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Birkenstock Timeline
1774
In a small German village, Johann Adam Birkenstock is registered as “subject and shoemaker” in the church archives.
1897
Konrad Birkenstock (Johann’s grandson) develops a concept that would literally change the shape of footwear. Although the soles of our feet are curved, shoes had always been flat inside. Konrad theorized that if the shape of the shoes reflected the shape of the feet, greater comfort would be possible. He soon designed the first shoe with a contoured insole to be used by shoemakers in the production of custom footwear. 
1902
Konrad Birkenstock develops the first flexible arch support to be inserted in factory-made shoes that have become widely distributed in Germany.
1964
Karl Birkenstock takes his grandfather’s contoured arch support concept one step further – as a ready to wear shoe. The Birkenstock sandal is born.
1966
While on vacation in Germany, Margot Fraser seeks relief from uncomfortable shoes and the tiring effects of walking all day on hard pavement. While visiting a spa during her vacation, someone suggests she try Birkenstock.
Margot enjoys immediate comfort with her first pair of Birkenstocks. Moreover, she finds that the chronic foot pain she had endured for years simply vanished within months after she returned home to California. Convinced of their health benefits, she begins importing Birkenstock footwear to America.
1973
The Arizona, a style which has now become synonymous with the Birkenstock brand, is introduced. Birkenstock’s popularity explodes during the 1970’s.
1985
By the beginning of the 1980’s, Birkenstock has become a household name throughout the United States. The continually expanding Birkenstock line now features over 40 style/color combinations.
1996
Birkenstock Distribution USA, Inc. celebrates its 30th anniversary. Birkenstock now offers almost 300 style/color combinations, and the footwear is distributed to millions of people throughout the United States. 
2002
Birkenstock celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Boston clog.
2003
Known as a comfort icon for the past three decades, Birkenstock’s famous Arizona 2-strap sandal celebrates its 30th anniversary.
