Birkenstock Arizona Sandals, $135
Birkenstock has seen its share of fashion cycles since its founding in 1774. Though the brand took a very clinical approach to footwear at its outset, it has gone on to produce some of the world’s most stylish shoes. The Arizona sandal is among its most popular models, cemented in the annals of fashion annals for decades. It was first introduced in the 1970s (Birkenstock is so old that we have to distinguish which century we’re talking about), and remains basically unchanged to this day. It features two adjustable leather straps atop Birkenstock’s famous cork footbed — a term they actually coined — and the signature rubber sole.
It’s simple, comfortable, well-made and comes in a million iterations. There’s no knocking the dual-strap goodness of the Arizona. But there are some fine-looking alternatives on the market, too. Just as appropriate as the Arizona’s are for summertime activities, countless brands have used it as a springboard for their own takes. If you’re looking to slide into a pair that’s like the fashion faves, but not exactly, here are some great alternatives.
Moses Sandals
Freedom MosesFancy Bandana Slides
These lightweight renditions are made from a molded plastic upper and rubber soles, making them totally waterproof (i.e. perfect for the pool). Aside from the near-identical silhouette of the classic Arizona, these come with a textured footbed for grip as well as a fun paisley print and, no joke, a milk and honey scent.
