I love a good sandal, but Autenti Sandals left me questioning their worth.
Despite their Spanish craftsmanship and budget-friendly price, the buzz around bad reviews on e-commerce sites like Amazon and Trustpilot made me cautious.
In this review, I’ll share my experience with Autenti’s leather sandals, weigh their pros and cons, and compare them to five other brands.
With maintenance tips and FAQs, you’ll get the full picture to decide if these are for you—or if you should pass.
Let’s unpack why I’m not sold on Autenti.
My Experience with Autenti Sandals
I was thrilled when my Autenti Sandals arrived.
The sleek box and the promise of Spanish craftsmanship had me hopeful.
I chose the Berlin Sandal 11816, a leather model with Velcro straps, priced at €35.90 (~$38 USD).
The tan leather looked stylish, and the cork footbed felt soft underfoot.
I wore them for a weekend of errands—coffee runs, a farmer’s market, and a park walk.
Initially, they were comfy, with the Velcro making adjustments a breeze.
The lightweight design, around 7 ounces, didn’t weigh me down, and I got a few compliments on their minimalist vibe.
But cracks showed fast. By day two, the cork footbed started creaking, and I noticed slight wear at the edges.
The Velcro, while convenient, felt flimsy, like it might not last a summer.
My arches ached after a 3-mile walk, suggesting the “anatomical” footbed wasn’t as supportive as advertised. Worse, the leather straps began to rub, leaving red marks on my instep.
I checked reviews on Amazon.co.jp and Trustpilot, and many echoed my gripes: poor durability, sizing issues, and unresponsive customer service.
One user even mentioned the sole splitting after a month. My excitement faded, and I wondered if the low price was too good to be true.
I tried coordinating them with socks, as Autenti suggests, which added a quirky flair but didn’t fix the comfort issues.
The sandals looked great with jeans, but style couldn’t outweigh the discomfort.
After a week, I shelved them, wary of investing more time in a product with such mixed feedback.
This experience pushed me to compare Autenti to other brands to see if I’d missed something—or if better options awaited.
Why Autenti Falls Short
Autenti’s appeal—low price, Spanish heritage, and Velcro ease—is undeniable.
But the bad reviews on e-commerce sites tell a story.
Trustpilot and Amazon users report soles crumbling, straps failing, and no customer support.
My experience mirrored this: the sandals started strong but faded fast.
Compared to Birkenstock’s longevity, Teva’s versatility, Chaco’s ruggedness, Merrell’s stability, and Cushionaire’s value, Autenti struggles.
The eco-friendly recycled line is a plus, but it’s not enough to offset the durability and comfort issues.
If you’re tempted, proceed with caution and prioritize fit and usage.
Maintenance Tips for Autenti Sandals
- Keep Them Dry: Autenti’s cork footbed isn’t waterproof. I got caught in a drizzle, and drying took days. Store them in a dry place and avoid rain to prevent mold or cracking.
- Clean Gently: For leather straps, use a damp cloth with mild soap. I wiped mine weekly to remove dirt. For suede, a soft brush works. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the cork.
- Check Velcro Regularly: The Velcro can collect lint, reducing grip. I used a small brush to clean it weekly, ensuring it stayed secure. Replace sandals if the Velcro weakens significantly.
- Protect the Cork: Apply a cork sealant (available at shoe stores) every few months. I didn’t do this, and my footbed wore faster. Sealant extends life, especially with frequent wear.
- Store Properly: Keep sandals in a cool, dark place to avoid UV damage. I used a shoe bag to prevent dust buildup. Avoid stacking heavy items on top to maintain the footbed’s shape.
- Break Them In Gradually: Wear them for 1–2 hours daily for a week. I pushed too hard initially, causing discomfort. Gradual wear helps the footbed adjust to your feet.
Real-Life Scenarios: When to Consider Autenti
If you’re on a tight budget and need sandals for light use—like beach trips or short errands—Autenti might work.
I wore mine to a picnic, and they held up for a few hours.
But for travel, long walks, or foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, they’re a risk.
Birkenstock or Merrell are better for all-day wear, while Teva and Chaco suit outdoor adventures.
Cushionaire’s a safer budget bet.
Autenti’s style is great, but the quality issues make them a gamble for heavy use.
Pros and Cons of Autenti Sandals
Pros of Autenti Sandals
- Affordable Price: At €32.90–€35.90 (~$35–$38 USD), Autenti is a steal compared to premium brands like Birkenstock. I could buy multiple pairs without guilt, ideal for budget shoppers or those wanting variety. The low cost makes them tempting for casual summer wear.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing ~7 ounces, these sandals feel airy. I barely noticed them during short walks, and they didn’t tire my legs. The carbonic padding adds a cushy touch, great for quick outings.
- Easy Velcro Straps: The Velcro closure is a standout. I adjusted the straps in seconds, and they stayed secure. Unlike fiddly buckles, this design is perfect for folks who value convenience.
- Eco-Friendly Efforts: Autenti’s recycled line, like the Leo Recycled Sandal, uses sustainable materials. I appreciate the nod to eco-consciousness, especially from a budget brand made in Spain.
Cons of Autenti Sandals
- Poor Durability: The cork footbed showed wear after a week, with creaking and edge fraying. Amazon reviews noted soles splitting within a month, and my pair felt like it wouldn’t survive heavy use. This raises red flags for long-term value.
- Limited Support: The “anatomical” footbed didn’t deliver. My arches ached after moderate walking, and the padding felt flat. Users on Trustpilot complained of similar discomfort, especially for high arches.
