Can Birkenstocks Get Wet? What Really Happens + Our Fixes

“Can Birkenstocks get wet?” is a common question for new sandal owners. It’s a big one, too, as one mistake can ruin your sandals. But worry not. We’re here with an answer, along with some tips and other crucial details.

In short: Yes, Birkenstocks can get wet. When this happens, the cork can crack, and the whole shoe might start to smell weird. And the worst part? What looks like “just a little water” can turn into permanent damage fast.

So, keep reading, as we’re discussing how to dry and protect your Birkenstocks without hassle. Real advice, tested by us. You’ll also learn whether you can waterproof your sandals or not.

Key Takeaways

• Regular Birkenstocks can’t handle water, especially cork, suede, and leather ones.

• Water ruins the comfort, shape, and smell of your Birkenstocks fast.

• EVA Birkenstocks are 100% waterproof and perfect for wet days.

• Never dry Birks near heat—it can crack the cork and stiffen the suede.

• We always use cork sealant to protect the footbed from moisture.

• For the beach or rain, we use waterproof Birks and save our regular ones.

Can Birkenstocks Get Wet? (Everything to Know)

Yes, Birkenstocks can get wet, which is not ideal. EVA models are waterproof, but the ones made with cork and suede can’t handle water well. In fact, such Birkenstocks can soak up moisture. When that happens, they can lose shape, start smelling, and wear out much faster.

When we wore ours out during a sudden rain, we thought it wouldn’t be a big deal. But after a few hours, the footbed felt different, and it never fully bounced back. The cork started to dry out and crack slightly. That’s when we learned that water and Birkenstocks don’t mix well—unless you’re wearing the waterproof ones.

So, trust us, water can seriously shorten the life of your pair if you’re not careful.

If you need Birkenstocks for rainy days, what we do now is keep a pair of the EVA (rubber-style) ones for wet weather. They look almost the same, but are made to handle water.

Can Birkenstock Bostons get wet?

Birkenstock Bostons can get wet, but they really shouldn’t. We wore ours out once during a rainy walk, and it took two full days to dry them out. Even after that, the suede upper looked faded.

What we do now is check the weather before stepping out in Bostons. If there's even a slight chance of rain, we grab something else.

Can suede Birkenstocks get wet?

Suede Birkenstocks should not get wet. Suede soaks up water fast, which can leave stains. If your sandals do get wet, dry them slowly at room temperature. For better results, you can also spray a suede protector to help prevent damage.

We’ve ruined a pair by stepping into a shallow puddle during a quick walk. The soft suede upper absorbed the water instantly, and once it dried, the texture felt stiff and weird.

Can cork Birkenstocks get wet?

No, cork Birkenstocks should not get wet. We’ve seen what happens when they do. The cork footbed starts to dry out and crack over time. We once left a wet pair out in the sun to dry, and the cork became brittle and started flaking. It’s honestly painful to see, especially if you love your Birks like we do.

Can Birkenstock Arizona get wet?

Birkenstock Arizona sandals can get wet, but only if they’re the waterproof EVA version. The regular ones should be kept dry. Water can damage the cork and ruin the materials. However, the EVA version of Arizona is waterproof and lightweight. That’s why it’s perfect for:

• Beach

• Pool

• Rainy days.

If you’re not sure which version you have, check the material or product label.

Now, we own two pairs—one regular for everyday dry wear and one EVA for beach or rain. That’s the best way we’ve found to enjoy them year-round without ruining them.

If you’re planning to wear your Birks out and possibly get them wet, it’s also worth asking—are Birkenstocks comfortable, especially in different conditions. Comfort can really vary depending on the material and fit.

What happens if my Birkenstocks get wet?

If your Birkenstocks get wet, they can get damaged, especially if they’re made of cork, suede, or leather. The biggest problem happens to the cork footbed. It’s super absorbent. When it gets soaked, it pulls in moisture and then starts drying out unevenly. That’s when we noticed cracks forming.

