{"product":{"catalog_id":"b287ed7d-d381-4ac6-9077-bcec6b37ae43","is_eligible_search":true,"is_eligible_checkout":false,"item_id":"d9150c91-9cac-4bef-9b7f-ad135008beb3","title":"Madrid Translucent Buckle Sandals Women","description":"The Birkenstock Madrid Translucent Buckle Sandal (model 1029635) is a women's single-strap slide sandal with a large translucent buckle, featuring a lightweight anatomically shaped EVA footbed and a narrow fit. It is made in Germany and suited for casual wear, including daily walking, travel, and indoor use. User reviews indicate the footbed requires a break-in period, and the single strap may cause foot dragging and accelerated sole wear at the heel.","url":"https://www.simons.ca/en/women-footwear/all-our-shoes/madrid-translucent-buckle-sandals-women--16708-25129635?colourId=0","brand":"Birkenstock","condition":"new","product_category":"women footwear > all our shoes","material":"Upper: EVA; Insole: EVA; Outer sole: EVA; Footbed: EVA","age_group":"adult","image_url":"https://imagescdn.simons.ca/images/16708/25129635/1/A1_2.jpg","additional_image_urls":["https://imagescdn.simons.ca/images/16708/25129635/1/A2_2.jpg"],"images":[{"id":"img-1784702973969-0","url":"https://imagescdn.simons.ca/images/16708/25129635/1/A1_2.jpg","alt_text":"Madrid translucent buckle sandals Women product image (primary)","position":1,"attributes":{"other":{"summary":"Studio top-down product shot on a light gray seamless background with soft even lighting and subtle drop shadows.","observations":[{"key":"Shot composition","kind":"feature","value":"Sandals centered in frame, arranged side-by-side with toes toward the top of the image; even spacing between the pair.","regions":[],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Background and surface","kind":"feature","value":"Uniform light gray background with faint soft shadows visible beneath each sandal.","regions":[{"x":0,"y":0,"width":1,"height":1,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Lighting and reflections","kind":"feature","value":"Soft diffuse lighting with specular highlights on the glossy buckle surfaces and gentle shading along footbed contours.","regions":[],"evidence_status":"direct"}]},"colors":[{"name":"black","part":"footbed and strap","regions":[{"x":0.1,"y":0.12,"width":0.36,"height":0.8,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.54,"y":0.12,"width":0.36,"height":0.8,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Uniform deep black with a satin finish across footbed and strap.","sampled_hex":"#0E0D0B","estimated_hex":"#0A0A0A"},{"name":"smoky dark gray","part":"buckle","regions":[{"x":0.05,"y":0.3,"width":0.26,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.69,"y":0.3,"width":0.22,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Translucent smoky dark gray with glossy, reflective highlights producing a slightly metallic look.","sampled_hex":"#4C4C4B","estimated_hex":"#4A4A4A"}],"product":{"summary":"Top-down view of a pair of black single-strap slide sandals with large glossy translucent buckles and molded footbeds showing embossed branding and size markings.","observations":[{"key":"Overall silhouette","kind":"feature","value":"A pair of matched slide sandals shown from above, each with a single wide strap crossing the forefoot and a contoured molded footbed with defined heel cup and toe area.","regions":[],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Strap material and finish","kind":"feature","value":"Wide forefoot strap appears smooth with a slight grain texture and a matte-to-satin black finish.","regions":[{"x":0.14,"y":0.2,"width":0.33,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.53,"y":0.2,"width":0.33,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Buckle shape and finish","kind":"feature","value":"Large square-rounded buckle with a glossy, slightly translucent dark surface and reflective highlights; buckle tongue visible in center.","regions":[{"x":0.05,"y":0.3,"width":0.26,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.69,"y":0.3,"width":0.22,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Molded footbed details","kind":"feature","value":"Each footbed shows a defined heel cup, raised toe ridge, and an oval textured area under the forefoot/toe region.","regions":[{"x":0.1,"y":0.48,"width":0.36,"height":0.44,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.54,"y":0.48,"width":0.36,"height":0.44,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Embossed footbed text and mark","kind":"feature","value":"Vertical embossed text and a small foot-shaped mark are visible on the inner arch area of each footbed.","regions":[{"x":0.19,"y":0.4,"width":0.2,"height":0.28,"confidence":"high"},{"x":0.64,"y":0.4,"width":0.18,"height":0.28,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Buckle edge inscription","kind":"feature","value":"Small raised or engraved characters appear along the outer edge of the right-side buckle but are not fully legible at this