Allbirds Tree Breezers vs Rothy’s Flats: Comparison Review

Last year, I bought the Allbirds Tree Breezers as a gift to self and I wrote a thorough review about it HERE. However, I had always wanted to try Rothy’s, a popular choice in the world of machine-washable flats. Coming out of my no-buy quarter, I finally decided that my first purchase would be their pointed-toe flats. I have always wondered how these 2 shoes compare. Based on the messages I received from IG stories, it seems like many of you are curious too! So here comes the long-awaited Allbirds vs Rothy’s flats comparison review.

ALLBIRDS VS ROTHY’S: THE MATERIAL

I hope it’s not a surprise that this section comes first 🙂 One of the biggest differences between Allbirds and Rothy’s is the material used. Even more than just science, this choice affects the feel and comfort of the shoes too.

Upper:

• Allbirds: Uses FSC-certified eucalyptus fiber, which is breathable and cooling.
• Rothy’s: Spun from plastic bottles. In more recent posts, they neglect to specify what type of plastic, but I assume polyester (since this fiber is most commonly derived from recycled plastics. Their 2017 post seems to confirm this information)

Outsole:

• Allbirds: Sugarcane outsole (SweetFoam), which they claim is carbon-negative. This foam is also known as EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), a material most commonly seen in play mats!
• Rothy’s: 9% renewable rubber, and natural minerals. No clear info on the exact breakdown.

Insole:

• Allbirds: Castor-bean oil derived foam backing, and Merino Wool cushion lining.
• Rothy’s: Castor-bean oil derived PU (polyurethane) footbed. No info on the lining, but it seems the same as the outsole (recycled plastic). Algae-based foam.

As you can see, both shoes have some pieces in common. However, the differences here made a difference in comfort for me. With Rothy’s spun from recycled plastic, I noticed these flats do not feel as breathable as Allbirds which are made from eucalyptus. Additionally, the outsole of Allbirds is made from a sugarcane foam while Rothy’s are from rubber. I found the foam outsole to be much more buoyant, while the rubber outsole was more rigid.

Finally, I think it made a huge difference that the Allbirds insole is lined with Merino Wool. This material is hygroscopic, meaning that moisture is trapped in the core of the fiber. You don’t feel the dampness when you sweat. However, Rothy’s are lined with recycled plastic. Again, not the most breathable and when I sweat, I do feel the slippery moisture (which may also cause foot odor in the summer!).

ALLBIRDS VS ROTHY’S: THE DESIGN

Allbirds is known for their round toe-shapes, which is very comfortable. Meanwhile, Rothy’s offers both: The Point and The Flat (round toe). In terms of design, I think Rothy’s takes the lead. I love that they recently expanded their neutral color selections. Some of my personal favorites: Ecru, Portobello (pictured below), and even their Camel Captoe (a fun take on the classic Chanel-inspired design). Both the toe shape and color selection make Rothy’s a more work-friendly and elegant option than Allbirds, which is more casual and built for walking long distances.

THE FIT

I normally wear size 8, and both fit perfectly. Though if you are in between 2 sizes, you may want to size up in Rothy’s due to the narrower toe shape. The fit of Allbirds is definitely more generous due to the shoe width, as well as its fitted collar (edge along the opening of the shoe). This extra detail gives the shoe a little more lengthwise stretch. Meanwhile, Rothy’s do not stretch much at all.

I definitely recommend keeping the cardboard shoe inserts for your Rothy’s so that they keep their shape over time.

THE COMFORT

Both shoes were painless for me, and no breaking in (or bandages) were needed! I also walked great lengths in both shoes to make sure. However, as I shared earlier, the outsole of the Allbirds Breezers is more cushioned and soft, and the toe shape is wider. If you are looking for a pair good for casual walking, Allbirds Breezers is the better option.

However, if you are looking for a comfortable pair of office shoes, I definitely recommend the Rothy’s. The outsole is slightly more rigid, but I could survive wearing them throughout a day of work.

Hope you found this Allbirds vs Rothy’s flats review helpful! Last but not least, here are some shopping links for you 🙂

• Allbirds Ambassador Link
• Rothy’s Referral Link (get $20 off)