Allbirds Riser review | CNN Underscored

Allbirds has launched The Riser, a lifestyle shoe designed for all-day comfort, made using natural materials such as canvas, eucalyptus tree fiber, ethical merino wool and sugarcane-based foam. Available in four colorways, the shoes are priced at $135 per pair and come in men’s and women’s whole sizes 7 to 14 and 5 to 11, respectively. Features include the pointed toe to elongate the leg, a 1.25-inch platform for extra height, and natural rubber for good traction.
However, not all reviewers were impressed with the product. A commentator wrote that the shoes failed to offer enough cushioning for her foot, which felt squashed inside the thick textile material, and required a long break-in period. “Life is too short for long-and-drawn-out break-in periods when you’ve got a pair of fuzzy Crocs staring you down.” The customer noted that The Riser’s design was ‘futuristic-meets-retro’ and gender-neutral, and said the subtle heel would be appreciated by shorter buyers, but added that the new Allbirds shoe had not suited her purposes.
The Riser’s use of natural materials forms part of a growing trend towards shoes with more environmentally friendly and comfort needs, with many brands experimenting with upscale sneakers that accommodate the needs of modern consumers who are more likely to walk, bike or work out than ever before. Allbirds has built a reputation for ethical production processes and green materials, and last year raised $100m in a Series E funding round, giving it a valuation of $1.7bn.



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