Clogs have become an increasingly popular footwear choice in recent years. Known for their comfort and support, many brands now offer clog styles. Two of the most popular clog brands are Naot and Birkenstock.
But which is the better option?
Naot and Birkenstock clogs share some similarities – both use contoured cork footbeds to provide comfort and absorb shock. However, some key differences may make one brand a better choice over the other depending on your needs and preferences.
This article provides an in-depth comparison of Naot and Birkenstock clogs to help you decide which is the better fit for you.
We’ll cover the key features of each brand and how they compare in terms of comfort, support, durability, style options, and price. Read on to learn which clog comes out on top!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Naot | Birkenstock |
| Footbed Material | Cork and latex | Cork |
| Cushioning | Shock-absorbent | Shock-absorbing |
| Arch Support | Moderate to high | Medium to high |
| Heel Cup | Yes | Yes |
| Toe Grip | Yes | Yes |
| Durability | Very durable | Durable |
| Style Options | Clogs, sandals, boots, dress shoes | Primarily sandals and clogs |
| Width Options | Narrow, medium, wide, extra wide | Narrow, medium, wide |
| Price Range | $120-$200 | $100-$180 |
| Odor Resistance | Anti-bacterial treatment | Limited |
| Break-In Period | Minimal break-in needed | Break-in period required |
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium weight |
| Made In | Israel | Germany |
Also Read: Differences Between Birkenstock Profi-Birki And Super-Birki Clogs.
Pros and Cons of Naot Clogs
Pros
- Cushioned and supportive footbed made of cork and latex provides excellent shock absorption
- Contoured anatomical shape with built-in arch support for comfort
- Heel cup and toe grip provide stability and prevent slippage
- Treated with antibacterial materials to help resist foot odor
- Hand-sewn quality construction makes them very durable
- Wide range of leather style options beyond just clogs
- Available in narrow to extra wide widths to fit different foot shapes
- Minimal break-in time required
Cons
- Expensive compared to some other clog brands
- Footbed lacks raised toe bar of Birkenstock clogs
- Limited traction on soles not ideal for rough outdoor terrain
- Runs small, so sizing up is often necessary
- Limited color options relative to variety of Birkenstock styles
Pros and Cons of Birkenstock Clogs
Pros
- Contoured cork footbed forms to your feet for signature Birkenstock comfort
- Durable construction built to last for years
- Variety of clog, sandal, and shoe styles with many colors and patterns
- Narrow to wide width range accommodates different foot shapes
- Made in Germany with rigorous quality standards
- Good traction outsoles suit different surfaces
- Classic, iconic Birkenstock style remains on-trend
Cons
- More break-in time required as the cork footbed molds to your feet
- Not as cushioned as Naot footbeds
- Limited arch support compared to Naot clogs
- Can cause foot odor without anti-bacterial treatment
- Narrower range of footwear styles focused on sandals
- Expensive – similar pricing to Naot clogs
- Sizing can run large, so sizing down is sometimes needed
Also Read: Comparison of Dansko And Calzuro Clogs.
Detailed Comparison of NAOT And Birkenstock Clogs
Now that we’ve covered the key similarities and differences, let’s take a more detailed look at how Naot and Birkenstock clogs compare in specific categories:
- Comfort and Support
Both Naot and Birkenstock clogs provide excellent comfort from their contoured cork footbeds. However, Naot footbeds tend to offer more cushioning from the added latex layer. The anatomical shape provides built-in arch support, making Naot a great option if you need more support.
Birkenstock footbeds focus more on molding to the natural contours of your feet. While quite comfortable, the raised toe bar and deep heel cup are not for everyone. Those with high arches or joint issues may find Naot’s arch support more accommodating.
- Durability
You can expect many years of wear from both brands when properly cared for. Naot and Birkenstock clogs feature sturdy cork footbeds and quality leather uppers.
Naot’s hand-sewn construction and durable sole may give them a slight edge in longevity. But overall, both brands are known for their well-crafted construction with replaceable footbeds that can extend the life of the clogs.
- Style
For variety of styles beyond clogs, Naot is the clear winner. Their collection includes sandals, boots, dress shoes, and casual sneakers featuring quality leather in both classic and modern silhouettes.
Birkenstock focuses primarily on their iconic sandals and clogs in different colors, materials, and patterns. They offer less diversity in style overall compared to Naot.
- Fit and Sizing
Both brands cater to narrow and wide foot shapes with multiple width options. Naot’s range goes from narrow to extra wide, while Birkenstock stops at wide width.
In terms of length, it’s tricky to directly compare sizing across brands. Both tend to run large. Birkenstocks are often recommended to size down, especially as the footbed breaks in. With Naot, sizing up is more common to allow room for an insert if needed. Trying both on to assess the fit is ideal.
