Birkenstock USA, began over 30 years ago when the founder, Margot Fraser, had a dream of sharing the comfort and health benefits of Birkenstock shoes. A few years earlier, while visiting a German resort, she had tried on her first pair and was extremely impressed at how good they felt. From there, Margot learned that the original Birkenstock contoured footbed was invented and manufactured in Germany by Konrad Birkenstock in 1897. In fact, the Birkenstock family has been shoemakers for over 225 years more than two centuries of creating and perfecting a tradition of walking comfort. Birki s was founded in the early 90's by Stephan Birkenstock The goal was to create stylish sandals that were not only good for you but also something to show off. All Birki's shoes and sandals are made in Germany using environmentally-friendly process and proven craftsmanship. Most Birkenstock and Birki's footbeds are crafted from a cork-latex mixture. The cork used is 100% renewable and sustainable harvested from the Oak tree. The harvesting of the cork does not harm the Oak Tree and allows for new bark to grow back beginning the life cycle all over again. Each contoured footbed will molds and shapes to your foot with the heat of your body creating a custom footbed that supports and cradles each and every step. For the customer that wants a cushioned footbed, they can now enjoy the soft footbed that is offered by Birkenstock shoes and Birki's shoes. Available in a variety of styles, the time-tested cork construction has been enhanced with a layer of memory foam. Start your child off on the right foot with Birkenstock Kids shoes and Birki s Kids shoes. Children need footwear that is good for their growing feet. The contoured footbed supplied by Birkenstock Kids shoes and Birki's Kids shoes mirrors the natural shape of the foot, offering excellent support. Birkenstocks Kids shoes and Birki s Kids shoes are created according to the daily needs of children. Many styles available in the Birkenstock Kids and Birki's Kids line can be purchased in the adult version. A large portion of Birkenstock shoes and Birki's shoes are completely repairable and renewable, reducing the potential for tons of waste to be dumped in land fills each year. From old favorites in fresh colors to new styles and materials, you can easily reuse and refresh your Birkenstock shoes and Birki's shoes for year to come.