Flats used to be a staple item in my footwear wardrobe, but as my feet changed over the years to a wider forefoot/narrower heel shape, and I developed bunions and hammertoes, I thought I’d sworn off flats forever. I couldn’t find anything that didn’t pinch in the forefoot, slip in the heel, or fit snugly without slipping off (unless I bought too small a size, causing blisters and all other sorts of discomfort.)
I wasn’t expecting anything different from Allbirds flats (called Tree Breezers), but was pleasantly surprised the minute I put them on. Allbirds flats are stretchy all over, accommodating all kinds of foot shapes and issues beautifully (including bunions and hammertoes.) Even though the vamp crosses directly across my moderate bunion, I feel no discomfort because it stretches comfortably over it.
There is absolutely no heel slippage. The padded insole and flexible outer sole make them feel like house slippers – but they’re stylish enough to wear to work. Extra padding under the heel is a welcome extra layer of comfort. Arch support is minimal, but I feel you could easily add an arch cushion under the removable insole. I found them to run small and ordered up a full size for a comfortable fit for my medium width foot. Wearers with narrower feet may find them more true to size. Check out our review of Allbirds shoes–the wool runners are incredibly soft on bunions and hammertoes.
Find Allbirds Tree Breezers in sizes 5-11 for $84-100 at Allbirds, Zappos and Amazon.
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