Back to School with Birkenstock: Why Arizona, Boston & More Are College Favorites
By Simply Birkenstock | Concord, New Hampshire
Every August, we know back-to-school season is here when the questions start coming in.
“Do you have Arizona in my size?”
“Is Boston good for college?”
“Can I wear Birkenstocks with socks?”
And sometimes, the question is simply:
“What Birkenstocks are everyone wearing right now?”
We've been hearing versions of these questions for more than 20 years at Simply Birkenstock in Concord, New Hampshire.
Since 2002, we've had the opportunity to help generations of customers find their Birkenstocks. We've watched parents who grew up wearing Arizona bring their own kids into the store. We've watched new styles become popular, and we've seen customers come back year after year for another pair.
And over the last several years, we've noticed something especially interesting:
Birkenstock has become a major part of college and back-to-school style.
Arizona has become a familiar sight on campuses across the country. Boston has become especially popular with younger shoppers, often worn with socks. And styles like Franca and Mayari have given women more ways to wear Birkenstock as part of their everyday wardrobe.
So this year, rather than giving you another list of the “best Birkenstock styles for back to school,” we wanted to combine what we've actually seen from our customers with a practical guide to help you find the right pair.
Why Birkenstocks Work So Well for College
College days aren't always predictable.
There's the walk to class, across campus, back to the dorm, over to the dining hall, to the library, to a coffee shop, and wherever the rest of the day takes you.
Most students aren't looking for complicated footwear. They want something they can put on easily, wear with their everyday clothes, and keep in rotation throughout the semester.
Birkenstock's contoured cork-latex footbed also provides a supportive feel that many people appreciate when they're on their feet throughout the day.
And because different Birkenstock styles work for different seasons and outfits, it's easy to build a small rotation rather than relying on one pair for everything.
1. Birkenstock Arizona: A Back-to-School Staple
Best for: Everyday wear
The Arizona is one of Birkenstock's most recognizable styles, and for good reason.
With its two adjustable straps and simple design, it works with just about anything you'd wear around campus . walking to class, running errands, grabbing coffee, or relaxing around your dorm.
It's available in materials including suede, leather, and Birko-Flor, with a wide range of colors.
Why students love it:
- Easy to slip on and adjust
- Versatile enough for everyday outfits
- Available in multiple materials and colors
- Classic Birkenstock design
- Works well with socks once the weather cools down
The Birkenstocks With Socks Trend Isn't Going Anywhere
If you've spent any time around college campuses over the last few years, you've probably seen it:
Birkenstocks with socks.
Especially Arizona with crew socks.
There was a time when wearing socks with sandals was considered questionable fashion. That's definitely changed. Today, it's simply part of the look.
We've seen customers pair Arizona with everything from athletic socks to classic crew socks, along with jeans, shorts, sweatpants, joggers, and college sweatshirts.
And honestly, it makes practical sense.
The beginning of the school year can be warm, but fall eventually arrives. A student might wear Arizona without socks in August and then keep wearing the same pair with socks when New England mornings start getting cooler.
Here in New Hampshire, that transition happens pretty quickly.
That's one reason we think the look has lasted.
It's not just about fashion. It works for real life.
2. Birkenstock Boston: The Fall Campus Favorite
Best for: Fall, cooler weather, and everyday wear
If you're heading back to campus in August or September, the Boston is worth a serious look.
The closed-toe design makes it particularly well suited to the transition into fall. Wear it with shorts and a T-shirt while it's warm, then pair it with jeans and socks as temperatures start dropping.
It's especially popular in suede, though leather and other materials are available.
Boston Fit Tip
The Boston is designed to have room around your foot. Your toes shouldn't be pressed against the front, and your heel should sit comfortably within the heel cup.
If you're unsure whether you need Regular or Narrow width, check our fit guide before ordering.
View the Birkenstock Fit Guide
3. Birkenstock Franca: A Dressier Option
Best for: Everyday outfits and a more polished look
If you want the comfort of a Birkenstock but prefer something a little more refined, the Franca is a great option.
Its crossed-back straps give it a slightly dressier look than the classic Arizona while keeping the easygoing feel Birkenstock is known for.
It works especially well with:
- Jeans
- Casual dresses
- Skirts
- Linen pants
- Everyday summer outfits
It's a great choice for students who want something that can work for both casual days and slightly more dressed-up occasions.
4. Birkenstock Mayari: Lightweight and Easy to Style
Best for: Warm-weather campus days
The Mayari features a distinctive toe loop and elegant crossed straps, giving it a slightly more delicate look.
It's a popular choice for students who want something lightweight and easy to wear during warmer months.
Pair it with shorts, denim, skirts, or casual dresses for an effortless campus look.
5. Birkenstock Gizeh: A Simple Everyday Sandal
Best for: Warm weather and casual outfits
The Gizeh is another classic option, featuring a thong-style design and adjustable buckle.
It's easy to pack for college and works well for everyday summer wear, dorm life, errands, and casual weekends.
If you prefer a more minimal sandal, the Gizeh is worth considering alongside the Arizona and Mayari.
Which Birkenstock Should You Choose?
Not sure where to start?
| If you want... | Consider... |
|---|---|
| An everyday classic | Arizona |
| A closed-toe fall favorite | Boston |
| A more polished look | Franca |
| A lightweight, feminine sandal | Mayari |
| A simple warm-weather sandal | Gizeh |
There's no reason you have to choose just one. Many Birkenstock fans build a small rotation based on the season, weather, and what they're wearing.
Regular or Narrow Width?
One of the most important things to consider when buying Birkenstocks is width.
The right width should feel secure without squeezing your foot. Your toes should have enough room to move naturally, while your foot sits comfortably within the footbed.
If you're buying your first pair, take a look at our fit guide before placing your order.
And if you're local to New Hampshire, you can always visit us in Concord for help finding the right fit.
Check Our Birkenstock Fit Guide
What We See During Back-to-School Season at Simply Birkenstock
This is the part of the season we enjoy most.
Because we're a small, independent retailer, we get to have actual conversations with our customers.
We've seen parents bring their children in for their first pair. We've seen college students come in before leaving for school. We've had people come in knowing exactly what they want, and we've had people who need help deciding between Arizona and Boston.
Sometimes someone comes in asking for one style and leaves with another because they tried it on and liked it better.
That's okay.
That's what shopping in a small business should feel like.
You can ask questions, try things on, take your time, and talk to someone who knows the products.
That's something we value at Simply Birkenstock.
After more than 20 years of selling Birkenstock, we've learned that sometimes the most useful thing we can do is simply listen to what a customer is looking for.
How Do You Break In Birkenstocks?
Birkenstocks are designed to become increasingly comfortable as the footbed adapts to your foot, but your first few wears may feel different from a conventional shoe.
Start by wearing your new pair for shorter periods and gradually increase your wear time.
You can also read our complete break-in guide for more tips on getting your new pair comfortable.
Read Our Birkenstock Break-In Guide
The key is simple: give your feet and the footbed some time to adjust.
What Should College Students Wear With Birkenstocks?
One of the best things about Birkenstocks is how easily they fit into a college wardrobe.
For warmer weather, try an Arizona or Mayari with:
- Shorts and a T-shirt
- Jeans and a tank top
- Linen pants
- Casual dresses
- Relaxed everyday outfits
As fall arrives, the Boston becomes especially easy to style with:
- Jeans and socks
- Cuffed pants
- Sweaters
- Flannels
- Jackets and layers
The result is casual, comfortable, and easy to wear throughout a busy college day.
Back to School in New England
For students heading back to school around New Hampshire and New England, August is the beginning of a long transition from summer into fall.
Whether you're walking across the University of New Hampshire campus in Durham, heading to Dartmouth in Hanover, or studying at one of the many colleges throughout the region, you'll likely be spending a lot of time on your feet.
With New England's changing weather, having both an open sandal and a closed-toe option can be especially useful.
Start with an Arizona or Mayari for warmer days and consider a Boston as the season starts to cool down.
For us, this is one of the things that makes back-to-school season in New Hampshire a little different.
You might start the semester in shorts and sandals and find yourself reaching for jeans, socks, and a Boston before you know it.
How to Keep Your Birkenstocks Looking Good
College shoes tend to get a lot of use, so a little care goes a long way.
Depending on the material, you may want to:
- Keep suede away from excessive moisture
- Use appropriate leather care products
- Protect the cork footbed
- Avoid extreme heat
- Clean them regularly
- Store them somewhere cool and dry
For more detailed instructions, check out our full Birkenstock care guide.
Read Our Birkenstock Care Guide
Why Buy Your Birkenstocks From Simply Birkenstock?
Simply Birkenstock has been serving Birkenstock customers since 2002 from our store in Concord, New Hampshire.
Whether you're shopping online or visiting us in person, our goal is to help you find the right Birkenstock for your feet, lifestyle, and everyday needs.
If you're not sure about sizing, width, materials, or which style makes the most sense for you, we're happy to help.
That's one of the benefits of shopping with a small business:
You can talk to real people who know the products and understand what customers are looking for.
We've spent more than two decades helping customers find their Birkenstocks, and we're proud to continue serving shoppers in New Hampshire and across the country.
Ready for the New Semester?
Whether you're looking for an everyday Arizona, a fall-ready Boston, or something a little more polished like the Franca or Mayari, there's a Birkenstock that can fit into your college routine.
Arizona continues to be a favorite.
Boston has become increasingly popular.
Franca and Mayari give women additional ways to wear Birkenstock.
And the classic Birkenstocks-with-socks look isn't going anywhere anytime soon.
But there's something we've noticed after all these years.
Styles change.
Colors change.
The way people wear their shoes changes.
But the reason customers come back to Birkenstock hasn't changed very much.
They like how they feel.
And that's probably why we're still here, selling the same brand we started with more than 20 years ago.
So whether you're heading to college for the first time, returning for another semester, or simply looking for a comfortable pair of shoes for the new school year, we'd love to help.
Shop our Birkenstock collection online or visit us in Concord, New Hampshire.
Shop the Styles Mentioned in This Guide
Arizona — Your everyday campus classic.
Boston — A favorite for fall and cooler weather.
Franca — A polished option for everyday outfits.
Mayari — Lightweight comfort for warm-weather days.
Gizeh — A simple classic for warm-weather wear.
All Birkenstocks — Explore the complete collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Birkenstocks good for college students?
Yes. Their adjustable fit, contoured footbed, and versatile styling make them a popular option for students who spend a lot of time walking around campus.
Which Birkenstock is best for college?
The Arizona is a great all-around choice, while the Boston is particularly useful for fall and cooler weather. Franca, Mayari, and Gizeh are good options if you prefer open styles.
Are Birkenstock Bostons good for walking around campus?
They can be a good everyday option once you've properly broken them in and found the right size and width.
Should I get Regular or Narrow Birkenstocks?
That depends on your foot shape and the specific model. Our fit guide can help you determine which width is most appropriate.
Do Birkenstocks need to be broken in?
They can take some time to feel fully comfortable, especially if you're new to the contoured footbed. Start with shorter periods of wear and gradually increase them.
Can I wear Birkenstocks with socks?
Absolutely. Arizona and Boston styles are particularly easy to wear with socks when temperatures start to cool down.
Where can I buy Birkenstocks in New Hampshire?
Simply Birkenstock is located at 31 N Main St, Concord, New Hampshire, and you can also shop our full Birkenstock collection online.
Heading Back to Campus?
Find your pair before the semester starts.