In Three Earthy Colors

Birkenstock

At launch, the Birkenstock Boston Nova is offered in Black, Pine Green and Basalt Gray, though it’s somewhat surprising that a lighter tan or Khaki option is also excluded.

Given Nova’s city-limit-pushing aspirations, it also makes sense that the brand’s more grippy “Birkengrip” EVA midsole and rubber outsole are employed on this shoe.

While the differences between the Nova and classic Boston will naturally get all the attention, it’s worth mentioning what has remained the same.

The new sandal is still made in Germany and features the classic suede footbed lining that quickly molds to your feet, though the brand’s newer “soft” footbed option doesn’t appear to be available at launch. It’s also only sold in regular/wide sizes for now, but a narrower option might be added down the road.

And though they don’t cost quite as much as Steve Jobs’ crusty old pair, at $230, Birkenstock is charging quite a premium over the standard Boston.