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Are you confused about which shoe to buy between Allbirds vs. Rothy’s?
Both Allbirds and Rothy’s have become popular with shoppers (including us!) over the past few years due to their machine washable materials and lightweight construction that support all-day wearability.
We compared these two brands in all the major categories: design, fit, durability and sustainability in order to help determine when one may be better suited than the other — read on to see how they stack up against each other!
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Our Favorite Shoe Brand
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One of our top women's shoe brands
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5.0
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4.9
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$100+
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$100+
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Meet Allbirds
Allbirds Shoes is a footwear company that has taken the fashion industry by storm with its eco-friendly approach to creating stylish shoes.
Founded in 2014
The company was founded in 2014 by Tim Brown, a former professional soccer player from New Zealand, and Joey Zwillinger, a renewable materials expert from San Francisco. The duo noticed a gap in the market for comfortable shoes that were both sustainable and stylish, which led to the creation of Allbirds Shoes.
Allbirds is committed to using sustainable materials such as merino wool, eucalyptus tree fibers, and sugarcane to create their shoes, making them a favorite among environmentally conscious consumers.
It all started with the Wool Runners
Allbirds began with one product, the Wool Runners casual sneakers, and has since expanded to offer other types of shoes including running shoes, slippers, and sandals. Allbirds have become incredibly popular due to their commitment to sustainability and comfort.
Allbirds’ shoes are minimalist in design (they do have some crazy styles, too), yet stylish and comfortable to wear for any occasion.
They have also gained a following for their hyper-focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials, which have become increasingly important to consumers. Allbirds’ dedication to sustainability has also helped them stand out in a crowded market, as they are one of the few companies that prioritize the environment in their product development so heavily.
Allbirds also features clothes now. Read more in our Allbirds Clothes Review.
What are Allbirds most popular styles?
Their popular styles include the Wool Runner, Tree Runner, and Tree Skippers, all of which have become favorites among customers due to their comfort and versatility.
Allbirds’ shoes have become a staple in our wardrobe. Mr. We Tried It wears the Tree Runner almost daily and Mrs. We Tried It wears her Wool loungers and Tree Dashers the most.
Meet Rothy’s Shoes
Rothy’s Shoes is a San Francisco-based shoe company that has become increasingly popular for its sustainable designs and exceptional comfort. Founded in 2012, Rothy’s was created to provide an alternative to traditional shoes with a focus on sustainability. The company uses recycled plastic water bottles to create their signature shoes, which come in a variety of styles for both men and women./
Rothy's Shoe Review: Amazingly comfortable shoes - even if they are made out of plastic. We love the amazing comfort, classic styles and machine washable practicality!
What are Rothy’s Most Popular Styles?
Their most popular styles include the Point, Flat, and Sneaker, all of which have become favorites among customers due to their stylish designs and comfortable fit. Rothy’s Shoes continue to innovate in the sustainable fashion space, and their dedication to the environment has helped to make them a leader in the industry.
Allbirds: Our quick review
Before we dive into the full battle of Allbirds vs. Rothy’s, there’s a quick backstory.
We weren’t too fond of Allbirds… at first…
You won’t believe what happened when we decided to try out Allbirds – it’s a comedy of errors similar to our experience with Mizzen + Main (read our Mizzen and Main review). We were skeptical at first, but the hype from the Silicon Valley crowd piqued our curiosity.
So Mr. We Tried It got himself a sleek pair of all-black sneakers… or so we thought. Upon arrival, we were met with a clunky, dull design that looked like an orthopedic shoe. We couldn’t help but laugh at the irony. Lesson learned: don’t believe the hype until you try it for yourself.
Thankfully, Allbirds has incredible customer serviceand free returns. They took the shoes back and got a refund.
The Shoe That Changed Everything – Allbirds Wool Runners
Several months went by and he felt compelled to try Allbirds again, but a different color. He got the grey Allbirds with the white soles. They looked much better and were hooked. He wore them every day. Literally, every day.
Mrs. We Tried It Discovers Allbirds
Mrs. We Tried It say Allbirds featured in STYLE Magazine was the final push she needed to get a pair. She got the Wool Lounger in the light grey color with the black soles. She loves to wear them around the house as they’re comfortable and stylish – even if they are glorified slippers.
It’s easy to see why Allbirds shoes have been such a hit among Mrs. We Tried It, who has now has (almost) every style.
With their unparalleled comfort and effortless style, it’s no wonder that so many people have been turning to Allbirds for all their shoe needs. From our experience, we can confidently say that these shoes really do live up to the hype.