scale.","regions":[{"x":0.78,"y":0.32,"width":0.11,"height":0.12,"confidence":"medium"}],"evidence_status":"partial"},{"key":"Left footbed text transcription","kind":"text","value":"BIRKENSTOCK","regions":[{"x":0.18,"y":0.41,"width":0.18,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Left footbed text transcription 2","kind":"text","value":"MADE IN GERMANY","regions":[{"x":0.18,"y":0.52,"width":0.18,"height":0.12,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Left footbed size marking","kind":"text","value":"36 230","regions":[{"x":0.18,"y":0.62,"width":0.1,"height":0.1,"confidence":"medium"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Right footbed text transcription","kind":"text","value":"BIRKENSTOCK","regions":[{"x":0.64,"y":0.41,"width":0.16,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Right footbed text transcription 2","kind":"text","value":"MADE IN GERMANY","regions":[{"x":0.64,"y":0.52,"width":0.16,"height":0.12,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Right footbed size marking","kind":"text","value":"36 230","regions":[{"x":0.64,"y":0.62,"width":0.1,"height":0.1,"confidence":"medium"}],"evidence_status":"direct"}]},"packaging":{"observations":[]},"schema_version":2,"coordinate_space":{"units":"normalized","origin":"top_left"}},"variant_ids":["4464477","4464478","4464479","4464480","4464481"]},{"id":"img-1784702973969-1","url":"https://imagescdn.simons.ca/images/16708/25129635/1/A2_2.jpg","alt_text":"Madrid translucent buckle sandals Women product image 2","position":2,"attributes":{"other":{"summary":"Studio-style product photo on a uniform light gray background showing a centered right-side view of the sandal with soft shadow beneath; image is cropped with generous top negative space.","observations":[{"key":"Background","kind":"feature","value":"Uniform light gray background occupying the majority of the upper area of the image.","regions":[{"x":0,"y":0,"width":1,"height":0.72,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Shadow and lighting","kind":"feature","value":"Soft shadow directly beneath the shoe indicating diffuse studio lighting from above and slightly front; even illumination across the product with subtle specular highlights on the buckle.","regions":[{"x":0.2,"y":0.7,"width":0.6,"height":0.2,"confidence":"high"}],"evidence_status":"direct"},{"key":"Shot composition","kind":"feature","value":"Right-side profile centered horizontally near the lower third of the frame with ample empty space above the product.","regions":[],"evidence_status":"direct"}]},"colors":[{"name":"matte black","part":"strap and footbed","regions":[{"x":0.48,"y":0.3,"width":0.44,"height":0.34,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Matte black finish on the wide upper strap and the contoured footbed top surface.","estimated_hex":"#0F0F0F"},{"name":"textured black","part":"midsole","regions":[{"x":0.06,"y":0.54,"width":0.8,"height":0.15,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Black midsole with a pebble-textured sidewall that appears slightly less glossy than the outsole.","sampled_hex":"#1C1C1B","estimated_hex":"#151515"},{"name":"black","part":"outsole","regions":[{"x":0.04,"y":0.7,"width":0.92,"height":0.1,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Black lugged outsole with a low-gloss finish visible along the bottom edge.","sampled_hex":"#0E0E0C","estimated_hex":"#0B0B0B"},{"name":"smoky gray translucent","part":"buckle","regions":[{"x":0.71,"y":0.2,"width":0.16,"height":0.18,"confidence":"high"}],"subject":"product","description":"Translucent smoky-gray buckle with glossy finish and slightly darker inner framing.","estimated_hex":"#6B6B6B"}],"product":{"summary":"Single-strap black slide sandal shown in right-side profile with a wide upper strap and a large rounded rectangular translucent buckle positioned near the outer edge; 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the narrow fit is consistent across versions. If you already wear a narrow size in the cork version, you should not need to size up for the EVA version.","q":"Does the narrow fit of the EVA Madrid run smaller than the cork-footbed Madrid, requiring a size up?"},{"a":"The EVA sole is softer than the cork-and-rubber sole, so it tends to show heel drag more quickly — especially since the single-strap design can encourage dragging your feet. Regular walkers may notice faster wear at the heel.","q":"How does the EVA sole wear compared to the cork and rubber sole of standard Madrids — does it show heel drag more quickly?"},{"a":"Yes, you can clean the EVA footbed with water and mild soap. Simply wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaking to prevent damage.","q":"Can the lightweight EVA footbed be cleaned with water and mild soap, or does it require specific care to avoid damage?"},{"a":"Yes, the EVA version requires a much shorter break-in period than the cork version. EVA is more flexible and pliable right out of the box, so the footbed molds quickly and there is no stiff cork or leather to soften.","q":"For the EVA version, is the break-in period shorter than the cork version, given that EVA is more flexible and pliable?"