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The Diminishing Birkenstock Profs

Back in 2000 I was turned onto what I thought was the best kitchen shoe ever. I was working at Buckley's Tavern when I got my first pair. This shoe was everything you needed it to be: slip resistant, easy to clean, and no gross laces. That first pair lasted me until 2003. The reason I had to replace them was because of a tear down the middle of the top part of the shoe.

I got my second pair thinking that I would not need to buy another kitchen shoe for another three years. WRONG! I went through at least 4 pairs over the next 3 years. They all tore just like that first pair. Fortunately the store where I purchased them is really cool. If the problem happened within 9 months, they would give me a new pair for free. If it happened after, then they would give me 50% off.

Recently I got a different model by Birkenstock. The shoe is more narrow and seems tougher. That was 9 months ago. They tore last week. Does anyone else use the Birkenstock kitchen shoes? If so, are you having the same issue?

8 comments:

Cornstarch in my crotch said...

I had one pair for three years that never tore. The slip- resistant sole only worked 50% of the time. They are made of bonded rubber, I am not surprised they would tear. Switch to Dansko, they have far more support then any other kitchen shoe and are made of leather so they won't rip.

Chef named Sous said...

do the danskos clean up okay?

Cornstarch in my crotch said...

The smooth leather clogs are super easy to clean. Make sure you get the professional model which has the non-slip sole. Try on multiple pairs in your size, they are handmade and can vary from shoe to shoe. I am completely against cushioning shoes(and mats). I find they make my back hurt after long days. Give your feet a few days to get used to the Danskos, wear them around the house and to run errands.

Chef named Sous said...

I just went to the store and they replaced my Birkies for free. I asked them about a new Dansko option and she was super helpful. They stock a few options. She even said they are going to start stocking a couple other brands of cooking shoe as well by this summer.

Cornstarch in my crotch said...

When you come to the right coast we can stop by the Dansko outlet

Chef named Sous said...

I'll be there in April. Likely the 5th-13th. I am so fucking excited to see you guys. I miss you so much.

Cornstarch in my crotch said...

Want to trail one night?

Mad Reductions said...

I waited to chime in on this, because I'm now a card carrying Croc chef. I still have my All-Pro inserts, but I've been swayed to the dark side. The "slip free" soles started to peel off (I finished the process because I was dragging) within six months, but they are super light and super cheap. Over the years, I have had the exact same issues with the light Birks and I've never understood why they just decide to tear one day. I got my last pair off eBay and they were the European verson; much stiffer and correspondingly clunky, but they did the same thing and they are now my 'round the house work shoe, perfect for quick trips outside to shovel snow. Can't wait to handle our business in April, Sous.

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