Birkenstock’s Iconic Adventure Sandals Get a Technical Military Upgrade

The footwear’s tactical alterations make for a much more utilitarian appearance, but they’re also functionally better and easier to wear.

Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech sandal buckle closeup

By Sean Tirman

Published May 27, 2025

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While they’ve slid into the world of style, securing a spot in the annals of fashion history, Birkenstock sandals are decidedly not tactical footwear. Most closely associated with college campuses and patchouli fans, they give off a decidedly more laid-back vibe.

However, the Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech, a reinterpretation of the brand’s iconic adventure slide, could change that forever. While maintaining the sandals’ overall spirit, this new version boasts a decidedly more militaristic flair.

Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech sandals — The new straps and buckles give these sandals a much more utilitarian vibe.

Hold the line

To be fair to Birkenstock, the Mogami Terra Tech was already a great basis for this militaristic collaboration. Thankfully, much of what makes it an excellent outdoor slide remains in this Maharishi collab.

For instance, this version still has the same grippy, treaded outsole and its anatomically shaped PU (Polyurethane) footbed. That means it offers all-day comfort to the wearer and excellent grip on just about any terrain.

Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech sandal bottom — Far more grippy than other Birkenstocks, the Mogami Tech Terra’s outsole is ideal for the outdoors.

The sandal also retains its suede upper, in the form of dual straps that go over the foot. This material adds a bit of style but also increases its overall durability — it is still a type of leather, which is naturally tough and resistant to all kinds of wear and tear.

However, these sandals boast one major change: they eschew the traditional metal buckles and leather straps for a more tactical, utilitarian alternative.

Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech buckle closeup — These straps are inspired by tried-and-true military tech that dates back to the 1960s.

Buckle up

The chief upgrade to these sandals is obvious: the straps that go over the top of the wearer’s feet. Instead of the typical leather straps with metal buckles, these ones are very different.

Inspired by the M.A.L.I.C.E system (Modified All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment), US Army tech from the 1960s, they come in two parts. First, there’s the nylon webbing — a classic go-to outdoor and military gear material renowned for its strength and durability.

Second, there’s a set of all-metal quick-release buckles. Unlike the standard Birkenstock buckles, these have a pull tab that opens the closure in a fraction of a second, but stays incredibly secure when left alone.

Not only does it change the styling of these sandals, but it also makes them more wearer-friendly, as they can be adjusted and released much more easily and quickly.

Person wearing Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech sandals — The new additions to these sandals give them even more street cred.

Pricing and availability

The Birkenstock Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech sandals are available in three colorways and two bundles. While pricing and availability haven’t yet been unveiled, you can sign up for an email update when these sandals drop in a little under three days (from when this article was published).