London

The London provides the same ergonomic footbed technology as other Birkenstock styles while offering full foot coverage, making it suitable for both casual wear and professional environments where open-toe footwear is inappropriate.

The London features a one-piece upper constructed from premium leather with a thickness of 2.8 to 3.2 mm, creating an extremely durable shoe. The adjustable buckle strap provides a secure fit across the instep. Natural leather versions develop a unique patina over time, with each shoe acquiring individual character through wear.

The model is available in several leather options. Oiled leather has been treated with oil to enhance durability and water resistance, capable of withstanding regular wear while maintaining its appearance. Suede leather provides a softer texture that loosens more quickly during the break-in period compared to oiled leather. The thick Habana leather, a popular colorway in oiled leather, slowly conforms to the shape of the foot day by day.

The London incorporates Birkenstock's original contoured footbed created to provide ergonomic support. The footbed consists of multiple layers including a suede liner, jute reinforcement, and cork forming the base structure. Cork is a 100 percent renewable and sustainable material that provides insulation and cushioning properties.

The contoured design includes pronounced arch support, a deep heel cup, and a roomy toe box. The heel area features very deep molding that supports foot tissue and holds the heel bone firmly in its natural position. The footbed surface is lined with suede for comfort. A soft footbed option adds an additional layer of cushioning for those requiring extra comfort, though some customers report this version runs larger than the standard cork footbed.

The sole is made of lightweight EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), a high-quality elastic material that provides cushioning and shock absorption. The EVA material supports the work of the footbed while adding to the overall comfort of the shoe. Alternative versions feature a rubber sole that provides grip on normal terrain.

The London is available in regular and narrow widths. The regular width accommodates medium to wide feet, while the narrow width fits narrow to medium feet. The narrow width has more angle from the big toe to the pinky toe, causing it to fit slightly shorter than the regular width.

Birkenstock enclosed shoes with removable footbeds often fit trimmer than the brand's Classic Footbed styles worn as sandals. Some customers step up one size when purchasing enclosed shoe models. Proper fit should allow approximately one-eighth to one-quarter inch of space in front of the toes and behind the heel.

The London initially feels snug across the top of the foot, particularly in the thick Habana oiled leather. After a few weeks of wear, the leather loosens and conforms to the shape of the foot. The soft suede versions loosen more quickly than oiled leather during this break-in period.

The break-in period requires gradual adaptation to the footbed. Birkenstock recommends wearing the shoes for a few hours initially to allow the foot to adjust to the contoured support. Starting with short periods of indoor wear and gradually working up to longer walks helps the footbed soften and mold to the foot, though this process can be slow depending on the leather type and individual foot characteristics.

The London shares the familiar silhouette of the Birkenstock Boston but features a closed heel, making it a full loafer rather than an open-back clog. This design makes the London more appropriate for year-round wear in various settings. While the Boston clog has a loose fitting at the heel, the London's closed design creates a more secure fit throughout the shoe. Both models share the same contoured footbed system and are available in similar leather options.

Londons constructed with oiled leather uppers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care and resoling. The replaceable components allow for extended lifespan beyond typical footwear. Heel replacement costs approximately $20, while sole replacement runs about $50. Even the cork footbed can be replaced when worn out, allowing the shoes to be rebuilt rather than discarded.

The oiled leather construction provides water resistance and withstands regular wear while maintaining a stylish appearance. The natural leather develops patina through use, with the color and texture evolving over years of wear.

The simplicity of the London's design makes it versatile for various outfits. The shoe can be paired with cropped wide-leg pants, straight cuffed jeans, or flowing maxi skirts. The closed-toe design suits everyday wear across seasons, bridging the gap between casual comfort and situations requiring more covered footwear than open sandals.