Allbirds has become a global favorite for its eco-friendly, ultra-comfortable footwear. But with popularity comes imitation—and fake Allbirds shoes are popping up more frequently online and in unofficial stores. Whether you’re shopping for your first pair or adding to your collection, it’s important to know how to spot authentic Allbirds shoes and avoid falling victim to knockoffs.
Below is a guide to help you confidently identify real Allbirds and protect your purchase.
1. Buy from Official or Authorized Sellers
The safest way to ensure authenticity is to buy directly from Allbirds via their official website (allbirds.com), physical retail stores, or approved marketplaces like Nordstrom (in select cases).
- Red flags: Avoid third-party sellers on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or unfamiliar websites offering steep discounts.
- Pro tip: Allbirds rarely offers sales or discounts, so “too good to be true” prices often signal fakes.
2. Check the Price Point
Authentic Allbirds shoes generally cost between $98 and $145 USD, depending on the style. Prices significantly below that range—especially new in box—should raise suspicions.
- Real vs fake: A new pair of Wool Runners for $39.99 is almost certainly not genuine.
- Tip: Compare the listed price to that on Allbirds’ official site.
3. Inspect the Packaging
Authentic Allbirds come in recyclable, minimalist packaging that reflects the brand’s eco-conscious mission. Look for:
- A simple kraft cardboard shoebox with Allbirds branding.
- Shoes wrapped in paper, not plastic.
- A printed label with sizing, style, and color information.
Fake shoes often come in generic boxes or use excessive plastic packaging.
4. Examine the Materials and Craftsmanship
Allbirds is known for high-quality, sustainable materials like merino wool, eucalyptus tree fiber, and sugarcane-based SweetFoam™. When inspecting a pair:
- Wool shoes should feel soft and premium—not scratchy or thin.
- Tree shoes (Tree Runners, Tree Dashers) should feel lightweight and breathable.
- Outsoles should be smooth, not rough or overly glossy.
Stitching should be clean, even, and tight. Any fraying, glue stains, or uneven construction are warning signs.
5. Check the Insoles and Branding
Authentic Allbirds insoles are one of their standout features—made from castor bean oil for softness and odor reduction.
- The insole should say “Allbirds” and be removable.
- Logos are cleanly printed or embossed—not misaligned or blurry.
- Check the heel logo and tongue tag for accurate fonts and spacing.
Fake shoes may have inconsistent branding or unusual font styles.
6. Review the Sizing Label
Every Allbirds shoe has a label inside the tongue or upper with the following:
- “Allbirds” branding.
- Size (US, EU) and country of origin (usually Korea or Vietnam).
- A style code and barcode.
Look out for typos, incorrect size formatting, or missing information—common signs of counterfeit products.
7. Feel the Weight and Flexibility
Genuine Allbirds shoes are known for being lightweight yet durable. While fakes may try to mimic the look, they often feel heavier or unnaturally stiff due to lower-quality materials.
- Flex the sole—authentic shoes bend easily while still holding their shape.
- Weigh both shoes—they should feel evenly balanced.
8. Smell Test (Yes, Really)
Real Allbirds have a neutral or slightly earthy scent due to their natural materials. Counterfeits made with synthetic materials might smell like chemicals, glue, or rubber.
9. Research the Seller
If buying from a marketplace:
- Look for customer reviews, especially ones mentioning authenticity.
- Check the seller’s return policy—Allbirds offers 30-day returns, even if the shoes are worn.
- Avoid sellers with vague descriptions or no contact information.
10. Use Allbirds Customer Support
Still unsure? You can contact Allbirds directly with photos of the shoes, packaging, or receipt. Their customer service team is helpful and will assist in verifying authenticity.
Final Thoughts
The rise in counterfeit Allbirds shoes means buyers need to be a little more cautious. But with this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to spot the signs of authenticity, make confident choices, and ensure your shoes come with the quality, comfort, and sustainability promise the brand is known for.
Stick to trusted sources, inspect your purchase carefully, and step out in true Allbirds comfort—fakes not invited.
