Birkenstock
Boston Black Oiled Leather Mules Men
The Birkenstock Boston is a men's closed-toe leather mule (clog) featuring a thick oiled leather upper with a single adjustable strap and metal pin buckle, an anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed covered in soft suede, and a flexible EVA outsole. Made in Germany (model 59461) and available in regular/wide fit, it is designed for all-season casual wear; the oiled leather develops a natural patina over time and is more durable than suede, though the black color appears as a dark gray and the shoe may require a break-in period.
Color
Size
Specifications
- Material
- Outer sole: 100% EVA; Upper: 100% oiled leather; Lining and sock: 100% suede; Footbed: Cork, latex
- Gender
- male
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
Product Insights
The Birkenstock Boston Black Oiled Leather Mules offer orthopedic support from a footbed that molds permanently to your arch within a week, delivering comfort that lasts, while the oiled leather upper develops a unique patina over time unless conditioned heavily. This closed-toe design, originally built for professionals and a 50-year runway legacy, enables three-season wear with adjustable strap for socks, fitting both casual and tailored styles, but demands a break-in period with loose straps, sizing down if between sizes due to only regular/wide width, and is not suited for wet conditions or long concrete walks without sole protection.
- Footbed
Footbed molds to your arch within a week and retains the shape indefinitely.
Why this is supported
The footbed starts with orthopaedic contours and is hardened through vulcanization, giving it initial stiffness.
After a few days of wear, the material permanently holds the shape of the foot:
After five to seven days of regular wear, the footbed carries a permanent imprint of your arch, heel cup, and metatarsal spread.
stylino.cyTwo layers of jute fiber braid keep the molded shape from collapsing:
two layers of jute fiber braid are used to stabilize the top side and underside
birkenstock-group.com.
- Break-in procedure
Start with loose straps, tighten as the footbed molds.
Why this is supported
The manufacturer's break-in guidance is a two-stage strap adjustment process:
Keep straps loose at first to avoid pressure points.
birkenstock.comThen, as the footbed begins to conform,
Tighten the straps as the footbed begins to mold to your feet.
birkenstock.comThe metal pin buckle allows repeated adjustment as the oiled leather upper softens, which
Adjust straps as needed and re-check after a few days, as
abicus.com.auThe suede footbed lining is also
open-pored, so it is especially breathable
birkenstock-group.com, helping keep feet dry during break-in.
- Sizing
Size down if between sizes; only regular/wide width offered.
Why this is supported
The single-strap Boston leaves less room for sizing error than two-strap sandals. Common advice is to size down if between sizes. As noted:
Boston's single strap and enclosed toe box leave less room to adjust, so if you are between sizes on Boston specifically, sizing down slightly is the more common recommendation among buyers.
chexlow.comAdditionally, this style comes only in regular/wide fit:
this particular style only comes in regular/wide
How should I decide between the regular/wide and medium/narrow widths?So those with narrow feet should consider trying in person.
- Strap adjustment
Keep loose initially; adjust to 5mm clearance; tighten gradually.
Why this is supported
Birkenstock recommends checking for about 5mm space under the strap:
Check there's approx. 5mm space at toes, heel, and under straps.
abicus.com.auThe strap should be kept loose at first to avoid pressure points:
Keep straps loose at first to avoid pressure points.
birkenstock.comThen gradually tighten as needed and re-check after a few days:
Adjust straps as needed and re-check after a few days
abicus.com.au- Color
The black oiled leather appears as a dark gray or off-black.
Why this is supported
Verified buyer reports indicate the black oiled leather appears as a dark gray rather than a true black:
The black oiled leather tends to be a really dark gray — kind of an off-black.
u/mrsredfast in r/BirkenstocksThis aligns with the product description that color variations are expected on oiled leather.
- Patina
Oiled leather darkens with wear; heavy conditioning stops patina formation.
Why this is supported
The oiled leather is a pull-up leather that develops a patina over time. As one user explains:
However, this process can be prevented by over-conditioning. The same user cautions:
heavily conditioning pull-up leathers will make them lose the pull-up quality and cause them not to develop that varied patina.
u/ammolite in r/BirkenstocksThis matches care advice that conditioning is only needed when the leather is dry or cracked.
- Performance
Leather Boston mules are more durable than suede and have some water resistance but are not for wet conditions.
Why this is supported
Users consistently choose the oiled leather over suede for its durability. One buyer stated:
I went for the leather for a matter of durability.
u/[deleted] in r/BirkenstocksRegarding wet conditions, the product guidance explicitly notes:
While the oiled leather offers some water resistance, the cork-latex footbed can be damaged by prolonged moisture, and the EVA outsole is slippery on wet surfaces.
Can I wear the Boston mules in wet conditions like rain or snow?- Adjustability
The metal pin buckle allows re-adjustment as the leather stretches, ensuring a secure fit over time.
Why this is supported
The pin buckle offers the ability to tighten the strap as the leather softens. A care guide advises:
Adjust straps as needed and re-check after a few days, as
abicus.com.auThis ensures the mules continue to fit securely after break-in.
- Fashion history
The Boston's 50-year legacy includes runway appearances and luxury collaborations.
Why this is supported
The Boston debuted in 1976 as Birkenstock's first closed-toe shoe.
The Boston was introduced in 1976 and proved revolutionary for presenting a soft-soled clog as opposed to wooden
wwd.comJapanese designer Issey Miyake placed the Boston on a catwalk in 1987, an unsanctioned moment that started its fashion trajectory.
Schneider-Braunberger credits Japanese designer Issey Miyake with engineering the first appearance of the Boston on a catwalk, back in 1987.
esquire.comIn 1998, Narciso Rodriguez featured cashmere flannel‑covered Bostons in his fall collection.
A key moment came in 1998, when Narciso Rodriguez put Bostons covered in cashmere flannel on the runway for his fall 1998 collection.
wwd.comBirkenstock's first high‑end designer collaboration came with Rick Owens in 2018, later followed by Manolo Blahnik's award‑winning velvet Bostons in 2022.
Birkenstock’s first link up with a high-end designer wasn’t until 2018 with Rick Owens
wwd.comAdditionally, Manolo Blahnik's jeweltoned velvet Bostons won Collaboration of the Year at the Footwear News Achievement Awards.
In 2022, jewel‑toned velvet Bostons with crystal buckles from Manolo Blahnik won Collaboration of the Year at the Footwear News Achievement Awards.
dossiermag.netThroughout, the Boston's design has remained essentially unchanged.
The Boston clog, which turns 50 next year, has only been iterated upon, not fundamentally changed.
highsnobiety.comThis 50‑year runway and collaboration history distinguishes the Boston from other models.
- Professional origins
Originally built for professionals and marketed as the 'formal' Birkenstock.
Why this is supported
The Boston was purpose‑built with features for demanding professions.
From an anti-static option to Super-Grip slip-resistant soles, the style has been embraced by professionals across a variety of fields, including medical professionals and chefs.
wwd.comAdditionally, it was originally marketed in the U.S. as the 'formal' Birkenstock, a closed‑toe office‑ready alternative.
“In the U.S., Karl Birkenstock and Margot Fraser even called it the ‘formal’ Birkenstock, basically a closed-toe and office-ready answer to a brand that was mostly about sandals at the time,” Reichert continues.
esquire.com- Seasonal range
Closed toe allows three-season wear; adjustable strap accommodates sock thickness.
Why this is supported
The closed-toe design allows barefoot wear in mild weather and socks in cool weather. feetheart.com notes:
Because it's closed at the toe, the Boston works with bare feet in mild weather and with socks once it cools down, so plenty of our customers reach for it from fall through spring and beyond.
feetheart.comA reviewer confirms:
With or without socks.
u/gobenji34 in r/BirkenstocksThe strap adjusts to fit sock thickness: abicus.com.au advises to
Adjust straps as needed and re-check after a few days, as
abicus.com.auand recommends aiming for
5mm space between straps and foot (upper + lower).
abicus.com.auensuring the same shoe works barefoot or with socks.
- Versatility
Buyers report it fits work, weekend, travel, and both casual and tailored styles.
Why this is supported
The same reviewer sums up the range:
Smart enough for work, casual enough for the weekend. With or without socks. I've also crowned them my favourite pair of travel shoes ever.
u/gobenji34 in r/BirkenstocksFor styling, wear2am.com states:
The black leather Boston is essential for this look. The suede versions are too casual for tailored styling.
wear2am.comThis shows the Boston is suitable for work, weekend, travel, and tailored streetwear.
