Our Story

Allbirds’ journey is grounded in a simple yet powerful belief: there’s always a better way to create things. From the start, the brand has focused on challenging traditional practices, rethinking materials, and producing items that not only feel great to wear but also contribute positively to the planet. This focus on continuous improvement is not just a fleeting trend but a core value that has guided every decision made along the way.

The roots of Allbirds go back to 2007 in New Zealand when Tim Brown, a former professional footballer, became frustrated with the footwear industry. He noticed how many shoes relied on synthetic materials and excessive branding, often sacrificing comfort and sustainability in the process. Surrounded by the pristine landscapes of New Zealand and familiar with the country’s world-renowned Merino wool, he envisioned a new way of designing shoes—one that worked with nature rather than exploiting it.

This idea began to take shape in 2014 when Tim partnered with Joey Zwillinger, a renewable energy engineer, to rethink how footwear could be produced. Their shared goal was to design shoes that weren’t just comfortable and stylish but also minimized their environmental impact. Combining Tim’s design sensibility and Joey’s scientific expertise, they started creating materials that were both high-performing and responsibly sourced.

In 2016, Allbirds launched its first product: the Wool Runner. Made from superfine Merino wool, the shoe quickly gained attention for its minimalist design, soft texture, and lightweight comfort. It appealed to consumers seeking simplicity, versatility, and true comfort, and it didn’t take long before the Wool Runner gained a reputation as one of the most comfortable shoes on the market. What started as a single product laid the foundation for a growing brand with a strong sense of purpose.

Allbirds’ commitment to using natural materials continued as the brand expanded. Rather than relying on traditional industry materials, the company explored renewable and recycled options like tree fiber and sugarcane-based foam, alongside their signature Merino wool. Every material choice reflected a dedication to making products that consider long-term environmental impact, focusing on progress rather than perfection. Allbirds’ mission is to make thoughtful decisions that shift the industry toward more sustainable practices.

Innovation at Allbirds doesn’t stop with material selection. As a certified B Corporation, the brand measures its success not only by financial results but also by its social and environmental impact. Allbirds uses data-driven insights to guide investments in tools, systems, and partnerships that align with its sustainability goals. By prioritizing transparency and ongoing learning, the brand aims to protect the planet for future generations while creating products people love to wear daily.

Allbirds’ focus on reducing carbon footprints extends to its collaborations with programs like regenerative wool farming in New Zealand. These initiatives aim to better understand and account for emissions and carbon sequestration on farms, providing a more complete view of the environmental impact compared to traditional industry models. The company believes that sustainable agriculture, when done thoughtfully, can be part of the solution to climate change rather than contributing to the problem.

The brand’s efforts have garnered attention from various sectors. Podiatrists have praised the comfort, breathability, and natural support of Allbirds shoes, while cultural conversations have highlighted how the brand is reshaping casual footwear and everyday style. What was once seen as a compromise—comfort—has now become a central priority, and Allbirds has played a key role in this shift.

As it continues to grow, the Allbirds story remains rooted in the same principles that inspired its creation. By striving to create better products in better ways, the brand remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and a future where comfort, design, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.