Our verdict
The Native Water Shoes and Allbirds Tree Runner Go are close. We gave the Native Water Shoes a slight edge at 8/10 over the Allbirds Tree Runner Go at 7.5/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. Great-looking water shoe with quick drying, but runs narrow—a dealbreaker for wide feet.
Our pick
Native Water Shoes
Allbirds Tree Runner Go
$120
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | Native Water Shoes | Allbirds Tree Runner Go |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Great-looking water shoe with quick drying, but runs narrow—a dealbreaker for wide feet. | A lightweight, breathable upgrade with excellent sustainability, though the snug fit and grime-prone soles are notable trade-offs. |
| Standouts |
|
|
| Watch-outs |
|
|
Which one is right for you?
Choose the Native Water Shoes if…
Great-looking water shoe with quick drying, but runs narrow—a dealbreaker for wide feet.
- Best-looking water shoes on market
- Incredibly lightweight
Choose the Allbirds Tree Runner Go if…
A lightweight, breathable upgrade with excellent sustainability, though the snug fit and grime-prone soles are notable trade-offs.
- Lighter and more flexible than original Tree Runner
- Breathable eucalyptus knit keeps feet cool
Why we rate them this way
Native Water Shoes — 8/10
Great-looking water shoe with quick drying, but runs narrow—a dealbreaker for wide feet.
What we liked: Best-looking water shoes on market, Incredibly lightweight, Water drains through perforations in seconds, Easy to clean and odor-resistant, Kid-friendly slip-on design.
Worth knowing: Runs narrow—too small in width even for average feet, Not enough cushioning for long walks or hiking, Expensive at $50–60 for essentially a plastic shoe, No arch support / flat footbed.
Allbirds Tree Runner Go — 7.5/10
A lightweight, breathable upgrade with excellent sustainability, though the snug fit and grime-prone soles are notable trade-offs.
What we liked: Lighter and more flexible than original Tree Runner, Breathable eucalyptus knit keeps feet cool, Sleek, minimalist design works for casual and semi-casual wear, Eco-friendly, renewable materials, Machine washable.
Worth knowing: Snug fit; need to size up if between sizes, White SweetFoam soles collect grime quickly, Limited color options vs. original Tree Runners, Higher price than predecessor.
Common questions
Is the Native Water Shoes or the Allbirds Tree Runner Go better?
We rated the Native Water Shoes 8/10 and the Allbirds Tree Runner Go 7.5/10, so we lean Native Water Shoes — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
How much do the Native Water Shoes and Allbirds Tree Runner Go cost?
The Allbirds Tree Runner Go is listed at $120. We don't have a current price on file for the Native Water Shoes — check the latest on its review page.
What's the difference between the Native Water Shoes and the Allbirds Tree Runner Go?
Short version — Native Water Shoes: Great-looking water shoe with quick drying, but runs narrow—a dealbreaker for wide feet. Allbirds Tree Runner Go: A lightweight, breathable upgrade with excellent sustainability, though the snug fit and grime-prone soles are notable trade-offs.