- Limitations
Not for wet conditions; outsole wears on concrete; regular/wide fit only.
Why this is supported
The Boston is not recommended for wet conditions. A Q&A explains:
Birkenstock Boston mules are not ideal for wet conditions. While the oiled leather offers some water resistance, the cork-latex footbed can be damaged by prolonged moisture, and the EVA outsole is slippery on wet surfaces.
Can I wear the Boston mules in wet conditions like rain or snow?Regarding outsole durability:
The EVA outsole can wear relatively quickly on concrete or asphalt. Community advice suggests adding a rubber sole protector by a cobbler to extend the life of the shoes when worn regularly on hard outdoor surfaces.
How does the EVA outsole hold up over time when worn primarily on concrete or asphalt?Additionally, this model is only available in a regular/wide fit, which may not accommodate narrower feet.
- Arch support
Pre-contoured footbed with deep heel cup, arch supports, and toe bar delivers orthopedic support.
Why this is supported
The footbed is pre-contoured with a deep heel cup that
supports the foot tissue and holds the heel bone firmly in its natural position
birkenstock.com, and a raised toe grip ensures
the toes remain loose and spread out in their natural position
birkenstock.com.
- Fit
Footbed molds permanently to your foot over the first week.
Why this is supported
The cork-latex composite
compresses and stays compressed
stylino.cy, forming a permanent custom imprint. During initial wear, keep the buckle loose and tighten gradually as the footbed molds. However, the pronounced arch support may cause cramping for flat-footed wearers, and moisture can damage the cork-latex footbed, so avoid wearing in rain or snow.
- Manufacturing
All footbeds are made in Germany, and most shoe assembly occurs in the EU.
Why this is supported
Birkenstock manufactures all footbeds in Germany and assembles most shoes there as well:
all our footbeds in Germany. In addition, we assemble the vast majority of our products in Germany and produce the remainder elsewhere in the EU.
birkenstock-group.com- Longevity
Durable upper, permanent footbed, replaceable outsole maximize lifespan.
Why this is supported
The oiled leather upper is noted for durability: one buyer reported,
I went for the leather for a matter of durability. Suede ones seems to old really quickly and get so fluffy. I know the leather ones gonna last me forever and get a nice patina as they age.
u/[deleted] in r/BirkenstocksThe cork-latex footbed molds permanently after a break-in period:
After five to seven days of regular wear, the footbed carries a permanent imprint of your arch, heel cup, and metatarsal spread.
stylino.cyThis compression is intentional—
Cork-latex composite compresses and stays compressed, which is the whole point.
stylino.cyThe EVA outsole can be replaced or reinforced by a cobbler to extend the shoe's life:
Community advice suggests adding a rubber sole protector by a cobbler to extend the life of the shoes when worn regularly on hard outdoor surfaces.
How does the EVA outsole hold up over time when worn primarily on concrete or asphalt?- Outsole
Buyers add a rubber sole protector to the EVA outsole to prevent rapid wear on concrete.
Why this is supported
The EVA outsole is prone to accelerated wear on concrete or asphalt. Community guidance recommends adding a rubber sole protector by a cobbler to extend the shoe's life.
The EVA outsole can wear relatively quickly on concrete or asphalt. Community advice suggests adding a rubber sole protector by a cobbler to extend the life of the shoes when worn regularly on hard outdoor surfaces.
How does the EVA outsole hold up over time when worn primarily on concrete or asphalt?- Leather care
Oiled leather is easy to clean; condition only when dry.
Why this is supported
Oiled leather is durable and requires minimal upkeep. It resists stains and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, while the evolving patina hides minor scuffs.
heavily conditioning pull-up leathers will make them lose the pull-up quality and cause them not to develop that varied patina.
u/ammolite in r/BirkenstocksTherefore, condition only when the leather feels dry or brittle, using a light conditioner.
Oiled leather is recommended for durability, shape retention, and aging; suede offers immediate softness but wears faster.
Which is better: oiled leather or suede?- Design heritage
First closed-toe Birkenstock (1976) with runway history and luxury collaborations.
Why this is supported
The Boston was launched in 1976 as Birkenstock's first closed-toe shoe and has built a rich fashion history.
