Birkenstock has produced high-quality leather footwear since 1774. The brand was founded by a family of German cobblers that traces all the way back to Johann Adam Birkenstock. Most famous for its sandals, Birkenstock is world-renowned for its cork and latex footbeds that provide high-grade, long-lasting support. Since the 60s, when the label first launched the Madrid sandal and debuted in the US, its sandals have developed a cult following. Birkenstock has also demonstrated a commitment to environmentally conscious production, introducing eco-friendly adhesives in 1988 and later reducing its overall energy consumption by 90%. More recently, the brand has experienced a pop cultural resurgence, as demonstrated by recent collaborations with designer fashion labels such as Rick Owens and Valentino.