If you’re ever wished your insanely comfortable Birkenstocks could better equip you in tactical situations, then look no further than the brand’s upcoming collaboration with London-based streetwear favorite Maharishi.
While Birkenstock has been perfecting the anatomical footbed since literally 1774, Maharishi is relatively young, debuting in 1994. But they’ve made a name for themselves in that time by reimagining military surplus into thoughtful style pieces. Now they’ve taken Birkenstock’s outdoor-ready Mogami Terra sandal and added a ton more utility, but without losing the spirit of the original.
German Engineering Meets British Innovation
Birkenstock’s Mogami, introduced just last year as part of their Active Range, was already their most adventure-ready sandal. Built to handle actual terrain rather than just urban sidewalks, it features the brand’s signature anatomical PU footbed, this time wrapped in a grippier, more protective package. Maharishi’s Hardy Blechman saw an opportunity to push that utilitarian spirit even further, drawing from his brand’s expertise in transposing military tech for civilian use.
The most obvious upgrade here are the straps, taking the place of the traditional leather closures. Now it’s a hybrid system that combines suede with nylon webbing, topped with a metal quick-release buckle system inspired by the U.S. Army’s M.A.L.I.C.E. gear. Aside from looking rad, these also help you take your sandals off even quicker after a long, grueling hike.
Adopted by the military in the ‘60s and ‘70s, M.A.L.I.C.E. packs (Modified All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) are known for their durability and ability to carry heavy loads, but also for their adaptability, focusing on attachment points and modular design. The Mogami Terra Tech sandal definitely falls in line with that mindset.
Form and Function Perfected
For even more utility, the sandal’s polyurethane sole now comes waterproofed, addressing one of the few weaknesses in the standard Birkenstock design. Furthering the point, the black, olive, and beige colorway options lean into military-themed earth tones that will blend in on the trail. We’re honestly glad that Maharishi didn’t go with camo prints for these, allowing the sandals to relish in their features along with the new updated look.
Perhaps the most notable addition is the detachable crossbody strap and carabiner system. Gear loops are nothing new on footwear but the carabiner concept lets you more practically hang these on your bag or belt loop if and when they get wet or sandy. You could, theoretically, also attach smaller gear pouches to the shoes if you’re looking to maximize your storage as well.
The full kit also includes split-toe tabi socks that nod to Maharishi’s East-meets-West philosophy while also serving a practical purpose for cross-climate wear. While the Mogami Terra Tech sandal does serve a utilitarian goal, we can’t ignore that these new upgrades lend themselves to an all-around more stylish package as well.
Spec Sheet
Model: Mogami Terra Tech
Upper: Premium suede with nylon webbing straps
Footbed: Waterproof, anatomically-shaped PU (polyurethane)
Closure: Quick-release metal buckles
Outsole: Molded polyurethane with enhanced grip
Special Features: Detachable crossbody strap, double carabiner system
Colorways: Black, olive, beige
Manufacturing: Made in Germany
Limited Edition?: Unspecified
Pricing & Availability
With no mention of a limited run for these sandals, the Maharishi x Birkenstock Mogami Terra Tech is nevertheless priced pretty high at £250 (~$315). It drops on May 30 at Maharishi stores in London and New York, plus select Birkenstock retailers globally. You can also snag them online through both brands’ websites. An additional M.A.L.I.C.E. Backpack is also dropping as part of the collection.
Recap
Birkenstock x Maharishi Mogami Terra Tech Sandals
Inspired by vintage military packs, Maharishi added quick-release buckles and carabiner attachments to the Birkenstock Mogami Terra outdoor sandals.
