If Jesus were around in 2023 and swapped Jerusalem for California, he’d probably wear the Fear of God x Birkenstock collab. Following well-received link-ups with Dior and Manolo Blahnik, German footwear brand Birkenstock continues to showcase the innate versatility of its staple silhouettes, this time teaming up with American luxury fashion label Fear of God.
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Dubbed ‘Los Feliz’, the resultant footwear is inspired by the Los Angeles neighbourhood of the same name. Fear of God founder Jerry Lorenzo strips the already minimalist Birkenstock silhouette back to its component parts, deepening the heel cup and swapping the classic two-strap fixture for a single monolithic closure. The higher profile and translucent rubber sole of the sandals nod to Fear of God’s signature slides, as well as the functionality and durability at the heart of every Birkenstock design. Drawing from the hillside enclaves of Los Feliz, the sandals are defined by their elevated fluidity, while still recognisable as Birkenstocks.
The Fear of God x Birkenstock sandals are offered in two premium uppers — textured suede and wool felt — and is available in cement, ash, and taupe. The latter colourway is also available in children’s sizing, marking the first time Birkenstock has produced styles for kids.
“We’re always attempting to create a product that’s rooted in function and necessity, that is preceded by a clear aesthetic point of view,” said Jerry Lorenzo, founder of Fear of God.
While Jesus wore wooden soled sandals fastened with leather straps, we could easily see him swapping them for the neutral-toned cork soles and suede uppers of the Fear of God x Birkenstock collab.
The suede version is set to be released on the 25th of January, with the wool felt iteration following on the 22nd of February. The sandals will be available via the Fear of God and Birkenstock webstores.
Words by Theo Rosen
