Do you prioritize comfort in your footwear? If so — whether you commute to work, travel abroad or run long distances — you’re likely familiar with Allbirds. If this is your first foray into the brand, you’re about to be a convert.
As a New Zealand native, co-founder Tim Brown was intimately familiar with the benefits of merino wool, but believed it to be sorely lacking from the footwear industry. Together with his co-founder Joey Zwillinger, an engineer and renewables expert, he fashioned a type of renewable merino wool fabric that would fare well in everyday footwear. And so the Wool Runners, a sleek and lightweight sneaker, was born in 2016, paving the way for an entirely new shoe category that changed footwear as we know it. Other renewable materials used in manufacturing include breathable Lyocell eucalyptus tree fiber uppers, sugarcane-based midsoles, castor bean oil-based insole foam and shoe laces derived from recycled plastic bottles. Further setting them apart from fast-fashion brands is the use of recyclable packaging and a minimalist aesthetic.
As a personal trainer who’s extensively tested several Allbirds shoes, I can attest to their comfort and versatility. Sure, some folks might gravitate toward the unmistakably demure look of Allbirds shoes, but some might opt for their unmatched comfort instead. That’s the thing: It doesn’t really matter how you define your personal style or what type of shoe you tend to gravitate towards — there’s a shoe in their lineup that’s going to feel just right for your foot, whether you’re flat-footed, experiencing swelling or can’t be bothered to keep up with style trends.
Allbirds now has a lineup of athleisure and accessories for the most discerning (and laidback) sartorialist. Think: merino wool long sleeves and graphic tees to top off your sneakers. Numerous collabs have extended their reach as well, with releases like the Allbirds x Olivia Rubin Riser in a subtle yet eye-catching pastel tone, the Adizero x Allbirds with Adidas collaboration featuring a sneaker boasting the brand’s lowest carbon footprint yet and the Allbirds and designer Rosie Assoulin crossover that led to a nostalgic and fresh poolside slide release.
Because the brand’s roster is ever-evolving, it’s crucial you add your desired shoe or garment to cart if you see it in stock. Keep reading to read my thoughts on the brand’s bestselling shoes that continuously sell out, reach viral levels of popularity and feel incredible to wear all day.
Best Allbirds sneakers
Allbirds Wool Runner 2
Allbirds Women’s Wool Runner 2
This updated take on Allbirds’ original classic sneaker boasts a laid-back yet streamlined look for everyday wear, whether you’re power walking down the track or power posing at work. It’s made with thermoregulating and ethically sourced merino wool and in testing, I found it to stable enough to even support me during low-intensity workouts.
$110
Allbirds Men’s Wool Runner 2
This is the shoe you’re looking for if you’re not sure what to throw on in the morning, whether you’re tackling some errands or meeting up with friends. It’s considerably foamier than its predecessor, has shoelaces made with recycled bottles, offers a roomier toe box to accommodate for swelling and features a reinforced upper to keep your toes contained.
$110
Allbirds Tree Runners
Allbirds Women’s Tree Runners
Another one of Allbirds’ classic styles, this timeless sneaker slips on with the convenience of a slipper and keeps your feet dry all day thanks to lightweight eucalyptus fiber.
$98
Allbirds Men’s Tree Runners
The Tree Runners are ideal for everything from running to your gate at the airport to pairing down a pair of trousers with their sporty midsole.
$98
Allbirds Canvas Pipers
Allbirds Women’s Canvas Pipers
Elevated sneakers are having a moment right now, whether you opt for pure white or go bold with limited edition purple or blue. No matter which route you take, these packable, sustainable and easy-to-style sneakers help you nail the trend with ease.
$90
Allbirds Men’s Canvas Pipers
These sneakers are made with 100% organic cotton canvas upper that’s lightweight, yet durable, and perfect for travels and warmer temperatures.
$90
Allbirds Tree Pipers
Allbirds Women’s Tree Pipers
Boasting the minimalist appeal of a slip-on with the structure of a sneaker, these shoes are ideal for nearly any casual occasion and come in several fun colors.
$105
Allbirds Men’s Tree Pipers
Appropriate for the boardroom to the bar, these versatile sneakers are made with machine-washable materials to keep them looking as new as the day you got them for years to come.
$105
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