Allbirds Review: From Wool to Tree Fiber – What Makes Them Special?
In partnership with Allbirds
Table of Contents
About Allbirds
Finding a pair of shoes that feels good from the first step is harder than it should be. Too many pairs rub, pinch, or feel fine in the store but turn into a regret after a week. Comfort often seems like something you trade for style, and the search for something that works in both casual and active moments can feel endless.
That’s the problem Allbirds set out to solve when it started in New Zealand and later grew into a global name. Built on the idea of using natural materials and a simpler design approach, they’ve built a reputation for light, soft shoes that still look sharp enough to wear anywhere. Their focus on sustainable production also gives them a different standing in a market full of synthetic-heavy footwear.
Fans talk about the feel, the fit, and the low-key style. The brand’s use of merino wool, eucalyptus-based fibers, and sugarcane foam midsoles has become part of its identity. Stores in major cities give people a chance to try before they buy, while the product range covers everything from everyday sneakers to running shoes.
One of their latest releases, the Wool Runner NZ, takes their most famous shoe and adds touches inspired by their home country. Sounds good on paper. But is it actually better, or just a fresh name on the same idea? Let’s look closer and see.
Highlights
- Allbirds began in New Zealand with a plan to make comfortable shoes from natural materials instead of synthetics.
- Certified as a B Corporation, meeting high environmental and social responsibility standards.
- Partners with regenerative farms to source materials that can absorb more carbon than they emit.
- Measures and publishes the carbon footprint of every product.
- Runs community events and private shopping sessions in select stores.
- Offers in-store try-ons, easy returns, and help with sizing.
- Has patents covering shoe designs and construction methods for comfort and durability.
- The Wool Runner NZ refreshes their most popular shoe with details inspired by their home country.
- The Wool Strider is built for active days, with lightweight construction suited for both workouts and casual wear.
- The Tree Runner NZ updates the original with a contoured midsole and wool-blend lining for a smoother, softer fit.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our mission is to help you make better, more informed purchase decisions.
Our team spends hours researching, consulting with medical experts, gathering insight from expert professionals, reviewing customer feedback, and analyzing products to provide you with the information you need.
Allbirds Review
Shoes are easy to buy and hard to love. They either wear out too quickly or never quite feel right once you’ve broken them in. Allbirds has built a name on trying to avoid that cycle, leaning on natural materials, simple designs, and a focus on comfort you can wear every day. We’ve looked at what they’re doing, how they’re doing it, and the styles they’re putting out right now to see if the reputation holds up.
Unique Features
1. Natural materials
Allbirds builds their shoes from fibers and foams that come from renewable sources. Merino wool is used for a soft feel that works in both warm and cool weather. Eucalyptus tree fiber is spun into a light, breathable fabric that lets air flow around the foot. Their SweetFoam® midsole is made from sugarcane, giving cushioning without adding heavy bulk.
2. Carbon footprint tracking
On each product, you’ll find a number showing the total carbon emissions created in making it. That figure comes from Allbirds’ own life cycle assessment process and is reviewed by an independent verifier to keep the numbers honest.
3. Regenerative sourcing
Some of the wool in Allbirds shoes comes from farms that actively improve the land they work on. Lake Hawea Station in New Zealand, for example, restores native plant life and absorbs more carbon than it produces.
4. Lightweight design
Most of their styles are built to be worn for long stretches without feeling heavy or stiff. The look stays clean and simple, with no extra layers or decorations that could weigh the shoe down.
5. Store experience
In-store visits are low-pressure. You can try on different sizes, walk around to get a feel for them, and swap pairs if something doesn’t fit right. They also accept gently used shoes in exchange for credit toward a new pair.
6. Patented construction
Allbirds holds patents for elements like knit uppers and sole structures. These design protections cover the way the shoe flexes, supports the foot, and holds up over time.
Benefits
Good materials and smart design don’t mean much if they don’t make life easier for the person wearing them. Here’s how Allbirds can actually help once they’re on your feet.