We’ve had this happen when we got caught in unexpected rain. At first, everything seemed fine. But within hours, the cork started to dry out weirdly, and the suede looked off. It was a slow process, but the damage was real and long-term.

Then there’s the upper material. If your pair has suede or leather, water can ruin the materials. Our suede Birkenstocks got water stains that never went away.

Birks have become a go-to for comfort and versatility. If you’re curious, here’s why Birkenstocks are so popular and why people love them in all kinds of weather.

What to do if Birkenstocks get wet?

If your Birkenstocks get wet, do the following:

• Remove them from the water immediately.

• Gently blot with a clean, dry towel.

• Stuff them with paper to keep their shape.

• Let them air dry at room temperature.

• Once dry, brush suede or nubuck gently.

• Use a cork sealer if the cork looks dry or cracked.

Step 1: Remove excess water right away

The first thing to do when your Birkenstocks get wet is grab a dry towel. We press it gently into the footbed and around the straps. Never rub it, as that can push the water deeper into the material.

We just blot everything, especially the areas where our feet sit. If you let the water sit too long, it starts soaking deeper into the cork and suede.

Once you’ve blotted it, stuff the sandals with newspaper. Not just one piece either. Use multiple layers so it soaks up moisture from the inside.

Step 2: Let them air dry naturally

After removing excess moisture from Birkenstocks, just let them sit in a dry place. No fans. No dryers. We place them in a room that’s dry and has some air circulation.

We also suggest flipping them gently after a few hours. That helps both the straps and footbed dry evenly. If we leave them sitting on one side too long, the part touching the ground stays wet and can develop a weird smell.

It usually takes a full day to dry Birkenstocks, sometimes more.

Step 3: Use a suede brush for the upper

Once your Birkenstocks are totally dry, use a soft suede brush on the upper part, especially for suede ones. Brushing them brings the suede back to life a little. Not perfect, but way better than leaving them rough and dull.

We brush in one direction first, then gently go over areas that look patchy. We had a pair of taupe suede Birkenstocks that looked horrible after getting wet. But after brushing and using a suede eraser, they started to look wearable again.

Step 4: Seal the cork footbed regularly

You can buy any high-quality cork sealant online or at shoe stores. We apply it every couple of months. It helps protect the cork from cracking when it gets wet (even from sweat).

We’ve been doing this regularly with our newer pairs, and the difference is huge. They feel sturdier, and we don’t see the same wear on the edges of the footbed.

Can I shower with my Birkenstocks?

No, you shouldn’t shower with your regular Birkenstocks. The cork footbed and the suede straps will soak up the water. When they do, they will feel super soggy. On top of that, they will take days to dry out. Even after that, they won’t feel the same again.

The only exception is if you have the EVA Birkenstocks. Those are made of a waterproof foam material. Moreover, they’re super easy to rinse off and dry fast.

So, if you’re thinking of showering in Birkenstocks, ask yourself which pair you’ve got. If they’re the regular ones, don’t risk it.

Can you wear Birkenstocks to the beach?

You can wear Birkenstocks to the beach, but it depends on which pair you’re talking about. If you’re wearing the regular ones, you will be dealing with a lot of problems. Sand can get stuck in the suede, and the cork can absorb moisture.

We only wear EVA Birkenstocks to the beach. They’re waterproof, washable, and easy to shake off. They don’t absorb sand or saltwater like the regular ones do. We’ve walked in and out of the ocean with them, and they still look new.

Plus, they’re light, which makes them easy to carry around in a beach bag or backpack.

If you're planning a beach trip and want something comfy, go with the EVA Birks. The classic cork ones just aren’t built for that kind of environment.

Can You Wear Birkenstocks in the Rain?

You can wear Birkenstocks in the rain, but only if you’ve got the right kind. We’ve been caught in the rain wearing our classic cork Birks, and we wouldn’t recommend it. The cork footbed gets soggy and everything feels heavy.

After drying, they didn’t feel as comfortable. So now, we always check the weather before heading out in our regular pair.

