Our verdict
The ZeroGrand and Atoms Shoes are close. We gave the ZeroGrand a slight edge at 7/10 over the Atoms Shoes at 6.5/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. Still supremely comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and the design reads more like a leather sneaker than a dress shoe.
Our pick
ZeroGrand
Atoms Shoes
Side by side
| Attribute | ZeroGrand | Atoms Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 7/10 | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | Still supremely comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and the design reads more like a leather sneaker than a dress shoe. | Atoms are versatile and comfortable, but poor breathability makes feet sweat heavily—we'd pick Allbirds instead. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the ZeroGrand if…
Still supremely comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and the design reads more like a leather sneaker than a dress shoe.
- Shockingly light (~9 oz, same weight as Allbirds sneakers)
- Well-cushioned with responsive feel
Choose the Atoms Shoes if…
Atoms are versatile and comfortable, but poor breathability makes feet sweat heavily—we'd pick Allbirds instead.
- Simple, versatile minimalist design pairs with any outfit
- Unique stretch laces cinch tight for a snug fit and slip easily on/off
Why we rate them this way
ZeroGrand — 7/10
Still supremely comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and the design reads more like a leather sneaker than a dress shoe.
What we liked: Shockingly light (~9 oz, same weight as Allbirds sneakers), Well-cushioned with responsive feel, Comfortable enough for all-day walking in NYC without complaints, Versatile—pass at the office yet casual enough for weekends, Frequently on sale for $90–$180 (vs. $190–$308 list price).
Worth knowing: Quality has declined over the years, Styling reads more 'leather sneaker' than 'dress shoe', High list price; never worth paying full MSRP, Some color options are questionable for professional wear.
Atoms Shoes — 6.5/10
Atoms are versatile and comfortable, but poor breathability makes feet sweat heavily—we'd pick Allbirds instead.
What we liked: Simple, versatile minimalist design pairs with any outfit, Unique stretch laces cinch tight for a snug fit and slip easily on/off, Vegan and 100% recyclable, Lightweight, comfortable foam midsole, Copper threading minimizes odor.
Worth knowing: Polyurethane-knit upper causes excessive foot sweating and lacks breathability, Uncomfortable to wear without socks due to poor moisture management, Stretch laces still require tying and untying despite marketing, Simple design lacks distinctive look to justify $145 price tag.
Common questions
Is the ZeroGrand or the Atoms Shoes better?
We rated the ZeroGrand 7/10 and the Atoms Shoes 6.5/10, so we lean ZeroGrand — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
What's the difference between the ZeroGrand and the Atoms Shoes?
Short version — ZeroGrand: Still supremely comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and the design reads more like a leather sneaker than a dress shoe. Atoms Shoes: Atoms are versatile and comfortable, but poor breathability makes feet sweat heavily—we'd pick Allbirds instead.