- Keeps your feet comfortable all day
The mix of wool, tree fiber, and sugarcane foam helps prevent hotspots and overheating, so you can stay on your feet without feeling worn out. - Makes it easier to choose responsibly
With the carbon footprint printed right on the shoe, you can see the impact before you buy and make a more informed choice. - Supports land that gives back
Some materials come from farms that restore habitats and capture more carbon than they release, so your purchase helps more than it harms. - Works with almost anything you wear
The understated design means you can put them on without overthinking what’s in your closet. - Takes the stress out of shoe shopping
In-store fitting, easy swaps, and a trade-in program for worn pairs make it simple to get the right fit and keep shoes in use longer. - Stays comfortable over time
Patented construction helps the fit hold up after months of wear, so they don’t flatten or lose their shape too quickly.
Featured Products
Allbirds has a few new releases that build on their well-known styles with fresh details and updated materials. Here’s what’s just landed and how each one stands out.
Wool Runner NZ
The Wool Runner NZ, launched online on August 5, builds on the original Wool Runner by keeping the same comfort and natural materials people already know while adding design touches tied to New Zealand. It’s a cleaner, slightly more refined version of their best-known style.
Women’s Wool Runner NZ
The Wool Runner NZ takes Allbirds’ original best-seller and gives it a subtle refresh. The upper is still made from merino wool, giving the shoe a soft, flexible feel that adapts to different temperatures. It’s breathable enough for mild days and warm enough for cooler weather, which makes it a year-round option.
Underfoot, the SweetFoam® midsole made from sugarcane keeps the weight down while adding cushioning that works for all-day wear. The updated shape has a slightly sleeker profile, which makes it easier to wear beyond casual errands, it’s just as at home with jeans as it is with more dressed-up outfits.
Like all Allbirds shoes, the Wool Runner NZ includes a carbon footprint label so buyers know the impact of their purchase. The wool comes from renewable sources, including farms that restore land and offset more carbon than they produce.
Priced at $110, it sits in the mid-range for casual sneakers. The balance of comfort, simple styling, and lower-impact materials makes it a practical choice for anyone looking for an everyday shoe that can move between different settings without much thought.
Men’s Wool Runner NZ
The Men’s Wool Runner NZ is built for the kind of days when you need one pair to do it all. The merino wool upper has enough structure to look sharp with chinos yet feels relaxed enough for jeans or joggers. It keeps your feet warm when the air’s cool and still breathes well indoors or in mild weather.
Underfoot, the SweetFoam® midsole made from sugarcane softens the impact without adding bulk. It’s the kind of cushioning that disappears into the background — you notice it most at the end of the day when your feet aren’t tired.
Like every Allbirds shoe, this one carries a carbon footprint label and uses materials from renewable sources, including wool from regenerative farms. That means you can factor the environmental impact into your choice without digging for the details.
Selling for $110, it’s aimed at anyone who’d rather pack light, skip the overthinking, and have one shoe that fits into almost any plan.
Wool Strider/Strider
The Wool Strider launched on August 5, with the standard Strider following on August 19. It’s a new entry in Allbirds’ active lineup, designed for days that mix movement and downtime. Built with lightweight construction and a versatile look, it works for a morning workout, an afternoon in the city, or anything in between.
Women’s Wool Strider
The Women’s Wool Strider, launched on August 5, is the newest entry in Allbirds’ active shoe lineup and is made with cooler weather in mind. The merino wool upper feels soft from the start and regulates temperature so feet stay warm without overheating. Its look leans sporty but blends easily with casual outfits, making it just as suitable for a walk in the park as for running errands.
It’s built light, so wearing it all day doesn’t feel like a chore. The sugarcane-based SweetFoam® midsole cushions each step without adding bulk, while the outsole has enough grip for light outdoor use but stays smooth enough for indoors.
Like other Allbirds styles, the Wool Strider features a carbon footprint label and uses renewable materials, including wool sourced from farms that restore and maintain healthy land.
