Birkenstock Factory Outlets

The temptation to splurge on one of the world's most comfortable shoes is certainly great, but paying a visit to the Birkenstock factory outlets may save you some money in the long run.

Most people associate Birkenstock shoes with a slightly "granola" mentality; they're the shoes often seen on individuals who boast a decidedly organic zest for life. The shoes are not exactly synonymous with style – you won't see these shoes on the runways at Fashion Week – but they certainly have a place in a world where foot ailments are growing increasingly common due to ill-fitting footwear.

Quite simply, Birkenstocks are popular because they are comfortable. The company touts them as the "perfect shoes," and with attributes like these it's almost hard not to believe it!

• Ample toe room promotes proper balance and allows the toes to lie flat.
• A raised toe bar encourages the foot's natural gripping motion.
• A contoured foot bed matches the foot's natural shape.
• A deep heel cup and neutral heel promotes proper spine alignment.
• A shock-absorbing sole promises flexibility, durability, resistance and a lightweight feel.
• Two layers of jute fiber add strength and eliminate moisture.
• A sturdy cork foot bed provides support without sacrificing comfort.
• A suede foot bed liner makes every step as soft as a cloud.

With over 225 years of industry experience, it's no wonder this iconic brand has enjoyed such immense success. In addition to being comfortable, they're relatively versatile. College students wear them while trekking across campus, busy individuals slip them on while out running errands and even people simply taking a stroll around the neighborhood often turn to Birkenstocks to keep their feet protected.

All of this devotion doesn't come cheap, though. Birkenstock sandals typically range in price from around $25 to $150. The most inexpensive style is typically a lightweight sandal constructed of synthetic material. These styles are easily dispensable and perfect to wear to the beach.

Meanwhile, the more costly versions are worth the extra care and attention. The $150 men's London sandal is crafted of smooth, thick, dye-free black leather. Of course, Birkenstocks aren't just sandals – the company's shoe collection includes everything from $280 work boots for men and women to $130 clogs (also for men and women). The children's collections of sandals and clogs run slightly cheaper, averaging at around $40 per pair.

Given the fragile state of the economy, it's become more necessary than ever to find cheaper and more effective ways to indulge in basic necessities. While costly sandals may not be an absolute must, comfortable footwear certainly is. If you happen to have Birkenstocks in mind for your next purchase, consider paying a visit to the Birkenstock factory outlets.

As of this writing, Birkenstock does not have any outlet stores in the United States. Several are located in Europe, Australia and Asia, however. Many individuals report scoring huge bargains at these warehouses. If you're nowhere near a factory outlet and simply must have a cheap Birkenstock fix, consider one of these online boutiques instead. You probably won't find anything "cheap," per se, but the prices will be well under retail.

• Amazon.com offers an outstanding selection of Birkenstock sandals at reasonably discounted prices. If you're seeking something a bit more trendy than Birkenstock's usual offerings, consider the Gizeh Birko-Flor Thong, a sandal that enjoyed a fair amount of attention from fashion mavens around the world in 2008. Thanks to its chic style and easy fit, it's the perfect shoe to wear with nearly anything.

• Shoebuy.com: A small but decent selection of Birkenstocks is available at this vast online shoe store. Find everything from comfortable suede slip-ons to the aforementioned sassy Gizeh shoe.

• Endless.com: Find a large selection of Birkenstocks at marked down prices for men, women and children. The offerings include everything from leather clogs and printed sandals for the kids to slides and red sandals for the ladies.

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