Birkenstock – Bend Shoe Co. is proud to celebrate 50 years in downtown Bend, marking five decades of outfitting the community in comfort, craftsmanship, and iconic style. To honor the milestone, the store will host a 50th Anniversary Celebration on April 25, featuring an all-day in-store party and over $5,000 in prizes and giveaways. More than just a shoe store, Birkenstock/Bend Shoe Co. has long been a reflection of the spirit of Bend itself—welcoming, a little unconventional, and deeply rooted in community.
A Story That Starts (and stays) Local. And always with Heart
The story begins with Gary Chaffin, the store’s original owner, who opened the shop in what is now Dudley’s space in downtown Bend. Remembered as “a big, kind, fun-loving guy,” Gary introduced Birkenstock to the area while also carrying a small mix of comfort brands.
In these early days, members of the Rajneesh community became some of the shop’s most memorable customers, famously buying out the store’s red Birkenstocks and leaving behind a story still shared today.
Legacy in motion
In the late ’80s early ’90s, the store moved to its current downtown location, continuing to grow alongside Bend itself.
Around 1990, Rena took ownership and left a lasting imprint on the business. Known as a true “shoe dog,” Rena brought grit, humor, and unmistakable personality to the shop. She loved and protected her epic sock wall always and guided the store through years of change in Bend.
In 2006, Rena stepped away to care for her mother, passing the business to her employee Christy and her family. Christy carried the store forward while balancing her passion for agriculture and her dedication to the Humane Society, continuing the shop’s connection to both people and community.
A New Chapter, Rooted in Legacy
In 2016, current owner Teague Hatfield purchased the business, bringing his own full-circle connection to downtown retail. A longtime presence in Bend, Teague owned FootZone for nearly 25 years and founded OutsideIN before turning his focus to this iconic comfort shoe store.
With a deep commitment to community and exceptional customer experience, Teague has continued to build on what makes Bend Shoe Co. special.
In 2021, Tori Oshel joined as a partner, helping to shape the next era of Bend Shoe Co. Together, they continue to prioritize quality footwear, a great fit, and a customer experience that feels both personal and thoughtful.
In 2022, they expanded the legacy by opening a second location in the Forum Shopping Center on Bend’s eastside, offering a complementary product mix while staying rooted in the same values.
Celebrating 50 Years — April 25
The community is invited to celebrate this milestone at an all-day anniversary party on April
25 at the downtown location. Guests can expect:
- Over $5,000 in prizes and giveaways
- In-store surprises and community moments -all day DJ/Bend Breakfast Burrito/Bonta/Gompers Gin/Nothing Bundt Cake/Brown Bag Popcorn/Compassion Kombucha
- A chance to connect with the people and stories behind the brand
- A celebration of the customers who have made 50 years possible
- More Than a Store For five decades, Birkenstock – Bend Shoe Co. has been woven into the fabric of downtown Bend, serving locals, welcoming visitors, and evolving alongside the town it calls home. This 50-year milestone isn’t just about shoes. It’s about people, stories, and the legacy of a place that has always done things its own way.
Event Details:
What: 50th Anniversary Celebration
When: April 25, All Day
Where: Birkenstock – Bend Shoe Co., Downtown Bend
Details: In-store event featuring giveaways, prizes, and community celebration
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