Allbirds Tree Pipers VS Tree Runners: What Should I Buy?

If you’re a fan of Allbirds and have one pair of their shoes you definitely want to give others a try due to the comfort they provide.

Most people need a suggestion when choosing between Tree Pipers and Tree runners from the Allbirds shoe collection. This is because both of the models are casual everyday shoes and provide you with an ample amount of cushioning.

Then the question comes to mind how these two shoes are different. To make your research much easier, we’ll examine all the differences in good detail. So, let’s go through this comparison.

Similarities And Differences Between Allbirds Tree Pipers And Tree Runners

FeaturesTree PipersTree Runners
Launched in20212018
StabilityLess stableMore Stable
FlexibilityFlexibleMore Flexible
Sizing8-14 for men5-11 for women8-14 for men5-11 for women
Weight7 to 9 oz.7.7 oz.
CushionCushionedWell Cushioned
OutsoleFSC-certified natural RubberFSC-certified natural Rubber
InsoleCastor Bean oilCastor Bean oil
MidsoleSweetFoamSweetFoam
UpperFSC-certified TENCEL LyocellFSC-certified TENCEL Lyocell
Retail Price$105$98

Tree Pipers Vs Tree Runners: Good, Bad, and the Worst:

Below we have compared crucial factors including comfort, performance, and design so that you can make your final decision easily.

1) Comfort:

The Tree Pipers and Runners both maintain Allbirds’ reputation for manufacturing comfortable footwear.

The models are produced from a breathable eucalyptus fabric, and their practicality is enhanced by the wool interior, which also helps in temperature regulation and provides cushioning. 


Also, both of the shoes can be worn in any weather and do not make your feet sweaty in hot weather, but some people found that Tree Pipers have more breathability and keep your feet cool.

Moreover, the Tree Pipers feature a low profile and minimalist design, so you will not receive as much cushioning or support as with an athletic-style shoe like the Allbirds Tree Runners.

Furthermore, your foot is held more securely in place by the supportive design of Tree Runners which enhances their comfort. 

Summarily, it doesn’t matter what model of Allbirds you buy, because they both are equally comfy. You need to have specific needs in mind in terms of finding the ideal shoe option among them.

2) Popularity:

The “Allbirds Tree Runners” is the more well-known and widely worn shoe style that debuted in 2018.

On their website, Tree Runners are among customers’ most reviewed models, with more than six thousand reviews for both men and women. Style-wise, they are simple and easy to wear with anything from your wardrobe.

These shoes are most popular among active people and professionals like nurses or medical staff who spend most of their time on their feet. Besides that Allbirds Pipers is a newer edition to the Allbirds collection and has fewer customer reviews.

3) Running:

The proper running shoes give your whole body the support it needs and can help keep you from getting injured for a great running experience. 

However, Allbirds Tree Runners and Pipers are not designed for running and do not offer the same level of support as running-specific footwear.

These are flat walking shoes, thus using them for a workout or impact-based activities will likely harm you. I would not suggest wearing both of them when running. 

4) Walking:

The Tree Runners and Tree Pipers from Allbirds will provide you with a good level of comfort while walking.

The Tree pipers are ideal for walking in hot weather and are more breathable, great for everyday activities or short-distance walks.

Alternatively, whether you’re running errands, traveling, or wearing them for everyday use, Allbirds runners feel comfier even after walking for miles. 

In addition, the foam soles of tree runners are supportive and bouncy, and your feet do not ache after walking for a good amount of time in these shoes.

The Tree Runners will help you if you have persistent foot pain or just want a pair of sturdy shoes.

5) For Flat Feet:

The soles of Allbirds models have better cushioning and stability for a wide range of people.

The Allbirds tree runners provide a 15 mm heel-to-toe drop and great arch support whereas tree pipers have the least amount of arch support with a 2mm heel-to-toe drop.

Tree Runners Top View

Tree Pipers Top View

Allbirds Tree pipers are not going to be the shoe that has the support you need in terms of adding stability to your arch. I will recommend people with flat feet or a minimal arch will find Tree runners more versatile and reliable.

6) Design:

Allbirds Tree runners are constructed from a sustainable, mesh-like fabric that is manufactured using eucalyptus pulp, and the shoes keep your feet cool.

The elegant and sophisticated design of the Allbirds Tree Runner complements any casual outfit. These shoes have a narrower fit, allowing them to adapt easily to the shape of your foot.

You can wear them while traveling, on weekends, and throughout the week, also these shoes are highly durable. Additionally, they offer more color options than tree pipers, whether you want warm neutrals or vibrant hues, they have them all.

Tree Runners Outsole

Tree Pipers Outsole

Alternatively, The Tree Piper is a considerably more classic take on the Allbirds Runner, making it simple to wear with anything. The Tree Pipers are basically made for hot weather because their breathable material allows more air to pass through.

The fabric and construction of the Tree Piper provide this shoe with a significant amount of strength around the heel and aid in stabilizing the foot. Moreover, the fabric is designed to promote ventilation, keeping your feet sweat-free in the heat.

I would say that the Tree Pipers are a great shoe for summers and lazing around while performing typical daily activities.

Tree Pipers And Tree Runners: What do customers think?

Allbirds Tree pipers for women and me have an average of 4.5-star ratings on Allbirds Official website

Conversely, Tree runners for men have 4.6-star ratings whereas women runners have 4.7 stars and have more customer reviews

Most customers claim their Tree Runner is an excellent pair of travel shoes. Moreover, their support and snug fit are praised by customers. They find that the material of the shoes is very flexible and some reviewers also said that the shoes get dirty quickly can be an issue but they are happy that they can wash them easily in a washing machine. 

Tree Runner Customer Review

Also, customers praised the overall comfort and versatility of Tree runners. There are only complaints about looks, not being water resistant, and people who have small feet have problems with sizes. Moreover, you can read more customer reviews of Allbirds Tree Runners by clicking here.

In contrast, regarding comfort and appearance, everyone has nothing but appreciation for Tree Pipers. Several reviews indicate that they are absolutely comfy and “feel amazing right out of the box.”

Tree Pipers Customer Review

Some people stated that every time they wear Tree Pipers, they forget they are wearing them since they are so comfortable. However, some customers complained that the sneaker’s heel tab and back tab were scratched into their ankles. You can read more customer reviews of Tree Pipers here.

Several customers noted that the shoes require a break-in period and do not fit many people. Lastly, people have good experience wearing these shoes in hot areas while traveling.

Conclusion: What Should I Buy?

I would recommend both Tree runners and pipers if you’re searching for something comfortable to wear for casual everyday use, both will cost you an equal amount of money. 

The Tree Runners are perfect if you’re planning to wear them during your tour also they won’t add extra weight to your travel luggage, on the other hand, Allbirds Pipers are more favored for summer and transitional seasons. 

I would also highlight that Tree Pipers are slightly less comfy than the Allbirds Runners due to the lack of arch support in the Pipers.

Conversely, I prefer the aesthetic of Tree Pipers to that of the Tree Runners since they are more elegant and have a classic sneaker vibe that is far more fashionable. 

I hope all your doubts related to Tree Runners and Pipers are now clear. If you still have any queries please ask them in the comments down below.

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