Do Birkenstocks come up big?

[BeccaL]

OK, really daft question. I've just bought some Birkenstocks on line, and having arrived, they seem massive overall, but the bumps under my toes seem in about the right place.

Ordered a 39 (UK6) but despite having Googled it beforehand am not sure if what I think is a 39 and what Europe is a 39 are the same thing? don't want to send them back if I've actually got the right size and they're just a bit bigger than my current sandals.

Anyone know?

Thanks!

[Pickle]

I find they do come up large - I'm usually a 39, but wear a 38 in my trusty Birkenstocks.

[embo71]

yes they do - i seem to be 2 sizes smaller in them...

[BeccaL]

Thank you! Will see if I can find somewhere to try on a pair then, and return these for a smaller size. That's a relief to know - felt like a fool taking them out of the box only to find that they're ginormous!

[melbourne groover]

If the bumps under your toes are in the right place then they are the ones that fit. You should have about 1cm at the end I think. But equally if they feel too big then ignore above and buy the ones that feel right but I have bought too small before and if your toes hit the end they are uncomfortable after a while.

[Bellenden Belle]

I used to work in the Natural Shoe Store - the original Birkenstock shop - many moons ago.

They do come up "big" - but this doesn't mean they aren't the correct size - it is a different kind of shoe which can take a while to adjust to. You should be able to fit the top of your thumb between the back of your ankle and shoe.

It really is worth trying to go to a shop and get them properly fitted. Not least because they come in different width sizes too that can make a big difference.

[prickle]

I think the fit also depends on the type of Birkenstock. I remember that when I first had one of the traditional two strap ones many moons ago from Natural Shoe Store, they (poss Bellenden Belle) recommended that I had a size that felt huge. The shoes were incredibly comfortable once worn in. I think your feet are supposed to grip the shoes, thus exercising the correct muscles and this is one of the benefits.

Not sure about the newer more fashionable styles though?

[midivydale]

Yes indeed, I got mine in a size 2...