The footbed is the major reason people buy Birkenstocks. Birkenstock claims that they intended to imitate a footprint in the sand by designing a footbed that fit all foot shapes and sizes.

So, What is Birkenstock Soft Footbed? And how does it works? Of course, the footbed isn’t the only reason these shoes are so popular; they’re also fashionable, last a long time, and are ecologically responsible, which means fewer fast-fashion shoes in landfills!

Perhaps you are new to Birkenstocks and want assistance in selecting the appropriate footbed for your feet. Birkenstocks are an investment, so it makes sense to gather as much information as possible before making a purchase. Let’s find out now!

What is Birkenstock Soft Footbed?

What is Birkenstock Soft Footbed? Birkenstocks with a soft footbed?! Rebecca Mead wrote an excellent piece in The New Yorker about the origins of the Birkenstock brand. Rebecca Mead explains in this article why Birkenstock created the soft footbed in 2000.

The following is Birkenstock USA’s definition of soft footbed: In the traditional Birkenstock footbed, a foam layer is placed between the cork layer and the suede lining. This layer has an exceptionally high rebound capacity, allowing for long-lasting cushioning.

Understanding what is Birkenstock soft footbed you will know that the Birkenstock soft footbed is ideal for those who have a very low arch and whose arch has not dropped.

Besides, there are additional advantages to wearing Birkenstocks for people who have plantar fasciitis, Mortis neuroma, or high arches, which can cause discomfort in regular flat shoes. The anatomical molds are intended to relieve strain on your feet, joints, and back while you walk.

The cork footbed provides support and shock absorption while also encouraging the gripping motion that holds your shoe in place, providing workouts, and promoting circulation.

However, if you’ve never had a high arch and have always had a low arch, the soft footbed is still ideal for you. It’s ideal for those who alternate between ordinary shoes and Birkenstocks or who don’t have any foot problems.

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The Main Difference Between the Regular and Soft Footbed

Birkenstock recognizes that getting accustomed to their regular footbeds may take some time. This is why Birkenstock decided to design the soft-footbed for customers who desire straight-out-of-the-box comfort.

The Birkenstock Soft footbed is virtually identical to the regular, with the exception of a soft foam layer between the suede and cork.

Many Birkenstock enthusiasts declare that their Birks are the comfiest shoes in their closet! They believe that the soft footbed is as soft as a trainer or a sports shoe; however, this is not always the case.

Although it is softer than the regular footbed, it nevertheless delivers a sturdier footbed feel, which is essential to the health benefits inherent in Birkenstocks. You may notice that your feet alter form when wearing Birkenstocks with your bones repositioning themselves to a more natural and comfortable posture.

When shoes are excessively soft, they sometimes do not give adequate support. As a result, the normal footbed works to counteract the format of shoes that squash our feet into a tight-toed and flat foot position. Therefore the soft footbed is an excellent way to provide additional comfort while keeping the healthy Birkenstock footbed support.

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How do Birkenstock Soft Footbed Work?

This basic footbed is found in the majority of Birkenstock shoes. The cork and suede allow enough give to adapt to your foot while remaining stiff enough to provide support. Each component of the footbed has certain tasks to be most effective overall:

#1 – Heel Cup:

The heel molding supports your foot tissue and keeps your heel bone securely in its natural place.

#2 – Heel Mold:

The outside arch support encourages mobility, which minimizes joint pressure and the possibility of twisting your ankle. The heel mold helps to engage the calf muscles, supports the rear of the foot, and enhances gait and coordination.

#3 – Longitudinal Arch Support:

The arch support runs down the edge of the footbed and protects the tarsal bone. As a consequence, it gives your foot the stability it needs when walking, while also supporting and strengthening the inner arch. It improves gait and coordination by stabilizing the rear of the foot.

#4 – Transverse Arch Support:

The transverse arch support, which runs through the center of the footbed, stabilizes the metatarsal bone, relieving strain on the balls of your feet and aiding in the prevention of splayfoot. It also helps to keep your foot in a naturally straight and stable posture.

#5 – Toe Grip:

There are raised indentations at the toes on the front of the footbed. Your toes will remain relaxed in their natural posture as a result of this toe grip, which will aid in the flexing motion of walking.

#6 – Footbed Edge:

The front end of the footbed rises considerably. As your foot flexes, this edge protects your toes.

#7 – Initial Layer of Jute:

The first layer of jute serves as the footbed’s foundation. It aids in the bonding of the natural cork to the latex core.