Allbirds Review: Final Thoughts
Allbirds come in a variety of colors and styles that are suitable for any occasion. Mrs. We Tried It was hesitant to try Allbirds at first because she didn’t think they would be fashionable enough for her liking.
However, after seeing an Allbirds ad in STYLE Magazine, she decided to give them a chance and was pleasantly surprised at how cute and stylish they looked in person. Allbirds are definitely not your grandma’s orthopedic shoes.
Rothy’s: The Quick Review
We started We Tried It about the same time we first got our Allbirds. Shortly after that, we had the chance to try Rothy’s.
Like everyone else, we were enamored by a shoe that claimed to be crafted from recycled water bottles, was machine-washable and super comfortable. We had to try them!
Rothy’s have a unique design and come in an array of colors, patterns and textures. They are made from recycled plastic, which makes them more durable than Allbirds. They feel lightweight on the feet even though they don’t have as much cushioning as Allbirds.
We were immediately in love.
Started with Women’s Shoes Only, now has Men’s shoes
While Allbirds has always been an almost “unisex” style – Rothy’s started out with just woman’s shoes. Now, Rothy’s offers a variety of styles for men (read all Rothy’s Men Shoes Review) and women (read our Rothy’s Woman’s Review and Rothy’s Bag Review). They even make some pretty cool little wallets for men, too.
Rothy’s Review: Final Thoughts
Overall, we also love Rothy’s shoes. The combination of sustainability, comfort, convenience, and style make them a great choice for anyone looking to invest in quality shoes that won’t just last one season. With so many colors and patterns to choose from, you can find the perfect pair of Rothy’s for any occasion. Plus, the fact that they are machine-washable is an added bonus.
If you’re looking for comfortable shoes with a classic design that will stand up to daily wear and tear, then Rothy’s should be your go-to choice. Their stylish designs combined with their sustainable materials make them a great option for anyone who values both fashion and practicality. We highly recommend giving them a try!
Let’s Compare: Rothy’s Vs Allbirds
OK, enough about the shoes individually. Let’s put them head to head in a couple of different categories.
While the actual styles of both shoes couldn’t be more different, they are VERY similar in a couple ways.
Allbirds vs Rothy’s – Comfort
Whew. This is a tough one.
For the most part, Allbirds are more comfortable than Rothy’s. That’s simply because they offer a good blend of support (not too much, not too little, just right) for many of their styles.
Think of Rothy’s, especially their woman’s flats, as more minimalist – by design. There isn’t a ton of support, but flats typically don’t provide much anyway.
However, the Rothy’s Men’s Sneakers, in particular, the RS01 – offer great support and comfort at the same time. I initially didn’t like the shoes because I thought they were too heavy. However, with time, they became awesome shoes for me to wear.
I’ll give the slight edge to Allbirds here.
Allbirds vs. Rothy’s – Sustainability
Rothy’s vs. Allbirds – sustainability showdown!
In the battle of eco-friendly footwear, we have Allbirds and Rothy’s going head to head. Allbirds uses renewable materials such as wool and eucalyptus tree fibers, while Rothy’s opts for recycled plastic water bottles – both impressive feats in their own right.
Allbirds also focuses on reducing waste by designing their shoes to last longer and using recycled packaging, while Rothy’s 3D knitting process cuts down on material waste. And let’s not forget, Rothy’s and Allbirds shoes are also machine washable, meaning you can clean them in the washing machine to make them last longer. It’s a tough decision, but either way, Mother Nature wins in this scenario.
So who wins the sustainability showdown? It’s a tie! Both Allbirds and Rothy’s are committed to sustainability and are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. So no matter which brand you choose, you can feel good about your purchase knowing that you’re supporting a sustainable company.
Allbirds vs. Rothy’s – Design
When it comes to design, Allbirds and Rothy’s both offer stylish, comfortable shoes that are perfect for everyday wear. The best way to describe both brands is no one that knows about either brand will think anything of the brand when they see it. However, if you see Allbirds or Rothy’s, you’ll be sure to see it and may even strike up a conversation.
Allbirds is best known for its classic take on sneaker styles, while Rothy’s is best known for its flats. Both brands utilize Merino wool (in different ways) for the comfiest possible wear, day in day out, though Allbirds’ is more affordable and makes use of the fabric in a variety of different designs.
Allbirds offers a range of colors and patterns to choose from, as well as unique materials like eucalyptus tree fiber and wool. The shoes come in a variety of styles including sneakers, loafers, slip-ons and sandals.
On the other hand, Rothy’s shoes are all about bold patterns and bright colors, in addition to classic styles like the black points.
