The final straw was seeing a fox making off with my old pair of leather Birkenstocks and running down the garden. Clearly, the leather was the attraction, but I knew it was time for a new pair.

Birkenstock has introduced colour to their classic Arizona sandal by using EVA plastic: a rubberised plastic with a soft, comfortable finish. 

This deep blue pair will look just as good, with or without socks, running down to the shops or off to the gym. The plastic makes this classic sandal feel more contemporary and younger, and, being plastic they’re a great price, can get wet and will definitely be of no interest to the local fox community. 

Left & Below - Birkenstock Arizona Sandals - £27 from ASOS