If you want Birkenstocks that handle rain well, go with the EVA versions. We’ve worn ours during full-on summer storms, and they handled everything perfectly.

Can Birkenstocks be washed?

Yes, Birkenstocks can be cleaned, but you have to be careful. It’s because not all parts can handle water. When our suede Birkenstocks got muddy, we made the mistake of washing them under a running tap. Big regret. The water stained the suede, and the cork footbed started to feel weird after drying.

For suede or leather Birkenstocks, we use a suede brush or a soft cloth. You can also use mild baby soap mixed with water, but only on dirty spots. When they dry, we brush the suede again to keep the texture soft.

What we do now is use a dedicated Birkenstock cleaner and follow their care tips closely.

So, if you’ve got EVA Birkenstocks, feel free to wash them as much as you want. We rinse ours off with a hose, in the sink, even in the shower. They dry quickly and don’t lose shape.

Can Birkenstocks be waterproof?

Yes, Birkenstocks can be waterproof, but only certain types. The classic ones with cork footbeds and suede or leather uppers are not waterproof at all. But Birkenstock also makes EVA styles, and those are 100% waterproof.

We have a pair of the Arizona EVA sandals, and we use them at the pool, in the shower, and even during beach days.

So yes, Birkenstocks can be waterproof if you go with the EVA versions.

Tips to Protect Birkenstocks From Water Damage

To keep your Birkenstocks safe from water damage, you need to be a little proactive.

Final Words

So, can Birkenstocks get wet? Yes, but it’s not ideal as it can ruin the materials. Here’s a recap:

• Avoid wearing cork or suede Birkenstocks in rain or near water.

• Keep a waterproof EVA pair for the beach, showers, or rainy days.

• Seal the cork regularly to keep it from cracking.

• Dry them slowly, away from heat, and always blot water right away.

• Use sprays and tools to clean and protect the suede and leather parts.

Your Birkenstocks deserve to last. With the right care, they totally can.

Some dupes offer water-friendly materials at a lower price. Here’s a roundup of the top Birkenstock alternatives that combine comfort and value.

“Can Birkenstocks get wet?” is a common question for new sandal owners. It’s a big one, too, as one mistake can ruin your sandals. But worry not. We’re here with an answer, along with some tips and other crucial details.

In short: Yes, Birkenstocks can get wet. When this happens, the cork can crack, and the whole shoe might start to smell weird. And the worst part? What looks like “just a little water” can turn into permanent damage fast.

So, keep reading, as we’re discussing how to dry and protect your Birkenstocks without hassle. Real advice, tested by us. You’ll also learn whether you can waterproof your sandals or not.

Key Takeaways

• Regular Birkenstocks can’t handle water, especially cork, suede, and leather ones.

• Water ruins the comfort, shape, and smell of your Birkenstocks fast.

• EVA Birkenstocks are 100% waterproof and perfect for wet days.

• Never dry Birks near heat—it can crack the cork and stiffen the suede.

• We always use cork sealant to protect the footbed from moisture.

• For the beach or rain, we use waterproof Birks and save our regular ones.

Can Birkenstocks Get Wet? (Everything to Know)

Yes, Birkenstocks can get wet, which is not ideal. EVA models are waterproof, but the ones made with cork and suede can’t handle water well. In fact, such Birkenstocks can soak up moisture. When that happens, they can lose shape, start smelling, and wear out much faster.

When we wore ours out during a sudden rain, we thought it wouldn’t be a big deal. But after a few hours, the footbed felt different, and it never fully bounced back. The cork started to dry out and crack slightly. That’s when we learned that water and Birkenstocks don’t mix well—unless you’re wearing the waterproof ones.

So, trust us, water can seriously shorten the life of your pair if you’re not careful.

If you need Birkenstocks for rainy days, what we do now is keep a pair of the EVA (rubber-style) ones for wet weather. They look almost the same, but are made to handle water.

Can Birkenstock Bostons get wet?

Birkenstock Bostons can get wet, but they really shouldn’t. We wore ours out once during a rainy walk, and it took two full days to dry them out. Even after that, the suede upper looked faded.