Our most-coveted clog gets a heritage leather spin worthy of its icon status.
birkenstock.comIt debuted on the runway in 1987 by Issey Miyake,
Schneider-Braunberger credits Japanese designer Issey Miyake with engineering the first appearance of the Boston on a catwalk, back in 1987.
esquire.comand in 1998 Narciso Rodriguez featured it in his fall collection.
A key moment came in 1998, when Narciso Rodriguez put Bostons covered in cashmere flannel on the runway for his fall 1998 collection.
wwd.comLuxury collaborations have since cemented its status:
Rick Owens’s 2018 collaboration marked Birkenstock's first high‑end partnership. In 2022, jewel‑toned velvet Bostons with crystal buckles from Manolo Blahnik won Collaboration of the Year at the Footwear News Achievement Awards.
dossiermag.net- Streetwear styling
The black oiled leather Boston is essential for achieving an architectural, anti-sneaker silhouette under wide-leg trousers.
Why this is supported
Streetwear stylists position the black oiled leather Boston as a foundational anti-sneaker piece. As
The black leather Boston is essential for this look. The suede versions are too casual for tailored styling.
wear2am.comIts runway pedigree includes catwalk appearances by Issey Miyake (1987) and collaborations with Rick Owens and Dior, further solidifying its fashion credibility (WWD, Esquire). Additionally, the Boston's silhouette has remained essentially unchanged since 1976, as
The Boston clog, which turns 50 next year, has only been iterated upon, not fundamentally changed.
highsnobiety.com. This enduring form is key to its role in creating an architectural proportion under wide trousers.
- Material
Oiled leather upper, suede lining, cork footbed; off-black shade and patina with wear.
Why this is supported
Buyers note that the black oiled leather is not a true black but rather an off-black or dark gray. As a Reddit user reports,
The black oiled leather tends to be a really dark gray — kind of an off-black.
u/mrsredfast in r/BirkenstocksAdditionally, the oiled leather darkens and smooths with wear, developing a unique patina. Another user states,
These characteristics are inherent to the oiled leather construction, which also includes a suede lining and cork-latex footbed as listed in the merchant's material description.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Pair of black closed-toe mule clogs shown from a front-three-quarter angle. Single wide adjustable strap with a rectangular silver buckle on the outer side; visible tan cork footbed and black textured sole.
- Overall silhouetteClosed-toe mule silhouette with rounded toe and low open back; two shoes shown, left shoe positioned in front of the right shoe at a slight angle.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.28 · w 0.88 · h 0.62 (medium) - Upper material and finishMatte black upper with smooth oiled-leather appearance and subtle surface variations consistent with treated leather.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.30 · w 0.74 · h 0.50 (high) - Adjustable strapSingle wide strap crosses the instep on each shoe and threads through a cut slot in the upper; strap is the same black material as the upper.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.45 · w 0.50 · h 0.30 (high) - Buckle hardwareRectangular silver-toned metal buckle with visible prong and three adjustment holes on the strap of the left/front shoe.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.56 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (high) - Footbed materialExposed tan cork footbed visible at the heel area, showing cork texture and a lighter top lining edge.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.39 · w 0.22 · h 0.16 (high); x 0.36 · y 0.38 · w 0.18 · h 0.16 (medium) - OutsoleBlack textured outsole with a shallow sawtooth tread visible along the bottom edge.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.76 · w 0.88 · h 0.18 (high) - Toe shapeRounded, slightly bulbous closed toe on both shoes.
1 region
x 0.46 · y 0.34 · w 0.42 · h 0.30 (high)
Other
Studio product shot on a plain white background with soft directional lighting from above-left producing soft shadow beneath and to the right of the shoes.
- Shot compositionFront-three-quarter studio angle showing both shoes with the left shoe in the foreground and the right shoe set back to the left.
1 region
x 0.04 · y 0.20 · w 0.92 · h 0.72 (medium) - Background and lightingUniform white background with even soft lighting and subtle soft shadow under and slightly right of the shoes.
- Image qualitySharp, high-resolution product image with clear texture and edges; no visible packaging or props.
Colors
matte black· upper#131215natural tan cork· footbed (cork)#8D613Cbrushed silver· buckledeep black· outsole#131313- Overall silhouetteClosed-toe mule silhouette with rounded toe and low open back; two shoes shown, left shoe positioned in front of the right shoe at a slight angle.
