BIRKENSTOCK is rooted in the family's dedication to orthopedic-inspired shoemaking. Over the centuries, an unparalleled treasure trove of experience has been built up, which is passed down, cultivate... BIRKENSTOCK is rooted in the family's dedication to orthopedic-inspired shoemaking. Over the centuries, an unparalleled treasure trove of experience has been built up, which is passed down, cultivated, and continually expanded from generation to generation. Karl Birkenstock introduces the first sandal with a flexible footbed to the market, and for the first time, environmentally friendly glues are used in production, marking Birkenstock's environmental commitment.