Sustainable Sneakerheads, Assemble! Because we’ve got you in for a treat! If you love the snug feeling of slipping into eco-friendly sneakers, then chances are you already own a pair or two of Allbirds shoes. This label has a superb line of athleisure-inspired footwear that not only incorporates sustainable materials but also takes steps to balance its carbon emissions through strategic investments. However, its products might feel pricey, and consumers might be looking for varied attributes that its footwear range does not cover. Not to worry, because today, several conscious companies offer shoes like Allbirds.
Sustainable shoe brands are soon catching up pace, and becoming a preferred choice of consumers who care for the planet. Whether you prioritize style, cost, comfort, sensation, or sustainability, this list definitely has something that will match your requirements. So, let’s get started!
Oh, and while you’re at it, check out some fab affordable sustainable clothing brands, online thrift stores, and sustainable bags labels to give you a head-to-toe makeover. Now back to the hunt for shoes like Allbirds!
Best Shoes Like Allbirds
1. Cariuma
2. Thousand Fell
3. Woolloomooloo
4. Matt & Nat
5. Baabuk
6. Tropicfeel
7. Vessi
8. Veja
9. 8000Kicks
10. Giesswein
11. Wildling Shoes
12. SAOLA Shoes
13. Casca
14. KAVAT
15. Loom Footwear
The Allbirds Appeal
Allbirds, a game-changer brand in the sustainable footwear market, was officially launched by Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger in 2016. Their mission was simple — To design sneakers that are super comfortable, stylish, and eco-friendly. And the founders effortlessly managed to give life to this vision! In a remarkably short period of its launch, Allbirds skyrocketed to popularity, capturing the hearts of consumers worldwide.
Since its very start, the New Zealand-born and San Francisco-based start-up has shown an unwavering dedication to comfort and simplicity. Its website prominently declares, “Our Inspiration is Mother Nature,” and this sentiment becomes unmistakably evident when scrolling through its shoe catalog. Their footwear are engineered with everyday wear in mind, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in search of a casual sneaker or a more formal look, this label has a variant for you. Moreover, their pricing falls within the mid-tier category, making sustainable fashion accessible to a broader audience.
With sustainability in its DNA, Allbirds utilize eco-friendly materials like merino wool, eucalyptus tree fibers and recycled plastics in their sneakers range, minimizing their environmental footprint. The company uses sugarcane-based SweetFoam™ soles in all their shoes, sourced from Brazilian sugarcane. These soles are super comfy, molding to your feet and offering unbeatable support. Additionally, they incorporate conscious manufacturing processes, recyclable packaging materials, and Carbon Neutral initiatives, reflecting their genuine dedication to a greener world.
While Allbirds garners much praise, some customers have raised concerns about the longevity of their shoes. Durability issues, such as sole wear, have been reported by a minority of wearers. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that this varies from person to person and largely depends on usage patterns.
But If you’re on the lookout for Allbirds alternatives that share similar sustainability values, then you’re in luck! The sustainable footwear landscape is evolving rapidly, with an increasing number of brands coming up with eco-conscious and stylish sneaker options. Let’s explore these amazing shoes like Allbirds!
15 Best Shoes like Allbirds
To get your hands (or feet, in this case) on stylish shoes like Allbirds, scroll through the selections from mindful footwear brands like Veja, Cariuma, Woolloomooloo, Baabuk, Thousand Fell, Tropicfeel, 8000Kicks, Vessi, Giesswein, Wildling Shoes, SAOLA Shoes, Matt & Nat, Casca, KAVAT and Loom Footwear. While all these labels are unique in themselves, their goal is the same— that is to provide shoppers with the best of comfortable shoes that are not only kind to your feet but also kind to the planet.
1. Cariuma
Cariuma shines as a leading sustainable shoe brand, offering a wide range of casual and versatile options for men and women. Its product categories have a variety of styles in sneakers, all meticulously crafted with an array of organic and recycled materials. Cariuma takes its commitment to social responsibility seriously, striving to create footwear that benefits both the planet and its people. We particularly love its Oca Low Canvas sneakers which is the classic lace-up kicks that are shockproof and don’t give you sweaty feet. It caters to sneaker enthusiasts and sustainable shoe enthusiasts alike, providing consumers with a reliable alternative to the Allbirds Trail Runners model. In addition, as a FSC Certified and B Corporation label, it is listed with several reforestation programs.
2. Thousand Fell
Thousand Fell’s everyday sneakers are made from some of the most sustainable materials that keep your feet comfy and breathable at all times. Designed in New York and crafted in a family-owned factory in Brazil, each pair of shoes are made with longevity in mind and are completely recyclable. Some of the popular models have to be the Lace-Up and Slip-On Design, which are constructed for durability, making them perfect for everyday wear. Implementing a circular fashion approach, the label uses materials that can be recycled multiple times, helping them create zero-waste footwear, where nothing goes to waste. Moreover, they encourage customers to return old sneakers, refurbishing them for donation while offering a $20 credit for future purchases. As proud members of the 1% for the Planet initiative, Thousand Fell is dedicated to environmental sustainability.
3. Woolloomooloo
Hailing from Australia, Woolloomooloo specializes in crafting superfine merino wool sneakers. Their product categories include 8 styles in different colors, designed for everyday wear. What truly sets this brand apart is its innovative use of digital knitting machines to construct the knit upper, resulting in a fabric that’s softer and more breathable than commercialized pair of sneakers. Unlike boiled wool, merino wool performs best when knitted, enhancing its natural elasticity and breathability. The Belmont Sneakers is among Woolloomooloo’s best-selling designs and an ideal alternative for Allbirds Wool Runners. The sneaker is beloved for its adaptability, effortlessly shifting from everyday commutes to the workplace and even social gatherings. Woolloomooloo’s USP lies in its mastery of merino wool, its commitment to ethical sourcing, and creating exceptionally breathable and comfortable footwear.
4. Matt & Nat
Matt & Nat is a Canadian sustainable brand that places utmost value on nature and is dedicated to minimizing its carbon footprint. With an animal-friendly mindset, it strictly uses vegan and low-impact materials in manufacturing its merchandise. Its footwear is made from recycled materials such as rubber, cork, nylons, and cardboard, underscoring its devotion to recycling and upcycling practices. Remarkably, the use of recycled materials does not compromise quality; because Matt & Nat’s entire shoe collection is durable, comfortable, and pretty chic. Don’t trust us? Then Check out the Gavin Men’s Vegan Sneakers and the Sonia Women’s Vegan Sneakers, which are superb examples of fashion-forward, animal-friendly footwear.
5. Baabuk
Baabuk is a responsible shoe brand that houses wool sneakers made from sustainably sourced wool. Its sneaker range features seven distinct minimalist designs available in a range of colors, ranging from understated grey and black to bold and vibrant yellow. Baabuk’s wool sneakers are not only versatile but incredibly well-made, providing both comfort and durability. Its Urban Woolers is an amazing pair of wool shoes that is machine washable. The Swiss company is a certified B Corporation, adhering to rigorous standards for social and environmental performance. Channelling a waste-free approach, it has a recycling program where you can send your old Baabuk pieces for responsible disposal. Beyond this, Baabuk actively engages in sustainable practices that have positive impacts on their workers, the local community, and the environment.
6. Tropicfeel
Tropicfeel celebrates the modern-day travelling community through its collection of outdoor clothing, gear, and high-performing shoes. The brand believes in promoting mindful travel and driving positive change. It distinguishes itself through conscious business practices, a sustainable product lineup, and a collective mission. With transparency at its core, it employs sustainable materials like recycled polyester, recycled nylon, and organic cotton in crafting its footwear range. Its Canyon model bears a resemblance with Allbirds Tree Runners and is a fan favorite, offering versatility tailored for travellers. The athletic shoes has a unique 4-in-1 design, built to make it water resistant for aquatic activities and wet weather. Plus, it is equipped with a technical sole suitable for rugged slippery surface hikes. So, if you are a wanderer, Tropicfeel’s merchandise can help you experience the great outdoors through responsible travel culture.
7. Vessi
Vessi is a popular shoes brand and a major competitor to Allbirds. Based in Canada, this sneaker sensation has received excellent traction for crafting versatile, breathable, and waterproof selection of shoes. As a 100% vegan brand, it solely uses premium-quality animal-free materials and eco-friendly water-based adhesives instead of regular glues. Since its establishment in 2018, Vessi has introduced a range of nine waterproof sneaker styles for both men and women, and they’ve even ventured into children’s styles with two unique designs. Among their offerings, the Everday Classic Sneaker reigns supreme, cherished for its cloud-like comfort that delivers a lightweight and bouncy feel. With added breathability and moisture-wicking properties, the Vessi model proves to be a compelling alternative to Allbirds Tree Dasher.
8. Veja
Veja is a certified B Corporation sustainable label that offers a diverse range of sneakers and casual shoes. They prioritize eco-conscious materials, utilizing organic cotton, recycled plastic bottles, and sustainably sourced leather from Brazil and the Amazon through fair trade channels. Notable models like the V-10 and Campo have gained recognition for their style and sustainability. The shoes are typically priced in the mid to high-end spectrum, but they are guaranteed to last you long. Veja sets a high standard for environmentally friendly production, emphasizing zero-waste processes, recycling, and low energy consumption. Acknowledging the carbon footprint of leather, they’ve been innovating within the leather supply chain since 2008.
9. 8000Kicks
8000Kicks proudly introduces the world’s first waterproof hemp sneakers. The sustainable shoe brand primarily focuses on utilizing the extensive benefits of hemp, making it the core material for crafting its innovative sneakers. It has recently dropped the highly anticipated Explorer Sneakers, which redefine lightweight footwear by standing at a mere 240g weight. What makes them truly stand out is the use of moisture-wicking hemp insoles and uppers, along with algae bloom soles, ensuring comfort while exploring out in light rain to heavy rain. While the color options lean towards neutrals and darker shades, you can choose from seven shades of the 8000Kicks Explorer Sneakers. Beyond product innovation, the label plants trees worldwide to offset their carbon footprint and contribute to several social causes from time to time.
10. Giesswein
Austrian label Giesswein is known to be Europe’s largest producer of virgin merino wool footwear. Their product range spans various categories, with a particular focus on wool shoes. The brand has deep roots in sustainability, which can demonstrated through its zero-waste production methods, a remarkable 90% water recycling rate and sourcing of mulesing-free merino wool from responsible breeders. Its footwear range is not only eco-friendly but also functional, boasting natural antimicrobial properties that keep feet sweat-free by wicking away moisture. Giesswein’s Merino Wool Runners has become quite a favorite of many, who celebrate it for its extraordinary coziness and ability to be worn without socks, making them a worthy swap to Allbirds Wool Runner.
11. Wildling Shoes
Wildling Shoes is a German brand which has a unique perspective on footwear, making it a standout choice for those seeking ethical and sustainable alternatives to Allbirds. Their philosophy centers on the belief that traditional shoe shapes can hinder foot health, especially wide feet, by constricting muscles. To counter this, Wildling designs its shoes to mimic the experience of being barefoot, allowing the foot’s muscles to move and exercise naturally. Beyond promoting foot health, Wildling also champions environmental well-being. They employ a wide range of sustainable materials, including wool, cotton, cork, linen, and hemp, all sourced with a focus on landscape preservation projects. The Emmer Wool Sneakers, crafted from soft wool, offers a minimalist alternative to Allbirds Wool Sneakers. As a certified B Corporation, Wildling dedicates 1% of its profits to support environmental non-profits through the 1% for the Planet initiative.
12. SAOLA Shoes
SAOLA Shoes is here to make an impact in the polluting footwear industry. The label is home to a variety of shoes for women and men, including sneakers and slip-ons. The Cannon Knit slip-ons are completely vegan, versatile for both dressy and casual occasions, and provide comfort through stretchy recycled materials. On the other hand, the Wanaka W Waterproof Sneakers keeps your style high while giving you wet-weather protection. Dedicated to preserving nature, SAOLA only utilizes recycled and bio-based materials. Each part of its shoes are fabricated with eco-friendly components, like using algae foam for the outsoles, recycled plastic bottles for the uppers, and recycled organic cotton for the shoelaces. The brand is a member of the 1% of the Planet program and donates a portion of its annual revenue to deserving social causes.
13. Casca
Casca brings innovation to shoe sizing with its bespoke 3D printed insoles, ensuring a perfect fit tailored to your measurements. Among their product categories, the Casca Avro recycled sneaker stands out, constructed entirely from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles and featuring a breathable knit design. This model is an excellent choice for those seeking alternatives to Allbirds Tree Runner or Tree Pipers. Casca shoes are manufactured in small batches, and each pair comes with a 2-year warranty, aligning with the brand’s ethos of encouraging conscious consumption and reduced waste. This combination of personalized fit, eco-friendly materials, and commitment to longevity makes Casca a compelling choice in sustainable footwear.
14. KAVAT
Founded in 1945, KAVAT is a Swedish family-owned shoe company that takes pride in creating footwear that last. With the goal of joining the ranks of eco-friendly shoe creators, they’ve eco-labeled thousands of their shoes, showcasing their commitment to sustainable footwear. Their material portfolio primarily includes vegetable-tanned leather, recycled leather scraps, eco-performance leather, sustainably sourced cotton, and recycled rubber and plastic bottles. Ensuring product longevity, KAVAT offers repair services for soles, seams, and shoelaces. They also run the AS NEW program, where people can return used KAVAT shoes, receive a 20% discount, and have them expertly refurbished by the company’s cobblers, further promoting sustainability and durability.
15. Loom Footwear
Loom Footwear, much like Allbirds, specializes in crafting shoes from soft and breathable merino wool. However, what sets them apart is their exceptional waterproofing capability. Loom sneakers are 100% waterproof, effectively shielding your feet from rain and puddles. While their color options are limited to black and white, the versatility of these hues allows seamless pairing with any casual attire. Plus, these shoes are meticulously designed by podiatrists to ensure optimal shock absorption, traction, and day-long comfort, whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or out on a long run. With an impressive track record of over a thousand five-star ratings, Loom Footwear is gaining recognition for its performance.
Concluding Thoughts…
While Allbirds has undeniably led the way in crafting sustainable and eco-friendly footwear, a growing number of exceptional alternatives are emerging with their affordable and low-impact sneaker range. Each of these brands is making their own significant contribution to alter the non-eco footwear sector and preserve our planet without breaking your bank balance. So, while Allbirds excels in producing top-quality, durable, sustainable and comfortable pairs of shoes, they’re not solitary pioneers in this mission. Accessible and trustworthy eco-friendly footwear options are increasingly accessible, enabling consumers to actively contribute to positive change. Let’s empower the labels that offer shoes like Allbirds and create a demand for reliable and green footwear.
