Our verdict
The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and Amberjack Sneakers are close. We gave the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ a slight edge at 9/10 over the Amberjack Sneakers at 8.5/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers.
Our pick
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ
$110
Check priceRead our full review
Amberjack Sneakers
$179
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ | Amberjack Sneakers |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Price | $110 | $179 |
| Best for | Anniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers. | Dressy sneaker that finally looks grown-up without the stiff feel or maintenance nightmare of actual dress shoes. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs | None we flagged |
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Which one is right for you?
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
Choose the Amberjack Sneakers if…
Dressy sneaker that finally looks grown-up without the stiff feel or maintenance nightmare of actual dress shoes.
- The leather quality on these is genuinely impressive for the price. Feels like a $300+ sneaker at half the cost.
- Most comfortable leather sneaker I've worn. The cushioning rivals my running shoes but looks 10x better.
Why we rate them this way
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.
Amberjack Sneakers — 8.5/10
Dressy sneaker that finally looks grown-up without the stiff feel or maintenance nightmare of actual dress shoes.
What we liked: The leather quality on these is genuinely impressive for the price. Feels like a $300+ sneaker at half the cost., Most comfortable leather sneaker I've worn. The cushioning rivals my running shoes but looks 10x better., Clean enough for the office, comfortable enough for all-day walking. Finally one shoe that does both..
Worth knowing: The white leather shows scuffs easily. You'll need a leather cleaner within the first month., Runs slightly large — had to exchange for a half size down. Their sizing guide wasn't accurate for me..
On price, the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ is the cheaper pick at $110, versus $179 — a difference of about $69.
Common questions
Is the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ or the Amberjack Sneakers better?
We rated the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 9/10 and the Amberjack Sneakers 8.5/10, so we lean New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
Which is cheaper, the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ or the Amberjack Sneakers?
The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ is the cheaper of the two at $110, versus $179.
What's the difference between the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and the Amberjack Sneakers?
Short version — 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. Amberjack Sneakers: Dressy sneaker that finally looks grown-up without the stiff feel or maintenance nightmare of actual dress shoes.