Our verdict
The Reef Shoes and New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ are close. We gave the Reef Shoes a slight edge at 9/10 over the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ at 8.5/10 — close enough that fit matters more than the score. Outrageously light and springy shoes that deliver surprising comfort for everyday wear and travel.
Our pick
Reef Shoes
$80
Check priceRead our full review
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ
$110
Check priceRead our full reviewSide by side
| Attribute | Reef Shoes | New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Price | $80 | $110 |
| Best for | Outrageously light and springy shoes that deliver surprising comfort for everyday wear and travel. | The 10th-anniversary Wool and Tree Runner NZ models deliver real improvements: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride. |
| Standouts |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Reef Shoes if…
Outrageously light and springy shoes that deliver surprising comfort for everyday wear and travel.
- Insanely lightweight
- Springy, trampoline-like bounce
Choose the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ if…
The 10th-anniversary Wool and Tree Runner NZ models deliver real improvements: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride.
- Sturdier build quality than predecessors
- Roomier upper fit
Why we rate them this way
Reef Shoes — 9/10
Outrageously light and springy shoes that deliver surprising comfort for everyday wear and travel.
What we liked: Insanely lightweight, Springy, trampoline-like bounce, True to size, no break-in, Versatile neutral style, Great for travel and long walking.
New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ — 8.5/10
The 10th-anniversary Wool and Tree Runner NZ models deliver real improvements: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride.
What we liked: Sturdier build quality than predecessors, Roomier upper fit, Smoother, more refined ride, Dual-density Featherbed insole designed through 45+ iterations, Machine-washable with sustainable materials.
On price, the Reef Shoes is the cheaper pick at $80, versus $110 — a difference of about $30.
Common questions
Is the Reef Shoes or the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ better?
We rated the Reef Shoes 9/10 and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 8.5/10, so we lean Reef Shoes — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
Which is cheaper, the Reef Shoes or the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ?
The Reef Shoes is the cheaper of the two at $80, versus $110.
What's the difference between the Reef Shoes and the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ?
Short version — Reef Shoes: Outrageously light and springy shoes that deliver surprising comfort for everyday wear and travel. New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: The 10th-anniversary Wool and Tree Runner NZ models deliver real improvements: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride.