Our verdict
The Allbirds and Allbirds Wool Runner 2 are close. We gave the Allbirds a slight edge at 9.5/10 over the Allbirds Wool Runner 2 at 9/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
Our pick
Allbirds
Allbirds Wool Runner 2
$110
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | Allbirds | Allbirds Wool Runner 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9/10 |
| Best for | If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer. | The obvious upgrade for Allbirds fans and a strong entry point for newcomers. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
| None we flagged |
Which one is right for you?
Choose the Allbirds if…
If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
- The Wool Runner is an absolute 10/10 for comfort and casual wear. Everything else they've made is always a little bit of a trade-off from that.
- They offered incredible comfort, especially for someone like me who struggles with plantar fasciitis.
Choose the Allbirds Wool Runner 2 if…
The obvious upgrade for Allbirds fans and a strong entry point for newcomers.
- Fixed toe box deflation from original model
- Noticeably thicker, cushioned SweetFoam sole
Why we rate them this way
Allbirds — 9.5/10
If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer.
What we liked: The Wool Runner is an absolute 10/10 for comfort and casual wear. Everything else they've made is always a little bit of a trade-off from that., They offered incredible comfort, especially for someone like me who struggles with plantar fasciitis., I've worn the new Wool Runners NZs for 3 months and they're the best shoes yet. I wear them everywhere., I was shocked when I got them, expecting them to be garbage. The sole has less forefoot cushioning but they feel like similar shoes to the NZs..
Worth knowing: This is why I will NEVER buy shoes that use naked foam cushioning as a sole. You really can't complain about short lifespan..
Allbirds Wool Runner 2 — 9/10
The obvious upgrade for Allbirds fans and a strong entry point for newcomers.
What we liked: Fixed toe box deflation from original model, Noticeably thicker, cushioned SweetFoam sole, Maintains shape and durability over time, High-quality ZQ Merino wool with sustainable practices, Same price as the original.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds or the Allbirds Wool Runner 2 better?
We rated the Allbirds 9.5/10 and the Allbirds Wool Runner 2 9/10, so we lean Allbirds — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
How much do the Allbirds and Allbirds Wool Runner 2 cost?
The Allbirds Wool Runner 2 is listed at $110. We don't have a current price on file for the Allbirds — check the latest on its review page.
What's the difference between the Allbirds and the Allbirds Wool Runner 2?
Short version — Allbirds: If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer. Allbirds Wool Runner 2: The obvious upgrade for Allbirds fans and a strong entry point for newcomers.