All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Birkenstock has refreshed a signature style from its professional collection for the first time since its original design debut in 1995.
According to the German footwear brand, the new Birki Air 2.0 updates the vented clog style from the mid-90s with a new technical design featuring orthopedic functions created specifically for those working in industries including healthcare, hospitality and more.
For this shoe, the Birki Air 2.0 features the brand’s signature footbed with a unique updated ventilation concept on the upper. A pronounced bone tread creates water channels to draw fluids away, providing stability and climate control. The outsoles are certified ASTM slip resistant and the clog now includes a convertible back strap option, with hygienic buckles, for added security. Created to resist abrasion, fluids, grease and oil, the clog’s polyurethane material also absorbs energy and provides antistatic protection.
Watch on FN
Orthopedic benefits of the shoe include a firm base, deep heel cup, proper arch support, toe stretch and grip to stimulate blood flow, the company added. The style is now available in select stores and online in four colorways – black, ultra blue, active red and matcha – and will retail for $99.95.
“As leaders in footwear innovation, Birkenstock has a long history of providing the best in functional footwear to the unsung heroes of the healthcare and hospitality industry,” David Kahan, president of Birkenstock Americas, told FN. “Just as athletes rely on their gear for peak performance, the Birki Air 2.0 empowers professionals in high-pressure environments with unmatched comfort and support.
The executive added that the Birki Air 2.0 is part of a renewed focus on product innovation in the professional category and is the latest design to be updated within the Birkenstock professional collection which includes a range of styles from clogs to sneakers.
“We’re excited to continue to serve those who serve others through our professional collection,” Kahan added.
Today’s launch comes one day after Birkenstock raised its outlook for the year after it reported record revenues for the second quarter of 2024. The results were driven by strong consumer demand across all regions, channels and categories.
On Thursday, the 250-year-old German footwear brand reported that net revenues rose 22 percent to 481 million euros in the second quarter.
