Travel Product Reviews
Travel Tuesday: Allbirds Weatherproof Hightops – How They Compare to Mizzles
As I’ve mentioned more than a few times before, after purchasing a pair of water-resistant Allbirds Runner-Up Mizzles a few years back, they quickly became my go-to travel shoe. That’s because they’re not only comfortable but also help protect my feet from wet weather while on the road (there are few things I hate more than damp socks). Overall, my Mizzles have held up well… but those travel miles I’ve put on them have definitely started to show. That’s why, when I saw that Allbirds was launching a line of waterproof shoes, I was ready to upgrade.
So, what do I think of these new high-tops and how do they compare to my previous pair? Let’s get to the details and my experience so far.
Note: With the catchy official name of Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs, I’ll be referring to them mostly as just “my waterproof shoes” and similar shorthand throughout this post.
Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof
Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof: An Upgrade from the Mizzles?
Buy Now
Pricing
$160
Sizing
Half sizes available
Following the water-resistant Allbirds Runner-Up Mizzles, the new Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof are, well, waterproof! While there are a few noticeable adjustments and features that make that possible, the new models are as comfortable as ever. However, especially when breaking them in, it can be a bit difficult to put the shoes on (although a loop in the back can be helpful). Still, these could make for a great travel shoe if you can get them on sale.
Pros
- Waterproof features keep your feet dry in the rain or snow
- Comfortable cushioning and more
- Breathable despite waterproofing
Cons
- $160 retail price is high
- Can be difficult to get on
Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof: What to Know and How They Compare to Previous Models
Waterproofing Features
Although they may have mistakenly been referred to as “waterproof” from time to time, the Allbirds Mizzles were actually billed as “water resistant.” That begs the question: what about the Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs earns them the upgraded nomenclature?
The first thing you’ll notice when looking at them (especially on certain colorways) is that the waterproof shoes have a different material between the sole and the wool. Allbirds explains that this is recycled polyester and is intended to help in “high splash zones.” Meanwhile, the rest of the shoe still features that classic Allbirds Merino wool. Like with the Mizzles, this wool is also treated with water repellent.
Something that stood out to me when I unboxed my shoes was the tongue. For lack of a better term, this shoe tongue feels pinned in place, meaning that you can’t pull it up or move it too far in any direction. If you look further down in the shoe, you’ll indeed see that there’s a membrane material tethering the tongue to the sides of the shoes. It’s easy to imagine how this could assist with weatherproofing, but it does make them a bit more difficult to put on. That’s why the back of the shoe features a loop that can help you pull them on.
Another big change from the Mizzles is the sole. Specifically, the NZ Mids have better treads that also have a grippy feel. This isn’t so much for waterproofing as it is, well, not slipping and falling on your butt. Since these shoes are for wet weather, this update makes perfect sense (and will surely be appreciated when needed).
Other than those key features, the waterproof shoes are largely similar to the Runner-Up Mizzles. This is to say that they’re comfy, repel water, and (if I do say so myself) look pretty nice!
There is one other difference I should mention, though. While the Mizzles are/were only available in whole sizes, the waterproof shoes do now offer half sizes. That’s clutch, as Allbirds notes that these shoes can run a bit small. So, you may want to go a size up for greater comfort.
Care
Despite being waterproof, like the Mizzles before them, these new shoes can be washed. That said, Allbirds does advise that you may just want to spot clean with some water and gentle soap when possible. But, if you need to put them in a washing machine, be sure to remove the insoles and laces. Also, as I can now tell you from experience, give them plenty of time to air dry as it can take a long time (Allbirds doesn’t recommend putting them in the dryer). Again, though, try to put them in the machine sparingly for the sake of the water repellent.
Pricing and Availability
At the time that I’m writing this in June 2026, the Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs retail for $160. That said, in recent weeks, I’ve seen a number of discounts and sales for these shoes. For example, the Weathered Brown colorway (which is the one I happened to pick up) was discounted to $96 — with an additional 25% off on top of that, bringing it down to $72. Alas, that deal is not currently available, and full retail is back in effect. Nevertheless, I’d keep an eye out for future sales.
