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Allbirds is a New Zealand-American footwear and apparel company founded in 2016 by Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger. The company is based in San Francisco, California. Tim Brown is a former New Zealand footballer, and Joey Zwillinger is an expert in renewable materials.
Since its founding, Allbirds set out to differentiate itself by focusing on comfort, simple design, and sustainable shoes. The company makes its shoes from Merino wool. In 2021, Allbirds had 710 employees and generated $277.5 million in revenue. [1]
Allbirdsoffers several eco-friendly and ultra-comfortable shoes, including Wool Mizzles, Wool Runners, and Wool Loungers. All three options are made from wool fabric with moisture-wicking and odor-minimizing properties. Wool Runners are lightweight and ideal for hot temperatures, while Wool Mizzles feature a weather-repellent Puddle Guard to keep the wearer’s feet dry.[2]
The company uses a direct-to-consumer model and sells its products globally via its website and retail stores. In Nov 2021, Allbirds went public in a $300 billion IPO. Its valuation surged to over $4 billion after its IPO. But the company faces stiff competition from Nike, Adidas, Rothy’s, Brooks, Birdies, Vessi, and Vans. [3]
Here is an in-depth analysis of top Allbirds’ competitors and alternatives:
1. Nike Inc.
Year founded: 1964
Headquarter: Beaverton, Oregon
Nike is the No. 1 selling sneaker brand and the world’s most valuable sportswear company. The company filed seven trademark applications in Nov 2021 to sell virtual branded merch via the metaverse. In 2021, Nike had around 76,000 employees and made $41.3 billion in revenue. [4]
Nike offers athletic shoes, sneakers, apparel, and sports equipment. The brand spends over $300 million in marketing per month versus around $400,000-$500,000 for Allbirds.
Although Allbirds’ valuation has skyrocketed to over $1.7 billion, it cannot match Nike’s financial capabilities. Nike is the top Allbirds competitor for many reasons. [5]
2. Adidas
Year founded: 1949
Headquarter: Herzogenaurach, Germany
Adidas is a leading sportswear brand. The company has around 60,000 employees and sells its productsin 160 countries globally. In 2021, Adidas generated 21.23 billion euros in revenue.
Adidas has influenced urban culture since the 1970s and nurtured a cult-like following. In May 2020, Adidas partnered with Allbirds to develop the eco-friendly sneaker Adizero x Allbirds, made from 70% recycled polyester and 30% natural Tencel. The sneaker has a low carbon footprint of 2.94 kg CO2e and brings the best of both brands, including Adidas’ cushioning technologies and Allbirds’ SweetFoam material.
The two brands unveiled only 100 pairs of the sneaker before its worldwide release in Dec 2021. But Adidas also offers several sneakers that compete with Allbirds’ shoes. Adidas is one of the top Allbirds competitors. [6]
3. Rothy’s
Year founded: 2012
Headquarter: San Francisco, California
Rothy’smanufactures shoes with sustainability and comfort in mind. The company uses fabrics derived from plastic water bottles to make its machine-washable point-style shoe. As of Dec 2021, Rothy’s had reused over 37 million plastic bottles to create its signature fabric via 3D knitting.
Rothy’s sneaker competes against Allbirds’ machine-washable Wool Runners. Allbirds is more comfortable than Rothy’s. But Rothy’s offers more color options, prints, and refined styles.
The brand makes the outsoles of its shoes from carbon-free rubber or vegan leather. Its insoles are made from recycled materials. Rothy’s is one of the best Allbirdsalternatives for eco-conscious consumers. [7]
4. Converse
Year founded: 1908
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
Converse is a footwear and apparel brand owned by Nike. The company designs and sells sneakers, tennis shoes, and accessories. In 2021, Converse had around 2,900 employees and generated $2.2 billion in revenue. [8]
Both Converse and Allbirdsoperate in the footwear sector. But Converse has a more illustrious history. In 1918, the company introduced its renowned All-Star basketball sneakers.
This sneaker celebrates individuality and self-expression through fashion, music, art, and skating. Converse is one of the top Allbirds competitors.
