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It’s no secret that Allbirds are popular shoes – and for good reason. But when the company came out with their newest model, the Tree Dasher 2, people were excited to see if they could top the original design. So, what’s the verdict? Keep reading our honest Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review to find out!
A near-perfect upgrade to the original Allbirds Tree Dasher. This new shoe is lighter, more comfortable and designed to take you anywhere. Oh yea, and it's still machine washable.
As you probably know, we are huge fans of Allbirds and are excited to bring you our Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review.
If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our full Allbirds Review, our guide to the Best Allbirds and our Smallbirds Review.
But first things, first – what did Allbirds change in the Tree Dasher 2?
What the difference between the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 and Tree Dasher 1
The main difference between the Tree Dasher 1 and the Tree Dasher two is that Allbirds too time to reimagine their cult running shoe: improving the weight, grip and overall fit.
There are a couple of specific differences between the Tree Dasher 1 and Tree Dasher 2.
An even lighter shoe
An even lighter shoe – The biggest change is the weight reduction by .3 oz. This makes the Tree Dasher 2 a lighter running shoe option, which can be a big difference when you’re on your feet all day.
Improved Traction
New lug pattern – The new lug pattern on the sole will also improve traction, making it easier to grip the ground whether you’re running on pavement or trails.
Improved comfort
Improvements in the SweetFoam midsole – The improvements in the SweetFoam make for a more plush underfoot sensation. This is especially noticeable when you’re running, as it gives you a bit more cushioning and support.
New angular heel design – The new angular heel design reduces the weight in the heel and improves the crash pad.
This makes it easier on your heels when you’re running, and also makes the shoe look a bit sleeker.
The sole design was a little more curved in the original Tree Dasher design.
What I like most about the new Tree Dasher 2
There are a couple of big improvements if the running shoes we really love the most.
Improved Cushion in the heel
The first and most noticeable thing to like about the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is the reworked heel cushion. In the OG Allbirds Tree Dasher, I had an issue with the heel pad not being cushioned enough causing blisters on my Achilles and I know I’m not alone since this was one of the core construction updates in this model.
The new heel cushion is softer and doesn’t dig into your Achilles which was my main pain point with the original Tree Dasher. In the new version, I have yet to have an issue with friction or blisters on my Achilles which is awesome because it removes the break-in process. It’s even visible in the actual shoe by quickly looking at The AllBirds Tree Dasher 2 from the top, compared to the Tree Dasher 1.
Improved Traction
The Tree Dasher 2 is a huge improvement over the original in terms of traction. The outsole uses a different lug pattern which provides much better traction in both wet and dry conditions – something you don’t see in every pair of running shoes.
This was another key update that Allbirds made based on feedback from customers who ran in the original Tree Dasher. The Tree Dasher 2 also has slightly more aggressive lugs in the forefoot and heel while the midfoot has less aggressive lugs. This helps on we surfaces and dry surfaces alike.
This is great because it helps the Tree Dasher 2 perform better on a wider variety of surfaces. If you’re looking for a shoe with great traction, the Tree Dasher 2 is the way to go.
Improved fit
The new Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 also seem to fit better. The upper is “sock-like,” in that it is made from one solid piece. There isn’t a separate tongue like some other shoes.
However, these new Tree Dasher are even more comfortable than the previous version. There seems to be a bit more space in the top of the shoe, a very roomy toe box, and it doesn’t feel as constricted overall.
In short, this made the shoes feel more comfortable and easier to wear for long periods of time. It feels like the toe box is bigger and the arch support is perfect.
The things we like about the Tree Dasher 2 that did not change
Like all Allbirds products, we love so many things about them that we hope they never, ever changed.
Machine Washable
Yes, like other Allbirds Shoes, these bad boys are also machine washable.
Simply remove the insole and laces, wash on delicate and hang dry. It’s that easy.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
Allbirds use sustainable materials in all of their products and the Tree Dashers are no different. The new Tree Dashers are made from sustainable eucalyptus tree fiber which reduces their environmental impact.
The uppers are also lined with merino wool which is not only eco-friendly but also helps regulate temperature and minimize odor.
The Tree Dasher 2 is carbon neutral thanks to sustainable practices, like using more natural materials and funding high-impact carbon projects.
But before they balance the emissions, its footprint starts at 10.7 kg CO2e (a 5% reduction from the original Tree Dasher). The Tree Dasher 2 features an FSC-certified natural rubber outsole for added durability and comfort.
The shoes also include SweetFoam® midsole made with sugarcane-based green EVA, Shoe laces made from recycled plastic bottles and Castor bean oil-based insole foam. All of these features make the Tree Dasher 2 an environmentally friendly and highly comfortable shoe option.
No socks needed
I know it’s weird. We don’t like to wear socks. Not everyone does. We don’t like to wear socks, especially with our more casual wear.
But some shoes get stinky when you don’t wear socks. Thanks to Merino Wool (and being washable), these bad boys don’t get stinky. You’re welcome.
Price
A near-perfect upgrade to the original Allbirds Tree Dasher. This new shoe is lighter, more comfortable and designed to take you anywhere. Oh yea, and it's still machine washable.
The best part about Allbirds? They’re affordable! At $135, sure you could find a cheaper shoe – but could you find one that is this sustainable, comfortable, and stylish? We think not.
Want something more water proof? Check out our Allbirds Mizzles Review.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review: Who the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2.0 is for
To be honest, we are not the world’s biggest runners (and therefore, don’t have a super strong opinion on strict running shoes). However, the Tree Dasher 2 from Allbirds is billed as a hardcore running shoe, but I think it’s equally well-suited for everyday wear not just a performance running shoe.
Casual Runners will be pleasantly surprised by these shoes from the seamless one piece upper to a shoe lighter than many others. The improved heel collar also helps support your heal in light workouts and in between running strides.
I’ve been wearing them for about a week now and I’ve found them to be extremely comfortable, even when standing for long periods of time.
The Dasher 2 features an updated design that includes a more breathable upper and a revised outsole pattern for improved traction. The result is a shoe that’s light, comfortable, and stylish enough to wear anywhere. So whether you’re hitting the trails or just running errands, the Tree Dasher 2 is worth a look.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review: Final Thoughts – A good athletic shoe replacement
However, we like to wear them as a substitute for when would wear Nike’s or other running shoes.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
A near-perfect upgrade to the original Allbirds Tree Dasher. This new shoe is lighter, more comfortable and designed to take you anywhere. Oh yea, and it's still machine washable.
Other people that are more hardcore runners than us (which isn’t hard to do), recommend these for short and medium-length runs but recommend other shoes for longer runs. I can see why.
These shoes do a lot of things really well but they can’t do everything perfectly.
We personally use this when playing outside with the kids and when doing a workout on our Peloton Tread.
I’d also have no problem using these to lift weights or going to the gym.
All in all, we absolutely love the new Allbirds Tree Dasher 2. They’ve made huge improvements in the areas that customers were complaining about and kept all of the best parts of the original. If you’re looking for a great running shoe, we highly recommend checking out the new Allbirds Tree Dasher 2.
Also, check out our favorite Allbirds Shoe, in our Tree Runners Review. Also, check out Allbirds vs. Rothy’s – which one is best?!
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