Birkenstock Reveals Exclusive Kyoto Tradition Sandal Honoring 250 Years of Shoemaking

Birkenstock is celebrating 250 years of shoemaking with the release of the Kyoto Tradition sandal, the first drop in a slate of limited-edition products honoring the brand’s history. The new sandal is available as of Sept. 27 from select Birkenstock stores, global retailers and 1774.com.

With only 250 pairs created, the exclusive Kyoto Tradition sandal is made with premium deerskin leather sourced from Kolesch, known as Germany’s last “Altsämisch” tannery. The Altsämich tanning method forgoes the use of chemicals, utilizing only salt, water and fish oil.

Birkenstock describes the limited-edition shoe in an official release, “The upper of the sandal showcases this fine deerskin leather, chosen for its soft hand feel and traditionally used in making Lederhosen, the traditional leather breeches, typically worn in German-speaking Central Europe. The hook and loop strap features and embossed detail and an engraving with its unique number, from one to 250.”

Of course, the shoe also feature’s Birkenstock’s recognizable footbed, made from cork harvested from cork oaks that are more than 200 years old.

The brand says of the sandal, “As the first edition of the series celebrating 250 years of shoemaking tradition, the exclusive Kyoto sandal embodies Birkenstock’s dedication to Function, Quality and Tradition. It is a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined the brand for centuries.”

Birkenstock will be releasing more limited-edition products in celebration of the longstanding brand.