Allbirds launches Terralux collection using Modern Meadow INNOVERA animal-free leather alternative

Allbirds introduced Terralux, a new SS26 footwear collection crafted with INNOVERA, the bio-designed, animal-free leather alternative developed by Modern Meadow. The brand’s press release, distributed from San Francisco on Feb. 9, 2026 via GLOBE NEWSWIRE, describes INNOVERA as made from plant-based proteins, biopolymers, and recycled Nylon 6 sourced from end-of-life tires and says the material has over 80 percent renewable carbon content. “Completely animal-free, INNOVERA™ is engineered to look, feel, wear, and age like traditional leather,” the announcement states.

Jason Israel, Allbirds vice president of design, framed the launch as a directional step for the company: “Terralux marks an important evolution for Allbirds. INNOVERA allowed us to achieve the look and feel of leather in a bio-based material, opening the door to more elevated, versatile footwear - while still delivering on our comfort and sustainability promise.” Modern Meadow’s CEO David Williamson added, “We’re thrilled to partner with Allbirds to bring INNOVERA™ into footwear… create high-performance, beautifully aesthetic products that minimize our impact on the planet.”

Technical performance claims accompany the marketing language. Allbirds and Modern Meadow say INNOVERA is finished in conventional leather tanneries using the same treatment and dyeing processes as animal leather to deliver “premium aesthetics and performance without compromise.” Sourcing Journal reports additional metrics, stating INNOVERA is “25 percent lighter and twice as strong as conventional leather,” and notes the material has previously appeared in automotive interiors and accessories before this footwear debut.

Terralux launches in three silhouettes: Cruiser Terralux, Varsity Terralux, and Runner NZ Terralux. Coverage positions the Runner NZ as “an evolution of the Wool Runner silhouette that launched the brand over a decade ago.” Uncrate describes the Varsity as a “retro fashion sneaker profile with a sharper edge,” the Runner NZ as an everyday staple updated with a work-ready finish, and the Cruiser as a classic court silhouette designed for both men and women. Uncrate lists colorways Toasted Coconut, Light Grey, and Anthracite and shows a price listing of “Buy from Allbirds / $135+.”

There are a few inconsistencies across outlets. The Allbirds release and multiple outlets specify recycled Nylon 6 from end-of-life tires as an input, while Sourcing Journal uses the phrase “recycled rubber.” Quiver Quantitative and the press release FAQ note that some styles are offered in different colorways for men, while Uncrate explicitly states the Cruiser is designed for both men and women. Allbirds’ corporate text is the primary source for composition and availability claims; editorial outlets supply further performance metrics and styling context.

The SS26 Terralux Collection was made available at Allbirds.com beginning Feb. 9, 2026. Modern Meadow is described in coverage as a New Jersey startup, and several outlets characterize this partnership as an industry-first use of INNOVERA in footwear. Greenqueen adds business context, noting that “Allbirds may be closing all its US stores,” even as the company doubles down on sustainability-driven product innovation. Terralux positions Allbirds at the intersection of sneaker comfort and elevated leather aesthetics, and the next phase will be independent verification of the material’s weight and strength claims as retailers and consumers test the new finishes in real life.