How to Stop Birkenstocks from Squeaking
Are your Birkenstocks making an annoying squeaking noise with every step you take?
It’s a common problem that many Birkenstock wearers face, especially when the sandals are new or haven’t been worn in a while. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
In this article, we’ll explore the question of “How to Stop Birkenstocks from Squeaking” and give you some tips and tricks for getting rid of that annoying noise.
So, let’s dive in and find out how to wear your Birkenstocks in peace and quiet!
Key Takeaways
- Understand the causes of squeaking in Birkenstock sandals
- Learn how to prevent and fix squeaking issues
- Discover additional tips and tricks to maintain the comfort and style of your Birkenstocks
Causes of Squeaking in Birkenstocks
Friction and Rubbing
Squeaking in Birkenstocks can often be caused by friction and rubbing.
When you walk, the different parts of the sandals can rub against each other, creating a squeaking noise.
This is especially true when the shoes are brand new, as the materials used in the construction of the sandals have not yet had time to become worn and soften up.
Water Damage
Another common cause of Birkenstocks squeaking is water damage.
When the sandals get wet, the moisture can cause the materials to expand and create friction, resulting in a squeaking sound as you walk.
It’s important to dry out your Birkenstocks properly if they get wet to avoid this problem.
Improper Fit
An improper fit can also cause Birkenstocks to squeak.
If the shoes are too big, your feet will slide around in the sandals and produce a farting noise.
On the other hand, if the shoes are too small, they can pinch and rub against your feet, causing friction that leads to squeaking.
It’s essential to find the right size for maximum comfort and minimum noise.
Birkenstock Size Guide:
Be sure to check the actual manufacturer size guide here.
| U.S. Shoe Size | Birkenstock Size | Foot Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 7 – 7.5 | 40 | 10.24 |
| 8 – 8.5 | 41 | 10.43 |
| 9 – 9.5 | 42 | 10.63 |
| 10 – 10.5 | 43 | 11.02 |
| 11 – 11.5 | 44 | 11.22 |
| 12 – 12.5 | 45 | 11.42 |
| 13 – 13.5 | 46 | 11.61 |
| 14 – 14.5 | 47 | 12.01 |
| 15 – 15.5 | 48 | 12.20 |
| 16 – 16.5 | 49 | 12.40 |
| U.S. Shoe Size | Birkenstock Size | Foot Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 4 – 4.5 | 35 | 8.86 |
| 5 – 5.5 | 36 | 9.06 |
| 6 – 6.5 | 37 | 9.25 |
| 7 – 7.5 | 38 | 9.45 |
| 8 – 8.5 | 39 | 9.65 |
| 9 – 9.5 | 40 | 10.04 |
| 10 – 10.5 | 41 | 10.24 |
| 11 – 11.5 | 42 | 10.43 |
Wear and Tear
Finally, wear and tear on your Birkenstocks can result in squeaking.
Over time, the materials used in the shoes can wear down, creating gaps that cause noise as you walk.
If you’ve had your sandals for a long time, this might be the reason behind the squeaking.
In some cases, replacing worn-out parts like the footbed or the soles can help mitigate the problem.
Preventing Squeaks
Proper Sizing and Fit
Choosing the right size of Birkenstocks is important for both comfort and reducing squeaks.
Make sure your feet fit well in the sandals, with a small gap between your toes and the edge of the shoe.
A good fit ensures the leather or suede does not rub against your feet, causing noises.
A well-crafted cork footbed offers support and minimizes friction, helping to eliminate squeaking.
If you’re unsure about your size, use a sizing chart to help find the perfect fit.
Breaking in the Sandals
When you first get your Birkenstocks, they might feel stiff and uncomfortable.
Don’t worry! After a proper break-in period, your sandals will become more flexible, conforming to your feet and reducing noise.
To speed up the process, try wearing socks with your new Birkenstocks, as it can help soften the leather or suede.
Walk around your home in the sandals for a few days, giving the cork footbed and straps time to adjust to your feet.
Remember to take breaks if you start to feel discomfort.
Maintenance and Care
Taking care of your Birkenstocks can prolong their durability and prevent squeaking.
Keep the leather or suede clean by gently wiping the sandals with a damp cloth and letting them air dry.
Treat the leather with a leather conditioner to keep it supple, and clean the suede with a soft brush.
To maintain the cork footbed, apply a thin layer of cork sealant to prevent it from drying out and cracking.
If the sandals start making noise, apply baby powder or talcum powder between your feet and the footbed, or use a silicone spray to lubricate the areas where friction occurs.
And, remember to let your sandals breathe after a long day by airing them out in a well-ventilated area.
Fixing a Squeaking Birkenstock
In this section, we will cover some methods to fix a squeaking Birkenstock, so you can enjoy wearing them without any noise.
We’ll discuss applying lubricants and powders, adjusting straps and buckles, and repairing or replacing parts.
Applying Lubricants and Powders
First, you can try using lubricants like a silicone spray.
These products help reduce friction and can eliminate squeaks. Make sure you don’t apply too much, or else your shoes might become slippery.
Another option is to use powders, like baby powder or cornstarch.
These will absorb moisture, reduce sweat, and help the footbed stay dry, which can prevent squeaking.
Sprinkle the powder on the footbed before putting on your shoes, and remove any excess powder with a brush.
Adjusting Straps and Buckles
Sometimes, loose or tight straps and buckles can cause squeaking sounds in your Birkenstock sandals.
To adjust them, gently pull the straps until they’re snug but not too tight.
You can also apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the straps for added lubrication and to prevent rubbing directly against the cork footbeds.
Repairing and Replacing Parts
If your Birkenstocks are still squeaking after trying the above methods, it might be time to consider repairing or replacing parts.
You can take your Birkenstocks to a shoe repair shop or a cobbler to have the cork footbeds repaired or replaced.
Sometimes, worn-out rubber insoles can cause squeaking as well, so it might be worth asking the repair shop to change them.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Alternative Footwear Materials
If your Birkenstocks are making suction noises or squeaking while walking, consider using alternative footwear materials.
Try looking for shoes with a different kind of cushioning material.
One option is to look for sandals made from materials other than cork, as cork is known to occasionally squeak when it gets wet or moisture is present.
Synthetic materials or leather can provide good support and may create less noise when walking.
Another option is to switch to footwear with adjustable straps that can help you achieve a snug fit, preventing loose heels which may contribute to the squeaking sound.
Protective Measures
Taking proper care of your Birkenstocks can help prevent squeaking, suction noises, and other unwanted sounds.
Here are a few simple measures to help you protect your sandals:
- Keep them dry: Use a dryer or let your sandals air dry after getting wet to reduce moisture that might cause squeaking. Avoid walking in damp environments if possible.
- Use silicone spray or other lubricants: Apply a silicone spray to reduce friction between the soles and the insoles of the shoes. This can help eliminate squeaking.
- Apply waterproofing spray: Waterproofing sprays can help protect the surface of your sandals from moisture. This may not only reduce squeaking but also prolong the life of your footwear.
- Use insoles: Consider using insoles in your sandals for added cushioning and support, which can help reduce squeaking caused by walking on hard surfaces.
- Care for the cork soles: Regularly treating the cork with a cork sealant can help prevent it from drying out and may minimize noise issues.
- Tighten loose straps: If possible, tighten any loose straps on your sandals to ensure a proper fit and minimize movement that can cause squeaking.
