is style and Birkenstocks are often criticized for their lack of style.

Dicker believes that the comfort of the shoe outweighs the ugliness of the sandal, “I don’t think they look particularly attractive but it is totally worth it.”

Others disagree, junior Emily Kappes thinks that the current strive for “hipsterism” of 2013 helps increase the popularity of Birkenstocks. “Although they used to be popular among professors and vegans, the company has done a good job with appealing to a broader audience. In part, the indie/hipster fad has assisted with revamping the shoes image.”

Kappes, a fashion blogger on the teen vogue website, is not part of the hipster craze yet she believes that Birkenstocks can be pulled off, if done right. She says, “I think Birkenstocks are practical and can be stylish depending on how you wear them. They aren’t for everyone though.”

Sophomore Elisa McIssac who sees the practicality of Birkenstocks, hopes to purchase a pair soon. “They are super comfortable, look cool, cover up sock tans, and work well with any season.”

So, are Birkenstocks really back? Monica Leflore, a senior at DHS and a Birkenstock lover, believes so. “Soon everyone will Birkenstop wearing other shoes!”