When you think of Birkenstocks, comfort and practicality likely come to mind. But in recent years, the brand has also made a splash in the world of luxury fashion, thanks to a series of high-profile collaborations and limited-edition releases that have pushed the boundaries of what a sandal can be.
These exclusive Birkenstocks have not only captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts but have also commanded jaw-dropping prices, taking them from their usual $150 price tag and turning them into some of the most coveted footwear in the world.
From partnerships with iconic fashion houses to a one-of-a-kind pair adorned with real gold, each pair represents a unique blend of the brand’s commitment to quality, functionality, and cutting-edge design, proving that Birkenstocks can be as much about luxury as they are about comfort. Scroll down as Footwear News looks back at the most expensive Birkenstocks ever made.
In a collaboration that epitomized luxury, Birkenstock partnered with Hermès in 2021 to create a pair of sandals that merged the craftsmanship of both brands. These sandals were made from repurposed Hermès bags and featured Birkenstock’s iconic cork-latex footbed, resulting in a truly unique product. The Hermès x Birkenstock collaboration saw these sandals fetch prices upwards of $76,000 at auction, making them one of the most expensive pairs ever produced.
In 2019, Birkenstock teamed up with Valentino Garavani to create an elevated version of the classic Arizona sandal. Featuring premium leather in Valentino’s signature red, these sandals retail for $495, making them one of the most expensive Birkenstocks available on the market.
Known for his avant-garde approach to fashion, Rick Owens collaborated with Birkenstock in 2018 to release a collection that included the Arizona, Madrid, and Boston models. The sandals, featuring oversized buckles and high-end materials like pony hair and leather, were priced around $525, highlighting Owens’ edgy aesthetic while maintaining Birkenstock’s core values of comfort and functionality.
One of the most talked-about collaborations in recent years is the Birkenstock x Dior collection. Released in 2022, the collection reimagined the Arizona and Milano styles with Dior’s refined craftsmanship. With luxury materials and Dior’s signature Oblique motif, these sandals retailed for around $1,100, making them a standout in the world of high-fashion footwear.
In 2021, Birkenstock partnered with minimalist fashion house Jil Sander to release a collection featuring the Arizona and Milano styles. Priced at $580, the sandals featured sleek, minimalist designs with premium leather and suede, reflecting Jil Sander’s understated yet luxurious aesthetic.