- Price
Naot and Birkenstock clogs have similar pricing in the $100 to $200 range. Naot clogs are typically priced $120-$160, with some styles over $200. Birkenstocks fall $130-$180 for most clog styles.
Given their quality construction and materials, the pricing is reasonable for both brands. Birkenstock may have more sales on certain styles, bringing the costs down further.
- Odor Control
Naot has a clear advantage when it comes to resisting foot odor. Their footbeds are treated with antibacterial materials to prevent bacterial growth and smells.
Birkenstock’s cork footbed absorbs moisture and can become smelly without proper cleaning and drying. Using a shoe spray or powder can help, but Naot’s inherent odor resistance is preferable for many.
- Break-In Period
Expect almost no break-in time with Naot clogs.
The cushioned footbed provides instant comfort, and the clogs mould lightly to your feet over just a few wears.
Birkenstocks require more of a break-in as the cork footbed conforms to your foot’s shape.
This process can take weeks or months of regular wear.
The trade-off is custom molding that supports your foot’s natural contours.
- Weight
Naot clogs are noticeably lighter on the feet than Birkenstocks. Less material is used in Naot’s footbed construction, and the overall design has less bulk.
Birkenstock clogs are not heavy, but the thicker, denser footbed does add more weight. This gives them a substantial feel compared to Naot’s greater agility.
- Manufacturing Location
Naot clogs are made in Israel. Birkenstock clogs are made in Germany. Both brands oversee their production closely in their home countries.
This gives Naot and Birkenstock an advantage in quality control and working conditions compared to outsourced production. It also enables faster distribution to key markets internationally.
Which Is Better Overall?
So which brand comes out on top in this clog comparison? Here’s a quick recap of the key differences:
- Naot offers more cushioning and built-in arch support but less custom molding compared to Birkenstock.
- Birkenstock requires more break-in time but provides excellent footbed comfort once molded to your feet.
- Naot has greater diversity in styles including dress shoes and boots beyond just sandals and clogs.
- Birkenstock sticks closer to their classic clog and sandal styles in a range of colors and materials.
- Naot runs smaller and may require sizing up, while Birkenstock runs larger and often needs sizing down.
- Naot has better odor resistance while Birkenstock can become smelly without anti-bacterial treatment.
- Naot is lighter weight than the denser feel of Birkenstock clogs.
If you want instant cushioned comfort without a break-in period, plus arch support and foot odor control, Naot has the advantage. Those who want footbeds molded precisely to their feet and like Birkenstock’s contoured comfort may prefer that brand.
Ultimately, there is no definitive “better” option. The right choice comes down to personal preferences around style, fit, and comfort features.
If you need more cushioning and arch support, Naot is likely the better choice. But Birkenstock’s molded footbed offers unparalleled comfort once broken in for those who like that contoured feel.
Those needing professional or dressier styles would get more versatility from Naot’s broader selection. However, Birkenstock offers endless styling varieties of their iconic clog and sandal looks.
Also Read: Comparison of Birkenstock And Dansko Clogs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Naot shoes stand out for their exceptional arch support from anatomical cork and latex footbeds. They also offer superior shock absorption and cushioning due to the dual-layer design. Treating the footbeds with antibacterial materials helps minimize foot odor as well. And Naot uses quality leathers to craft a wide selection of sandal, clog, and shoe styles.
BIRKENSTOCK is a distinct brand, but Naot clogs provide a comparable experience. Both brands use molded cork footbeds to provide contoured comfort and support. Aetrex and Dansko clogs also offer similar custom orthotic-quality support. OluKai and Vionic have cushioned footbeds with arch support reminiscent of Naot.
Yes, all Naot shoes are manufactured in Israel. Naot oversees production closely at their factories, ensuring consistent quality.
Doctors often recommend Birkenstocks because their contoured arch support and deep heel cup realign the feet and gait. This can relieve pressure on the joints and spine, reducing pain. The molded cork also offers comfort for those on their feet all day. While Naot has more built-in arch support, Birkenstock’s total footbed contouring has distinct orthopedic benefits.
Wrapping Up
Trying on both brands is recommended to see how the fit and comfort suits your feet. Many wearers love both for different needs – Naot for arch support, and Birkenstock for their custom-molded feel.
While the initial investment is significant, the durability of both means the long-term cost per wear is very reasonable. Keeping either brand clean, conditioned, and dry extends their longevity even further.
At the end of the day, while the Naot and Birkenstock decision relies on personal factors, both are excellent options that live up to their reputations and pricing. Choosing the features that matter most to your feet and comfort needs will steer you towards the right clog choice for you.
