Then vs Now: The Birkenstock Styles Taking Over Since 2020
(And the pairs worth grabbing for 2026)
If you’ve been watching Birkenstock trends over the last few years, one thing is clear: people aren’t just buying “the classics” anymore.
From clogs to slim-strapped sandals to utility-ready shoes you can literally hose off, the style landscape has shifted in a big way.
By analyzing six years of unit sales trends (2020–2025) and matching them with what’s happening across the fashion world, a clear picture emerges of what’s rising, what’s dipping, and what’s about to define 2026.
This is Birkenstock… evolving.
Arizona: The Icon Still Reigns, But the Era of “Only Arizona” Is Over
Arizona remains the top-selling Birkenstock in both 2020 and 2025 — no surprise there. But the share tells a different story.
- Spring 2022: Arizona made up over two-thirds of seasonal sandal sales
- Spring 2025: That share dropped to just over half
Arizona isn’t disappearing — it’s simply sharing the stage with new favorites. Think of it as the OG that will always be safe, but no longer the only style shaping the Birkenstock universe.
Boston: The Comfort Clog That Went From Niche to “Need It”
Between 2020 and 2025, Boston unit sales jumped more than 500%, pushing the clog from a mid-tier style to the solid #2 spot.
Fashion confirmed the shift — Boston searches surged 593% in early 2022 and the style was named “shoe of the year.”
- Easy slip-on design
- All-season wearability
- Cozy but still chic aesthetic
- Effortlessly relaxed styling
This is no longer a trend shoe — it’s the new classic. If Birkenstock had a “quiet luxury” category, Boston would be leading it.
Franca: For the Customer Who Wants Style + Comfort in One
Franca recorded the fastest growth of any style between 2020 and 2025, landing in the top five by 2025.
Slim crossing straps, a softer silhouette, and that signature contoured footbed make it the perfect balance of style and comfort.
Madrid: Minimalism Is Back — And Shoppers Are Noticing
Madrid’s growth may be subtle, but it’s undeniable. The single-strap silhouette feels clean, modern, and intentional.
“I want something simple, but make it look styled.”
Super Birki: The Utility Shoe That Became a Cult Favorite
The biggest surprise in the data? Super Birki unit sales jumped over 1000%.
- Fluid-resistant PU upper
- Easy-clean design
- Replaceable cork-latex footbed
- True Birkenstock support
This reflects a deeper shift toward durable, functional footwear built for real life.
The Style Fading Out: Florida
Florida still has loyal fans, but demand has steadily softened since 2020.
Not a bad shoe — just no longer defining the moment.
What Does This Mean for Birkenstock in 2026?
- Comfort-forward closed toes stay in charge
- Effortless but elevated wins
- Utility shoes are having a real moment
- Classics remain the backbone — just not alone
If You’re Shopping for Your 2026 Birks… Start Here
- ✔️ Arizona — the all-occasion icon
- ✔️ Boston — cozy, stylish, endlessly wearable
- ✔️ Franca — slim straps with real comfort
- ✔️ Madrid — clean, minimal, chic
- ✔️ Super Birki — durable, washable, real-life ready