- 02
Product
Top-down view of a pair of black single-strap leather mules with rounded toe boxes, silver rectangular buckles at the outer instep, and brown suede-lined cork footbeds with yellow size/marking print.
- Overall shapePair of slip-on mules shown from above with rounded, bulbous toe boxes and full-coverage leather uppers that extend to the instep
2 regions
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 0.49 · h 1.00 (high); x 0.51 · y 0.00 · w 0.49 · h 1.00 (high) - Upper material and finishSmooth black oiled leather upper with a low sheen and subtle surface texture visible under lighting
1 region
x 0.02 · y 0.02 · w 0.96 · h 0.45 (high) - Instep strapSingle wide leather strap running across the instep on each shoe with a stitched rectangular end and a slot where the strap passes through the upper
2 regions
x 0.09 · y 0.34 · w 0.32 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.59 · y 0.34 · w 0.32 · h 0.18 (high) - Buckle hardwareRectangular silver-toned metal buckle attached at the outer side of each instep strap
2 regions
x 0.02 · y 0.43 · w 0.12 · h 0.14 (medium); x 0.86 · y 0.43 · w 0.12 · h 0.14 (medium) - Footbed materialBrown suede-covered cork footbeds with visible toe-area contour and slightly darker heel area
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.52 · w 0.34 · h 0.44 (high); x 0.54 · y 0.52 · w 0.34 · h 0.44 (high) - Insole printed markings“Yellow printed size and mark text and a small foot icon visible on each footbed”
2 regions
x 0.16 · y 0.56 · w 0.16 · h 0.16 (high); x 0.60 · y 0.56 · w 0.16 · h 0.16 (high)
Other
Studio top-down product shot on a white background with soft shadow; shoes are centered and aligned parallel, complete pair visible.
- Shot compositionTop-down centered composition showing both shoes in parallel, fully within frame
- BackgroundPlain white background with soft drop shadow beneath the shoes
- Lighting and shadowsEven studio lighting with diffuse highlights on the leather uppers and subtle shadows cast under and between the shoes
- Image qualitySharp, high-resolution image with clear texture detail on leather and suede footbeds
Colors
black· upper#151215suede brown· footbed suede#BB8B5Cmetallic silver· buckle hardware#838383yellow· insole print- Overall shapePair of slip-on mules shown from above with rounded, bulbous toe boxes and full-coverage leather uppers that extend to the instep
- 03
Product
Single black closed-toe mule with a single wide upper strap and an adjustable metal buckle, visible cork footbed at the heel, and a black textured rubber outsole.
- Upper shapeOne-piece closed-toe upper with smooth matte finish, gently rounded toe box and continuous coverage from toe to midfoot.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.48 · w 0.54 · h 0.30 (high) - Adjustable strap and buckleSingle wide strap across instep terminating in a rectangular metal buckle with visible metal tongue and two visible adjustment holes in the strap.
1 region
x 0.38 · y 0.40 · w 0.18 · h 0.16 (high) - Buckle text“BIRKENSTOCK”
1 region
x 0.43 · y 0.48 · w 0.08 · h 0.06 (medium) - Footbed materialExposed cork footbed at the heel area with visible cork texture and warm brown color.
1 region
x 0.03 · y 0.60 · w 0.18 · h 0.14 (high) - OutsoleBlack rubber outsole with shallow wave-like tread visible along the bottom edge, thin profile relative to cork footbed.
1 region
x 0.02 · y 0.76 · w 0.96 · h 0.12 (high) - Inner lining hintNarrow glimpse of dark inner lining visible at the shoe opening near the strap.Partial
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.42 · w 0.08 · h 0.07 (medium)
Other
Studio product shot on a white background showing a left-side profile of the shoe; even diffuse lighting with soft shadow below the outsole.
- View and compositionLeft-side profile view of a single shoe centered horizontally near the lower half of the frame.
- BackgroundPlain white background with no visible props or packaging.
- Lighting and shadowSoft, even studio lighting producing a subtle soft shadow directly beneath the outsole.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.80 · w 0.80 · h 0.10 (medium)
Colors
matte black· upper#141215cork brown· cork footbed#9B6B44black· outsolebrushed gunmetal· buckle#8D8A8A- Upper shapeOne-piece closed-toe upper with smooth matte finish, gently rounded toe box and continuous coverage from toe to midfoot.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
8 total8 reviews · out of 5
Super
Super
parfait
parfait
Mule birkenstock
Parfait
J'adore les mules excellent produit
J'adore les mules excellent produit mais pas assez de couleurs.
