We Tested New Launches from the Sneaker Brand You’ve Seen on all Tech Bros — Here’s Our Thoughts

Welcome to Skimm Tested, a series where we put viral products to the test and give you our honest, unfiltered reviews.

What Alexandra Tested…

• Women's Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof, $160

• For 15% off, use code SKIMM15

Why Alexandra Tested…

Test Results…

• Warmth and dryness. I’ve worn these boots throughout this unbearably frigid New York winter and my toes have never been cold. Toward the end of last year, I froze my eggs, and during that period I couldn’t work out (no twisting, no weight lifting, no HIIT workouts, etc.). The only thing I could safely do was walk, so to maintain my sanity I walked everywhere. I walked to and from all of my appointments that were exactly 2.5 miles from my apartment. I often wore these sneakers and never got a blister. I walked in rainy conditions (this should confirm how desperate I was for movement), and was very pleased with the waterproof nature of the shoes. My socks were always dry. 

• Look. Thankfully these look like sneakers, not snow boots. Which is exactly what I was going for. I didn’t want to wear boots throughout the winter that looked and felt bulky. These are a happy medium. They’re definitely heavier than your average sneaker, and sometimes when I look down I think, “wow my feet look bigger than usual,” but I appreciate how stable these sneakers are. They can stand up to a typical winter day. 

• Comfort. I’ve read some reviews on Allbirds’ website where buyers say these sneakers are stiff, but I can’t say I’ve ever felt uncomfortable. They’re not the most pliable sneakers I’ve ever worn, but I didn’t expect them to be. Some buyers also complained about the laces — transparently I don’t get this. Double-knot them and move along with your day. 

• Traction. When walking on city sidewalks, gravel, and cement, I had no issue with traction. I never slipped or felt unsteady while walking to a doctor’s appointment. The one time I did feel precariously unstable was while walking through the subway after a recent snow. The floors are usually ceramic, porcelain, and tile, and when wet, they are slick. For this, I immediately felt the need to slow down and grip more with my toes. I don’t necessarily think the sneakers failed me in this instance; I don’t know of a single shoe that could have perfect traction in conditions like this. 

What Margo Tested…

• Women’s Varsity Sneaker, $120

• For 15% off, use code SKIMM15

Why Margo Tested…

Test Results…

• Comfort. For a lifestyle shoe, the insoles feel well-cushioned and supportive. I have no arch in my foot, yet I found these to be supportive. All-day wear wasn’t out of the question.

• Style. The retro/vintage design made them easy to wear and style with so many different casual outfits. I found that they looked good with leggings, sweats, and denim. Overall, this is a sneaker that can serve many different purposes. You can easily wear them to the office, on the weekends, to brunch, etc. 

Sidenotes…

• When it comes to the wool sneakers, Alexandra noted that these should not be fully substituted for snow boots. If you’re walking in five plus inches of snow for a longer amount of time, she suggests boots. These are great for everyday winter commutes and longer walks outside, but wouldn’t be her first pick for a day of sledding or snowman building after a big storm. 

• Margo lives in Georgia, so she found the wool base on the Varsity sneakers to be very warm. She suggests wearing these as a winter sneaker, or ideal for those that live in colder climates. She also noted that while the sole molded to her foot, the outside felt more stiff than she preferred. 

The Fine Details…

• Women's Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof, $160; for 15% off, use code SKIMM15

  • Alexandra got the sneakers in the Dark Jungle, size 8

  • Seven colors available, sizing from women’s 5–11

  • Also available in men’s sizes 8–14

  • The site says the sneakers run small, so Allbirds suggest sizing up. Alexandra typically wears a 7.5, but went with an 8. 

• Women’s Varsity Sneaker, $120; for 15% off, use code SKIMM15

  • Margo got the sneakers in the Light Burnt Olive, size 6.5

  • Six colors available, sizing from women’s 5–11

  • Also available in men’s sizes 8–14

  • The site says the sneakers run true to size. Margo confirmed her usual size fit fine.