When it comes to purchasing shoes from Allbirds, you might get confused sometimes between two models. Likewise, choosing from Allbirds Tree Runners and Tree Dashers is not an easy task.
With all the positive points that have been reported about these models and both are made with the same materials, do you want to know which is better Tree Runners or Tree Dashers?
In this article, the detailed explanations of both will help you feel at ease while you decide which one to choose.
| Features | Tree Runners | Tree Dashers |
|---|---|---|
| Launched in | 2018 | 2020 |
| Stability | Less stable | More stable |
| Flexibility | Flexible | More Flexible |
| Sizing | 8-14 for men5-11 for women | 8-14 for men5-11 for women+ Half Sizes |
| Weight | 7.7 oz. | 10.3 to 10.6 oz. |
| Cushion | Slightly- less | Well Cushioned |
| Outsole | FSC-certified Natural Rubber | FSC-certified Natural Rubber |
| Insole | Castor Bean oil | Castor Bean oil |
| Midsole | SweetFoam | Dual Density SweetFoam |
| Upper | FSC-certified TENCEL Lyocell | FSC-certified TENCEL Lyocell |
| Retail Price | $105 | $125-$135 |
Allbirds Tree Runners Vs Tree Dashers: Good, Bad, and the Worst:
Here, we will compare the expository features of Allbirds Tree Runners and Tree Dashers. After reading this article, you’ll be able to choose the most suitable option.
1) Comfort:
Allbirds Tree Dashers feature the highest cushioning compared to Tree Runners.
The Allbirds’ interiors are composed of a single material, the merino wool that made Allbirds famous.
However, the Tree Dasher interior is unique in this regard, Allbirds claims regarding the Tree Dashers, “the contoured castor bean sock liner, and merino wool lined heel pad cushion lock down your heel, delivering ultimate comfortable, anatomical support with every stride.”
Moreover, Allbirds tree runners also provide decent support and the material is flexible enough to wear on any terrain. This model also has a castor bean oil layer insole, which emits less carbon than petroleum-based foam, reducing the wearer’s carbon footprint.
In addition, the “responsive, dual-density SweetFoam midsole” of Tree Dashers outperforms the single-density midsole of the Tree Runners; so while wearing Dashers, you’ll feel the added comfort and stability.
Lastly, Tree runners have a two-piece upper (body and tongue), while Allbirds claims that the seamless one-piece upper of Tree Dashers provides a more comfy fit that adjusts to your movements and enhances durability.
2) Popularity:
The “Allbirds Tree Dashers” are the more popular style of shoe manufactured by the brand, and after its launch brand got a lot of appreciation. Many well-known persons, and Hollywood stars including Mila Kunis, have been spotted wearing these shoes.
In addition, Tree Dashers are well-liked not just because of their stylish appearance and pop of color, but also because of their carbon-negative and improved responsive foam midsoles, which provide outstanding comfort and more support for casual runners.
Alternatively, Allbirds Tree Runners is popular among people who spend extended time on their feet and want a pair of everyday casual shoes.
3) Running:
Do not let the name mislead you as the Tree Runners are made for casual use, whereas Tree Dashers are intended to meet the needs of casual runners.
Tree Dashers are great for everyday runs and exercise. This pair of sneakers will impress casual runners in many ways, from the seamless upper to the fact that they are much more supportive than the other.
The Tree Dashers are also stretchy and have a shape that pushes you forward while running and the enhanced heel collar helps hold the ankle in place and prevents running injury.
To sum it up, the soles of Tree Runners lack cushioning and did not good for even short-distance running so the “Tree Dashers” is a clear winner here.
4) Walking:
Allbirds Tree Runners and Dashers are one of the best shoes for walking. These options are great for strolling around town, day trips, and extended walks.
The smooth soles of Tree runners are lightweight and springy, also the cushioned insoles will relax your feet and do not cause any discomfort while walking.