At $125, it’s a step up from the Wool Runner in price, reflecting its performance-ready build. For anyone wanting one pair that works for light exercise and everyday wear without changing shoes, the Wool Strider fits the bill.
Men’s Wool Strider
The Men’s Wool Strider is Allbirds’ latest active shoe designed for cooler conditions. The upper uses merino wool, which feels soft from the first wear and naturally manages temperature so your feet stay comfortable without overheating. The styling is low-key athletic, making it work just as well with joggers as it does with a casual weekend outfit.
It’s lightweight enough for all-day wear, and the sugarcane-based SweetFoam® midsole adds cushioning without making the shoe bulky. The outsole gives enough traction for light outdoor movement while keeping a smooth ride indoors.
As with other Allbirds models, this shoe comes with a carbon footprint label and uses renewable materials, including wool from farms that practice regenerative agriculture.
At $125, it’s priced in line with the women’s version and slightly higher than the Wool Runner, reflecting its performance-minded build and year-round wearability. For men looking for one pair that handles short workouts, day-to-day errands, and casual outings, the Wool Strider is built to cover all of it without switching shoes.
Tree Runner NZ
The Tree Runner NZ, launched in July, reworks Allbirds’ original Tree Runner with small but meaningful updates. It keeps the breathable eucalyptus tree fiber upper and SweetFoam® midsole that made the first version popular, while adding a wool-blend collar and tongue lining for a softer, more secure feel. The design stays clean and minimalist, but the fit and underfoot contour have been refined for a smoother stride.
Women’s Tree Runner NZ
The Women’s Tree Runner NZ brings a few quiet upgrades to one of Allbirds’ most popular sneakers. The airy eucalyptus tree fiber upper still keeps feet cool, and the SweetFoam® midsole provides that light, cushioned step.
What’s new is a softer wool-blend collar and tongue lining that hugs the foot, a refined underfoot contour for smoother movement, and a featherbed insole for extra comfort during long days. It’s an easy pick for anyone who wants one pair that works for errands, commutes, or travel without thinking twice about comfort.
Men’s Tree Runner NZ
The Men’s Tree Runner NZ keeps everything people already liked about the original Tree Runner. It still has the breathable eucalyptus tree fiber upper, the SweetFoam® midsole, and the easy, lightweight feel. The updates are small but make a difference. A wool-blend collar and tongue lining give a snug, plush fit. The redesigned underfoot contour feels smoother over long days. The new featherbed insole adds enough cushioning to keep feet fresh whether you’re running errands, traveling, or on your feet at work.
Early feedback has been glowing. One reviewer called them “super comfortable” and noted that their feet “stay cool” and legs no longer ache at the end of the day. Another simply said they’re their “favorite pair of shoes” and already want another.
At $110, they land in the same range as other Allbirds lifestyle sneakers, making them a realistic choice if you want comfort and a clean, minimalist style that works with just about anything in your closet.
Allbirds Review: What Do Customers Think?
Many reviewers outside the Allbirds site describe the brand as a rare mix of comfort, style, and sustainability that keeps customers coming back for more. People often say these are the most comfortable shoes they have ever owned, comparing the feel to “walking on clouds.” The soft, breathable materials and supportive fit make them a top choice for long days on your feet, whether traveling, commuting, or running errands. For many, they become the go-to pair for everyday wear because they stay comfortable from morning to night without causing fatigue.
Style is another frequent talking point. Shoppers appreciate the clean, timeless design that pairs well with almost anything in their wardrobe, making the shoes versatile enough for casual outings, work settings, or vacations. Many mention they can pack just one pair for a trip and feel ready for anything.
The brand’s focus on sustainability resonates strongly with buyers. They value knowing their shoes are made with natural and renewable materials like merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and sugarcane-based foam, all while still performing well and looking good. For eco-conscious customers, this balance of responsibility and practicality is a major selling point.
Durability is praised just as much as comfort. Several reviewers note that their shoes still look and feel great after months or even years of regular use, and they like that the pairs can be machine-washed to keep them fresh. This easy upkeep, along with sturdy construction, leaves many feeling they’ve made a solid investment.
