Allbirds Shoes Review: My 7 Best Picks For 2023
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In our quest for the perfect pair of shoes, we often find ourselves torn between style, comfort, and sustainability. But what if we told you that you could have it all? In this comprehensive Allbirds Shoes Review, I’ll be about to unveil the seven best sustainable comfort and style shoes, a brand that’s rewriting the rules of footwear.
Allbirds has taken the fashion industry by storm with its commitment to eco-friendly practices and unparalleled comfort. Whether you’re an eco-conscious consumer, a fashion-forward individual, or simply someone who values the joy of walking on clouds, these shoes deserve your attention.
From the materials that make these shoes eco-friendly to the style and comfort that makes them a must-have addition to your wardrobe, I’ve got it all covered. Get ready to step into a world of sustainable fashion and unmatched comfort; it’s a game-changer!
About Allbirds Shoes (An Overview)
Allbirds, founded by Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger, is a pioneering footwear brand with a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company’s journey began when Tim, a native of New Zealand, recognized the incredible qualities of merino wool and wondered why such a sustainable resource was underutilized in the footwear industry.
Together with Joey, an engineer and renewables expert, they embarked on a quest to create something extraordinary. Through extensive research and experimentation, they developed a groundbreaking wool fabric tailored specifically for footwear, giving birth to a new category of shoes inspired by natural materials.
Allbirds takes pride in its simplicity of design, devoid of flashy logos or unnecessary details, focusing instead on creating the world’s most comfortable shoes through natural and practical design principles.
Allbirds Shoes Pros and Cons
Allbirds shoes have gained popularity for their comfort, sustainability, and minimalist design. However, like any product, they come with both pros and cons.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the advantages and disadvantages of Allbirds shoes:
Pros
- Comfort: Allbirds are renowned for their exceptional comfort. The use of merino wool and innovative design features like the insoles made from castor bean oil foam provide a cushioned and supportive feel for your feet.
- Sustainability: Allbirds places a strong emphasis on sustainability. Their use of natural materials like merino wool and eucalyptus tree fibers and their commitment to environmentally friendly practices make them an eco-conscious choice.
- Versatility: Allbirds’ simple and stylish design makes them versatile and suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal settings.
- Breathability: The use of natural materials, especially merino wool, allows for breathability, moisture-wicking, and odor control, keeping your feet fresh and comfortable.
- Ethical Practices: Allbirds is a certified B Corp, which means they adhere to high ethical and environmental standards. They prioritize fair labor practices and sustainable sourcing.
- Easy Returns: Allbirds offers a 30-day trial period, allowing customers to try out the shoes, and if they are not satisfied, they can return them with no questions asked.
Cons
- Sizing: Sizing can be tricky for some customers. It’s advisable to refer to the sizing guide provided by Allbirds to ensure the right fit.
Allbirds Shoes Review (My 7 Best Picks For Comfort & Style)
Allbirds have gained a loyal following thanks to their use of eco-friendly materials and minimalist design. Here’s a my Allbirds shoes review of my seven best picks that combine comfort and style:
1. Women’s SuperLight Tree Runners
The Women’s SuperLight Tree Runners from MY Allbirds Shoes redefine comfort and sustainability.
Crafted with an airy, breathable upper and featuring the groundbreaking SuperLight Foam technology, they offer an almost weightless sensation and an Eco-friendly footprint.
Ideal for walking, sunny days, and everyday wear, these sneakers boast an integrated insole for reduced material usage and enhanced cushioning.
Plus, you’ll enjoy a unique touch with each pair, as the heel pocket color varies based on the recycled materials used.
2. Women’s Plant Pacers
The Women’s Allbirds Plant Pacers is a sustainable footwear choice that combines style, comfort, and a commitment to the environment.
These shoes are crafted from 100% vegan and plastic-free Plant Leather, made with innovative MIRUM® technology in collaboration with NFW.
Plant Leather is a groundbreaking alternative to traditional leather, created from natural materials like natural rubber, plant oils, and agricultural byproducts. This ensures a guilt-free, Eco-friendly choice and offers a remarkably smooth texture that’s a pleasure to touch.
The Plant Pacers are designed to be versatile, making them perfect for everyday wear, walking, and setting your own pace in life.
Their classic style effortlessly complements any outfit, ensuring you look good while making an Eco-conscious statement.
3. Women’s Wool Runner-up Mizzle Plus
The Women’s Wool Runner-up Mizzle Plus from MY Allbirds Shoes is your ultimate companion for wet-weather adventures and everyday comfort.
Made with soft and itch-free ZQ Merino wool, these shoes offer superior water protection thanks to a fluorine-free shield and a 25mm mudguard overlay.
Whether you’re braving a rainy day or just going about your daily routine, these shoes keep your feet warm, dry, and stable.
You can confidently tread steadily on slippery surfaces with eco-friendly SweetFoam™ and FSC Certified natural rubber track pads.
Designed in South Korea, these shoes are a stylish and functional choice for any weather.
4. Men’s Wool Runners
Discover the timeless Men’s Allbirds Wool Runners where style meets unbeatable comfort. Crafted with premium ZQ Merino wool, these shoes offer unmatched warmth and coziness, perfect for cooler weather or everyday wear.
The cushioned midsole ensures support for all-day comfort, and their machine-washable design keeps them looking fresh.
Their commitment to regenerative agriculture means you’re getting top-notch quality and contributing to a greener future.
With their classic, versatile style and origin in South Korea, these Wool Runners are your go-to choice for walking all day, travel, and everyday fashion.
5. Men’s Canvas Pacers
This Men’s Allbirds Canvas Pacers shoes will enhance your casual look. These sneakers, made of strong, lightweight canvas, are the ideal ally for living life at your own speed.
The soft, eucalyptus-based TENCEL™ Lyocell blend lining ensures comfort with every step, and they’re 100% vegan, aligning with your values. These Pacers aren’t just shoes but a statement of your journey towards a better future.
With their clean design, expressive wavy midsole, and classic cupsole stitch, they’re a canvas for your unique expression.
Designed in Vietnam, these shoes combine fashion, durability, and sustainability for the modern man.
6. Men’s Wool Loungers
Crafted for those who appreciate the slip-on-and-go lifestyle, these Men’s Wool Loungers sneakers by Allbirds feature superfine ZQ Merino wool that pampers your feet with unparalleled softness. The cushioned midsole ensures every step feels like a gentle landing.
These Loungers are perfect for strolls, cooler weather, and your everyday routine; these Loungers boast a classic, versatile design that complements any outfit.
And with their origin in South Korea, you’re getting both quality and style in one convenient package.
7. Men’s Trail Runners SWT
The Men’s Trail Runners SWT from MY Allbirds Shoes are designed for the pioneer in you and provide unrivaled durability, stability, and grip. The sturdy outsole easily grips hiking trails, while the tear-resistant ripstop mudguard shields your feet from rugged terrain.
With a snug, sock-like collar that blocks debris, you’re ready to tackle any adventure head-on. Whether you’re hiking, walking, or trail running, these shoes are your reliable companions.
Featuring a water-resistant finish and multi-directional 4mm lugs for all-condition traction, they’re the perfect blend of innovation and performance.
Designed in Vietnam, they’re ready for wherever your journey takes you.
How Do Allbirds Shoes Compare With Other Brands?
What sets Allbirds shoes apart is their unwavering dedication to sustainability. They challenge the conventional practices of the footwear industry, opting for Mother Nature’s materials over cheaper synthetic alternatives.
As a certified B Corp, they prioritize environmental concerns as stakeholders in their business, with a commitment to treating the planet just as importantly as their bottom line.
Additionally, their partnership with Soles4Souls® ensures that lightly used Allbirds find new life around the world, supporting communities in need while promoting responsible consumption.
Furthermore, Allbirds has reimagined shoe packaging using 90% post-consumer recycled cardboard, which serves as a shoebox and doubles as a shopping bag and mailer, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Allbirds is on a journey to create better things in a better way, with sustainability and comfort at the heart of their mission.
Are Allbirds Shoes Good for Walking?
Absolutely, Allbirds shoes are generally good for walking. They are comfortable for various activities, including traveling, running errands, or everyday use, and they maintain their comfort even after walking for miles.
However, it’s important to note that most Allbirds styles, like the Wool Runners, are not designed to be athletic sneakers. They lack the built-in arch support and traction that you might find in workout shoes specifically designed for high-impact activities.
If you’re looking for a performance shoe for walking or other activities, the Allbirds Dashers are recommended as a better choice. They offer more support and features suitable for active use.