As for how that compares to the Allbirds Mizzles, the water-resistant shoes previously retailed for $145. However, these days, they are only offered in very limited sizes (only a men’s size 9 as of this writing), and are discounted to $60. That same 25% off sale price offer also applied to this, which means I could have purchased them for just $45! Once again, though, that sale is not currently being offered.
Previously, you could also purchase Mizzles on the ReRun store. Unfortunately, as I just recently discovered, that shop is not currently available. So, the moral of the story is that, for all intents and purposes, the Mizzles have been discontinued.
Allbirds does offer free shipping on orders over $75.
My Experience So Far
I’ll admit: when my waterproof Allbirds first arrived, I was not expecting them to be as difficult to put on as they were. Granted, this reality makes sense when you consider the reasoning behind the restrictions. Still, being so used to my well-worn Mizzles, there was an adjustment period.
The good news is that they have been breaking in, making them a bit easier to put on than when they were fresh out of the box. Nevertheless, the tab on the back continues to be a lifesaver.
Speaking of breaking them in, perhaps my memory of what it felt like to wear my Mizzles when they were brand new is a bit hazy, but it does seem as though the NZ Mids have more padding. Again, that would make sense for waterproofing — but it also makes for an even more comfortable shoe.
One minor disappointment that I need to point out involves the shoelaces. On the Mizzles, there was a plastic cap at the end of each lace. To me, this was a unique and fun touch that made them stand out. Sadly, this new pair has boring old regular aglets. I can’t imagine this is due to weatherproofing, so I’ll just chalk it up to cheapness instead. I’ll also note that the laces seem exceptionally long, leading me to double-tie them, lest the ends slap against the ground when I walk.
Since getting my waterproof shoes, I haven’t had to subject them to much extreme weather. Of course, I did try running some water over them just to make sure they acted as expected. Given that test, I’m confident they’ll serve me well in the rain and even puddles. Yet, what I’m most excited about is wearing them in the snow. Seeing as my Mizzles also did surprisingly well in winter conditions, I think the NZ Mids with their extra treads will be a godsend.
Finally, just as my Mizzles have for years, I’ve found that the waterproof shoes travel well. I recently took them on a trip to the Bay Area, and they held up well, both on the plane and while walking around killing time on my layover. With that, I’m ready to declare them winners.
Final Thoughts on Waterproof Allbirds High Tops
With upgrades that improve weather protection without sacrificing comfort (aside from some difficulty with getting them on), I’ve become a fan of my Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproof. And while I’ll probably still wear my Runner-Up Mizzles around from time to time, there’s no doubt that the waterproof shoes will be my new go-tos for travel.
As for the downsides, the $160 price tag is high — so I’d recommend waiting for a sale or other offer. Then again, it’s currently unclear how long Allbirds will be making shoes, as they’ve announced a weird pivot to AI…
Setting that aside, if you’re looking for a travel shoe that can handle what Mother Nature throws at it, I think that the Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs are a strong choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Allbirds shoes truly waterproof for travel?
Yes, Allbirds now offers truly waterproof shoes like the Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs, designed to protect your feet from wet weather during travel. They’ve provided reliable water protection that tops the previous water-resistant models.
What is the difference between Allbirds water-resistant and waterproof shoes?
Water-resistant Allbirds, like the Mizzles, offer some protection from light moisture but aren’t designed to withstand puddles and heavy rains. New waterproof models of Allbirds, such as the Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs, provide a complete barrier against water, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
Which Allbirds models offer waterproof protection?
The primary waterproof model mentioned is the Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs, a high-top design. This new line is specifically engineered to be waterproof, making them ideal for wet conditions and travel.
How do Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs perform in wet conditions?
The Allbirds Wool Runner NZ Mid Waterproofs are designed to perform exceptionally well, keeping feet dry in wet weather and even snow. They offer superior protection compared to earlier water-resistant Mizzles, making them reliable travel companions.
Are Allbirds waterproof shoes a good investment for travelers?
Yes, waterproof Allbirds are a good investment for travelers seeking comfort and protection from wet weather. While the $160 retail price is high, they offer durability and peace of mind, with potential discounts making them even more appealing. Allbirds does run regular sales as well, which can make them a better buy.
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