Customer service also receives high marks. Many mention quick deliveries, easy returns, and friendly, helpful support teams. Exchanges are straightforward, and questions are answered promptly, making the buying process as smooth as the wearing experience.
Is Allbirds Legit?
Yes, Allbirds is a legitimate and well-established footwear and apparel company. It was founded in 2016, is a certified B Corporation, and operates both online and through physical stores in multiple countries.
The company is known for using sustainable materials such as merino wool, eucalyptus tree fiber, and sugarcane-based foam, and it’s transparent about its environmental impact by labeling the carbon footprint of each product. Allbirds also holds patents for aspects of its shoe designs, which further confirms that it’s a real, operating business with proprietary products.
Allbirds Discounts and Promotions
The brand also offers a few ways to save when you shop directly with them.
Refer-a-Friend
You get a $15 credit when a friend buys through your referral link, and they get $15 off their first order of $100 or more. So. everyone wins.
Community Offers
If you’re a student, healthcare worker, teacher, military personnel, or government staff, you can verify your status and get a one-time 15% off code, valid in the U.S. only.
ReRun Program (Used Shoes)
Allbirds sells gently used or “factory seconds” pairs at a lower price through ReRun. You can snag like-new shoes for a fraction of the regular price.
Are Allbirds Shoes Worth It?
Allbirds has found a sweet spot for people who want shoes they can wear almost anywhere without thinking twice. From the first step, the comfort is clear. They are soft where you want it and supportive where you need it, making them a reliable choice whether you are heading out for a quick coffee run or spending the day on your feet.
The style is understated yet polished, blending easily with jeans, casual dresses, or even office outfits. There is also a certain satisfaction in knowing the materials, such as merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and sugarcane-based foam, were chosen with the planet in mind.
With fresh releases like the Wool Runner NZ, Wool Strider, and Tree Runner NZ, the brand continues to refine its designs to suit different needs and seasons. Combine that with perks like free shipping on qualifying orders, easy returns, and a referral program that rewards both you and your friends, and you have a brand that delivers more than just footwear. For anyone seeking comfort, versatility, and a lighter environmental footprint, Allbirds is a smart choice.
Where Can I Buy Allbirds Shoes?
Allbirds shoes are available directly through the brand’s official website, where you can find the full range of styles, colors, and sizes for men and women. Shopping online also gives you access to special releases, seasonal colors, and limited editions that may not always be available in stores.
For those who prefer to try them on before buying, Allbirds has retail locations in select cities across the United States and in international markets. Each store offers a relaxed fitting experience, knowledgeable staff to help with sizing, and the option to trade in gently used pairs through the ReRun program.
Purchasing through the official site or an Allbirds store ensures you get authentic products, access to their return policy, and any current promotions or discounts.
FAQs
How do I care for my Allbirds shoes?
Most Allbirds shoes can be machine washed on a gentle cycle using cold water. It’s best to remove the insoles and laces before washing and let them air dry to maintain their shape and quality.
Does Allbirds offer free returns?
Yes, Allbirds provides free returns within 30 days of purchase, even if you’ve worn the shoes. This allows customers to truly test comfort and fit without risk.
Are Allbirds shoes suitable for different weather conditions?
Many styles, like the Wool Mizzles, are designed for cooler, wet conditions, while the Tree collection is made with breathable materials ideal for warmer weather.
What is the ReRun program?
ReRun is Allbirds’ resale initiative, where gently used shoes are cleaned, inspected, and resold at a reduced price. This program helps extend product life and reduce waste.
How do I contact Allbirds?
You can get in touch with Allbirds in several ways. Call 1-888-963-8944 or text 1-814-251-9966 Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST. You can also email [email protected] or use the live chat option on their website for quick support.
It’s always better to have options. Check out some other top shoe brands:
Ask the community or leave a comment
WRITE A REVIEWCustomer Reviews
Leave a review