},{"a":"Use moleskin on pressure points, file down strap edges with an emery board, apply leather conditioner, and wear thick socks during break-in.","q":"How can I speed up the break-in process and prevent blisters?"},{"a":"They can be floppy; some users adjust their gait or use adhesive felt padding under the strap to improve grip.","q":"Do they stay on securely while walking?"},{"a":"Opinions vary: some wear them for miles without issues, while others find them unsuitable due to slippage and lack of stability.","q":"Are they suitable for walking long distances or standing all day?"}],"reviews":[{"date":"April 2, 2026","title":"X","rating":5,"content":"X","reviewer_name":"Yvette P."},{"date":"March 21, 2026","title":"Confort","rating":3,"content":"Trop grande","reviewer_name":"suzie d."}],"target_countries":"US","canonical_url":"https://www.simons.ca/en/women-footwear/all-our-shoes/madrid-translucent-buckle-sandals-women--16708-25129635?colourId=0","reddit_insights":{"match":{"notes":"Discussions focus on the Madrid style with big buckle. The specific translucent buckle variant is not mentioned, but the fit, break-in, and styling characteristics are generally applicable.","confidence":0.7,"matched_terms":["Madrid","Madrid big buckle","Birkenstock Madrid"]},"status":"ok","coverage":{"subreddits":["femalefashionadvice","Birkenstocks"],"threads_used":5},"evidence":{"items":[{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/femalefashionadvice/comments/bqn20c/lets_talk_about_supportive_sandals/eo6x1ja/","type":"comment","title":"Comfort and style trade-offs of Birkenstock Madrid","author":"mermaiddayjob","ref_id":"r_e_1","thread":{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/femalefashionadvice/comments/bqn20c/lets_talk_about_supportive_sandals/","title":"lets talk about supportive sandals","subreddit":"femalefashionadvice"},"excerpt":"I have a pair of Birkenstock Madrid’s and I love how comfortable they are. I think they’re actually like the perfect level of support and firmness for my feet. I wear them around the house because being barefoot can make my feet sore. They’re also my preferred shoe for goin on walks. My problem is that even though I bought a fun pair of them they’re just not totally my style for daily wear to work. So ideally I would love to find something with a similar footbed to the birks but a more dressy and colorful style, bonus if it has a slight heel or platform.","subreddit":"femalefashionadvice"},{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/14dwlwl/patent_leather_big_buckle_madrid_worth_the/mmks1uo/","type":"comment","title":"Break-in challenges with patent leather and big buckle Madrid","author":"LegitimateCoffee9312","ref_id":"r_e_2","thread":{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/14dwlwl/patent_leather_big_buckle_madrid_worth_the/","title":"patent leather big buckle madrid worth the","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},"excerpt":"However - like many others I fell in love with and coveted the large buckle so last year bought them in tomato red high gloss and still can only wear for 20 mins at a time and would not risk wearing for a night out. \n\nNever one to give up (tenacity or stubbornness) - This year I bought the black leather Nubuck with large buckles and while I’ve had to break them in (unlike the red high gloss) they are now almost at the stage of being able to wear for a full night out.","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/10b7zth/madrid_big_buckle/j495dh0/","type":"comment","title":"Mixed experiences with Madrid big buckle break-in and blisters","author":"pppowkanggg","ref_id":"r_e_3","thread":{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/10b7zth/madrid_big_buckle/","title":"madrid big buckle","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},"excerpt":"I have Madrid big buckle and I love them. But they took ages to break in and were uncomfortable for ages. The big buckle is at the part of my foot that needs to bend and flex and got in the way. I got wicked blisters under that strap for awhile in that spot. The smooth leather footbed also caused friction blisters. But now that they are broken in, I loooove them.","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/x5krfz/honest_opinions_on_the_madrid/in29yzo/","type":"comment","title":"Madrids are versatile and comfortable for walking","author":"KFlan113","ref_id":"r_e_4","thread":{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/x5krfz/honest_opinions_on_the_madrid/","title":"honest opinions on the madrid","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},"excerpt":"Love my Madrids and I’ve walked miles in them with no issues.  