Our verdict
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 and Birchbury are close. We gave the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 a slight edge at 8.5/10 over the Birchbury at 8/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. A genuine upgrade that fixes the original's heel blister issue and improves traction—great for everyday wear and light runs.
Our pick
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
$135
Check priceRead our full review
Birchbury
$120
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 | Birchbury |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8/10 |
| Price | $135 | $120 |
| Best for | A genuine upgrade that fixes the original's heel blister issue and improves traction—great for everyday wear and light runs. | Comfortable minimalist shoe with wide toe box and lightweight feel, but only worth buying if you love the simple aesthetic. |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 if…
A genuine upgrade that fixes the original's heel blister issue and improves traction—great for everyday wear and light runs.
- Reworked heel cushion eliminates Achilles blisters
- Significantly improved traction on wet and dry surfaces
Choose the Birchbury if…
Comfortable minimalist shoe with wide toe box and lightweight feel, but only worth buying if you love the simple aesthetic.
- Lightweight, almost as light as Allbirds
- Super comfortable
Why we rate them this way
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 — 8.5/10
A genuine upgrade that fixes the original's heel blister issue and improves traction—great for everyday wear and light runs.
What we liked: Reworked heel cushion eliminates Achilles blisters, Significantly improved traction on wet and dry surfaces, More comfortable fit with bigger toe box, Lighter weight than original, Machine washable.
Worth knowing: Not ideal for marathon or serious long-distance running.
Birchbury — 8/10
Comfortable minimalist shoe with wide toe box and lightweight feel, but only worth buying if you love the simple aesthetic.
What we liked: Lightweight, almost as light as Allbirds, Super comfortable, Extra wide toe box gives feet room, Elastic shoelaces eliminate tying, High-quality optional orthopedic insole.
Worth knowing: Only available in full sizes, Some find the aesthetic looks childish, Requires socks; awkward with shorts, Less versatile styling than some alternatives.
On price, the Birchbury is the cheaper pick at $120, versus $135 — a difference of about $15.
Common questions
Is the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 or the Birchbury better?
We rated the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 8.5/10 and the Birchbury 8/10, so we lean Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
Which is cheaper, the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 or the Birchbury?
The Birchbury is the cheaper of the two at $120, versus $135.
What's the difference between the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 and the Birchbury?
Short version — Allbirds Tree Dasher 2: A genuine upgrade that fixes the original's heel blister issue and improves traction—great for everyday wear and light runs. Birchbury: Comfortable minimalist shoe with wide toe box and lightweight feel, but only worth buying if you love the simple aesthetic.