For me, part of growing up has involved growing into a sense of style that truly feels right for me, rather than one that just aligns with the latest fashion fads or TikTok’s ever-revolving aesthetic trends. Among my latest style revelations is the discovery of just how much I truly value being comfortable. While younger iterations of myself were committed to heeled sandals, constricting blouses, and criminally tight skinny jeans, these days, I’m all about breezy and effortless fashion that feels as good as it looks — think blousy dresses, loose mom jeans, and of course, a staple sneaker or two.
While I’m by no means a sneakerhead, I do appreciate the go-anywhere nature of the shoe, which allows me to maximize my use of the style and also downsize my suspiciously large shoe stock in the process (less is more, as I’m learning!). Up until very recently, though, the only casual sneakers I really relied on were my trusty Nike Air Force 1s. And while the shoe is, in many ways, still one of my go-to closet staples, I found myself itching to invest in another sneaker pair that would provide all the same comfort but with a more updated and refreshing flair. Naturally, when I discovered that Allbirds — aka the internet-favorite brand known for its notoriously cozy and sustainable shoes — was debuting a brand-new sneaker that was literally designed for everyday use, I knew I’d just found my new sneaker style for the fall.
Enter the Allbirds Canvas Pacers Sneakers ($110) — the newest lifestyle sneaker from the brand, which, debuting today, features a unique look made up of curvy lines and a wavy midsole, plus a composition that incorporates a variety of innovative (and sustainable!) materials. I had the chance to test out the style for myself and have already dubbed it the perfect everyday shoe. Read on to hear my honest thoughts!
What I Like About This Allbirds Sneaker
The lightweight nature of this sneaker is a big highlight for me. I know chunky shoes are all the rage right now, but at least for me, I value having a sneaker that’s durable, protective, yet still lightweight enough to use for all-day wear. My Nike Air Force 1s have long been my go-to, but these Allbirds Pacers are slowly becoming the style I reach for the most — especially when I’m running errands, expecting a busy day outside of the house, or just anticipating I’ll be on my feet a lot.
I also like that they have more of a low-rise heel silhouette that makes the style feel more breathable and easier to move in. Higher-heeled styles often have a tendency to feel more claustrophobic around the ankle, which is not at all the case with these sneakers. As a brand, Allbirds is also committed to sustainability, so I appreciate the fact that these shoes are made with an organic cotton material, along with a soft and lightweight lining made with 62 percent of the brand’s Tree material and 38 percent recycled polyester, plus a midsole made with sugarcane-based green EVA and a natural rubber sidewall and outsole. Sneakers that look good, feel good, and are made to do good? We love to see it.
What’s Worth Noting
The biggest thing worth acknowledging here is that this Allbirds sneaker is only available to shop in whole sizes. Depending on the style, my shoe size can typically range between a 9.5 and a 10, so I was initially concerned about which precise size to order. Would a size 9 be too snug? Would the 10 be too bulky? I ended up going with the US women’s size 10 and was pleasantly surprised by the fit. I don’t find the shoe to be too tight, but it’s also snug enough that I feel amply supported while walking in the sneaker. All this to say, if you typically go for half sizes in shoes, it’s worth noting this sneaker doesn’t have many extended size offerings — and I personally would recommend sizing up.
Another thing to note would be the color. I usually gravitate toward white or neutral-colored sneakers simply because they are more versatile and are also much easier to style with everyday outfits compared to an overtly colorful or busy sneaker. With that, I tested this style in the natural white colorway. While the Pacers are incredibly chic and cool, the style’s coloring does have a tendency to change (or at least look different) depending on the sun exposure, as can be seen by these photos. I don’t mind this — if anything, it feels like I get two different shoe styles in one. But if you’re looking for a strictly white sneaker to have on hand in your wardrobe, it might be worth it to invest in a different or less-abstract shoe.
Who Is This Allbirds Sneaker Best For?
Sneakerheads, athletes, and even those who just crave all-day comfort in their footwear will love and appreciate this everyday sneaker from Allbirds. Unlike some of the brand’s other athletic styles, the Pacers certainly aren’t meant to act as a long-lasting running or outdoor shoe, but that doesn’t make them any less comfortable or durable. Whether you’re anticipating a busy travel season, navigating an especially long work commute, or just needing a go-to sneaker to wear however and whenever, the Allbirds Canvas Pacers will make the perfect addition to anyone’s wardrobe — especially for the fall.
Where Is This Allbirds Sneaker Available?
The Allbirds Canvas Pacers sneaker is available to shop exclusively at Allbirds.
Additional Details
- The Pacers are available to shop in two styles: the Canvas Pacer (those featured in this review) and the Plant Pacer, which is crafted from a sustainable, plant-based alternative leather, 100 percent plastic free, 100 percent vegan, and using natural materials like rubber, plant oils, and agricultural byproducts.
- The Canvas Pacers are made with organic cotton, and both styles feature Allbirds’s famed tree material to create a soft interior lining.
- These Allbirds sneakers are also available to shop in a wide variety of colors, including natural black, natural white, and two limited-edition colorways in a hazy beige and teal blue.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Kyley Warren