And they’re definitely more versatile fashion wise, especially if you’re packing for a trip with limited space.","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/xoab0j/madrid_big_buckle_for_standing_all_day/ipxw4ww/","type":"comment","title":"Durability and walking issues with Madrid big buckle for daily use","author":"cavmum","ref_id":"r_e_5","thread":{"url":"https://www.reddit.com/r/Birkenstocks/comments/xoab0j/madrid_big_buckle_for_standing_all_day/","title":"madrid big buckle for standing all day","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"},"excerpt":"I have worn them nearly everyday since. They fit comfortably like a birk, but because of just the one strap I find myself dragging my feet to keep them on as I go for pram walks. Because of this the sole of the shoe was worn down quicker than the Arizona sandal, and now at a year at my heel it’s completely worn through. I still wear them for walking down and they feel fine. \n\nI would still probably buy again because I think they look nicer than Arizonas and they look much nicer with dresses etc.","subreddit":"Birkenstocks"}]},"generated_at":"2025-03-20T10:00:00Z","conversation_summary":{"gotchas":[{"gotcha":"The single strap may cause you to drag your feet, leading to rapid sole wear at the heel.","severity":"medium"},{"gotcha":"The big buckle can press into the top of your foot and cause blisters until broken in.","severity":"medium"},{"gotcha":"Patent leather or high-gloss straps are extremely stiff and take much longer to break in than nubuck or suede.","severity":"high"},{"gotcha":"Madrids do not come with a soft footbed option, so they are firmer and take longer to mold to your foot.","severity":"low"},{"gotcha":"The sandal may flip-flop or feel loose when walking, requiring constant foot gripping.","severity":"medium"}],"one_liner":"Reddit users find Birkenstock Madrid sandals stylish and eventually comfortable, but often struggle with a long, painful break-in period and stability issues compared to other Birkenstock models.","sentiment":{"label":"mixed","score":0.1,"explanation":"While many appreciate the dressier look and comfort after break-in, frequent complaints about blistering, foot dragging, buckle pressure, and sole wear temper the positivity."},"use_cases":[{"evidence":["r_e_1","r_e_4"],"use_case":"Casual daily walking"},{"evidence":["r_e_4","r_e_5"],"use_case":"Dressing up / wearing with dresses"},{"evidence":["r_e_4"],"use_case":"Travel (packable, versatile)"},{"evidence":["r_e_1"],"use_case":"Indoor / around the house"}],"top_themes":[{"theme":"Break-in period","stance":"negative","evidence":["r_e_2","r_e_3","r_e_5"]},{"theme":"Comfort and support after break-in","stance":"positive","evidence":["r_e_1","r_e_4"]},{"theme":"Stability and foot grip","stance":"negative","evidence":["r_e_3","r_e_5"]},{"theme":"Style and versatility","stance":"positive","evidence":["r_e_4","r_e_5"]},{"theme":"Durability concerns","stance":"negative","evidence":["r_e_5"]}],"comparisons":[{"summary":"Madrids are lighter and more stylish, but less secure, less stable, and the sole may wear faster.","evidence":["r_e_4","r_e_5"],"compared_to":"Arizona"},{"summary":"Mayari offers more comfort and security for walking compared to Madrid.","evidence":["r_e_3"],"compared_to":"Mayari"}]}},"deep_research":{"dimensions":{"eva_safety_testing":{"title":"Safety and skin-friendliness of the EVA material","entries":{"odor_neutral":"The EVA is labeled 'odor-neutral' by Birkenstock, indicating the material does not emit volatile organic compounds that could cause irritation or retain sweat odors — this keeps the sandal fresh and hygienic even after repeated barefoot use in warm climates.","skin_friendly_eva":"Birkenstock describes the EVA as 'skin-friendly', a direct consequence of its harmful-substance testing — this means the material won't leach chemical irritants onto bare skin, making it safer for sensitive skin or conditions like contact dermatitis.","tested_for_harmful_substances":"Birkenstock explicitly states the EVA has been tested for harmful substances, meaning the material has been screened for skin irritants and toxins — this validates it as a low-risk choice for direct, prolonged skin contact in hot weather when sweat can increase chemical absorption."},"entry_quotes":{"odor_neutral":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html","quote":"high-quality, odor-neutral EVA"}],"skin_friendly_eva":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html","quote":"it is very light, highly elastic, shock-absorbent, water-resistant, and skin-friendly."