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. Amazingly comfortable for all-day wear, but declining quality and sneaker-like styling make Amberjack a better pick for a real dress shoe.
Our pick
ZeroGrand
Atoms Shoes
Side by side
| Attribute | ZeroGrand | Atoms Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 7/10 | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | Amazingly comfortable for all-day wear, but declining quality and sneaker-like styling make Amberjack a better pick for a real dress shoe. | Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability and excessive foot sweat make Allbirds the better choice. |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the ZeroGrand if…
Amazingly comfortable for all-day wear, but declining quality and sneaker-like styling make Amberjack a better pick for a real dress shoe.
- Extremely lightweight—about 9 ounces, comparable to sneakers
- Shockingly comfortable and well-cushioned
Choose the Atoms Shoes if…
Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability and excessive foot sweat make Allbirds the better choice.
- Minimalist design pairs with many outfits
- Stretch laces cinch tight and stay snug
Why we rate them this way
ZeroGrand — 7/10
Amazingly comfortable for all-day wear, but declining quality and sneaker-like styling make Amberjack a better pick for a real dress shoe.
What we liked: Extremely lightweight—about 9 ounces, comparable to sneakers, Shockingly comfortable and well-cushioned, Walk all day without foot fatigue or complaints, Flexible sole that feels natural to move in, Frequently discounted significantly from list price.
Worth knowing: Quality has declined over the years, Reads as a leather sneaker, not a true dress shoe, Full MSRP ($190–$308) is expensive; only worth buying on sale, Some styles and colors are questionably casual for formal settings.
Atoms Shoes — 6.5/10
Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability and excessive foot sweat make Allbirds the better choice.
What we liked: Minimalist design pairs with many outfits, Stretch laces cinch tight and stay snug, Vegan and 100% recyclable, Lightweight foam midsole with good cushioning, Wide variety of colorways.
Worth knowing: Polyurethane-knit upper causes excessive sweating and poor breathability, Generic style doesn't justify the $145 price tag, Stretchy laces still require tying and untying, Uncomfortable without socks due to moisture.
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: Amazingly comfortable for all-day wear, but declining quality and sneaker-like styling make Amberjack a better pick for a real dress shoe. Atoms Shoes: Comfortable and versatile, but poor breathability and excessive foot sweat make Allbirds the better choice.