Perfect shoe
Will need to order another pair in a different color. The perfect shoe to run errands in or go to school. My boys literally never take these off. This is their second pair in 6 months.
Amazing product
Super comfortable and stylish. Make sure to try them out to find your size.
A comfortable staple
Now I can wear Birks year round :)
Un gage de qualité
Cadeau à mon conjoint. Je n’étais pas trop sûre qu’il allait aimer. Un coup de cœur!!!! Il trouve ça super confortable et le look est parfait pour « chiller » en mou! :) pointure parfaite!
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/Birkenstocks, r/nobuyReddit users overwhelmingly praise the Birkenstock Boston oiled leather clogs for their durability, versatility, and classic look, though some caution that the black oiled leather appears more dark gray and advise against over-conditioning to preserve the natural patina.
The majority of commenters express satisfaction with the Bostons, especially the oiled leather, highlighting longevity, comfort after break-in, and year-round versatility. A few find them uncomfortable or unattractive, but the overall sentiment is highly favorable.
Themes
Use Cases
- Everyday versatile wear (work, casual, with or without socks, travel)
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Birkenstock London and Tokyo Super Grip
Alternative models with back strap offer better stay-on fit and covered cork, addressing foot cramps some experience with Bostons.
vs Suede Boston clogs
Suede is softer immediately but less durable, collapses more, and looks worn faster than oiled leather.
Source Threads
Reasons to choose leather over suede for Bostons
Went through this dilemma last week before ordering, I went with leather despite loving the mink color for two reasons. I didn’t want the soft footbed, I wanted regular. More durable. Also, once the suede breaks in, it softens up and the top flops down to where you’d have to manually bend down or use your toes to move it to put your foot in. I want to be able to just slide my feet in without any hassle.
u/DuffleCrackr/BirkenstocksView thread →
Alternative Birkenstock models and foot health considerations
Get the London. Costs a tad more, but stays on your feet, the cork isn't as quickly to breakdown(and it's covered so no sealing), they aren't as hot as you think, and I've worn mine for 6 years now and they are still holding up. Boston cramps my foot and I can't ever get comfortable (20+ years of birk wearing experience). Buy them from Birkenstock direct and it's free shipping and don't worry so much about colors. In fact, you could buy the Tokyo super grip in black and there's the added bonus of no slip and it's just a Boston with a back strap. If you're going to invest in shoes, be smart because you also have foot health to consider (which is why I'm not talking you out of it, just encouraging you to research more).
u/ButterscotchBatsr/nobuyView thread →
Bostons' versatility as everyday and travel shoe
I've got the Habana oiled leather Bostons and it's the most versatile pair I've got out of the five I've got. I had to think long and hard too but haven't regretted it for an instant. Smart enough for work, casual enough for the weekend. With or without socks. I've also crowned them my favourite pair of travel shoes ever.
u/gobenji34r/BirkenstocksView thread →
Black oiled leather appears dark gray
The black oiled leather tends to be a really dark gray — kind of an off-black. At least for my Arizonas and Mayaris. The habana and tobacco are both very versatile.
u/mrsredfastr/BirkenstocksView thread →
Caution against heavily conditioning oiled pull-up leather
They weren’t dry, the way they arrived is normal for Birkenstock’s pull-up leathers. So long as the leather isn’t cracking, peeling, or feeling brittle it should be fine without conditioning. As pull-up leathers are worn they darken (aka a “patina”) and become smoother, closer to the look people envision with the tobacco leather. I’m glad you like the outcome from conditioning your shoes! However, for anyone else interested in doing that, they should know that heavily conditioning pull-up leathers will make them lose the pull-up quality and cause them not to develop that varied patina.
u/ammoliter/BirkenstocksView thread →
Leather chosen over suede for durability and aging patina
I love the look of suede but. I went for the leather for a matter of durability. Suede ones seems to old really quickly and get so fluffy. I know the leather ones gonna last me forever and get a nice patina as they age. Suede just looks bad when it gets dirty
u/[deleted]r/BirkenstocksView thread →