Our verdict
The Allbirds and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ are too close to call — we rated both 8.5/10. There's no clear winner here, so it comes down to what you want it for. We break that down below.
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 | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Best for | Incredibly comfortable, sustainable, and washable—the perfect everyday shoe if you like minimalist style. | If you love minimalist sneakers that actually feel good, these are worth the investment. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
| None we flagged |
Which one is right for you?
Choose the Allbirds if…
Incredibly comfortable, sustainable, and washable—the perfect everyday shoe if you like minimalist style.
- 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…
If you love minimalist sneakers that actually feel good, these are worth the investment.
- Plush cloud-soft comfort with upgraded Featherbed™ insole
- Sustainable materials with premium feel
Why we rate them this way
Allbirds — 8.5/10
Incredibly comfortable, sustainable, and washable—the perfect everyday shoe if you like minimalist style.
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 — 8.5/10
If you love minimalist sneakers that actually feel good, these are worth the investment.
What we liked: Plush cloud-soft comfort with upgraded Featherbed™ insole, Sustainable materials with premium feel, Machine-washable, Sleek minimalist design for any setting, Lightweight and breathable.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds or the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ better?
We rated both 8.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Allbirds: Incredibly comfortable, sustainable, and washable—the perfect everyday shoe if you like minimalist style. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: If you love minimalist sneakers that actually feel good, these are worth the investment.
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: Incredibly comfortable, sustainable, and washable—the perfect everyday shoe if you like minimalist style. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: If you love minimalist sneakers that actually feel good, these are worth the investment.