From leopard print to neon green, there’s a Rothy’s shoe for every personality. Their shoes are also incredibly unique – their signature 3D knitting process allows for intricate and eye-catching designs. Plus, the recycled plastic material gives them a unique texture.
So which one offers better overall design? Well, it really depends on your personal style. If you prefer a more casual look, Allbirds might be the way to go. But if you’re all about classic and timeless style, Rothy’s is definitely worth considering. Either way, both brands offer well-designed and stylish shoes that are sure to turn heads.
We will say that overall, Allbirds has some of the ugliest shoes – thankfully they aren’t messing with the classics too much.
Rothy’s doesn’t stray too far from what they know works, but there’s always an exception, like this style:
Allbirds vs. Rothy’s: What do we recommend?
Allbirds vs. Rothy’s – the ultimate question! We’ve compared their sustainability and design, but which brand should you actually go for? The answer is pretty simple: it all depends on what you’re looking for!
Both Allbirds and Rothy’s offer unique and eco-friendly shoe options that are comfortable and stylish. If you prioritize sustainability and want shoes made from renewable or recycled materials, both brands have got you covered.
And if you want shoes that make a statement and show off your personal style, again, you can’t go wrong with either brand.
The final verdict? Both!
So what do we recommend? Well, it’s pretty straightforward – if you like the style and comfort of either brand, we recommend you try it! Both Allbirds and Rothy’s have become well-loved for a reason, and it all comes down to personal preference. So why not try out a pair of each and see which one you prefer? After all, who doesn’t love a good shoe shopping spree?
You can be sure that your shoes will be comfortable and stylish, no matter what brand your choose. Plus, both brands have been praised for their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly materials. So if you’re looking for a fashionable yet environmentally conscious shoe option, look no further than Allbirds or Rothy’s!
Allbirds: The Pros and Cons
Honestly, neither brand is perfect (or any brand, for that matter). So we thought we’d highlight some pros and cons for each brands, just so you know the details with your eyes wide open.
Allbirds Pros
- Made from renewable materials like wool and eucalyptus tree fibers
- The materials are incredibly comfortable and breathable
- Designed for everyday wear, with a variety of styles to choose from
- Machine washable, making them easy to clean and care for
- Built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and reducing waste
- Offers a wide variety of styles from slippers to sneakers to flip flops to running shoes
Allbirds Cons
- Some people may find the designs to be too simplistic or plain
- The shoes may not provide enough support for people with certain foot conditions
- Limited sizing options, particularly for people with wide or narrow feet
- Some customers have reported issues with durability, particularly with the soles wearing out quickly
- The dreaded toe box issue, more below.
The Dreaded Toe Box Issue
It’s true, Allbirds does have a small Toe Box issue with some of their Wool shoes. However, after trying out their Tree Runners, we no longer wore the Wool Runners as much. In fact, we highlighted this fact in our recent Tree Runners Review update:
It’s also why we call the Allbirds Tree Runners the very best Allbirds.
- Mr. We Tried It's favorite Allbirds
- Soft, comfortable
- Tree-fiber is breathable
- Comes in a variety of different colors
- Washable
- Made from Sustainable Materials
Super comfortable and lasts for 3-4+ years thanks to being machine washable. They also keep their shape better than the OG Wool Runners.
Rothy’s: The Pros and Cons
Rothy’s – the trendy shoe brand known for their use of recycled materials and unique designs. But what are the actual pros and cons of these stylish shoes? Let’s take a closer look:
Rothy’s Pros
- Made from recycled plastic water bottles, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendliness
- The 3D knitting process allows for intricate and eye-catching designs
- Machine washable, making them easy to care for and clean
- Wide range of styles and colors to choose from, making them versatile and perfect for any occasion
- Available in more formal and more casual styles – flats to sneakers and boots and everything in between
- The recycled materials are durable and long-lasting, making them a sustainable choice
Rothy’s Cons
- Some customers may find the shoes to be too stiff or uncomfortable initially
- The shoes may not provide enough support for people with certain foot conditions
- Limited sizing options, particularly for people with wide or narrow feet
- The recycled materials may have a different texture or feel than traditional shoe materials
- Weird issues when washing white shoes
Weird Issue when Washing White Shoes
After cleaning two different pairs of White Rothy’s Shoes, we noticed an odd yellow color appear.
There didn’t seem to be a rhyme or reason to the stains, but they tended to be located near areas where there may have been glue (like where the fabric and sole meet). But it was also in a couple of other random spots, too:
How to fix the yellow spots
Want the best way to clean your Rothy's or Allbirds shoes? Then get this Oxiclean Maxforce.
