Even among those who have enjoyed Birkenstock clogs and sandals for years, there is confusion about the difference between the Birki’s and Birkenstock brands. Some people think that “Birki” is simply an abbreviation for “Birkenstock” and that the two names are interchangeable. Others fear that shoes sold under the Birkis brand are simply substandard Birkenstock imitations made by unscrupulous manufacturers.

In fact, Birki’s and Birkenstock are separate companies with a common ancestor, sharing more than 230 years of history of making premium footwear. Birki’s was created in 1993 as a separate company headed by Alex Birkenstock, a prominent member of the founding Birkenstock family. His vision for the new company was to design fun, colorful footwear using Birkenstock’s famous templates, materials, designs and trade names, while leaving the more traditional muted color palette and designs of the original Birkenstock with the parent company.

This model has turned out to be a resounding success! Birki and Birki-Kids clogs and sandals are now sold in 85 countries around the world.

One of the first things people think of when they think about what makes Birkenstock shoes special is the company’s famous anatomically molded cork and latex footbed. Thanks to a licensing agreement between the two companies, this same insole serves as the foundation for many of Birki’s shoes, giving Birki’s cork latex models the same standard of comfort, support and foot health as the Birkenstock on which they are based.

Another key component shared between the two companies is the Birko Flor material from Birkenstock. This handmade fabric used in many of Birki’s uppers is as soft and durable as leather, while being easy to clean and maintain over the average long lifespan of a Birki shoe. It also allows many Birki’s and Birki-Kids shoe models to be certified vegan for those who prefer not to use animal products in the making of their shoes.

Even some shoe designs are the same between the two companies, right down to the registered model name. In some cases like the Maria clog, the only difference will be that the Birki version will have a more colorful design on the upper part; a pink paisley or floral pattern, for example. Some Birkis sandals and clogs even feature Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Tinkerbell or Winnie the Pooh!

Quality is a top priority for both companies, and using the same materials and components helps ensure that Birki shoes are of the same quality as Birkenstock shoes. But another important factor is the commitment of both companies to produce their shoes only in Germany, where they can exercise control over the entire manufacturing process, from prototype to full production. This commitment sets Birki apart from many of its competitors who have relocated manufacturing to Eastern Europe or Asia, often at the cost of strong quality control.

Savvy consumers know they’re getting 230 years of quality Birkenstock craftsmanship every time they slip into their favorite Birki clogs or sandals. Why not make your next shoe purchase a pair of fun and colorful Birki’s?