I’ve been testing Allbirds Tree Dashers 2–the second Allbirds version of a running shoe–for the past week. They’ve been through cross-training, dance class, and walking in that time so I thought I would let you know how they fit and feel–especially in terms of tread, sizing, arch support, and if you can add insoles to them. And yes, we’ll discuss if they’re good for running and other exercise classes. Plus, I have a discount code from Allbirds for free socks with purchase, if you want!
Right out of the box I was very smitten with this limited edition color–cocoa. But then I put them on and I was nervous about the fit. I tried the original Tree Dasher 1 in my true running shoe size, a 10.5, and found them perfect. The Tree Dasher 2 felt slightly too small in the toe box. I took the shoes off and vowed to deal with a return later that day.
When I came back to them I tried them on one more time just to be sure. And…they fit?! So thank you to whatever shoe gnome worked that one out for me. Really, I think it’s that the all-fabric top of the shoe does stretch a bit. I would pick your true size and wear them around the house before committing. Unless you have wide feet, in which case I would go up half a size.
I have a narrow heel and find these slightly loose in the heel. There is a lot of padding back there, though, so I have not had any issues with blisters while wearing them.
And yes, you can remove the sole and add an insole to these quite easily!
What activities are the Tree Dashers equipped for?
As I said in my first review of the original Tree Dasher, the tread left something to be desired. I wore that pair on a gravel hiking trail and felt like anything more intense would have made it difficult to keep my footing. Allbirds is definitely listening to someone about this because the tread is much improved on this pair. The first time I wore them around the block I kept noticing how grippy they were on the sidewalk. But I no longer notice that, so, I would just say the tread is normal/average now.
I’ve also found the arch support improved on this pair. I have a high arch and have worn the shoes for extensive walks/dance class without any pain.
I’m still not sure if I would run in them, but that is because I need a lot of arch support to run. If that doesn’t describe you, I think you could probably run in these just fine! I will note, they are also not waterproof, so depending on your climate that is something to consider.
Lastly, I am thinking seriously of making them my travel shoe when we go on our next big vacation. They are stylish enough (in my opinion) and very light so they’ll be easy to pack. It’s a bonus that you can wash them, of course.
That’s my experience so far–if you want any questions answered please drop them below! And if you’re thinking of ordering from Allbirds, you can get free socks with any purchase using this link. Just add socks to your cart and when you go to checkout the price will drop to 0. And I’ll get a little affiliate $ as well. Thanks for helping my small blog keep going!
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