Choosing Birkenstock Arizona sandals: footbed, width and size

Birkenstock describes the Soft Footbed as the original footbed with an extra latex foam layer for cushioning and a gentler feel, while keeping the same support. It says many people with sensitive feet or lower arches prefer it, while others like the firmer classic feel.

Both are cork-latex footbeds contoured to support the arch; the difference is the extra cushioning layer.

Most Birkenstock styles come in two widths. Birkenstock's fit guide suggests Regular for medium to wide feet and Narrow for narrow to medium feet, and says its Narrow width fits most women's feet. On Amazon, the width is often only in the variant name, so read it before you order.

Because Soft Footbed styles run slightly narrower, people between widths may be more comfortable in Regular in a Soft Footbed.

Birkenstock sells in European sizes and gives a simple conversion: US women's size + 31, or US men's size + 33, equals the EU size. If you're between sizes, check Birkenstock's fit guide before ordering.

• Check footbed (Soft or classic), width (Regular or Narrow) and EU size in the variant name.
• Check the upper: this review covers Birko-Flor, a synthetic that wipes clean.
• Amazon pools one star rating across colors and sizes, so read reviews for your version.
• Buy where returns are easy, since fit is personal.

• Worth buying: you want an all-day summer sandal with real arch support.
• Skip the Arizona: you need a waterproof sandal or a heel strap for hiking and water.
• What you have may be enough: if you already own a pair that fits, a second color is a want, not a need.