Allbirds Return Policy

If you’re thinking about buying shoes from Allbirds but are worried about fit or comfort, understanding the Allbirds return policy is the first step to shopping with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can make a purchase without any risk.

The Allbirds return policy is designed to be simple and customer-friendly. In essence, it allows you to return any unworn item within 30 days of the delivery date for a full refund to your original payment method. They also offer a 30-day trial period for you to wear your shoes and truly test them out; if you’re not satisfied, you can return them for a full refund within that window, even if you’ve worn them.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most items from Allbirds can be returned, but there are a few key conditions. The policy covers shoes, apparel, and socks. For the standard 30-day unworn return, the items must be in their original condition.

Shoes: Must be unused, with the original packaging and tags attached.
Apparel & Socks: Must be unworn, unwashed, and with all tags still attached.
Worn Trial Items: Items you’ve worn during the 30-day trial must still be in good, clean condition to be eligible for a refund.

What is the Allbirds 30-Day Wear Trial?

This is the standout feature of their policy. Allbirds encourages you to actually wear your shoes for 30 days. Walk the dog, commute to work, live your life in them. If you decide they aren’t right for you, you can send them back for a refund. This is a huge advantage over companies that only accept returns if items are pristine and unworn.

Time Limits and Deadlines

Timing is crucial. The clock starts ticking from the day your order is delivered.

You have 30 days to initiate a return for unworn items with tags.
You also have 30 days to test worn items under the trial policy.
It’s best to start the return process as soon as you know an item isn’t for you. Don’t wait until the last day.

Condition of Returned Items

To ensure your return is processed smoothly, items must meet specific condition requirements. For unworn returns, this is straightforward. For worn trial returns, common sense applies.

Unworn Returns: Original packaging, tags, and shoe inserts must all be included. The shoes should show no signs of wear or dirt.
Worn Trial Returns: Shoes should be cleaned of major dirt. They should not be damaged, torn, or excessively worn down. Basically, return them in a state you’d be happy to receive them in.

How to Start an Allbirds Return

All returns are managed through your account on the Allbirds website or app. You cannot return items directly to a physical store for a refund, but you can exchange them there. Follow these steps:

Go to the Allbirds website and log into your account.
Navigate to “My Orders” and select the item(s) you wish to return.
Choose your reason for return and select your preferred method: refund or exchange.
Print the provided return label and packing slip.
Pack the items securely in their original box if possible, include the packing slip, and seal the package.
Attach the label and drop the package at the designated carrier (usually UPS or DHL).

Using a Allbirds Retail Store for Exchanges

If you have a store nearby, you can visit it for an immediate exchange. Bring the items you wish to exchange and your order confirmation email. Store associates can help you find the right size or style on the spot. Note that refunds are not processed in stores—only exchanges.

Return Shipping Costs and Fees

One of the best parts of the Allbirds return policy is that it’s free in many regions. In the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, Allbirds provides a prepaid return label at no cost to you. For other international locations, return shipping fees may apply and will be deducted from your refund amount. Always check the policy for your specific country at the time of return.

Refund Methods and Processing Time

Once Allbirds receives your return, they will inspect it. Processing usually takes 5-10 business days after the package arrives at their warehouse.

Refund Method: Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. If you paid with a credit card, it goes back there. Gift card purchases are refunded as a new gift card.
Timeline: After processing, it can take an additional 5-10 business days for the refund to appear on your bank or card statement, depending on your financial institution.

Allbirds Exchange Policy

Exchanging an item for a different size or color is simple. You can handle it two ways:

Online Exchange: Start a return for the original item and place a new order for the desired item. This is often fastest, as you get the new order shipped immediately.
In-Store Exchange: As mentioned, bring the item to a physical Allbirds store for an instant exchange if they have your desired size/color in stock.

What About Final Sale Items?

Allbirds occasionally sells items on final sale. These are typically heavily discounted and marked as “Final Sale” on the product page. These items are not eligible for return or exchange, so be certain before you buy.

International Returns

Return policies vary by country. While the core 30-day trial often applies, shipping costs and procedures differ. For example, customers in the European Union have specific consumer rights that may extend the return window. Always review the “Returns & Exchanges” page on your local Allbirds website for the most accurate, region-specific information.

Dealing with Damaged or Defective Products

If you receive a product that is damaged or has a manufacturing defect, contact Allbirds Customer Experience team immediately. Do not initiate a standard return. They will typically send a replacement quickly and provide a prepaid label to return the faulty item. This process is separate from the standard return policy and is not subject to the same time limits.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

To avoid any delays or issues with your return, keep these pointers in mind.

Keep the original box and packaging until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
Take clear photos of the products before you send them back, especially if using the wear trial, for your own records.
Use the provided return label and don’t forget to include the packing slip inside the box.
Get a drop-off receipt from the carrier as proof you shipped the package.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple policy, people sometimes make errors that slow down there return.

Missing Tags: For an unworn return, forgetting to attach the tags will likely result in the return being rejected.
Using the Wrong Box: Try to use the original Allbirds box. A poorly packaged return can get damaged in transit.
Missing the Deadline: Mark the 30-day date on your calendar. Returns initiated even one day late are usually not accepted.
Not Cleaning Worn Items: Sending back excessively dirty shoes under the trial policy might lead to a rejection or a partial refund.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to return Allbirds?

You have 30 days from the delivery date to return your Allbirds, whether they are unworn or worn during the trial period.

Can I return Allbirds if I’ve worn them?

Yes, that’s the point of the 30-day wear trial. You can wear them normally and still return them for a full refund within 30 days if your not satisfied.

Are returns to Allbirds free?

In the US, UK, and Canada, yes—Allbirds provides a free prepaid return label. For other international orders, a shipping fee may be deducted from your refund.

Can I return Allbirds to a store?

You can exchange items in a store, but you cannot get a refund to your original payment method at a retail location. Refunds are processed online only.

How long does an Allbirds refund take?

After they receive your return, inspection and processing takes 5-10 business days. The refund then takes another 5-10 business days to post to your account, depending on your bank.

What if my Allbirds are defective?

Contact Customer Experience right away. They’ll arrange a replacement and a free return for the defective item, outside of the standard return process.

Does Allbirds accept returns on socks?

Yes, but only if they are unwashed, unworn, and with all original tags attached. Worn socks cannot be returned.

Can I exchange Allbirds for a different color?

Absolutely. The easiest method is to start a return for the original item and place a new order for the color you want. You can also do an instant exchange in a physical store.

Understanding the Allbirds return policy takes the uncertainty out of shopping with them. Their commitment to a 30-day wear trial is genuinely customer-centric, allowing you to truly test their products in your daily life. By following the clear guidelines on condition, timing, and process, you can ensure a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re swapping for a different size or deciding a style isn’t for you, Allbirds makes it straightforward, giving you the freedom to find your perfect pair with confidence.