5. Brooks
Year founded: 1914
Headquarter: Seattle, Washington
Brooks is a fitness footwear and apparel company owned by Berkshire Hathaway. The brand offers high-quality running shoes, ideal for casual and distance runners. In 2021, Brooks had around 205 employees and generated about $500 million in revenue.
Both Brooks and Allbirds are committed to sustainability. Manyof Brooks’ shoes are made from recyclable materials. The company offers several options for runners, including Launch 7, Ghost 13, Hyperion Elite 2, Ricochet 2, Glycerin GTS 19, Adrenaline GTS 21, Cascadia 15, and Levitate4. Each shoe is best suited for a specific style of running. Brooks is one of the top alternatives to Allbirds for casual and professional runners. [9]
6. Skechers
Year founded: 1992
Headquarter: Manhattan Beach, California
Skechers is an athletic footwear and apparel brand. Like Allbirds, Skechers uses a DTC (direct-to-consumer) model. The company sells its products to consumers in over 180 countries via 4,306 retail stores and e-commerce websites. In 2021, Skechers had 11,700 employees and generated $6.3 billion in revenue. [10]
Both Skechers and Allbirds are casual footwear brands. Skechers offers several types of shoes, including Ultra Flex made of breathable and flexible stretch-knit mesh and air-cooled memory foam. Skechers is one of the top alternatives to Allbirds.
7. New Balance
Year founded: 1906
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
New Balance is a sports footwear brand with over 110 years of experience. The company operates in more than 120 countries globally. In 2021, New Balance had around 5,400 employees and reported a 30% increase in revenue to over $4 billion. [11]
New Balance is tapping into emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Since its founding, the brand has differentiated itself from competitors by producing classy footwear with simple designs. New Balance is one of the most experienced Allbirds competitors.
8. Puma
Year founded: 1948
Headquarter: Herzogenaurach, Germany
Puma is a sportswear brand that offers footwear, apparel, and sports equipment. The company has around 13,000 employees and over 700 stores globally. In 2021, Puma reported a 32% increase in revenue to $5.9 billion. [12]
Puma designs and sells more variety of sports shoes than Allbirds. Both companies rely on the North American market. In 2021, Puma sales in the Americas grew 53.9% to $2.64 billion. The company also offers casual wear and athleisure. Puma is a worthy alternative to Allbirds for athletic footwear.
9. Birdies
Year founded: 2015
Headquarter: Los Angeles, California
Birdies is a shoe brand founded to design and sell trendy indoor slippers. The company expanded its products to include uncomfortable, supportive, and stylish shoes. In 2021, Birdies had around 55 employees and generated $12.6 million in revenue.
Birdies offer slides and flats in three styles: Blackbird, Starling, and Heron. All Birdies shoes have a seven-layer footbed and combine the comfort of sneakers, the stylish design of flats, and the softness of slippers. They also feature a high-density memory foam with arch and heel support to absorb shock. Birdies are one of the top Allbirds competitors. [13]
10. Vans
Year founded: 1966
Headquarter: Costa Mesa, California
Vans is a shoe and apparel company specializing in the skateboarding niche. The company started manufacturing skateboarding shoes in the 1970s. In 2021, Vans had around 5,000 employees and generated $14 billion in revenue.
Both Vans and Allbirds offer athletic footwear. But Vans has nurtured a cult-like following among skateboarders, surfers, and snowboarders.
In Sep 2021, the company partnered with Roblox to develop its Vans World metaverse. Skateboarding can engage virtually in various skating parks while wearing the latest Vans gear. Vans is the best alternative to Allbirds for skateboarders. [14]
11. Anta Sports
Year founded: 1991
Headquarter: Xiamen, Fujian, China
Anta Sports is China’s largest sportswear brand owned byANTA Group.The company sells sports apparel, footwear, and accessories. In 2021, Anta’s revenue increased by 38.9% to $7.76 billion.