It’s also worth mentioning that not all Allbirds styles are equally suitable for walking. For example, the Breezers ballet flats from the brand may feel less supportive overall and more snug in the toes, which is expected for a pair of flats. Therefore, this particular style may not be ideal for extended walking.
Are Allbirds Shoes Affordable and Worth Your Money?
Yes, Allbirds shoes are considered affordable by many customers. Allbirds is known for offering high-quality, sustainable footwear at a reasonable price point. Their commitment to sustainability is also a key selling point, as they use eco-friendly materials like wool and tree fiber for their shoes.
Additionally, Allbirds offers a 30-day trial period to customers. This policy allows customers to “try before they buy” and experience the comfort and quality of Allbirds shoes.
If, within 30 days of purchase, customers find that they are not “walking on cloud nine,” Allbirds will gladly accept returns with no questions asked.
This policy reflects the brand’s confidence in the comfort and satisfaction their shoes provide to customers.
Allbirds Shoes Review – Frequently Ask Questions:
How do you machine wash Allbirds?
To machine wash your Allbirds shoes, follow these steps:
- Remove the insoles and laces: Take out the insoles and laces from your Allbirds shoes.
- Brush off dirt: Before washing, brush off any excess dirt or debris from the shoes.
- Place in a linen bag: Put the shoes in a linen bag. This bag helps protect the shoes during the wash.
- Use cold water and gentle detergent: Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle and use cold water. Add a gentle detergent to the machine.
- Start the washing cycle: Let the machine run through the delicate cycle.
- Don’t use the dryer: Do not put your Allbirds shoes in the dryer. The heat and agitation from the dryer can cause issues like felting, shrinkage, and excessive wear and tear, especially for wool shoes.
- Air dry: After washing, remove the shoes from the machine and allow them to air dry. It’s essential to let them dry naturally. Wool styles may take more than 24 hours to dry completely, so be patient.
- Consider color choice: Keep in mind that white Allbirds can be more challenging to clean, and dark marks may be more visible on them. Consider choosing a darker color if you’re concerned about stains or marks.
- Waterproofing: Allbirds are not waterproof, so avoid wearing them in rainy weather unless you have the brand’s Mizzles, which have a water-repellent finish. Regular Allbirds will not get damaged, but your feet may get wet, and the shoes will take a while to dry if they get soaked.
By following these instructions, you may securely machine wash your Allbirds shoes while preserving their comfort and quality. For more details see my article on how to wash shoes in the washing machine.
Should you wear socks with Allbirds?
Wearing socks with Allbirds is a matter of personal preference, and you can choose to wear them or go sock-less based on your comfort and style preferences. Here are the key points to consider:
- Sock-less Option: Many people find Allbirds comfortable wearing without socks. The shoes are designed not to itch or cause irritation when worn without socks. Additionally, most users report that Allbirds shoes do not develop unpleasant odors even when worn without socks. This is because Wool styles are primarily made of merino wool, which doesn’t absorb odors like synthetic fibers such as polyester, and Tree styles use breathable materials.
- Sock Option: You can certainly do so if you prefer to wear socks with your Allbirds. Allbirds offers socks specifically designed for wear with their shoes. However, you are not limited to using their socks, and you can wear any type of socks you prefer with the shoes.
Allbirds Shoes Review: My Final Verdict
After exploring the world of sustainable comfort and style shoes, it’s clear that Allbirds stands out as the best choice for conscientious consumers.
With their innovative use of eco-friendly materials, Allbirds not only prioritizes the well-being of your feet but also the health of our planet.
Allbirds commitment to sustainability is not just a marketing gimmick; it’s ingrained in every aspect of their design and manufacturing process. The result is a range of shoes that look great and feel like a dream to walk in.
In my personal choice, I opted for the Women’s Plant Pacers, and I absolutely love them! These shoes are stunning in appearance and impressively lightweight, comfortable, and provide excellent stability.
In a world where conscious consumer choices matter more than ever, Allbirds is leading the way in sustainable footwear.
If you’re looking for shoes that offer comfort and style while positively impacting the environment, look no further than Allbirds. Your feet and the planet will thank you.
Unlike a lot of other shoes brands, Allbirds shoes can not be found on Amazon, or Zappos. You’ll want to visit the Allbirds official website here.