The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to get the yellow spots off. Just use Oxyclean and let the shoes sit for a day or so. This got the yellow color right off!
SUAVS vs. Allbirds vs. Rothy’s
If you’re looking for an alternative to Allbirds and Rothy’s, SUAVS shoes might just be the perfect fit for you. Like their counterparts, SUAVS shoes are also sustainable, machine-washable, and designed with a minimalist aesthetic in mind. However, they also have a unique “sock” like upper that sets them apart from other shoe brands.
Super comfortable, machine washable, breathanle. and made from sustainable materials. Seriously, it doesn't get much better than this.
The sock-like upper of SUAVS shoes might take some getting used to, but it also provides a snug and comfortable fit. Plus, the lack of seams and heavy materials make these shoes incredibly lightweight and breathable, perfect for those who want a comfortable and minimalist shoe option.
But what really sets SUAVS shoes apart is their commitment to sustainability. The company uses recycled plastic water bottles for their materials, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendliness. And like Allbirds and Rothy’s, SUAVS shoes are built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further promoting sustainability.
So if you’re looking for a sustainable and comfortable shoe option that’s a bit different from the norm, SUAVS shoes might just be the perfect fit for you. Whether you love or hate the sock-like upper, there’s no denying the comfort and durability of these unique shoes.
Birdies vs. Allbirds vs. Rothys
For those who are looking for a shoe brand that’s a bit more stylish and fashion-forward, Birdies shoes might be the perfect alternative to Allbirds and Rothy’s.
While not machine washable or as sustainable, these Birdies shoes feature an elevated design and extreme comfort. A great pair of shoes.
While they may not be as sustainable as the others on this list, Birdies shoes are a great alternative.
They offer comfortable, stylish flats that are secretly slippers on the inside. Birdies shoes merge elevated style with luxurious comfort and everyday versatility. Unlike Allbirds and Rothy’s, Birdies shoes are not machine washable or made from as sustainable materials. However, they are more stylish than both of these brands, making them an attractive option for those looking for a fashionable shoe that is also comfortable.
Read our full Birdies Review for more information (and check out our Birdies Promo Code, too).
The Heron flat by Birdies is modeled after shoes worn by Venetian gondoliers and is made with rich fabrics. The Blackbird flat is a loafer-style shoe with a cushioned footbed and arch support for all-day wearability. The Starling flat features a pointed toe and memory foam cushioning for extra comfort. These styles are perfect for those who want to look fashionable but also need the comfort of a slipper-like shoe.
Allbirds vs Rothy’s flats: Rothy’s Wins
This one is actually pretty easy: the Rothy’s win this by a mile, and that’s because we just don’t like the way the Allbirds flats look.
The Allbirds flats just look like a glorified sock.
Other thoughts on the allbirds vs rothy’s
For those looking for an alternative to Allbirds or Rothy’s, Birdies offers stylish flats that combine comfort and fashion in one package. Although they may not be as sustainable or machine washable as other brands, their unique designs make them stand out from the crowd while still providing the same level of comfort you’d expect from a slipper-like shoe.
Allbirds vs. Rothy’s vs. The World: Final Thoughts
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Our Favorite Shoe Brand
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One of our top women's shoe brands
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5.0
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4.9
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$100+
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$100+
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Ultimately, all these brands have their own unique features that make them stand out from the rest.
Allbirds offers sustainable and machine-washable shoes with a minimalist aesthetic. Rothy’s provides stylish flats made from recycled materials for an eco-friendly option. And Birdies are fashionable yet comfortable slipper-like shoes perfect for everyday wearability.
SUAVS are another great option you won’t be disappointed by.
No matter what you’re looking for in a shoe, one of these brands should fit your needs perfectly – so don’t be afraid to try something new! With each brand offering different styles and designs, it can be hard to choose just one pair of shoes but no matter which ones you pick, you’ll get comfort, style and sustainability at its finest.
Want more information on Rothy’s vs Allbirds? Check out our Allbirds Review, Smallbirds Review, Allbirds Tree Dasher Review, Allbirds Tree Runner Review, Allbirds Clothing Review, Rothy’s Review, Rothy’s Bag Review, Rothy’s Wallet Review, Rothy’s Mens Shoes Review and Rothy’s Promo Code.
If that wasn’t enough, check out our SUAVS Review, Birdies Review, and How to Wash Allbirds.
Whew!
Also, just released: our Allbirds Wool Runner 2 Review.
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