ALLBIRDS’ RISER OFFERS A SUSTAINABLE SHOE FOR DRESSING UP OR DOWN
Allbirds has introduced the Riser — its first take on a retro-inspired, multi-material sneaker. Made from the brand’s suite of eco-innovative materials, the Riser combines a minimal yet elevated design, making it a versatile wardrobe staple.
“In designing the Riser, we were inspired by the dimension and personality so often found in vintage, heritage sneaker styles, then added the Allbirds design philosophy to make it completely unique,” said Kate Ridley, Chief Brand and Product Officer at Allbirds.
“We’re seeing strong demand from consumers for versatile footwear that borrows comfort, cushioning and fit technology from performance shoes, but is made for everyday wear. The Riser delivers exactly that — plus all-day comfort in a package that’s better for the planet.”
The Riser marks an evolution in Allbirds’ design direction. Its addition to the product portfolio fills a gap in the market for sustainable, adaptable sneakers with an expressive, street-forward aesthetic. Created with a mix of sleek lines and structured shaping, the shoe uses strategic seaming to optimise pattern and material efficiency — helping minimise waste.
The Riser is crafted using:
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Canvas: 100% organic cotton, thoughtfully placed around the forefoot and heel for lightweight durability. Grown without chemicals or pesticides, this cotton supports healthier working conditions for farmers and better outcomes for the land.
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Ripstop: 100% TENCEL™ (derived from eucalyptus tree fibre) replaces the petroleum-based nylon traditionally used in ripstop materials. It’s positioned along the eyestay and tongue for added texture and reinforcement in high-wear areas.
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Wool: ZQ-certified Merino wool — the world’s leading ethical wool standard — is featured in the shoe’s semicircle design and lines the heel for comfort and a secure fit.
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Foam: The SweetFoam™ midsole is made with carbon-negative green EVA sourced from sugarcane — a first-of-its-kind alternative in an industry that typically relies on synthetic materials.
“In the footwear industry, a designer’s materials toolkit is usually filled with petroleum-based options,” said Ashley Comeaux, VP of Product Design at Allbirds.
“At Allbirds, we intentionally seek out the most responsible materials available. That means thinking outside the box, drawing inspiration from nature, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The Riser is our most expressive style to date — it brings together a range of our natural materials into a distinctive design that’s easy to dress up or down, wherever the day takes you.”
About Allbirds:
Dreamed up in New Zealand, Allbirds launched in San Francisco in 2016 with the ethos of using natural materials to craft the world’s most comfortable shoes. With carbon reduction as its north star, Allbirds is leading the way towards a more sustainable business model through material innovation, industry collaboration (like open-sourcing its footprint calculator), and being the first footwear brand to carbon label all of its products. Allbirds now serves customers in over 35 countries through more than 55 retail stores.
