Birdies, the women’s footwear brand beloved by Meghan Markle, stepped into the sneaker market for the first time with a ballet-inspired style called The Speedbird which launched on Tuesday.
A feminine take on the retro jogger, The Speedbird combines the sensibilities of ballet flats and sneakers. The slim shoe, helping to keep the low-profile revolution alive, includes a ballet-inspired toe shape, scalloped edging and contrast stitching. Wide grosgrain ribbon laces with metal hardware contribute a playful touch, but they can be swapped for cotton laces for a more everyday look.
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“The Speedbird uplifts the bold and the busy showing that comfort and confidence aren’t opposites — they’re power partners,” Birdies cofounder Bianca Gates said. “Birdies is a lifestyle brand that creates footwear that feels expressive and nostalgic, but still polished and comfortable enough for everyday wear. Speedbird delivers just that — it’s playful, elevated and incredibly wearable. It’s a new chapter for Birdies and a natural expansion of how our customer wants to move through her day.”
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The Speedbird is offered in an array of vibrant colorways, crafted in soft metal leather and multi-tone suede. The four options include Multi Cyan Suede, Multi Burnt Orange Suede, Vintage Gold Metal Leather and Silver Metal Leather, all of which are marked at a price of $160.
Comfort was a key element in designing The Speedbird, which is true for every Birdies style. The new sneaker features a removable, contoured arch support, a trademarked PerfX footbed to absorb shock and a flexible textured sole with an 8mm pitch allowing for an all-day wear.
Birdies shared in a release that The Speedbird embodies the brand’s evolution to stretch beyond its signature flats and slides while remaining grounded in its goal of empowering women with thoughtful design, versatility and comfort. The sneaker can be shopped now exclusively at birdies.com.
Notably, Birdies was acquired by KNS International, which also has the footwear brands Journee, Taft and Vance under its umbrella, in 2025 amid a string of acquisition deals in the footwear industry. Birdies cofounder Bianca Gates joined the company as brand president.
“With KNS’ extensive expertise and resources, Birdies will quickly have the opportunity to expand our reach while staying true to the products and community that define Birdies,” Gates said.