Amberjack Shoe vs New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Which Is Better?

Our verdict

The Amberjack Shoe and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ are too close to call — we rated both 9/10. There's no clear winner here, so it comes down to what you want it for. We break that down below.

Side by side

AttributeAmberjack ShoeNew Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ
Our rating9/109/10
Best forAt $179, Amberjack beats Cole Haan Zerogrand on quality, comfort, and longevity.Genuine 10th-anniversary upgrades with real improvements—sturdier, roomier, smoother ride.
Standouts
  • They started out comfortable and have become even more comfortable after they wore in after a few weeks. Great shoe and great value.
  • I'd give them 8/10 overall. Comfort-wise, they're solid out of the box — that sneaker-like feel is definitely noticeable.
  • The heat-activated arch support and memory foam insole make a noticeable difference compared to other dress shoes.
  • I own 2 pairs - love them. A little spendy but solid quality. Great on the feet.
  • Sturdier construction than predecessors
  • Roomier upper with improved fit
  • Featherbed™ insole provides exceptional comfort
  • Smoother ride with refined contours
  • Sustainable materials with premium feel
Watch-outs
  • The comfort is where these shoes really deliver, but durability is questionable after extended daily wear.
None we flagged

Which one is right for you?

Choose the Amberjack Shoe if…

At $179, Amberjack beats Cole Haan Zerogrand on quality, comfort, and longevity.

  • They started out comfortable and have become even more comfortable after they wore in after a few weeks. Great shoe and great value.
  • I'd give them 8/10 overall. Comfort-wise, they're solid out of the box — that sneaker-like feel is definitely noticeable.
Check price

Choose the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ if…

Genuine 10th-anniversary upgrades with real improvements—sturdier, roomier, smoother ride.

  • Sturdier construction than predecessors
  • Roomier upper with improved fit
Check price

Why we rate them this way

Amberjack Shoe — 9/10

At $179, Amberjack beats Cole Haan Zerogrand on quality, comfort, and longevity.

What we liked: They started out comfortable and have become even more comfortable after they wore in after a few weeks. Great shoe and great value., I'd give them 8/10 overall. Comfort-wise, they're solid out of the box — that sneaker-like feel is definitely noticeable., The heat-activated arch support and memory foam insole make a noticeable difference compared to other dress shoes., I own 2 pairs - love them. A little spendy but solid quality. Great on the feet..

Worth knowing: The comfort is where these shoes really deliver, but durability is questionable after extended daily wear..

New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ — 9/10

Genuine 10th-anniversary upgrades with real improvements—sturdier, roomier, smoother ride.

What we liked: Sturdier construction than predecessors, Roomier upper with improved fit, Featherbed™ insole provides exceptional comfort, Smoother ride with refined contours, Sustainable materials with premium feel.

Common questions

Is the Amberjack Shoe or the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ better?

We rated both 9/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Amberjack Shoe: At $179, Amberjack beats Cole Haan Zerogrand on quality, comfort, and longevity. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Genuine 10th-anniversary upgrades with real improvements—sturdier, roomier, smoother ride.

How much do the Amberjack Shoe 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 Amberjack Shoe — check the latest on its review page.

What's the difference between the Amberjack Shoe and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ?

Short version — Amberjack Shoe: At $179, Amberjack beats Cole Haan Zerogrand on quality, comfort, and longevity. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Genuine 10th-anniversary upgrades with real improvements—sturdier, roomier, smoother ride.

See all our Shoes picks →