Allbirds review 2024: a comprehensive shopping guide | CNN Underscored

Allbirds sneakers: Allbirds Women’s Wool Runner 2

Allbirds running shoes: Allbirds Men's Tree Dasher 2

Allbirds flats: Allbirds Women’s Tree Breezers

Allbirds water-repellent shoes: Allbirds Men’s Wool Runner-Up Mizzles

Allbirds hiking shoes: Allbirds Women's Trail Runners SWT

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.

Related article The best slip-on shoes for comfort and exercise, according to experts

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.

Related article How to make shoes more comfortable, according to podiatrists

Like the original Tree Runners, these sneakers are made from a sustainable and breathable blend of recycled polyester and Tencel lyocell that’s machine-washable, packable, odor-resistant, thermoregulating and as easy on your carbon footprint as they are on your actual foot.

Where these new kids on the block truly shine is in their improved midsole made of sugarcane-derived SweetFoam EVA foam for even more cushioning and impact absorption; an upgraded last (the shoe mold that conforms to the anatomical contours of your foot); and modernized line detailing to make them look that much more influencer-approved.

The minimal Tree Gliders pair well with everything from tailored trousers to gym clothes. Made with the lightweight design Allbirds is famous for, these shoes help put a little spring in your step.

The Tree Gliders bring the beloved lightweight design that Allbirds is known for to a build that is better suited for tagging along on workouts.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

These sneakers are made with 100% organic cotton canvas upper that's lightweight, yet durable, and perfect for travels and warmer temperatures.

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.

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.

Related article Allbirds Tree Runner Go sneakers are as comfy as socks — but are they worth it?

Bet you’ve never seen this before: a running shoe with a one-piece upper, meaning you’ll never have to fight with a finicky tongue or experience unnecessary friction as you hit the pavement.

Thanks to its angular heel shape to soften the blow with every step, these running shoes are as minimalist as they get without sacrificing functionality.

In my review, I found these running shoes to be ideal for both beginner and advanced athletes alike, offering plenty of bounce to propel you forward, a thick geometric heel to reduce impact on the joints and mesh ventilation for breathability.

Beyond looking great and boosting your performance, the brand prides itself on its B Corp certification, which attests to its environmental management practices, commitment to serving the community, fair working conditions that allow employees to thrive and transparency at every level of production.

If you’ve ever skipped putting on a proper pair of shoes in preparation for your workout because you couldn’t be bothered to lace them up, let these bestselling laceless sneakers be your sign to invest.

Boasting a front pull tab and padded heel collar, these lace-free sneakers make getting ready for your power walk or run a total breeze. Plus, they come in a bunch of colors, including color-block designs.

Ever wanted to dress up while feeling like you’re wearing running shoes? These popular flats do the trick with their breathable eucalyptus fabric that reduces odors and a fitted collar to keep them affixed to your foot as you dance the night away.

These high-tops are your best defense in a downpour: They’re created with the brand’s Puddle Guard technology to repel water and help with slippery conditions and stop water from pooling in your shoes.

Water-repellent merino wool will keep your feet warm and dry during wet, cold and rainy seasons. It comes in eight cool colors for men.

Summit peaks with speed and style thanks to these sturdy hiking shoes boasting a ripstop mudguard to shield your feet from the trials of the trails. Their sock collar further blocks out debris for a cleaner and dryer foot.

Go off-roading in these tear-resistant hiking shoes that make even the toughest trails a walk in the park. They’ve got a multidirectional lug sole for tough terrain and a pull tab for easy on and off.

The effortless nature of these sneakers in both fashion and function is unmatched. They have the plushness of a sneaker while their sustainable eucalyptus tree fiber material gives your feet room to breathe.

These Tree Loungers offer the comfort of your favorite slipper thanks to their cushioned midsole. What’s more is that they’re incredibly easy to pack for your travels or in your gym bag post-workout.

You’ve never met a cozier slip-on: made from the brand’s regenerative merino wool blend, they’ll keep your feet looking cool while staying warm in chillier temps.

Think of the Wool Loungers as elevated slippers. We love them most for their plush fabric and cushioned midsole.