The "original Berkemann sandal", developed in 1946, triggers a powerful gripping motion in the foot. The wood sole is finished with clear lacquer on the sides and mounted on a sole of natural rubber. The leather strap, on top of a layer of felt (80% wool, 20% rayon), is fed through the sole. The clasp is fastened on the side with a flexible rivet. If necessary, the whole strap can be replaced.

Founded in 1885 by the shoemaker Heinrich Adolf Berkemann in Hamburg and now based in Thuringia, Berkemann has developed shoes that are more than sturdy, suitable wooden shoes. The Berkemann shoes feature the patented "5-phase footbed": It is shaped to support the natural walking motion and actually trains the foot and leg muscles.