What we do now is check the weather before stepping out in Bostons. If there's even a slight chance of rain, we grab something else.

Can suede Birkenstocks get wet?

Suede Birkenstocks should not get wet. Suede soaks up water fast, which can leave stains. If your sandals do get wet, dry them slowly at room temperature. For better results, you can also spray a suede protector to help prevent damage.

We’ve ruined a pair by stepping into a shallow puddle during a quick walk. The soft suede upper absorbed the water instantly, and once it dried, the texture felt stiff and weird.

Can cork Birkenstocks get wet?

No, cork Birkenstocks should not get wet. We’ve seen what happens when they do. The cork footbed starts to dry out and crack over time. We once left a wet pair out in the sun to dry, and the cork became brittle and started flaking. It’s honestly painful to see, especially if you love your Birks like we do.

Can Birkenstock Arizona get wet?

Birkenstock Arizona sandals can get wet, but only if they’re the waterproof EVA version. The regular ones should be kept dry. Water can damage the cork and ruin the materials. However, the EVA version of Arizona is waterproof and lightweight. That’s why it’s perfect for:

• Beach

• Pool

• Rainy days.

If you’re not sure which version you have, check the material or product label.

Now, we own two pairs—one regular for everyday dry wear and one EVA for beach or rain. That’s the best way we’ve found to enjoy them year-round without ruining them.

If you’re planning to wear your Birks out and possibly get them wet, it’s also worth asking—are Birkenstocks comfortable, especially in different conditions. Comfort can really vary depending on the material and fit.

What happens if my Birkenstocks get wet?

If your Birkenstocks get wet, they can get damaged, especially if they’re made of cork, suede, or leather. The biggest problem happens to the cork footbed. It’s super absorbent. When it gets soaked, it pulls in moisture and then starts drying out unevenly. That’s when we noticed cracks forming.

We’ve had this happen when we got caught in unexpected rain. At first, everything seemed fine. But within hours, the cork started to dry out weirdly, and the suede looked off. It was a slow process, but the damage was real and long-term.

Then there’s the upper material. If your pair has suede or leather, water can ruin the materials. Our suede Birkenstocks got water stains that never went away.

Birks have become a go-to for comfort and versatility. If you’re curious, here’s why Birkenstocks are so popular and why people love them in all kinds of weather.

What to do if Birkenstocks get wet?

If your Birkenstocks get wet, do the following:

• Remove them from the water immediately.

• Gently blot with a clean, dry towel.

• Stuff them with paper to keep their shape.

• Let them air dry at room temperature.

• Once dry, brush suede or nubuck gently.

• Use a cork sealer if the cork looks dry or cracked.

Step 1: Remove excess water right away

The first thing to do when your Birkenstocks get wet is grab a dry towel. We press it gently into the footbed and around the straps. Never rub it, as that can push the water deeper into the material.

We just blot everything, especially the areas where our feet sit. If you let the water sit too long, it starts soaking deeper into the cork and suede.

Once you’ve blotted it, stuff the sandals with newspaper. Not just one piece either. Use multiple layers so it soaks up moisture from the inside.

Step 2: Let them air dry naturally

After removing excess moisture from Birkenstocks, just let them sit in a dry place. No fans. No dryers. We place them in a room that’s dry and has some air circulation.

We also suggest flipping them gently after a few hours. That helps both the straps and footbed dry evenly. If we leave them sitting on one side too long, the part touching the ground stays wet and can develop a weird smell.

It usually takes a full day to dry Birkenstocks, sometimes more.

Step 3: Use a suede brush for the upper

Once your Birkenstocks are totally dry, use a soft suede brush on the upper part, especially for suede ones. Brushing them brings the suede back to life a little. Not perfect, but way better than leaving them rough and dull.

We brush in one direction first, then gently go over areas that look patchy. We had a pair of taupe suede Birkenstocks that looked horrible after getting wet. But after brushing and using a suede eraser, they started to look wearable again.

