Rothy’s RS02 vs New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ: Which Is Better?

Our verdict

The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and Rothy’s RS02 are close. We gave the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ a slight edge at 9/10 over the Rothy’s RS02 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.

Side by side

AttributeNew Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZRothy’s RS02
Our rating9/108.5/10
Best forAnniversary upgrades that deliver: sturdier build, roomier upper, smoother ride make Allbirds' most refined sustainable sneakers.Machine-washable and made from 22 recycled plastic bottles, the RS02 is perfect for everyday wear and travel—just wish it came in bright white.
Standouts
  • Sturdier build
  • Roomier upper
  • Smoother, refined ride
  • Featherbed™ insole for comfort
  • Premium feel from sustainable materials
  • Machine-washable and stays looking new after washing
  • No break-in period, immediately comfortable fit
  • Made from 22 recycled plastic bottles per pair
  • Lightweight and runs true to size
  • Versatile casual design works with any wardrobe
Watch-outsNone we flagged
  • Only comes in yellowish bone, not bright white
  • Not suitable for running or intense workouts

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
Check price

Choose the Rothy’s RS02 if…

Machine-washable and made from 22 recycled plastic bottles, the RS02 is perfect for everyday wear and travel—just wish it came in bright white.

  • Machine-washable and stays looking new after washing
  • No break-in period, immediately comfortable fit
Check price

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.

Rothy’s RS02 — 8.5/10

Machine-washable and made from 22 recycled plastic bottles, the RS02 is perfect for everyday wear and travel—just wish it came in bright white.

What we liked: Machine-washable and stays looking new after washing, No break-in period, immediately comfortable fit, Made from 22 recycled plastic bottles per pair, Lightweight and runs true to size, Versatile casual design works with any wardrobe.

Worth knowing: Only comes in yellowish bone, not bright white, Not suitable for running or intense workouts.

Common questions

Is the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ or the Rothy’s RS02 better?

We rated the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ 9/10 and the Rothy’s RS02 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).

How much do the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and Rothy’s RS02 cost?

The New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ is listed at $110. We don't have a current price on file for the Rothy’s RS02 — check the latest on its review page.

What's the difference between the New Allbirds Wool Runner NZ and Tree Runner NZ and the Rothy’s RS02?

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. Rothy’s RS02: Machine-washable and made from 22 recycled plastic bottles, the RS02 is perfect for everyday wear and travel—just wish it came in bright white.

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