Similar Sandals: Birkenstock Arizona - Mephisto Harmony Comparison
When searching for the perfect casual sandal, you’re sure to be bombarded with options. Functionality, style and level of comfort are three components to look for when deciding on a casual sandal for the approaching spring and summer season. Today I will compare two very similar women’s sandal designs, the Arizona by Birkenstock and the Harmony by Mephisto.
Pictured Above: Mephisto Harmony (left) Birkenstock Arizona (right)
The Arizona is the “original”, most well-known style of Birkenstock. The company was founded in 1774 and became available in the United States in 1966. To say Birkenstock has a loyal following would be an understatement. In the last couple of years, this style has cropped up on runways of many high end fashion designers. Although many fashion houses have used a design extremely similar to the Arizona, the price tag reflects a different story, toting a hefty retail price. The Arizona by Birkenstock retails for about $125, making it a much more attainable item compared to other similar styles that possess designer names. The Arizona is available in a nubuck, suede, oiled leather or smooth leather upper that comes in a variety of colors along with the option of a regular width or narrow footbed. The regular width caters to the individual who has a wider foot. Birkenstock wearers love for the molded footbed feel that comes with wear, also known as the “broken-in” feel. Whether you’re a long-time, loyal Birkenstock fan or someone who has recently jumped on the bandwagon, you’ll find that the Arizona by Birkenstock stands the test of time.
Pictured Above: Birkenstock Women's Arizona Sandal
Mephisto, like Birkenstock, has a loyal band of followers that have become accustomed to the excellent shoes and products the company produces. The Harmony by Mephisto is the style that I will be comparing to the Arizona by Birkenstock. The silhouette of the Harmony looks much like that of the Arizona, but there are some differences. Mephisto is famous for its Soft-Air Technology footbed, which allows the wearer to feel as though they’re walking on the clouds. The Harmony footbed is not going to mold to your foot as much as the Arizona footbed will. Mephisto’s patented footbed takes pressure off of your joints and relieves back pain, making the experience of wearing Mephisto styles that much more enjoyable. The Harmony is available in the core colors, like Birkenstock, but Mephisto offers other prints that make dressing up easier in comparison to the Arizona. The Harmony costs a little bit more than the Arizona, ringing in at $150.
Pictured Above: Mephisto Women's Harmony Sandal
Both the Arizona and the Harmony come from highly respectable shoe companies and are made from the finest quality materials. Birkenstock is a name that has been around for centuries and Mephisto is a company that is well-known for high-end, lasting footwear. With a price tag of $125-$150, you’re paying for a quality design, build and a trusted brands. The great thing about both styles is that you’ll look and feel the part whether you choose to wear them day or night, to a ball game or to dinner with your friends. In conclusion, both styles are very worthy of wear. In my opinion, the Arizona by Birkenstock makes a better every day shoe while the Harmony by Mephisto is a great option for days when you’re feeling like you’ve got a little more pep in your step. If you choose the Arizona sandal by Birkenstock, you’re going with tradition, where as you’re choosing quality by going with the Harmony by Mephisto.