Our verdict
The Elevar Arc Racer and the Allbirds 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.
Elevar Arc Racer
Allbirds
Side by side
| Attribute | Elevar Arc Racer | Allbirds |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Best for | If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. | After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Elevar Arc Racer if…
If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
- Exceptional comfort rated 9.5/10
- High breathability rated 9/10
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.
Why we rate them this way
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: Exceptional comfort rated 9.5/10, High breathability rated 9/10, 15 grams lighter than Ultraboost per shoe, Bouncy cushioning matches Ultraboost performance, Excellent value at $80 price point.
Worth knowing: Insole fit could be improved.
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..
Common questions
Is the Elevar Arc Racer or the Allbirds better?
We rated both 9.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. Allbirds: After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick.
What's the difference between the Elevar Arc Racer and the Allbirds?
Short version — Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. Allbirds: After 9+ pairs, Allbirds earns 9.5/10 for machine washable, sustainable daily comfort—our lifetime shoe pick.