The Tatami label has been presented as a way to combine Birkenstock's signature contoured footbed with more fashion-oriented uppers and trims. Common Tatami models included women's Liberty, Sandra and Greenwich slides and men's Columbus and Melrose clogs/sandals. Availability and exact construction have varied over time; check current retailer listings or Birkenstock's site for up-to-date product status.

Tatami and the Birkenstock footbed

Birkenstock is a German footwear maker best known for its contoured footbed - the shaped, supportive sole with a toe ridge, defined arch support and a slightly lowered heel. Tatami shoes have long been presented as a style-driven line associated with Birkenstock that pairs that characteristic footbed with lighter, fashion-oriented uppers and trims.

What Tatami models offered

Tatami has been promoted as a way to get the comfort of a Birkenstock in more seasonal or trend-aware silhouettes. Common models described in older catalogs include:

Liberty (women)

A dressier slide with a smooth leather cross-strap and a tied instep strap for an adjustable fit. The interior is fully lined and sits on the brand's contoured footbed for all-day support.

Sandra (women)

A strappy thong-style sandal with a crossover slide and an instep buckle. The Sandra was noted for a soft felt lining and a streamlined look that aimed to blend fashion with comfort.

Greenwich (women)

A woven-trim slide with a full-grain leather upper. Designed as a fashion sandal built on the same supportive footbed found across Birkenstock product families.

Columbus (men)

A leather-upped, buckle-detailed sandal for men, presented as a sharp casual option that pairs a dressier upper with an anatomically shaped footbed.

Melrose (men)

A clog-style shoe that combined a leather upper with a padded insole and a flexible sole. The Melrose was positioned as a versatile, all-season casual clog.

Note: model names above are based on older Tatami catalogs and product pages; current availability and exact construction details may have changed. 1

Materials, care and fit

Tatami styles historically featured leather uppers and textile linings in many variants, and they relied on the same contoured footbed construction that defines Birkenstock comfort. Care recommendations follow standard leather- and cork-footbed guidance: clean uppers per material, avoid prolonged water exposure, and treat cork edges with protective sealant as needed.

Where to find them

Tatami styles have appeared through Birkenstock-authorized retailers and specialty stores. Some Tatami models may be discontinued or reissued under different sub-lines; check Birkenstock's official site or reputable retailers for current availability. 2

Tatami represented an attempt to bridge Birkenstock's ergonomic heritage with trend-conscious styling. If you value the contoured footbed but want a sleeker or more seasonal look, Tatami-style sandals and clogs are worth a closer look.

  1. Confirm whether Tatami is currently an active Birkenstock sub-brand or label as of 2025.
  2. Verify the origin of the 'Tatami' name and whether it refers to a specific material used by Birkenstock.
  3. Check current availability (2025) of the listed Tatami models: Liberty, Sandra, Greenwich, Columbus, Melrose and note any that have been discontinued or reissued.
  4. Confirm recommended care guidance specific to Tatami models on Birkenstock's official care pages.

FAQs about Tatami Shoes

What makes Tatami shoes different from standard Birkenstock models?
Tatami styles historically emphasized sleeker, more fashion-forward uppers and trims while using the same contoured footbed that provides toe ridge, arch support and a slightly lowered heel.
Are Tatami sandals good for all-day wear?
Yes - because Tatami shoes were built on Birkenstock's anatomically shaped footbed, they were designed for long-wear comfort similar to other Birkenstock offerings.
How should I care for Tatami leather uppers and cork footbeds?
Clean leather uppers with a soft brush or damp cloth and use appropriate leather care. Avoid soaking the cork footbed, and periodically treat exposed cork with a protective sealant per Birkenstock care guidance.
Where can I buy Tatami models today?
Check Birkenstock's official website and authorized retailers. Some Tatami models may be discontinued or reissued under other lines, so availability can vary.