Conversely, the wider sole and the cushioning in the midsole of Allbirds Dashers make the shoe stable and supportive for the feet. Since these shoes have a neutral design, they must be suitable for a large number of people seeking casual walking shoes.
In addition, the heel of Allbirds Dashers will feel more balanced than runners, making your walk more comfortable.
5) Flat Feet:
All Allbirds shoes offer soles with enhanced cushioning and stability for many foot types.
The Allbirds Dashers, have a heel-to-drop of 7mm whereas the Tree Runners have a 15mm, so runners have more built-in arch support than the Tree Dashers. High arch support help relieve the pain caused by flat feet.
Additionally, if you need support for your flat feet while running then in this case, Tree Dashers will help you more because of supportive soles. Also, their wider heel will make your feet more stable and the improved lug pattern on the outsole further enhances traction, allowing for a secure balance.
6) Design:
Allbirds Dashers appear more athletically designed shoes, that’s why they did not look like the “everyday” style found in the Tree Runners.
Allbirds Tree runners are made from a sustainable fabric that looks like mesh and is made from eucalyptus pulp.
The shoes are cooler and breathe better and can be worn on warm and cold days in any terrain. In fact, you do not need to wear socks with these sneakers, making them an ideal choice. You can wear them while in the office, traveling, during the week, and on the weekends.
Alternatively, Tree Dashers are designed for everyday runs, walks, and light workouts. The upper of these shoes is more flexible and supportive, which helps maintain foot stability and regulate body temperature.
The heel is wider and the sole is contoured to increase the shoe’s stability and reduce excessive pronation.
The outsole is comprised of natural rubber to prolong the lifespan of the most worn parts, such as the heel.
The supporting footbed is designed to help reduce the strain running can put on your body.
In short, The Tree Runners were designed to be worn more casually whereas the Tree Dashers are mainly considered as running or activity shoes. Also, you will get only whole sizes in Tree Runners whereas Tree Dashers have options for half sizes which is good for people who have small feet.
Tree Runners Vs Tree Dashers: What do customers think?
Allbirds Tree runners and dashers for men and women both have an average of 4.7-star ratings, although you will find more customer reviews for Allbirds Tree Runners.
Tree Runners have found a great fan base among travelers, professionals, health sufferers, and others. Moreover, their support and breathability are praised by customers.
Also, most people claim that these shoes are perfectly true to size, but still, many want half sizes options as well.
People find that the material of the shoe wears and washes better, and these shoes are more comfortable in all conditions, although some Allbirds reviewers find the heel to be a little uncomfortable.
Alternatively, For Allbirds Tree dashers most people agree on how comfy and bouncy these shoes are, and some reviewers said that they are one of the best running shoes.
A reporter added that he wore the Allbirds Dashers when he went hiking in the jungle and had no foot pain the whole time.
Some customers stated wearing them was like walking on air, while others claimed the new version of Dashers was the best shoe they’d ever worn.
Some people complained about the looks of dashers and want more fashion-forward running shoes in more colors and designs.
People also claim that Dashers are well-made for running and give the right amount of support without sacrificing style or durability whereas some people did not find Tree Runners durable.
Conclusion: Which is better for you?
However, the uppers of Allbirds Tree Runners and dashers are constructed from Tencel rather than merino wool, which is derived from Eucalyptus trees.
You can wear both of them without socks also many people prefer the tree material to wool because it seems to last longer.
The main difference between Runners and Dashers is that they were made for different purposes.
Tree Runners are made for almost anyone who wants to wear them casually and we don’t recommend Runners for exercise or running. Obviously, the names can be confusing, but Dashers are Allbirds’ basic running shoes. If you are a dedicated runner and try both pairs, you may notice a distinct difference while running.
To sum it up, the Dashers are made to fulfill the needs of the majority of casual runners due to their running-specific design and impact-absorbing midsole.
Apart from that Runners are more affordable while dashers will cost you extra bucks which will be worth it due to more features.