When German pedantry meets British eccentricity, you get something that sounds like the beginning of a joke—but in this case, the result is a pretty serious piece of footwear: the Birkenstock x Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech Sandal. The thing looks like a military artifact from the future, but it still hugs you lovingly around the ankle.
Birkenstock has been a master of feet since 1774 (although it's hard to imagine anyone liking sandals back then), while Maharishi has been masterfully weaving military surplus into high street fashion since 1994. Their collaboration is not just a fashion flirtation, but a real step in the direction where sandals are no longer just summer footwear, but also equipment for survival in styleBirkenstock x Maharishi – so it's a fusion!
The Mogami model from Birkenstock's "Active Range" line was already ready for off-road challenges. But now? Now it's equipped with military elements that would make any special forces soldier jealous.
Birkenstock x Maharishi Straps That Are More Tactical Than Your Smartphone
The most obvious “upgrade”? The straps. No longer the classic leather, but a combination of suede and nylon webbing, with the addition of a metal buckle that could survive a zombie attack (or at least a rainy Sunday in Bohinj). They draw inspiration from the MALICE system – military equipment from the 60s, which is synonymous with robustness, modularity and… well, pretty cool sounding.
And yes, if you're worried about how you'll store these masterpieces after a muddy hike - carabiner clips and a removable crossbody strap ensure you can elegantly hang them on your backpack, belt, or even your shoulder like a modern-day Ronin would.
Colors that whisper: "Don't look at me, but I look crazy good!"
Forget camo patterns – Birkenstock and Maharishi know better. The sandals come in a minimalist palette of black, olive and beige, meaning they'll blend in with nature without taking you out of your Insta-feed aesthetic.
The set also includes split-toe tabi socks – a hybrid of Japanese tradition and functional fashion. Because if you're going that route, why not float a little above the ground?
Technical specifications – or: why this sandal is more sophisticated than your car
- Model: Mogami Terra Tech
- Upper part: Suede + nylon straps
- Foot insole: Anatomically shaped, waterproof polyurethane
- Fastening: Quick release metal buckles
- Sole: Molded PU with extra grip
- Extras: Crossbody strap, double carabiner, tabi socks
- Colors: Black, olive, beige
- Made by: In Germany
- Limited edition?: Unofficial, but exclusive sounds pretty good
Where and for how much?
Although not officially a limited series, Mogami Terra Tech It doesn't come cheap. The price is set at around £250 (or around $315 US, if you prefer). It will be available from May 30th in Maharishi stores in London and New York and at selected Birkenstock retailers worldwide. Of course, it will also be possible to order online. By the way – the collection also includes a themed backpack in the style of the MALICE system, for those for whom one dose of tactical fashion is not enough.
Conclusion: A sandal that goes where no sandal has gone before
So, there we have it – a sandal that can do more than many shoes. Is this perhaps too much for “just” a sandal? Probably. Do we still want it? Absolutely. Birkenstock x Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech is not for everyone. But if you are one of those who wants their sandals had more equipment than a Swiss army knife...well, then you've just found your summer fetish.
