So, not the most expensive birch, also quite comfortable, but that the cork after less than a 1/2 year starts at the heel dissolve, the leather strap at the front of both shoes from cork triggers - I would not even expect. And please, give it out sensible shoe sizes, Birkenstock! In 40 a 39 ordered, nor too big and much too wide ...... there are winter socks (but in the summer ?!)