Birkenstock Arizona Sandal Review: Style Editor’s Opinion After Testing on Vacation

AS A STYLE EDITOR at Men’s Health, I test shoes for their looks and function. Come summer, I look for sandals and sneakers that keep my feet cool and comfortable when logging my daily steps, and still look great with whatever I throw on. I’m not trying to baby a pair of sandals or swap shoes halfway through the day. I want something I can wear to grab my coffee, walk the city, hit the beach, and not think twice about. My saving grace: The Birkenstock Arizona Sandal. It used to be that clunky hippie footwear, but now it’s a total style flex. TikTok blew it up, fashion editors started rocking it with everything from linen pants to baggy jeans, and suddenly the “ugly” sandal became cool. I finally caved and got myself a pair after hearing endless hype, and honestly, I get it now.

It keeps things simple with two wide straps and adjustable buckles that aren’t too flashy. On top of that, the design is low-profile, so it pairs with everything: shorts, jeans, linen pants, even sweats. With the Men’s Health team, I’ve tested over 50 different summer shoes through airport travels, backyard BBQs, beach days, bike rides and miles-long walks. The Arizona Sandal was the best in its class for its comfortable footbed, arch support, and just enough cushion to keep your feet happy all day.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed – Oiled Leather (Unisex)

ProsA firm, supportive arch footbed that molds to your feetOutsole has a strong grip to provide more traction and stability when walkingGets softer with each wearConsCan’t be out in the sun too longUpperOiled nubuck leatherOutsoleEVAFootbedCork latexComfortThe first thing you need to know: there’s a bit of a break-in period. Yes, the contoured cork-latex footbed starts off a bit firm, yet not super uncomfortable. But after a week or two, the sandal starts to conform to the shape of my feet in a way that feels incredibly natural underfoot. Fast forward to a weekend spent walking the boardwalk, grabbing tacos, and running errands—I barely noticed I had them on. I didn’t experience any heel pain, just pure comfort as I took each step.

I’ve got pretty flat feet, which means my arches don’t naturally absorb shock well, and my gait tends to roll inward a bit when I walk (classic overpronation). Most sandals offer zero support, so I usually end up with sore heels, tight calves, or a cranky lower back by the end of the day. But the Arizona’s contoured footbed, especially the built-in arch support, has honestly been a game changer. I’ve taken these on long days exploring cities (hours on cobblestone in Spain) and found the arch support kept my feet in a neutral alignment, which made a huge difference in how my body felt after walking around.

SHOP THE BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA

The arch is firm, but not aggressive, and it supports my natural stride in a way that eases pressure on my joints. Compared to something like Crocs, which are cushy but lack real arch support, the Arizona gives you structure and comfort. The heel cup adds extra support by cradling the back of my foot and keeps it secure, on inclines or uneven pavement.

Even on hot days when my feet inevitably got a little sweaty, they weren’t sliding around or causing me to readjust every five minutes. Plus, the leather straps hold firm without digging in, and the sole stays grippy on different surfaces.

FitAs for the fit, I’m a true size 8 and the Arizona felt dialed-in from the start. I didn’t need to size up or down. The brand offers both regular and narrow widths, which helps lock in that just-right feel. Plus, the dual adjustable buckles make it easy to fine-tune the snugness depending on the day. It’s become my go-to travel sandal, too. I either loosened them after a long flight or tightened them to keep that secure fit on vacation days packed with lots of walking and exploring.

SHOP THE BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA

Style Style-wise, the Arizona is way more versatile than I expected. I picked up a pair in black Birko-Flor with matte black buckles, which gives them a clean, low-key vibe that’s easy to dress up or down. Birko-Flor, by the way, is Birkenstock’s synthetic leather—it’s soft, durable, and more weather-resistant than suede or real leather, which makes it ideal for summer wear. It also has a more refined finish, so it looks sleeker and less rustic than some of the brand’s other materials.

Out of all the silhouettes Birkenstock makes—and there are a lot—the Arizona is its most iconic. It’s the two-strap version you’ve seen your dad wear, and the shape is just structured enough to feel intentional. Compared to other Birk styles like the casual Boston clog or the dressier Milano, the Arizona hits that middle ground.. That means you can wear it with just about all of your summer fits.

I’ve worn mine with swim trunks to the beach, but I’ve also styled it with knit polo and linen trousers for a resort dinner. The black colorway helps it look more classic. When I throw it on, I feel way more put-together, even if I’m just wearing it with my go-to basics; think plain t-shirts and tank tops.

Where does it shine? Casual hangs, travel days, beach weekends, airport security lines. Where shouldn’t you wear this sandal? Probably not to the office (unless it’s a creative one), or anywhere that calls for closed-toe shoes. But for almost everything else, it’s solid. Bonus: The Arizona ages like a good leather jacket. Over time, it develops a patina that gives it a rugged, worn-in look that’s actually better than when it’s fresh out of the box.

SHOP THE BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA

VerdictIn the world of sandals, Birkenstock’s Arizona Sandal is a classic style that’s also loaded with performance. The sandal travels well, breaks in beautifully, and somehow manages to look great with everything in my summer rotation. The only real drawback is that it’s not office-appropriate, depending on your dress code. But outside of that, it’s a true summer workhorse. If you’re looking for a sandal to wear just about everywhere for shorts season, the Arizona earns its place in your summer capsule wardrobe.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed – Oiled Leather (Unisex)

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As the Style and Commerce Editor for Men’s Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.