Step 4: Seal the cork footbed regularly

You can buy any high-quality cork sealant online or at shoe stores. We apply it every couple of months. It helps protect the cork from cracking when it gets wet (even from sweat).

We’ve been doing this regularly with our newer pairs, and the difference is huge. They feel sturdier, and we don’t see the same wear on the edges of the footbed.

Can I shower with my Birkenstocks?

No, you shouldn’t shower with your regular Birkenstocks. The cork footbed and the suede straps will soak up the water. When they do, they will feel super soggy. On top of that, they will take days to dry out. Even after that, they won’t feel the same again.

The only exception is if you have the EVA Birkenstocks. Those are made of a waterproof foam material. Moreover, they’re super easy to rinse off and dry fast.

So, if you’re thinking of showering in Birkenstocks, ask yourself which pair you’ve got. If they’re the regular ones, don’t risk it.

Can you wear Birkenstocks to the beach?

You can wear Birkenstocks to the beach, but it depends on which pair you’re talking about. If you’re wearing the regular ones, you will be dealing with a lot of problems. Sand can get stuck in the suede, and the cork can absorb moisture.

We only wear EVA Birkenstocks to the beach. They’re waterproof, washable, and easy to shake off. They don’t absorb sand or saltwater like the regular ones do. We’ve walked in and out of the ocean with them, and they still look new.

Plus, they’re light, which makes them easy to carry around in a beach bag or backpack.

If you're planning a beach trip and want something comfy, go with the EVA Birks. The classic cork ones just aren’t built for that kind of environment.

Can You Wear Birkenstocks in the Rain?

You can wear Birkenstocks in the rain, but only if you’ve got the right kind. We’ve been caught in the rain wearing our classic cork Birks, and we wouldn’t recommend it. The cork footbed gets soggy and everything feels heavy.

After drying, they didn’t feel as comfortable. So now, we always check the weather before heading out in our regular pair.

If you want Birkenstocks that handle rain well, go with the EVA versions. We’ve worn ours during full-on summer storms, and they handled everything perfectly.

Can Birkenstocks be washed?

Yes, Birkenstocks can be cleaned, but you have to be careful. It’s because not all parts can handle water. When our suede Birkenstocks got muddy, we made the mistake of washing them under a running tap. Big regret. The water stained the suede, and the cork footbed started to feel weird after drying.

For suede or leather Birkenstocks, we use a suede brush or a soft cloth. You can also use mild baby soap mixed with water, but only on dirty spots. When they dry, we brush the suede again to keep the texture soft.

What we do now is use a dedicated Birkenstock cleaner and follow their care tips closely.

So, if you’ve got EVA Birkenstocks, feel free to wash them as much as you want. We rinse ours off with a hose, in the sink, even in the shower. They dry quickly and don’t lose shape.

Can Birkenstocks be waterproof?

Yes, Birkenstocks can be waterproof, but only certain types. The classic ones with cork footbeds and suede or leather uppers are not waterproof at all. But Birkenstock also makes EVA styles, and those are 100% waterproof.

We have a pair of the Arizona EVA sandals, and we use them at the pool, in the shower, and even during beach days.

So yes, Birkenstocks can be waterproof if you go with the EVA versions.

Tips to Protect Birkenstocks From Water Damage

To keep your Birkenstocks safe from water damage, you need to be a little proactive.

Final Words

So, can Birkenstocks get wet? Yes, but it’s not ideal as it can ruin the materials. Here’s a recap:

• Avoid wearing cork or suede Birkenstocks in rain or near water.

• Keep a waterproof EVA pair for the beach, showers, or rainy days.

• Seal the cork regularly to keep it from cracking.

• Dry them slowly, away from heat, and always blot water right away.

• Use sprays and tools to clean and protect the suede and leather parts.

Your Birkenstocks deserve to last. With the right care, they totally can.

Some dupes offer water-friendly materials at a lower price. Here’s a roundup of the top Birkenstock alternatives that combine comfort and value.