ANTA Group uses the multi-brand strategy to strengthen its dominance of the Chinese market. In 2020, Anta Sports controlled 15% of China’s market share. The company also seeks to achieve global leadership by 2030. Anta Sports is the top alternative to Allbirds in China. [15]
12. Fila
Year founded: 1911
Headquarter: Seoul, South Korea
Fila is a Korean sport and casualwear brand. The company is a subsidiary of Anta Group, China’s sportswear powerhouse. In 2021, Fila’s revenue increased by 21.3% to $3.3 billion, with a net income of $295.2 million. [16]
Fila was popular in the 1980s and 1990s but declined in recent years. In 2009, Anta Sports acquired File and rejuvenated the brand. The parent company will include the world’s first Fila-branded hotel in its new headquarters in Shanghai. Under Anta Sports, Fila can reclaim its former glory. Fila is one of the most experienced Allbirds competitors. [17]
13. On Running
Year founded: 2010
Headquarter: Zurich, Switzerland
On Running is a Swiss footwear brand that offers high-tech running shoes. The company has 1,000 employees in nine offices and sells its shoes in more than 60 countries. In Sep 2021, On Running went public and raised $746 million at a valuation of $7.3 billion. [18]
On Running sells its shoes globally and generates 49% of its revenue from North America. ItsOn-Cloud shoes combine cutting-edge technologies to improve runners’ performance. Consumers can purchase Cloud-X, Cloudswift, Cloudmonster, Cloudrunner, Cloudflyer, Cloudstratus, Cloudflow, or Cloudboom.
The brand also offers On Cloud 5 Waterproof, the best option for performance in all conditions. On Running is the best alternative to Allbirds for running shoes. [19]
14. Reebok
Year founded: 1895
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
Reebok is a sportwear brand that offers athletic footwear, sneakers, and tracks. The brand has around 5,000 employees and makes over $2.6 billion annually. In Aug 2021, Adidas sold Reebok to Authentic Brands Group (ABG) for $2.5 billion. [20]
Reebok has more experience in the sportswear sector than Allbirds. Its white leather athletic shoes dominated the market in the 1980s and 1990s. Under ABG, Reebok can rebuild and reclaim its former glory. Reebok is one of the top Allbirds competitors.
15. Vessi
Year founded: 2018
Headquarter: Vancouver, Canada
Vessi is a Canadian shoe brand that offers waterproof sneakers. Its shoes can be worn all day, in any weather. In 2021, Vessi had 25 employees and generated around $6 million in revenue.
Allbirds and Vessiimplement an integrated approach to sustainability in manufacturing processes. Both companies achieved global success in the shoe and apparel sector quickly.
Like Allbirds, Vessi differentiated itself from other competitors by developing durable, stylish eco-friendly shoes. The brand also ensures its production lines work on a minimal carbon footprint. Vessi is one of the best alternatives to Allbirdsfor eco-conscious consumers. [21]
16. Champion
Year founded: 1919
Headquarter: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Champion is a sports footwear company with an immense reputation in the sporting community. The brand had several contracts with NFL and NBA teams about 50 years before Allbirds was founded. In 2021, Champion had around 5,000 employees and made $2 billion.
Champion designs and sells casual wear, footwear, and accessories, including t-shirts, hoodies, hats, bags, pants, jackets, sneakers, sandals, and collectibles.
In Mar 2021, Champion launched its spring collection in a new digital format that allows consumers to dress avatars in virtual branded apparel and accessories. Champion is an innovative Allbirds competitor. [22]
18. Atoms Shoes
Year founded: 2012
Headquarter: Brooklyn, New York
Atoms is a sneaker brand founded by husband-and-wife duo Sidra Qasim and Waqas Ali to address the problem of ill-fitting shoes. The brand started as Hometown in a small village in Pakistan and evolved into Atomsshoe company after a successful Kickstarter campaign. In2021, Atoms had around 20 employees.
Like Allbirds, Atoms is on a mission to create the world’s most comfortable shoe. The brand uses vegan materials to produce high-quality casual sneakers in half and quarter sizes.
Customers can also buy pairs of shoes in two different sizes for different-sized feet. Atoms are one of the best alternatives toAllbirdsfor comfortable sneakers. [23]
18. Xtep International Holdings
Year founded: 1987
Headquarter: Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong
Xtep is a Hong Kong-based sportswear brand that offers footwear, apparel, and accessories. The company acquired K-Swiss and Palladium in 2019 to expand its fashion-oriented sportswear. In2021, Xtep’s revenue grew 23% to $1.6 billion.
Xtepis one of the fastest-growing sportswear companies in China. In 2021, the company secured $64 million in investment from Hillhouse Capital. Xtep outperformed international brands for the first time in the latest edition of the Xiamen Marathon.
During this IAAF-certified race, over half of all runners wore Xtep “160X” series shoes. Xtep is one of the best alternatives to Allbirds for professional runners in China. [24]
19. Under Armour
Year founded: 1996
Headquarter: Baltimore, Maryland
Under Armour is an athletic brand that empowers and enhance athletes’ performance on the field, track, or court. The company has around 16,400 employees and specializes in sports apparel and footwear. In 2021, Under Armour reported a 27% increase in revenue to $5.7 billion.
About two-thirds of Under Armour’s revenue comes from the North American market. In 2021, the brand’s sales in North America segment accumulated $3.8 billion. Under Armour is a worthy Allbirds competitor. [25]
20. Lululemon
Year founded: 1998
Headquarter: Vancouver, Canada
Lululemon is an athleisure brand that offers apparel. The company uses trademarked fabrics like Nulu and Everluxto create comfortable, body-fitting yoga-inspired basics. In 2021, Lululemon had around 29,000 employees and generated $6.26 billion in revenue.
In Mar 2021, Lululemon released its first-ever women’s sneaker line.Lululemon’s move comes less than a year after Allbirds launched a running shoe.
Both companies launched virtual run clubs to establish themselves as go-to destinations for runners. They also partner with running-focused retailers. Lululemon is the newest Allbirds competitor in the performance shoe segment. [26]
21. Asics
Year founded: 1949
Headquarter: Kobe, Japan
Asics is a Japanese shoe brand that designs and sells sports footwear. The company offers high-performance athletics shoes. In 2021, Asics reported a 121.8% surge in operating income to €83.1 million. Its revenue increased by 13.7%.
Asics is Europe’s leading sportswear brand. In 2021, the company’s sales surged 27% in Italy, 24% in Iberia, 19% in Germany, and 16% in France. Asics is one of the best alternatives to Allbirds for professional athletes. [27]
22. Li-Ning Sports
Year founded: 1989
Headquarter: Beijing, China
Li-Ning is the third-largest sportswear brand in China after Anta Sports and Xtep. The company offers footwear, apparel, and sports equipment. In 2021, Li-Ning had around 3,625 employees and reported a 67.02% increase in revenue to $3.49 billion.
Li-Ning launched its first-ever skateboarding shoes in 2021 after partnering with renowned skater Erik Ellington. The brand made significant gains in the American market in the last decade. In 2021, the company lost access to this market after allegations of using forced labor in North Korea. But Li-Ning still holds 6.1% of the market share in China. Li-Ning is one of the top Allbirdscompetitors in the Chinese market. [28]
23. Nobull
Year founded: 2015
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
Nobullis athletic footwear, apparel, and accessory brand. The company is known for its CrossFit-geared sneakers. In 2021, Nobullhad 170 employees and hit a valuation of $500 million. Its sales increased by 80% in 2020. [29]
In Feb 2021, Nobull released its first performance running shoe. The company also launched a virtual runner club to attract runners to its new product. Nobulland Allbirds now compete in the performance shoe segment.
24. Hoka
Year founded: 2009
Headquarter: Goleta, California
Hoka is an athletic footwear brand formerly known as Hoka One One. The brand shortened its name to Hokain Dec 2021 to avoid confusion. In fiscal 2021, the company reported a 62% increase in revenue to $571 million. [30]
Hoka One develops its Bondi 7s with a breathable mesh and a memory foam heel collar that cradles the Achilles tendon. Its Bondi 7 shoes feature an ultra-thick cushioning and provide extra arch support and smooth rocking motion, ideal for walking long distances. Hoka is one of the best alternatives to Allbirds. [31]
25. Mizuno
Year founded: 1906
Headquarter: Osaka, Japan
Mizuno is a Japanese sports equipment and sportswear company. The brand makes sportswear for different sports, including badminton, baseball, cycling, football, rugby, running, skiing, athletics, tennis, and volleyball. In fiscal 2021, Mizuno had 5,496 employees and generated $1.36 billion in revenue. [32]
Mizuno Wave Rider 24 is the company’s top-selling shoe. This running shoe features a straight sole and a midsole with shock-absorption tech and breathable mesh upper to prevent overheating and sweaty feet. Mizuno is one of the best alternatives to Allbirds for running shoes.
