India, Feb. 20 -- To buy or not to buy is a question that has often surrounded the popular sandals of German shoe manufacturer Birkenstock, which some claim are a symbol of counterculture and unmatched comfort while some are of the opinion that the footwears are overpriced.

Birkenstock sandals have progressed from their humble origins to footwears being advised by medics and have also evolved into a status symbol.

While Birkenstock's popularity continues to rise, the company behind the highly sought after sandal faces complex legal battles to protect its iconic designs.

In a ruling on Thursday, February 20, Germany's highest civil court ruled that Birkenstock sandals, though considered iconic, do not qualify as works of art and therefo...