****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
After reading reviews where some received fake Birkenstocks, used shoes, or ones that didn't come in boxes, I was very excited when I received these ... just as promised -- uncrushed blue box, tags and all!! I was a little worried about getting Narrow since I typically wear a 9 M in normal shoes, but went by what the Birkenstock website suggested and the fit was perfect (39 Narrow)! Initially I had tried on a 38 Regular in a store, but my toes touched the front lip when I walked around, and the Regular really was too wide even though I would have lived with it had they had a 39! Since they didn't, I went straight to Amazon! ;)The Brown Amalfi is a beautiful deep rich brown, shiny, smooth leather. It is also super thick and rigid which I guess I didn't notice in the store -- but I found ways to soften it up a bit on the internet, so that was not going to be an issue! I also love how the buckles are a rose gold which go PERFECTLY with the dark brown -- it's so pretty!The reason why I only am rating the shoe as a 4 star is because when buckled it felt like I had 2 totally different size shoes on. They had no sign of wear, but the right shoe felt quite a bit wider than my left. No matter how I adjusted the straps, my right shoe was either significantly looser or tighter than the left, and the ones I tried on in the store didn't feel like that, so I knew it wasn't just the way my feet are in these shoes.The soft footbed in these also weren't as "soft" as I remember them being in the store, but they were not uncomfortable by any means! Plus, they hadn't been worn, so it doesn't surprise me that they were a little stiffer! After doing a little more research on the differences between the soft and original footbed, I decided since I have to send them back anyway that I'm going to try the original footbed since I have plantar fasciitis, high arches, and a high instep too (many reviews said because of those things the soft footbed wasn't as comfortable after breaking in as the originals are).So, short story long ... since I'm confident the fit of the shoes I received was not the norm, I'm sure you'll love these beautiful ugly shoes, and be very happy with your purchase!!To be completely frank, I have always been skeptical of Birkenstocks because 1) the hefty price tag and 2) the painful breaking in process. However, once my Rainbow sandals (rubber, not leather) began to give me problems, my partner suggested I look into a pair. Out of necessity, I went into a physical store (Nordstrom) to try both the soft bed and the original on before deciding on whether or not I wanted to invest in my own Birkenstocks. After a bit of contemplation, I ended up ordering a pair of original bed Birkenstocks from Amazon only to quickly return them because of poor fit (too wide) and rough bedding (I have sensitive feet). Because of this, I was hesitant to try another pair but I'm glad I did! I've worn them for 5 months and counting and they are now my go-to sandals for everyday wear. Below are some things I'd like to share about my experience.Reason for purchase:- My prior sandals were constantly causing blisters and were painfully uncomfortable after 2-3 hours of wearPros:- Comfortable from the get-go (there's no breaking in process -- something I was wary of after trying on the original bed Birkenstocks)- You can see and feel the quality of the leather straps (the matte black is also a big plus) and the overall sandal (very durable)- Can be worn all day without discomfort- Fits well (I was worried they would be too wide)- Great support from two wide straps (they don't feel flimsy like flip-flops often do)- Stylish (I personally didn't like them before but ugly-chic is back -- these are definitely making a solid return in the fashion world)Cons:- I still get irritated skin and redness on bad days (I'm not sure if this is because my feet are extra-sensitive but it's still unpleasant)Final thoughts:Initially, I was unsure of whether or not these sandals would be worth the investment. Although many swear them to be a must-have, I assumed it was all a hype. Now owning a pair myself, I can confidently say that my doubts have been proven wrong -- Birkenstocks are worth every penny. I no longer have to worry about blisters and can comfortably wear these sandals all day. I've worn them for hours on end without fail and they are still holding up spectacularly. It doesn't hurt that Birkenstocks are becoming a widespread fashion choice. I know I won't be needing replacements anytime soon, but when I do I'll definitely be purchasing another pair. I'm sold.If you are looking for a casual sandal that is a step up from a flip flop then this is a great option. It's a great quality sandal that is worth the price. My mother love Birkenstocks and has been wearing them for years and the reason I always hesitated is because of the footbed was too hard and I felt like it was bruising my feet. Perhaps this is something that would decrease in time, but I never got comfortable with the one pair I had many years ago. So when I saw the soft footbed I immediately jumped at the chance to get a pair. I bought it online as the stores near me never carry the black version, only brown. I've only had them for a week and I love them already though I am feeling a bit tender on the outer ridge of my feet and I think this may be because I have a wider foot so the structure on the side is rubbing a bit. I imagine I'll get use to this quickly and I'm so glad I got them. I love the arch support. You really can't beat it with other summer sandals that look cute but rarely have much support to them.
