Our verdict
The Allbirds and the Lems 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
Lems
Side by side
| Attribute | Allbirds | Lems |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Best for | After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick. | Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Allbirds if…
After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick.
- 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 Lems if…
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
- Looks like a normal boot, not a minimalist shoe
- 9.5/10 comfort rating
Why we rate them this way
Allbirds — 9.5/10
After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick.
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..
Lems — 9.5/10
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
What we liked: Looks like a normal boot, not a minimalist shoe, 9.5/10 comfort rating, Lightweight at 9 oz—easy to pack, Runs true to size, Great value at $150.
Worth knowing: Wide toe box takes a few wears to normalize, Divisive aesthetic—not universally appealing, Lighter outsole reduces traction on technical terrain, Standard version not waterproof.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds or the Lems better?
We rated both 9.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Allbirds: After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick. Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
What's the difference between the Allbirds and the Lems?
Short version — Allbirds: After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick. Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.