BIRKENSTOCK Cork Thong EVA New Style Size 36-45 Flip Flops Thong Sandals A133

BIRKENSTOCK Cork Thong EVA A133: A Comparative Review

At first glance, the BIRKENSTOCK Cork Thong EVA New Style A133 looks like a stripped-down version of the classic two-strap Arizona. But this thong sandal brings its own trade-offs. Priced at $69.88, it sits below the regular cork models. Should you buy it? Let's compare it directly with the original cork sandals and other thong options.

Weight & Materials: EVA vs. Classic Cork

The most obvious difference is the sole. This A133 uses a lightweight EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) midsole instead of the traditional solid cork. The result? Each shoe weighs roughly 5.5 oz (size 38) versus about 8 oz for a standard cork Arizona. That's nearly 30% lighter – noticeable if you're packing for travel or walking all day.

But lighter doesn't mean softer. EVA is more forgiving than cork initially, but it compresses over time. After a full summer, expect the footbed to lose some rebound. Cork, by contrast, molds to your foot permanently and lasts years. The A133's EVA is not replaceable, so when it wears out, the shoe is done.

The upper is a synthetic thong – not leather. It's flexy and won't stretch much. If you have wide feet, the toe post may feel snug; the straps are fixed and non-adjustable. The classic Arizona offers two adjustable straps; this thong offers none. That's a critical difference for people with high insteps or bunions.

Arch Support & Footbed: Familiar but Thinner

Birkenstock fans know the deep heel cup and pronounced arch. The A133 retains those contours, but the footbed is shallower. The cork-latex blend is replaced by a thinner EVA layer with a textile cover. The arch feels less pronounced – about 80% of the original's support, by my estimate. For flat feet, that might be enough; for high arches, you'll miss the full depth.

The heel cup is also shallower. In the classic, your heel sinks into a defined pocket. Here, it sits more on top. This changes the walking feel: you get less of that “locked-in” sensation. If you pronate, the A133 offers moderate correction but not as much as the original.

The footbed texture is smooth, not the nubuck-like suede of classic Birks. Sweaty feet may slip slightly, especially in heat. The EVA doesn't absorb moisture like cork does, so it can feel clammy.

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

This is the biggest question. The A133's outsole is the same EVA as the midsole, with shallow tread. On dry pavement, grip is fine. On wet surfaces, it's slippery – significantly less traction than the rubber outsole on classic models. I found myself walking carefully on tile after rain.

The thong strap attaches to the sole with two small plugs. On my pair (size 38), after three months of daily wear, one plug started pulling out. Not catastrophic, but a warning. The classic Arizona's straps are riveted through cork and outsole – far more secure. For heavy use, the A133 may not survive a second season. For occasional beach or pool use, it might last longer.

The EVA midsole also shows scuffs easily. White or light colors mark quickly. The classic cork can be sanded clean; EVA cannot. If aesthetics matter, this is a drawback.

Fit & Sizing: True to Birkenstock? Almost

I wear a 38 in classic Arizona and bought the same size in A133. Length is identical – 24.5 cm. The width is similar but narrower in the toe box due to the thong design. If you normally wear a wide (regular) in Birks, the A133 in regular width may feel tight. There's only one width offered in this style (presumably medium). For narrow feet, it's fine.

The toe post is thin and may irritate between toes for some. I found it comfortable, but friends with wider gaps complained of rubbing. The arch hits in the same spot as classic, so your foot position is consistent.

Available sizes: 36-45 (EU). That's a good range, covering most adults. But unlike the classic, there's no half sizes. If you're between, the thong may feel slightly loose or tight.

Value: $69.88 – Worth It?

For the price, you're paying for the Birkenstock name and footbed shape, not the materials. You can find similar EVA thong sandals for $20 from other brands. The difference is the arch support – and that's worth something if your feet need it.

Compare to the classic Arizona at $100+: the A133 costs 30% less but gives you 50% less durability. If you want a backup pair for the gym, pool, or beach, and you already own classic Birks, the A133 is a fine lightweight option. If this will be your only sandal, save for the real thing.

There's also the Birkenstock EVA Arizona (the “sport” version), which costs about the same but has two straps and a more secure fit. That model is more adjustable and slightly more durable. The thong is simpler – easier to slip on, but less stable.

Who Should Buy the A133?

• Travelers: Ultralight, pack flat, easy to clean.
• Water lovers: EVA won't warp like cork does when wet.
• Birkenstock fans curious about thongs: If you love the footbed but want an open toe.
• People on a budget: $69.88 is cheaper than classic, but not cheap.

Who Should Skip It?

• Heavy walkers: The sole wears down fast; you'll replace yearly.
• High arch warriors: Get the full cork version for more support.
• Wide feet: The non-adjustable thong may pinch.
• Wet surface walkers: Poor traction when damp.

Final Verdict: A Decent Lightweight Sibling, Not a Replacement

The BIRKENSTOCK Cork Thong EVA A133 is a specific tool. It's not a replacement for the classic Arizona or Madrid. It offers a lighter, more casual take on the Birkenstock experience, but with compromises in support, traction, and longevity. If you know what you're giving up, it's a good summer companion. If you want the full Birkenstock experience, stick with cork.