Everything
My first introduction to Allbirds occurred during a trip to its initial birth place of Auckland, New Zealand. Speaking with co-founder Tim Brown, it was clear just how successful the San Fransisco startup had become, with a long list of A-list fans including Barack Obama, Ansel Elgort, Leonardo DiCaprio and Matthew McConaughey – just to name a few. Thanks to its entirely sustainable sneakers (comfort included), socks and accessories, the brand has become a leader in environmentally friendly products, done right. But despite a plethora of offerings, it had yet to break into high performance-wear, that is, until now.
Like I imagine tens of thousands of people would agree, news of the Allbirds Dasher sneakers was extremely exciting. Combining the same science from its popular tree uppers – a breathable mesh sourced from eucalyptus leaves – its usual featherlight soles have seen a sturdy upgrade, albeit just as comfortable.
Penning the question, “What if instead of prioritising oil-based plastics that linger in landfills and spill into oceans, we harnessed nature’s renewable properties?”, Allbirds has fused a natural rubber outsole made for grip, with a sugar cane sole. Inside, castor bean foam insoles offer low-impact comfort and a contoured footbed provides arch support and cups heels for smooth transition through stride. And like all Allbirds sneakers, a Merino wool lining allows for odour-free breathability, without the need to wear socks if you dare to choose to.
The result has seen a high performance iteration of its sustainable signatures and extra support for running or simply running errands. As an amateur runner – with dodgy knees – I’m always curious to find the best in new technology and thanks to its slightly wider sole not normally found in other sneakers plus expertly placed grooves around the feet, I’ve never felt more supported.
It also takes comfort in knowing the Allbirds Dasher has been trialed by 50 amateur and professional athletes. So don’t just take it from me. To join a new and sustainable movement of running, shop the Dasher below.
Allbirds Men’s Tree Dasher Sneakers / $225 AUD SHOP NOW
