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 comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and Amberjack is now our pick for a true dress shoe.
Our pick
ZeroGrand
Atoms Shoes
Side by side
| Attribute | ZeroGrand | Atoms Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 7/10 | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | Still comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and Amberjack is now our pick for a true dress shoe. | Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability makes Allbirds the better choice at the same price. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the ZeroGrand if…
Still comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and Amberjack is now our pick for a true dress shoe.
- Incredibly lightweight (about 9 ounces)
- Well-cushioned and flexible
Choose the Atoms Shoes if…
Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability makes Allbirds the better choice at the same price.
- Minimalist design pairs with multiple outfit styles
- Stretch laces cinch snug and slip on easily
Why we rate them this way
ZeroGrand — 7/10
Still comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and Amberjack is now our pick for a true dress shoe.
What we liked: Incredibly lightweight (about 9 ounces), Well-cushioned and flexible, Comfortable enough for all-day wear, Pass at the office while maintaining sneaker-like comfort, Great for travel.
Worth knowing: Quality has declined over the years, Styling reads more 'leather sneaker' than dress shoe, High list price ($190–$308, though often on sale), Some styles and colors are too casual for business wear.
Atoms Shoes — 6.5/10
Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability makes Allbirds the better choice at the same price.
What we liked: Minimalist design pairs with multiple outfit styles, Stretch laces cinch snug and slip on easily, Vegan and 100% recyclable, Lightweight foam midsole with good cushioning, Multiple color options available.
Worth knowing: Polyurethane-knit upper causes sweaty feet and poor breathability, Not suitable for sockless wear, Stretch laces still require tying and untying, Generic design lacks unique look to justify $145 price.
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 comfortable and light, but quality has slipped and Amberjack is now our pick for a true dress shoe. Atoms Shoes: Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability makes Allbirds the better choice at the same price.