Our verdict
The Allbirds and New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ are close. We gave the Allbirds a slight edge at 9.5/10 over the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 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
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ
$110
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | Allbirds | New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers. |
| 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 New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ if…
Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers.
- Sturdier build
- Roomier upper
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..
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ — 9/10
Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers.
What we liked: Sturdier build, Roomier upper, Smoother, refined ride, Featherbed™ insole for comfort, Premium feel from sustainable materials.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds or the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ better?
We rated the Allbirds 9.5/10 and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 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 New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ cost?
The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 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 New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ?
Short version — Allbirds: If you had to pick one shoe brand for the rest of your life, Allbirds is our answer. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers.