Our verdict
The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and the Amberjack Sneakers 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.
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ
$110
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Amberjack Sneakers
$179
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ | Amberjack Sneakers |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Price | $110 | $179 |
| Best for | Real improvements: sturdier builds, roomier uppers, smoother rides—reach for Wool Runner on cold days, Tree Runner NZ for warm weather. | Finally: a sneaker that's polished and grown-up without being fussy—the shoe you grab when you want to look put-together. |
| 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…
Real improvements: sturdier builds, roomier uppers, smoother rides—reach for Wool Runner on cold days, Tree Runner NZ for warm weather.
- Dual-density Featherbed™ insole with optimized cushioning
- Noticeably sturdier construction than predecessors
Choose the Amberjack Sneakers if…
Finally: a sneaker that's polished and grown-up without being fussy—the shoe you grab when you want to look put-together.
- 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 — 8.5/10
Real improvements: sturdier builds, roomier uppers, smoother rides—reach for Wool Runner on cold days, Tree Runner NZ for warm weather.
What we liked: Dual-density Featherbed™ insole with optimized cushioning, Noticeably sturdier construction than predecessors, Roomier upper with improved fit, Smoother, more refined ride quality, Premium sustainable materials without compromising comfort.
Amberjack Sneakers — 8.5/10
Finally: a sneaker that's polished and grown-up without being fussy—the shoe you grab when you want to look put-together.
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 both 8.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Real improvements: sturdier builds, roomier uppers, smoother rides—reach for Wool Runner on cold days, Tree Runner NZ for warm weather. Amberjack Sneakers: Finally: a sneaker that's polished and grown-up without being fussy—the shoe you grab when you want to look put-together.
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: Real improvements: sturdier builds, roomier uppers, smoother rides—reach for Wool Runner on cold days, Tree Runner NZ for warm weather. Amberjack Sneakers: Finally: a sneaker that's polished and grown-up without being fussy—the shoe you grab when you want to look put-together.