Our Story

The story of Allbirds is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: there is always a better way to make things. From the very beginning, the brand has been guided by a desire to challenge convention, rethink materials, and create products that feel good to wear while also benefiting the planet. This mindset of continuous improvement is not a trend or a marketing idea, but a core value that has shaped every step of the journey.

The origins of Allbirds trace back to New Zealand in 2007, when former professional footballer Tim Brown began questioning the footwear industry he knew so well. He grew increasingly frustrated with shoes that relied heavily on synthetic, petroleum-based materials and flashy branding, often at the expense of comfort and sustainability. Surrounded by New Zealand’s natural landscapes and familiar with the country’s world-class Merino wool, he saw an opportunity to take a completely different approach to footwear by working with nature rather than against it.

That early idea gained momentum years later when Tim Brown partnered with Joey Zwillinger, an engineer and renewables expert, in 2014. Together, they set out to rethink how shoes could be made from the ground up. Their shared goal was not only to create something comfortable and well-designed, but also to reduce the environmental footprint typically associated with footwear. By combining design sensibility with scientific expertise, they began developing materials that were both high-performing and responsibly sourced.

In 2016, Allbirds introduced its first product to the world: the Wool Runner. Made with superfine Merino wool, the shoe stood out immediately for its minimalist design, soft feel, and lightweight comfort. It resonated with people who were looking for something simple, versatile, and genuinely comfortable. Word spread quickly, and the Wool Runner soon gained a reputation as one of the most comfortable shoes available. What started as a single product became the foundation for a growing brand with a clear purpose.

As the years passed, Allbirds continued to look to nature for inspiration. Rather than following traditional industry practices, the company explored renewable and recycled materials such as tree fiber and sugarcane-based foam, alongside responsibly sourced Merino wool. Every material choice reflected a broader commitment to making products in a way that considers long-term impact. This approach is about progress, not perfection, and about making thoughtful decisions that move the industry in a more responsible direction.

Innovation at Allbirds goes beyond materials alone. As a certified B Corporation, the company measures success not only by financial performance but also by social and environmental impact. A data-driven mindset helps guide investments in tools, systems, and partnerships that support sustainability goals. By focusing on transparency and continuous learning, Allbirds aims to preserve the planet for future generations while still delivering products people love to wear every day.

The brand’s efforts have also extended into deeper conversations about carbon footprints and regenerative practices. Through collaborations with partners such as regenerative wool programs in New Zealand, Allbirds has worked to better understand and account for emissions at the farm level. This includes recognizing both emissions and carbon sequestration, offering a more complete picture of environmental impact than traditional industry models. These initiatives reflect a belief that agriculture, when done thoughtfully, can be part of the solution to climate challenges rather than a contributor to the problem.

Over time, Allbirds has also earned attention from media, sustainability experts, and even medical professionals. Podiatrists have noted the comfort, breathability, and natural support found in the shoes, while broader cultural conversations have highlighted how casual footwear is redefining everyday style. Comfort, once seen as a compromise, has become a priority in modern life, and Allbirds has been part of that shift.

Today, the Allbirds story continues to evolve, guided by the same principles that sparked its creation. By striving to make better products in better ways, the brand remains committed to innovation, responsibility, and a future where comfort, design, and sustainability can coexist naturally.