Our verdict
The Lems 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.
Lems
Allbirds
Side by side
| Attribute | Lems | Allbirds |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Best for | Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but prepare for toe-box break-in and divisive aesthetics. | If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Lems if…
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but prepare for toe-box break-in and divisive aesthetics.
- Looks like a normal boot, not minimalist footwear
- Exceptional comfort (9.5/10 rating)
Choose the Allbirds if…
If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
- 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
Lems — 9.5/10
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but prepare for toe-box break-in and divisive aesthetics.
What we liked: Looks like a normal boot, not minimalist footwear, Exceptional comfort (9.5/10 rating), Lightweight at only 9 oz, Excellent value at $150, Flexible with natural foot movement.
Worth knowing: Wide toe box takes a few wears to get used to, Divisive/polarizing design aesthetic, Lighter outsole reduces traction on rugged terrain, Limited functionality for extreme hiking.
Allbirds — 9.5/10
If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
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 Lems or the Allbirds better?
We rated both 9.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but prepare for toe-box break-in and divisive aesthetics. Allbirds: If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
What's the difference between the Lems and the Allbirds?
Short version — Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but prepare for toe-box break-in and divisive aesthetics. Allbirds: If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.