The Best Birkenstock Alternatives, Tested by Style Editors

If you like the aesthetic of a Birkenstock, but want something that feels a little sharper, G.H. Bass offers a solid alternative. The brand’s version has the same familiar double-strap setup as the Arizona, but instead of the usual cork footbed, you get a soft suede footbed with memory-foam cushioning underneath. I noticed the difference immediately: it feels plusher and more supportive than I expected. The padded leather straps are finished with G.H. Bass’ signature whale-tail buckles, which give the sandal a dressier look than your standard Birkenstock.

I’ve worn this style with linen pants and a camp-collar shirt for a resort dinner in Turks. The EVA sole also keeps the sandal feeling light on my feet. Where my Birkenstocks have that firm, almost hard-underfoot feel with every step, these feel softer and a little more forgiving when I’m walking around. I really appreciated that while exploring the island, when I was on my feet most of the day.

Mules have become one of my favorite ways to get the ease of a sandal without completely exposing my feet, which is why I love Luca’s offering. The slip-on design makes them ridiculously easy to get in and out of, especially when I’m going through the TSA checkpoint. Since they feel much more put-together than your typical poolside slides, I’ve worn mine with chinos and a polo for a cool, preppy office look. The upper is made from Italian full-grain leather, which gives a richer aesthetic, and the crepe rubber outsole has a springy, slightly squishy feel underfoot.

There’s also a supportive cork footbed that gives you that familiar Birkenstock-like construction. They aren’t my first choice for an all-day walking shoe because the footbed feels a little firmer than I’d prefer after several hours on my feet. But for slipping them on for work around the house or heading out to a casual dinner, they’re a great choice. I wear a size 8 and have a relatively narrow foot, and I found these had plenty of room through the forefoot, so I’d especially recommend them if you have wider feet.

Steve Madden takes this classic slide in a more interesting direction with the Maiven. The geometric cutouts across the upper give these a striking resemblance to the Hermes slides, so much so that you’d barely be able to tell the difference. You’re basically getting that same luxury-style vacation energy without the designer price tag. I’ve worn them with shorts and a tank top as well as a full linen monochromatic set. The instep strap that crosses the middle of the foot keeps it locked in place.

I’m usually skeptical of completely flat sandals for anything beyond a quick trip out, but these have enough flexibility underfoot that I don’t immediately feel like I’m walking on a slab. I’d think of these more as an everyday lifestyle sandal than something I’d wear for hours of sightseeing, but they’re more than comfortable enough for a weekend brunch or shopping trip. What really sells them for me is the shape: They have the simplicity of a traditional slide, but the suede upper stands out from similarly priced shoes.

Sometimes the simplest sandal is the one that makes the biggest impact. Take Mr. Porter’s suede slides with a minimal, two-strap setup. They have a rounded toe and a low rubber sole that sits close to the ground. The gray suede gives it a dressier vibe. I’ve found it easy to pair with just about anything in my neutral-heavy wardrobe, from shorts and a tee to linen trousers. The flat rubber sole has a textured, grippy bottom that gives you some traction on these New York City streets.

The suede material does require a little more TLC than leather or rubber, though. I wouldn’t wear these through puddles or to the beach because water can stain suede, and dirt is much harder to simply wipe away. They’re also one of the pricier options in this lineup, but for good reason. The pared-back design and neutral color make them wearable for years rather than a trend you’ll replace next summer.