Are Allbirds the World’s Comfiest Shoes? We Wore Them for 100 Miles to Find Out
Updated: Aug. 14, 2023
'Cause I would walk 500 miles—but 100 was more than enough to test these Allbirds shoes.
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Allbirds are famously known for making incredibly comfortable shoes—ones to walk several miles in. As someone who loves to go for daily morning walks and wear shoes so comfortable it feels like stepping on tiny clouds, I was intrigued. Since I planned a trip to NYC with my husband and knew I’d be walking everywhere, I decided to test these walking shoes for myself and leave an honest Allbirds review. Are they really the world’s comfiest shoes?
I decided on the Allbirds Wool Runner-up Mizzles because they looked stylish and comfortable and the high-top design provides additional support that I knew I’d need for my walks. Since the NYC trip was only for one day, I decided to continue walking in these shoes for a total of 100 miles to really test their durability and comfort level.
What are Allbirds Wool Runner-up Mizzles?Â
The Allbirds Wool Runner-up Mizzles claim to work best for walking. When I first pulled them out of the box, I noticed how sleek and stylish they were. The wool felt surprisingly soft and the soles extra flexible. Immediately I knew these shoes would be comfortable on a walk.
I wear a size five and when I tried them on they fit almost too well. I recommend sizing up if the plan is to walk around in these. Since feet tend to swell after standing for too long, they started to feel a bit tight by the end of the day. I loved the high-top design, which provides extra support for my chronic ankle pain and protects my legs from puddles.
Allbirds Wool Runner-up Mizzles product featuresÂ
The reinforced ethically-sourced Merino wool upper is soft and itch-free on the inside, and soft to the touch on the outside. The Eco Passport Certified (by OEKO-TEX®) fluorine-free water-repellent coating keeps the feet dry even on rainy days albeit not as well as actual rain boots. The sole combines SweetFoam®, designed with the world’s first carbon-negative green EVA, and FSC® Certified natural rubber treads, providing exceptional traction and preventing slips.
The castor bean insole not only emits less carbon than petroleum-based foam, but the added Merino wool helps with breathability and has moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties. Their laces are made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester. Each pair of shoelaces equals one old plastic water bottle, so you can feel good while doing good every time you lace up these sneakers.
ProsÂ
- Water-repellent technology
- All-condition traction to prevent slipping
- High-top upper stops splashes
- Merino wool provides extra comfort
- More eco-friendly than traditional sneakers
- 30-day free return policy
ConsÂ
- We recommend ordering up from your usual size, especially when planning to walk long distances
How we tested themÂ
For my Allbirds review, I walked a total of 100 miles to properly test comfort and wear over a long period of time. First, I tested them on my trip to New York City. For a full day, we walked around everywhere, totaling around 10 miles. The entire time I forgot I was even wearing shoes because of how comfortable they are. By the end of the day, my husband must have been done hearing my gush about how much comfort I was in.
After the trip, I continued walking in them and wearing them during my normal activities to give a proper Allbirds review. For the next couple of weeks, I wore these on my daily walks around the neighborhood, on the treadmill at the gym and while running errands and strength training.
I never once experienced a blister while wearing the Allbirds shoes, which is an anomaly for me. The more I wore them, the more comfortable they felt as they molded to my feet. While strength training, I found the high-t0p design provided a lot of ankle support while doing certain exercises, like squats and lunges. After 100 miles, I can confidently say these are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned or worn in my life.
FAQÂ
Are Allbirds shoes good for standing all day?
After 100 miles of standing in these shoes, I attest to Allbirds’ ability to make shoes that are ideal for long periods of standing due to their superior comfort and support.
Are Allbirds shoes too hot for summer?
Since they’re made with wool, it’s easy to believe they may be too hot for warm weather. However, the material is moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. Try wearing them with thin socks to help further insulate and regulate the temperature inside the shoe.
What other reviewers had to sayÂ
“I bought these for a trip to England in February,” begins reviewer Lisa S. “I knew I would be doing a lot of walking every day. These sneakers did not disappoint. Super comfortable and kept my feet warm and dry.”
Another reviewer tested the water-proof technology with surprising results. “I like them. Went for a hike that involved crossing a stream. Excellent grip and my feet stayed dry while stepping in the water.”
Verified reviewer Eve K. wears them to work: “My job requires me to be on my feet all day. This shoe is perfect to keep me warm on my way to work (walking and [on the] subway) and comfortable enough to stand in.”
Final verdictÂ
My Allbirds review is exceptionally positive overall. The shoes are incredibly comfortable even after 100 miles of walking, running errands and working out with them on. They survived through puddles, dirt and all the questionable substances on New York City’s sidewalks. If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of walking shoes for men or women that still provide incredible style, support and comfort, then Allbirds are an excellent choice.
Where to buy Allbirds Wool Runner-up Mizzles
Shop the Wool Runner-up Mizzles on Allbirds for $145. They’re available in women’s sizes 5 to 11 and seven colors. These shoes are, quite literally, made for walking and that’s just what they’ll do when you slide them on and head out the door.