}],"tested_for_harmful_substances":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html","quote":"The high-quality, odor-neutral EVA has been tested for harmful substances"}]},"entry_sources":{"odor_neutral":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html"],"skin_friendly_eva":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html"],"tested_for_harmful_substances":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1631.html"]}},"water_friendly_use":{"title":"Real-world performance as a water-friendly sandal","entries":{"heat_sensitivity":"Birkenstock cautions that EVA can shrink when exposed to extreme heat or direct sunlight — at the beach or on a scorching pool deck, leaving them in the shade or inside a bag prevents irreversible deformation.","wet_surface_traction":"On smooth, wet surfaces like pool tiles, the slick EVA sole can lose grip — some wearers find the sandal slippery when water is involved, so it’s best kept to secure, level ground rather than treacherous boat decks or slippery rocks.","odor_resistant_material":"Unlike cork-footbed Birkenstocks that can absorb sweat and odors, the EVA doesn’t retain moisture — a quick scrub with dish soap and water keeps them fresh-smelling and looking new, which matters for daily poolside or shower use.","shower_and_wet_floor_use":"The sandal’s waterproof, quick-drying nature makes it a reliable shower shoe for gyms or hostels — it offers the contoured support of a Birkenstock footbed on wet floors without turning into a soggy, heavy mess.","one_piece_closed_cell_eva":"The sandal’s seamless, one-piece EVA construction ensures water cannot penetrate or pool in crevices — after rain or a pool dip, water beads off and the foam dries completely in about 30 minutes.","molded_footbed_support_in_water":"The EVA version still carries the signature Birkenstock anatomical footbed — moderate arch support, deep heel cup, and toe grip — so you don’t sacrifice support for water resistance, unlike flat flip-flops that offer no structure when wet."},"entry_quotes":{"heat_sensitivity":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com.au/blogs/things-to-know/our-materials-eva","quote":"EVA can shrink when exposed to extreme heat or direct sunlight; this is why we advise keeping them in the shade or inside a cooler environment."}],"wet_surface_traction":[{"url":"https://www.zappos.com/product/review/9985777","quote":"Additionally, because of this and the smoothness of the eva, I felt like it would be particularly slippery should the shoe get wet, e.g., if worn to the pool or beach."}],"odor_resistant_material":[{"url":"https://www.reviewed.com/style/features/birkenstock-eva-sandals-review-waterproof-thongs","quote":"While leather Birkenstocks are hard to clean—the cork footbed can soak up sweat and unwelcome odors—the Eva sandals are easy to wash and thus never smell bad. A quick wash with dish soap and water and they look brand-new."}],"shower_and_wet_floor_use":[{"url":"https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/","quote":"are perfect for in the shower, walking across wet or dirty floors or even wading through water"}],"one_piece_closed_cell_eva":[{"url":"https://myshoesreview.com/sandals/are-birkenstock-eva-sandals-waterproof/","quote":"- One-Piece Construction: The seamless, one-piece design of the EVA sandals eliminates seams and stitching that could allow water to penetrate."}],"molded_footbed_support_in_water":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/es-en/madrid-eva/madrid-eva-eva-0-eva-w_3720.html","quote":"Contoured EVA footbed features moderate arch support, a deep heel cup and roomy toe box"}]},"entry_sources":{"heat_sensitivity":["https://www.birkenstock.com.au/blogs/things-to-know/our-materials-eva"],"wet_surface_traction":["https://www.zappos.com/product/review/9985777"],"odor_resistant_material":["https://www.reviewed.com/style/features/birkenstock-eva-sandals-review-waterproof-thongs"],"shower_and_wet_floor_use":["https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/"],"one_piece_closed_cell_eva":["https://myshoesreview.com/sandals/are-birkenstock-eva-sandals-waterproof/","https://www.reviewed.com/style/features/birkenstock-eva-sandals-review-waterproof-thongs"],"molded_footbed_support_in_water":["https://www.birkenstock.com/es-en/madrid-eva/madrid-eva-eva-0-eva-w_3720.html"]}},"big_buckle_durability":{"title":"Durability of the translucent resin buckle","entries":{"molded_eva_strap_hole_integrity":"Unlike leather straps where punched belt holes can stretch and eventually tear under the strain of the buckle pin, the Madrid EVA's strap is a single-piece mold with integrated holes, meaning the loop won't warp around the buckle over time and the closure stays reliably secure at your chosen tension across multiple seasons."},"entry_quotes":{"molded_eva_strap_hole_integrity":[{"url":"https://footgear.com.au/products/madrid-big-buckle-eva-narrow-fondant-pink","quote":"Single-piece moulded EVA construction"}]},"entry_sources":{"molded_eva_strap_hole_integrity":["https://footgear.com.au/products/madrid-big-buckle-eva-narrow-fondant-pink"]}},"design_lineage_madrid":{"title":"The Madrid sandal's design history","entries":{"1963_debut_as_birkenstock_s_first_sandal":"The Madrid launched in 1963 as Birkenstock's first sandal—originally called a 'gymnastics sandal'—with a deep cork-latex footbed; six decades later the EVA version carries the identical one-strap silhouette and footbed geometry, making it the most direct modern descendant of the design that created the entire comfort-sandal category.","manufactured_in_germany_since_the_18th_century":"The EVA Madrid is produced in Germany, where the Birkenstock shoemaking dynasty dates to 1774—when Johann Adam Birkenstock worked as a cobbler in Langen-Bergheim—so the sandal carries a 'Made in Germany' tag that spans 250 years of continuous manufacturing tradition, setting it apart from typical imported synthetics.","footbed_derived_from_a_wet_sand_foot_impression":"The Madrid's footbed shape traces back to Carl Birkenstock's insight that a healthy footprint in wet sand reveals the ideal support architecture—the EVA version retains that exact mapping, so despite being an inexpensive synthetic slide, it references the same orthotic principles as the original cork-latex footbed that has influenced podiatric design since 1963.","originally_marketed_to_healthcare_professionals":"Before the term 'recovery sandal' existed, the Madrid was advertised to doctors in medical journals and became ubiquitous in hospitals—the EVA version's all-day support claim inherits that occupational credibility, making a water-ready slide the descendant of a shoe built for 12-hour shifts on hard hospital floors."},"entry_quotes":{"1963_debut_as_birkenstock_s_first_sandal":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.co.nz/pages/history-heritage","quote":"Karl Birkenstock develops his own sandal and launches the Madrid - the first ever flexible sandal with a deep and flexible footbed - in 1963."}],"manufactured_in_germany_since_the_18th_century":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock-group.com/de/en/about-us/history/","quote":"The beginnings of the shoemaking dynasty can be traced back to the year 1774, the first documented mention of Johannes Birkenstock (1749-1812)."}],"footbed_derived_from_a_wet_sand_foot_impression":[{"url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/interiors/design-moment-birkenstock-madrid-1963-1.3908163","quote":"Wildly popular design is based on the cast of a healthy foot in the sand"}],"originally_marketed_to_healthcare_professionals":[{"url":"https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/birkenstock-madrids","quote":"Originally marketed to doctors via ads placed in scientific journals, it quickly became the Croc of its day among healthcare workers."}]},"entry_sources":{"1963_debut_as_birkenstock_s_first_sandal":["https://www.birkenstock.co.nz/pages/history-heritage","https://www.businessinsider.com/the-history-growth-of-birkenstock-german-shoe-brand-2023-8"],"manufactured_in_germany_since_the_18th_century":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva_w_1631.html","https://www.birkenstock-group.com/de/en/about-us/history/"],"footbed_derived_from_a_wet_sand_foot_impression":["https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/interiors/design-moment-birkenstock-madrid-1963-1.3908163"],"originally_marketed_to_healthcare_professionals":["https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/birkenstock-madrids"]}},"eva_footbed_longevity":{"title":"How the EVA footbed support holds up over time","entries":{"odor_neutral_durability":"Birkenstock’s odor‑neutral EVA formulation is backed by a long‑term user who confirms the sandals stay ‘non‑stinky’ even after repeated wet‑dry cycles and years of use, implying that the material’s antimicrobial properties hold up well, which also helps prevent bacteria‑driven foam breakdown that can compromise cushioning.","long_term_user_experience":"A hiker and pilgrim who has worn the EVA Madrid since 2015 for house wear, showers, and sightseeing reports the footbed remains ‘soft underfoot, with some arch support’ after years of intermittent use, suggesting that for moderate, low‑impact activities the anatomical contour can endure beyond a single season.","one_piece_eva_construction":"Because the Madrid EVA molds the upper, footbed, and outsole from a single piece of foam with no separate rubber outsole, the deep heel cup and arch contours are directly subjected to ground impact and body weight, which can accelerate compression of the support structures over time compared to cork models that sit atop a protective rubber layer.","water_resistance_and_foam_integrity":"Because EVA is a closed‑cell foam that is inherently water‑resistant, the footbed does not absorb moisture that could lead to material breakdown or loss of cushioning; combined with the single‑piece seamless design, this allows the sandal to be hosed off or submerged without degrading the footbed’s structure over time, making it viable for beach and poolside use across multiple seasons."},"entry_quotes":{"odor_neutral_durability":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html","quote":"The high-quality, odor-neutral EVA has been tested for harmful substances"},{"url":"https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/","quote":"They are soft underfoot, with some arch support, can be tightened or loosened to allow for socks, thick socks or no socks, are non-stinky and non-slippy"}],"long_term_user_experience":[{"url":"https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/","quote":"They are soft underfoot, with some arch support, can be tightened or loosened to allow for socks, thick socks or no socks, are non-stinky and non-slippy"}],"one_piece_eva_construction":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html","quote":"Upper/footbed lining/sole: a single piece of EVA"}],"water_resistance_and_foam_integrity":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html","quote":"Details: water-resistant, washable, ultra-lightweight"}]},"entry_sources":{"odor_neutral_durability":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html","https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/"],"long_term_user_experience":["https://somewhereslowly.com/2015/11/25/top-tip-birkenstock-eva-madrid/"],"one_piece_eva_construction":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html"],"water_resistance_and_foam_integrity":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_19.html"]}},"competitive_eva_slides":{"title":"How they compare to other EVA slides","entries":{"translucent_big_buckle_detail":"The oversized translucent buckle — made from a durable stainless synthetic — turns the Madrid into a style-forward statement piece among EVA slides, a deliberate design move that appeals to buyers looking for something more elevated than the logo-centric or purely utilitarian look of Adidas Adilette or Havaianas slides.","single_strap_minimalist_silhouette":"The Madrid's single wide strap gives it a sleeker, more dressable profile than double-strap Birkenstock models or chunky Crocs; it reads as a clean, modern slide that transitions easily from beach to casual evening, a versatility rarely found in EVA sandal categories.","made_in_germany_1963_madrid_lineage":"Manufactured in Germany and descended from the original Madrid fitness sandal that Karl Birkenstock launched in 1963, this EVA model carries a design pedigree that separates it from mass-produced EVA slides — the heritage signals a level of orthopedic credibility and durability expectation that justifies its price premium over generic alternatives.","contoured_eva_footbed_with_arch_support":"Unlike the flat, unstructured footbeds of Crocs or classic Adilette slides, the Madrid EVA molds Birkenstock's signature deep heel cup, longitudinal arch supports, and toe grip into a lightweight foam construction, delivering the kind of structural foot support typically absent from casual EVA sandals.","narrow_fit_option_for_tailored_security":"Offered in a narrow width, the Madrid EVA provides a tailored fit for slimmer feet that is difficult to find in the largely unisex, one-width-fits-most EVA slide market — competing slides from Crocs or Adidas typically run wide and can feel sloppy on narrow foot volumes, whereas the Madrid's adjustable buckle and narrower footbed deliver a more secure, precise fit.","waterproof_and_washable_with_contoured_support":"Being all-EVA, the Madrid is fully waterproof and easily cleaned with soap and water, matching the practical rinse-off convenience of Crocs but backing it with an anatomically contoured footbed that flat, foam-only designs lack, making it a more supportive choice for poolside, beach, or rainy-day wear."},"entry_quotes":{"translucent_big_buckle_detail":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","quote":"features our popular Big Buckle made from a stainless synthetic material and makes an impression with its durability and minimalist design."}],"single_strap_minimalist_silhouette":[{"url":"https://versusguy.com/birkenstock-madrid-vs-arizona/","quote":"Presents a more streamlined and modern aesthetic due to its single strap. It’s often favored for its minimalist appeal and can be dressed up or down more easily."}],"made_in_germany_1963_madrid_lineage":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","quote":"Made in Germany"},{"url":"https://www.ilovebirkenstocks.com/blog/the-magic-of-the-madrid","quote":"in 1963 Karl Birkenstock launches the Madrid model, the first fitness sandal with a deep and flexible footbed, thereby laying the foundation for today's comfort footwear market"}],"contoured_eva_footbed_with_arch_support":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/es-en/madrid-eva/madrid-eva-eva-0-eva-w_6774.html","quote":"Contoured EVA footbed features moderate arch support, a deep heel cup and roomy toe box"},{"url":"https://stylino.cy/en/blog/birkenstock-vs-crocs","quote":"The flat Croslite base offers cushioning but no structural arch support"}],"narrow_fit_option_for_tailored_security":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","quote":"Width: Medium/Narrow"},{"url":"https://www.adventurealan.com/birkenstocks-vs-crocs/","quote":"Crocs cannot be adjusted, and are a poor choice for lower volume feet which will slosh around inside."}],"waterproof_and_washable_with_contoured_support":[{"url":"https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","quote":"water-resistant, washable, ultra-lightweight"},{"url":"https://thestripe.com/birkenstock-eva-vs-leather-birkenstocks/","quote":"Wipe clean with soap and water, no fancy leather cleansers necessary."}]},"entry_sources":{"translucent_big_buckle_detail":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html"],"single_strap_minimalist_silhouette":["https://versusguy.com/birkenstock-madrid-vs-arizona/"],"made_in_germany_1963_madrid_lineage":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","https://www.ilovebirkenstocks.com/blog/the-magic-of-the-madrid"],"contoured_eva_footbed_with_arch_support":["https://www.birkenstock.com/es-en/madrid-eva/madrid-eva-eva-0-eva-w_6774.html","https://stylino.cy/en/blog/birkenstock-vs-crocs"],"narrow_fit_option_for_tailored_security":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","https://www.adventurealan.com/birkenstocks-vs-crocs/"],"waterproof_and_washable_with_contoured_support":["https://www.birkenstock.com/us/madrid-big-buckle-eva/madridbig-evabigbuckle-eva-274717-eva-w_1239.html","https://thestripe.com/birkenstock-eva-vs-leather-birkenstocks/"]}},"translucent_buckle_styling":{"title":"Styling the translucent buckle sandal","entries":{"jewelry_like_focal_point":"Birkenstock’s fashion editors consistently describe the Big Buckle sandals as wearing their hardware like jewelry, and the Madrid’s oversized transparent buckle takes that concept into modern territory — its glossy, light-refracting surface acts as the outfit’s focal point, allowing the wearer to skip ankle bracelets or metallic accessories while still achieving a styled snap to a simple dress or trousers.","spring_summer_25_debut_in_eva":"The Madrid Translucent Buckle marks the first time Birkenstock’s iconic oversized Big Buckle appears in EVA, introduced as part of the Spring/Summer ’25 update — the transparent hue turns the functional strap into a light-catching statement piece that updates the classic Madrid silhouette for a modern, poolside-to-street fashion moment.","active_poolside_styling_intent":"Designed for Birkenstock’s Active Poolside range, the translucent buckle Madrids are meant to be worn in and around water but styled as a resort-ready fashion sandal — editorial outlets pair them with flowing maxi dresses and layered looks that treat the clear hardware as a deliberate detail, not an afterthought.","translucent_hardware_trend_alignment":"The clear buckle plugs into the wider fashion appetite for transparent accessories that has surged through Y2K revival and minimalist collections — in a landscape of jelly sandals and lucite heels, the Madrid’s translucent hardware offers a trend-aware detail without requiring a head-to-toe commitment, making it an easy entry piece for updating a warm-weather wardrobe."},"entry_quotes":{"jewelry_like_focal_point":[{"url":"https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-style-birkenstocks-summer-2026","quote":"They're almost like a piece of jewellery, adding some glitz to a simple, A-line mini summer dress."}],"spring_summer_25_debut_in_eva":[{"url":"https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/","quote":"For the first time, the iconic Big Buckle appears in EVA, making a splash in transparent hues."}],"active_poolside_styling_intent":[{"url":"https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/","quote":"Designed for the Active Poolside range, these sleek accents bring fresh energy to familiar favorites like the MADRID and ARIZONA."},{"url":"https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-style-birkenstocks","quote":"The waterproof, lightweight EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) fabrication of any Birkenstock shoe would also be a fun choice for this look in lieu of the polished leather Boston style and would add a bit more shine to the fashion-forward look."}],"translucent_hardware_trend_alignment":[{"url":"https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/","quote":"From translucent finishes to sculptural shapes and tactile textures, this new wave of innovation carries BIRKENSTOCK’s legacy forward, one elevated detail at a time."}]},"entry_sources":{"jewelry_like_focal_point":["https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-style-birkenstocks-summer-2026","https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/"],"spring_summer_25_debut_in_eva":["https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/"],"active_poolside_styling_intent":["https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/","https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-style-birkenstocks"],"translucent_hardware_trend_alignment":["https://themetroedit.com/fashion/birkenstock-spring-summer-2025/"]}}}},"handle":"madrid-translucent-buckle-sandals-women-16708-25129635","storefront_path":"/en/women-footwear/all-our-shoes/madrid-translucent-buckle-sandals-women--16708-25129635","storefront_url":"https://ai.simons.ca/en/women-footwear/all-our-shoes/madrid-translucent-buckle-sandals-women--16708-25129635"}}