What Allbirds is and how it sells directly to you
Allbirds is a shoe and apparel company that sells directly to customers through its website and physical stores, rather than through department stores or other retailers. You order online at allbirds.com, through their mobile app, or visit one of their locations in person. The company manufactures shoes, socks, and clothing made from materials like merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and sugarcane-based foam.
Because Allbirds cuts out the middleman — the wholesale distributors and retail chains that typically mark up prices — the company can set its own pricing and keep more control over how products are presented to you. This direct-to-consumer model means you are buying from the brand itself, not from a store that stocks many brands.
The company was founded in 2016 and is based in San Francisco. It went public in 2021, meaning it is a publicly traded company, though that does not change how you purchase from them as a customer.
Key Takeaways
- Allbirds sells shoes and apparel only through its own website, app, and company-owned stores — not through department stores or other retailers.
- Shipping costs vary by location and order size, and the company offers a return window that you should check before ordering.
- Prices are set by Allbirds directly, and sales or discounts may be offered seasonally or to first-time buyers.
- The company uses specific materials like merino wool and eucalyptus fiber, so you should read product descriptions carefully if you have sensitivities or preferences.
How to place an order and what shipping costs
To order from Allbirds, go to allbirds.com, create an account or check out as a guest, add items to your cart, and enter your shipping address and payment information. The website shows you the shipping cost before you complete your purchase, so you know the total price.
Shipping costs depend on your location and the weight of your order. Standard shipping typically takes 5 to 7 business days within the United States, though this varies by region. Allbirds also offers expedited shipping options at a higher cost if you need items faster. International shipping is available to many countries, with costs and delivery times that vary by destination.
If you order through the Allbirds app, the process is the same — you add items, enter your address, and pay. The app may show you personalized recommendations based on your browsing history.
Returns, exchanges, and the 30-day window
Allbirds allows you to return or exchange items within 30 days of purchase if they are unworn and in original condition with tags attached. To start a return, you log into your account on the website, find your order, and request a return. Allbirds will email you a prepaid shipping label, and you send the items back at no cost to you.
Once Allbirds receives and inspects your return, it refunds your money to your original payment method. This process typically takes 5 to 10 business days after the company receives the package. If you want to exchange an item for a different size or color, you can do that through the same process — return the original item and place a new order, or contact customer service to see if they can process an exchange directly.
Items that have been worn, washed, or damaged are not returnable. Allbirds defines "unworn" strictly — the shoe or garment should look new and unused.
Materials, sizing, and what to check before ordering
Allbirds uses specific materials in most of its products. The most common are merino wool (a fine wool that regulates temperature and resists odor), eucalyptus fiber (a soft, breathable plant-based material), and sugarcane-based foam (used in soles). Some items also contain recycled plastic or other sustainable materials. If you have wool allergies, sensitivities to plant fibers, or other material concerns, read the product description and material list carefully before ordering.
Sizing varies between shoe styles and between shoes and apparel. Allbirds provides a size chart on each product page, and customer reviews often mention whether an item runs large, small, or true to size. If you have never bought from Allbirds before, reading reviews from other customers with your shoe size can help you decide whether to order your usual size or adjust.
The company also offers a fit may provide on shoes: if they do not fit after you receive them, you can return them within the 30-day window even if you have tried them on indoors. This is more lenient than the standard "unworn" rule, so it is worth knowing if fit is a concern.
Pricing, sales, and first-time buyer discounts
Allbirds sets its own prices since it sells directly. Shoes typically range from $95 to $150, and apparel prices vary by item type. The company runs seasonal sales, particularly around holidays and at the end of seasons, where you may see discounts of 20 to 40 percent off select items.
If you are a first-time buyer, Allbirds sometimes offers a discount code for new customers — often 15 to 20 percent off your first order. These codes are usually sent via email after you sign up for the mailing list, or you may find them on the website during promotional periods. Check the homepage or sign up for emails before placing your first order to see what is currently available.
Allbirds also has a loyalty program called Allbirds Rewards, where you earn points on purchases that you can redeem for discounts on future orders. You enroll for free on the website.
Customer service and how to contact Allbirds
If you have questions about an order, a product, or a return, you can contact Allbirds through its website. The company offers a contact form, email support, and a phone number for customer service. Response times vary, but the company typically replies to emails within 1 to 2 business days.
Allbirds also has a FAQ section on its website that covers common questions about sizing, materials, shipping, and returns. Before contacting customer service, checking the FAQ may answer your question faster.
If you have a problem with an order — such as items arriving damaged or not as described — contact customer service with photos and details. Allbirds generally works to resolve issues by offering replacements, refunds, or store credit.
Sustainability claims and what they mean
Allbirds markets itself as a sustainable shoe company and uses materials like merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and recycled plastic to reduce environmental impact. The company publishes information about its supply chain and manufacturing practices on its website, and you can read detailed sustainability reports if you want to understand their sourcing and production methods.
However, no product is completely without environmental cost — shipping, manufacturing, and materials all have some impact. If sustainability is important to you, read Allbirds' own sustainability pages to understand what they claim and how they measure it, rather than assuming the brand is carbon-neutral or zero-waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy Allbirds shoes at other stores like Target or Nordstrom?
No. Allbirds sells only through its own website, mobile app, and company-owned physical stores. You cannot find Allbirds products at department stores, sporting goods retailers, or other third-party sellers. This is part of their direct-to-consumer model.
What if my shoes arrive damaged or the wrong size?
Contact Allbirds customer service with photos of the damage or details about the wrong size. The company typically sends a replacement or processes a return and refund. You do not have to pay for return shipping in most cases.
Do Allbirds shoes run true to size?
Sizing varies by shoe style. Some styles run true to size, while others run large or small. Check the product page for that specific shoe — customer reviews usually mention fit, and Allbirds provides a size chart. If you are unsure, you can order and use the fit may provide to return them if they do not fit.
Is there a physical store near me where I can try on shoes?
Allbirds has stores in select cities across the United States and internationally. Visit allbirds.com and use the store locator to find locations near you. Not every city has a store, so online ordering may be your only option depending on where you live.
How long does it take to get a refund after I return something?
Allbirds typically processes refunds 5 to 10 business days after receiving your return package. The refund goes back to your original payment method. If you do not see it within that timeframe, contact customer service with your return tracking number.