#8 – Cork and Latex Footbed

The heart of all Birkenstock shoes is the cork and latex footbed. This extremely flexible and shock-absorbing core cushions and supports the foot while reducing pressure.

It is made of natural materials and insulates against both heat and cold, keeping your feet feeling cool and fresh.

#9 – Second Jute Layer:

The second jute layer frames the edges of the footbed, improving its flexibility and durability. This thick, absorbent layer also aids with moisture regulation.

#10 – Suede Lining:

The suede lining naturally absorbs moisture to keep feet fresh.

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Birkenstock Soft Footbed Structure

An anatomically designed foam inlay cushions the Soft Footbed. It is made up of millions of tiny air bubbles that provide a very pleasant wearing experience.

As you can see, the foam adds a layer above the cork, which means that, while being slightly softer, the soft footbed will take longer to conform to the shapes of your feet due to the gentler force given to the cork.

It does, however, give additional comfort from the start. The soft footbed is further distinguished by its blue stamp.

Its structure includes:

#1. Suede lining:

The suede lining wicks moisture away from the skin. This inherent characteristic of the high-quality top layer contributes to a pleasant foot environment.

#2. Foam insert:

An anatomically formed foam insert is cushioned into the soft-footbed. This insert includes millions of small air bubbles that contribute to a more pleasant experience.

#3. The second layer of jute:

The second layer of jute is wrapped around the footbed’s sides. This enhances the flexibility of the footbed and contributes significantly to the soft footbed’s longevity. This layer of thick, absorbent jute aids with moisture management.

#4. Cork and latex footbed:

The cork and latex core is composed of a fine natural cork and natural latex mixture. The anatomically designed, highly flexible, and incredibly light footbed absorbs shock from foot movement and maintains the foot’s natural tissue.

#5. Jute first layer:

The jute first layer stabilizes the footbed.

#6. Outsole:

The outsole is constructed of tough and pliable EVA. It’s scuff-proof and shock-absorbent.

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Birkenstock Soft Footbed Pros, Cons

What is Birkenstock Soft Footbed? And what is the advantage and disadvantage of the Birkenstock Soft Footbed bring for the user? Let’s read our assessment below:

Soft Footbed Pros:

• A simpler transition from regular shoes to Birkenstocks.
• Out-of-the-box comfort.
• Ideal for those with a low arch who have never fallen.

Soft Footbed Cons:

• Because of the memory foam, it will take longer to ‘correctly’ mold to your feet, so if it is comfortable for you out of the box, it will likely stay that way, but don’t expect it to form to your foot immediately.

Custom Made High Arch Footbed

However, several people have expressed dissatisfaction with the soft-footbed. They’ve been wearing Birkenstocks for years. They’ve been wearing them because they’ve had foot troubles; they got a pair with a soft footbed, but they can’t get them to break in.

The high-arch footbed is only available in a few designs unless you contact Birkenstock directly and have them custom-made.

Many people are unaware that if you have a prescription for orthotics, you can talk to Birkenstock, give them your prescription, and they can build you Birkenstocks in that prescription, which is a big advantage for those who have a more severe foot.

Unless you have a naturally low arch that isn’t giving you difficulties, you should go with the standard footbed and go through the break-in process because they’re a lot more comfortable in the long run.

However, if you have a lower arch or intend on switching shoes frequently, the soft footbed is a perfectly fine alternative.

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Birkenstock Regular vs Narrow

Birkenstock shoes are available in two widths: normal (regular) and narrow. Our narrow width is intended for ladies with an A-B breadth and fits more like a medium than a genuine narrow. Many people, even if they do not have small feet, discover that they can fit into our low width.

The thin tapers a little bit at the toes, which pulls your toes together, which is precisely what you don’t want your shoes to do unless your foot is truly small, which most people’s feet aren’t.

Again, if you love Birkenstock and some of the smaller models, this whole new thing about them providing their newer prettier styles only in narrow and some of them only in a soft footbed is not a smart thing for them to be doing.

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Conclusion

Knowing clearly What is Birkenstock Soft Footbed? and the Pros, Cons of Birkenstock Soft Footbed will help you can find suitable footwear for your foot problem.

Finally, everyone’s feet are unique. We hope this essay has given you a better knowledge of the distinctions between normal and soft footbeds, as well as what would be best for you based on your lifestyle.

Finally, whether with a Regular or Soft Footbed, Birkenstocks are a healthier alternative to traditional shoes!