Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals review: "there's no going back to regular slippers"

If you love your Birkenstock Arizona sandals, why not step up your slipper game with a pair of their shearling styles? This cosy update on the iconic style will work all year round – I should know, I'm already on my third pair.

While originally designed as an outdoor shoe, a pair of Birkenstock Shearling Arizona sandals - lovingly known as 'Furkenstocks' by fashion insiders - will quickly become your best slippers when you try them on. With their combination of a shearling footbed and lambskin uppers, you won’t want to take them off.

From pottering around my living room to popping to the corner shop, the bonus of a non-slip reinforced shoe sole means that they’re more versatile than many other options out there. Combined with their classic style, they’ll soon be part of your winter capsule wardrobe and just like UGG suede boots, the sheepskin will keep your feet warm in winter and cool in summer.

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals: Comfort and Support

As I’ve got older, my need for supportive shoes has definitely grown – while once I would’ve been happy in a flimsy soled pair of leopard print ballet flats, these days I look for shoes with contoured footbeds which is why the Birkenstock Shearling Arizona sandals are the perfect alternative to conventional slippers. As well as added arch support from the design’s molded footbed, Birkenstocks also have a deep heel cup for comfort and double straps across the top of the foot that are fully adjustable to make sure they’re the perfect fit for everyone.

While some people find the style needs breaking in, I slipped my feet into a fresh pair with no problems and immediately let the fluffy lining soothe and warm my chilly feet. Not only did I wear them happily around the house all day, they also kept my feet warm enough on a quick trip outside in the middle of the cold snap. The sole of the shoe is definitely more structured than my other slippers but still offers enough flexibility and softness to be comfortably worn indoors in place of slippers.

When it comes to sizing, you may find that Birkenstocks run slightly bigger than your usual shoes. While I am a UK size four in most shoes, for Birkenstocks I size down to a UK size three. The Birkenstock website has a handy sizing chart that ensures you won’t get caught out, so it’s worth checking out before you order.

Even after sizing down, the open toe and backless design means that I can wear my cosiest cashmere and thermal socks when I’m heading out. If you’ve ever wondered how to style Birkenstock clogs for winter, a chunky sock makes the perfect pairing for the Birkenstock Arizona’s close-toed cousin too!

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals: Style

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling sandals currently come in seven classic colour options, although they occasionally release limited edition versions. My favourite colourways are the classic full black (with black shearling, straps and even muted buckles) and the camel-coloured mink suede with cream shearling. Both of these timeless colourways definitely have an air of quiet luxury but I also have my eye on the midnight blue version, which would be a great pair to wear with a pair of barrel leg jeans or a pair of Mint Velvet leopard print jeans.

I’ve also found that they are a great alternative to your best white trainers if you’re heading to a yoga or pilates class – styled with your one of your best cashmere jumpers and a pair of the warmest leggings for winter, you’ll be ready to head straight out to brunch after your class!

With their chunky sole, a pair of Birkenstock Arizona Shearling sandals will complement virtually any casual outfit, from your favourite midi dress to white jean outfits too.

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals: Cleaning and Care

As Birkenstock Arizona Shearling sandals have suede uppers, they are a little more delicate than a regular leather pair and require looking after. You may want to invest in a Scotch guard treatment and a suede brush to keep them looking their best day to day and don’t forget to check out our guide on how to clean Uggs for some tips – with their suede fabric and sheepskin lining, they have a lot in common with the popular boot style!

Depending on your gait, you may find that the shearling footbed lining starts to wear away in certain points after considerable wear, leaving bald patches – to help slow this, try gently brushing the shearling fibres in the opposite direction with an old toothbrush.

Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals: Verdict

Although the price tag might seem steep for what is essentially a pair of slippers, I find the Birkenstock Arizona Shearling Sandals to be far more durable than a standard pair of slippers, meaning I wear them more so can justify the initial outlay. Being able to pop outside without changing my shoes adds to their appeal further - they are also a fantastic option to don if you’re heading for a winter pedicure as they’ll keep your feet warm while allowing your toe nails to dry fully.

The classic design also means that I’ll be wearing them all year round - inside and out – maximising their use. Now, my only query is how many pairs is too many?

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