Hopefully by now you’ve finished your finals, packed up your dorm, and have headed home for a much needed summer break. It’s time to relax, maybe work, and have fun with the warm weather.

Recently I’ve been seeking out a pair of sandals I can wear for the whole summer, so I’m willing to make an investment. After lots of research, I’ve narrowed it down to two choices: Birkenstocks & Chacos. I’m going to list out the pros and cons to each (just like I did with Hunter Boots vs. Bean Boots and Converse vs. Vans) so we can decide which is the best choice for you – and me!

Related post: How to Wear Birkenstocks (Styling Guide & Outfit Ideas)

Table of Contents

Pros of Birkenstocks

Birkenstocks have been made since 1774. They have and always will be “Made in Germany”. With a “a high level of hand-crafting” and “the use of select, high-grade, long-lasting materials”, Birkenstocks are shoes that are made to last forever.

Pro: Not only does Birkenstock hold their products to high quality standards, but the materials they use are also environmentally friendly. Birkenstocks have been actively environmentally friendly for the past 30 years and continue to use green methods like reduction of energy use (they have reduced their energy use by 90%), and using adhesives for their shoes that are 95% environmentally friendly.

Birkenstocks can be purchased from many stores, online and in person, like Urban Outfitters, Free People, Journeys, Nordstrom, Zappos, and Birkenstock.com. Depending on the style, Birks range from about $70 to $140. These summer shoes are on the pricey side, but they last forever because they’re made to, and Pro: they are made to contour to your foot for ultimate comfort.

Products: Poncho, T-shirt, Jeans, Birkenstocks