References & more information
- Lorincz, N. (2022, Mar 7). How Allbirds went from a Small Startup to a Billion-dollar Sneaker Brand in 4 Years. Optimonk
- Ike, N. (2022, Mar 24). Allbirds review: We tested the sneakers to see if they’re worth the hype. CNN
- Debter, L. (2021, Nov 3). Allbirds Valued at Over $4 Billion After Stock Surges In IPO. Forbes
- Golden, J. (2021, Nov 2). Nike is quietly preparing for the metaverse. CNBC
- Parisi, D. (2021, Feb 23). The opposite of Nike: Inside Allbirds’ growth strategy. Glossy
- Ismael A. (2022, Apr 12). Adidas X Allbirds Sneaker Collaboration. Insider
- Rossi, A. (2021, Dec 14). Allbirds vs. Rothy’s: Which Comfortable Travel Shoe Brand Is Right for You? Smarter Travel
- Tighe, D. (2021, Aug 3). Revenue of Converse worldwide 2010-2021. Statista
- Zapata, K. (2022, Jan 13). 8 of the Best Brooks Running Shoes in 2022. Healthline
- WF Editor (2022, Feb 4). Skechers closes 2021 with record sales. World Footwear
- Ryan, J. T. (2021, Nov 15). New Balance CEO Eyes Strong Bounce Back In 2021. SGB Online
- Dixon, E. (2022, Jan 21). German sportswear brand’s earnings for the financial year more than double to €557m. Sports Pro Media
- Seymour, E. (2021, Mar 31). Birdies Shoes claim to be as Comfy as Slippers. Good Housekeeping
- Molina, B. (2021, Sep 1). Shoe company Vans launching ‘Vans World’ within Roblox as part of metaverse push. USA Today
- Editorial (2022, Mar 23). Chinese sportswear giant Anta posts strong growth in 2021. China Daily
- McGee, B. (2022, Mar 23). Fila USA Revenues Increased 11.5 Percent in 2021. Formula4Media
- Yang, Q. (2022, Mar 2). Anta to Open First Fila-Branded Hotel in Shanghai. Business of Fashion
- Smith, E. (2021, Sep 15). On Running goes public, raising $746 million in IPO. Outside Business Journal
- Fleet Feet Editors (2022, Apr 21). Best On Shoes 2022: On Running Shoe Review. Fleet Feet
- Dunne, B. (2022, Mar 3). The New Reebok: After Adidas, What Happens Now? Complex
- Editorial (2021, Nov 3). Allbirds vs. Vessi: A Detailed Comparison. Econosa
- Streets, M. (2021, Mar 31). Champion Launches 2021 Spring Collection in New Digital and NFT Format. Footwear News
- Bethany, B. (2022, Feb 3). Atoms vs. Allbirds: In-Depth Comparison. E-Clothes
- Ming, L. (2022, Mar 23). Xtep Revenue Leaps to Record on China’s New Long Run to Sports. The Bamboo Works
- Under Armour, Inc. (2022, Feb 11). Under Armour Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2021 Results. PRNewswire
- Barkho, G. (2021, Mar 11). Lululemon and Allbirds are betting on running shoes to drive growth. Modern Retail
- Halliday, S. (2022, Feb 11). Asics EMEA sees strong growth in 2021. Fashion Network
- Ciment, S. (2022, Mar 21). Li-Ning Responds to Suspicions of Potentially Using Forced Labor in North Korea. Footwear News
- Ciment, S. (2021, May 7). Inside CrossFit Cult-Favorite Nobull. Business Insider
- Hambleton, B. (2021, Dec 2). It’s official: Hoka dropped the One One. Running Magazine
- Hartzog, O. (2022). The Best Walking Shoes to Wear This Season. Rolling Stones
- Tighe, D. (2021, Oct 5). Revenue of Mizuno worldwide 2007-2020. Statista
- Featured Image by Martin Katler
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