- Flimsy Straps: The leather straps rubbed my skin, causing irritation. The Velcro, while convenient, seemed cheap and prone to wearing out. Some reviewers reported straps loosening after minimal use.
- Unreliable Customer Service: E-commerce feedback, like on Trustpilot, highlights unresponsive support. Users struggled with returns or sizing issues, with emails bouncing or ignored. I didn’t contact Autenti, but this pattern worried me.
- Inconsistent Sizing: My EU 41 pair fit snugly, but reviews mentioned sizing running small or inconsistent. Without half sizes, finding the right fit feels like a gamble.
- Limited Availability: Autenti’s website is the main source, with spotty stock. Shipping from Spain took 10 days, and major retailers like Nordstrom don’t carry them. This makes replacements or returns a hassle.
Autenti Sandals Vs. Other Brands
- Autenti Sandals Vs. Birkenstock Arizona
Birkenstock’s Arizona sandals, priced at $100–$135, are the gold standard for comfort.
Their cork-latex footbed molds to your feet, offering podiatrist-approved support for plantar fasciitis.
I own a pair, and they’ve lasted three years with minimal wear.
The suede straps are durable, and the buckles adjust precisely, though they’re less convenient than Autenti’s Velcro.
Birkenstock’s heavier (8–10 oz) and requires a 2–4 week break-in, which can be tough.
Unlike Autenti’s spotty durability, Birkenstock’s quality is reliable, backed by global availability.
However, the price stings, and they’re not waterproof.
For long-term comfort, Birkenstock outshines Autenti’s budget appeal.
- Autenti Sandals Vs. Teva Original Universal
Teva’s Original Universal sandals (~$50) are versatile for casual and outdoor use.
Their EVA foam footbed and adjustable Velcro straps offer squishy comfort, perfect for wide feet.
I wore a pair hiking, and the recycled straps didn’t chafe.
Unlike Autenti’s creaky cork, Teva’s footbed holds up in wet conditions, though it lacks deep arch support.
Reviews on Glamour praise their colorful designs, but some note strap scratching.
Teva’s lighter than Autenti and widely available at REI.
While Autenti’s cheaper, Teva’s durability and water-readiness make it a better pick for active lifestyles.
- Autenti Sandals Vs. Chaco Z/Cloud 2
Chaco’s Z/Cloud 2 sandals (~$100) are built for adventure.
The adjustable toe loop and polyester straps ensure a secure fit, and the cushioned footbed supports long hikes.
I tested them rafting, and their traction was stellar, unlike Autenti’s slippery sole.
OutdoorGearLab rates them top for durability, but they’re heavier (10 oz) and pricier than Autenti.
Chaco’s footbed offers better arch support, though sizing can be tricky without half sizes.
Autenti’s budget-friendly, but Chaco’s rugged performance and lifetime warranty overshadow its flimsy straps and questionable longevity.
- Autenti Sandals Vs. Merrell Bravada Backstrap
Merrell’s Bravada Backstrap sandals (~$85) blend athletic style with comfort.
The Velcro straps and padded footbed fit like a glove, even for wide feet.
I wore them sightseeing, and the raised arch kept my knees happy, unlike Autenti’s flat support.
Health.com lauds their stability, but the synthetic upper isn’t as chic as Autenti’s leather.
Merrell’s lighter (8 oz) and more durable, with no reports of sole wear like Autenti’s.
While Autenti’s cheaper, Merrell’s versatility for travel and daily wear makes it a stronger choice.
- Autenti Sandals Vs. Cushionaire Lane
Cushionaire’s Lane sandals (~$30) are a budget dupe for Birkenstock.
The cork footbed and faux leather straps mimic Autenti’s design, but the EVA sole adds durability.
I tried them for casual walks, and they felt plush, though less refined than Autenti’s leather.
Amazon reviews praise their comfort, but some note sizing runs large.
Cushionaire’s widely available and slightly cheaper than Autenti, with fewer durability complaints.
However, Autenti’s Velcro is easier to adjust than Cushionaire’s buckles.
For a reliable budget pick, Cushionaire edges out Autenti’s inconsistent quality.
Also Read: My Thoughts On UGG Goldenstar Sandals
What Others Say?
Amazon.co.jp reviews for Autenti highlight sizing issues and quick wear, with one user noting the sole split after a month.
Trustpilot’s sandal-related feedback (e.g., Sandalshop) mentions poor quality and return hassles, aligning with Autenti’s reputation.
Reddit’s r/germany thread praises Autenti’s design but calls it a Birkenstock “borrow,” suggesting it’s less durable.
Health.com and Glamour don’t review Autenti but laud competitors like Birkenstock for support.
My take: Autenti’s budget appeal is overshadowed by consistent quality concerns across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Autenti’s sizing runs snug, so stick to your usual size. Reviews suggest EU 41 fits like a US 8, but try on if possible. For loose sandals, size down half a size.
Autenti’s aren’t Mexican, but for leather sandals, wear them 1–2 hours daily for a week. Moisturize feet to reduce rubbing. Use band-aids for blisters.
No, but Autenti suggests socks for style. I tried it, and it added flair but didn’t boost comfort. Go sockless for breathability unless you want a bold look.
Aim for 1/4 to 1/2 inch at the toe. Autenti’s fit was tight, so check sizing. Too much room risks slipping; too little causes discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Autenti Sandals tempted me with their price and style, but the bad reviews and my experience scream caution.
The flimsy straps, weak support, and quick wear don’t justify even the $38 tag.
You’re better off with Birkenstock for durability, Teva for adventure, or Cushionaire for budget value.
If you’re set on Autenti, stick to light use and check sizing carefully.
But honestly, your feet deserve better—skip these and invest in a pair that lasts.
