Our verdict
The Allbirds and the Elevar Arc Racer are too close to call — we rated both 9.5/10. There's no clear winner here, so it comes down to what you want it for. We break that down below.
Allbirds
Elevar Arc Racer
Side by side
| Attribute | Allbirds | Elevar Arc Racer |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Best for | Machine-washable, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable—Allbirds is our answer for a lifetime shoe brand. | If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. |
| Standouts |
|
|
| Watch-outs |
|
|
Which one is right for you?
Choose the Allbirds if…
Machine-washable, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable—Allbirds is our answer for a lifetime shoe brand.
- The Wool Runner is an absolute 10/10 for comfort and casual wear. Everything else they've made is always a little bit of a trade-off from that.
- They offered incredible comfort, especially for someone like me who struggles with plantar fasciitis.
Choose the Elevar Arc Racer if…
If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
- Super comfortable and lightweight (9.5/10)
- Same bounce and energy return as Ultraboost
Why we rate them this way
Allbirds — 9.5/10
Machine-washable, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable—Allbirds is our answer for a lifetime shoe brand.
What we liked: The Wool Runner is an absolute 10/10 for comfort and casual wear. Everything else they've made is always a little bit of a trade-off from that., They offered incredible comfort, especially for someone like me who struggles with plantar fasciitis., I've worn the new Wool Runners NZs for 3 months and they're the best shoes yet. I wear them everywhere., I was shocked when I got them, expecting them to be garbage. The sole has less forefoot cushioning but they feel like similar shoes to the NZs..
Worth knowing: This is why I will NEVER buy shoes that use naked foam cushioning as a sole. You really can't complain about short lifespan..
Elevar Arc Racer — 9.5/10
If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
What we liked: Super comfortable and lightweight (9.5/10), Same bounce and energy return as Ultraboost, 15 grams lighter per shoe than Ultraboost, Sock-like design without tongue keeps foot stable, Nearly half the price at $80 vs $150+ Ultraboost.
Worth knowing: Insole could be better-fitting.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds or the Elevar Arc Racer better?
We rated both 9.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Allbirds: Machine-washable, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable—Allbirds is our answer for a lifetime shoe brand. Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
What's the difference between the Allbirds and the Elevar Arc Racer?
Short version — Allbirds: Machine-washable, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable—Allbirds is our answer for a lifetime shoe brand. Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.