The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is the second model to debut in the popular Allbirds Tree Dasher line. This model boasts subtle construction changes that help it excel and improve upon the original Tree Dasher. As a fan of Allbirds’ mission and their comfortable shoes, I was excited to put the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 to the test.
I like the original Tree Dasher, but there were a few construction details that I felt caused this model to fall short on. In the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, it seems Allbirds listened to the consumer and made multiple changes to enhance this shoe’s performance for casual runs and training, and overall comfort. Despite really enjoying the Tree Dasher 2, there is still one drawback which I’ll discuss below.
In this Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 review, I’m going to discuss a variety of topics to help you decide if this model is a good fit for the context of training wants and needs.
Contents
For the guys, on the market for new men’s running shorts? Check out my Best Men’s Workout Shorts article to find the perfect pair of shorts for your training needs.
Who Should Invest In the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2?
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 delivers a strong performance for casual running, walking, standing, and light workouts. If you’re on the market for a shoe that you can wear casually, but also run and train in, then I think you’ll enjoy the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2. For short and mid-range distance runs this shoe excels and performs really well.
Plus, this model can double as a hybrid shoe for anyone that likes to mix light workouts with their runs at the track, gym, and home. The SweetFoam midsole walks a good line between being responsive and also offering a light level of stability so if you like running shoes that aren’t overly plush, then I think you’ll also enjoy how this shoe performs and feels.
Outside of the above, I also think this is a good shoe for anyone that is looking specifically for sustainable shoes. Allbirds states that this shoe’s carbon footprint starts at 10.7 kg CO2e, which they note is a 5% decrease from the original Allbirds Tree Dasher. For comfort and sustainability, I think the Tree Dasher 2 is a good pick.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
$135
Best For
- Short and Mid-Distance Runs
- Walking and Standing
- Daily and Casual Wear
- Light Workouts
Falls Short
- For Long-Distance Runs
- For Wet and Harsh Training Settings
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Pros
The Allbirds Tree Dasher has received multiple construction updates that make it a strong performer for running and training. Below are a few of my favorite things about this model.
- Reworked Heel Counter Is Comfortable
- New Outsole Construction Increases This Shoe’s Range
- Heel Has Been Reworked and Isn’t As Clunky
- Great Carbon Footprint and Sustainable Materials
The first and most noticeable thing to like about the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is the reworked heel counter and boot. In the first Allbirds Tree Dasher, I had an issue with the heel counter causing blisters on my Achilles and I know I’m not alone since this was one of the core construction updates in this model.
In the Tree Dasher 2, I have yet to have an issue with friction or blisters on my Achilles which is awesome because it makes the break-in process of this shoe a lot easier. This model features ZQ merino wool around the internal heel to increase comfort and prevent heel slip, and it looks like the upper material was brought down slightly and angled more vertically to prevent Achilles rub.
The second thing to like about the Tree Dasher 2 is the new outsole construction that Allbirds used on this model. This model features a reworked lug patterning that extends the entirety of the outsole. The forefoot and heel have slightly more aggressive lugs while the midfoot has less aggressive lugs.
This is great because it helps the Tree Dasher 2 perform better on a wider variety of surfaces. The original Tree Dasher’s outsole had some slippage issues on certain surfaces. I have yet to experience slippage issues while running and training in the Tree Dasher 2. This shoe grips surfaces like turf and concrete a lot better.
Another pro of the Tree Dasher 2 is the heel construction and how it’s reworked compared to the original Tree Dasher. As a whole, the width of the heel’s sole in Tree Dasher 2 has been brought in slightly and it has a slightly more aggressive lip to it. I like this because it increases this shoe’s comfort for different running strides and it makes the shoe feel less blocky.
The weight of the Tree Dasher 2 still isn’t the best, but I think it’s heading in the right direction for this shoe line. I like the SweetFoam midsole and how it performs and I think Allbirds will continue to improve on features like this that contribute to the weight and density of this shoe.
The final aspect to like about the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is its carbon footprint and the material used in this model. Personally, I feel if you’re buying Allbirds shoes and gear, then the sustainability of their products and the materials they use are a given as being a pro for investing in their product.
The Tree Dasher 2 has decreased its carbon footprint from the original Tree Dasher by 5%. Some major callouts include the upper in this model is made with a eucalyptus tree fiber, the SweetFoam midsole is composed of a sugarcane-based green EVA, and the outsole is an FSC-certified natural rubber.
Additionally, the shoelaces are made out of recycled water bottles and the insole is composed of a castor bean oil-based insole foam.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Cons
Compared to the original Allbirds Tree Dasher, the Tree Dasher 2 is an improved shoe. However, there is one main con that I could see others having with this model.
- Not the Best for Serious Training
Don’t get me wrong, I like training in the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, and you certainly train hard in them, but I think this model has a cap to its potential. I don’t think the Tree Dasher 2 will be your best bet for more serious running and this is due to its slightly heavier weight and long-term durability.
The weight in the Tree Dasher 2 is somewhat lighter than the original Tree Dasher, but it still has a somewhat heavy feeling, especially in the context of longer sessions. In addition, I like the upper FSC-certified TENCEL™ Lyocell construction, but I worry how it’s going to hold up in different running conditions for someone who’s putting in a high volume of mileage.
For example, if you’re running outside and it’s raining or it’s wet from fresh rain, then I would say try to limit this shoe’s exposure in this context to prolong its lifespan. I think it’s important to define the expectations you have for this shoe before investing in them. This is definitely a better shoe for more casual running, training, and daily wear and they may not be the best for hard training.
Performance
To discuss the performance of the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, I’m going to discuss how this shoe performs in different training contexts. This way you can better assess if this shoe matches your running and training needs accordingly.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 for Short, Mid-Range, and Long-Distance Runs
In the context of running, I think the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 will be best served for short and mid-range runs. I think this is a solid running shoe for casual sessions where you’re hitting lower mileage volumes at different paces. This shoe works well for faster-paced short runs where you’re hitting pick-ups and it’s good for steady-state work.
The SweetFoam midsole provides a fair amount of ground feedback and the reworked outsole helps with this shoe’s overall traction. In addition, the reworked heel is also nice for accommodating a wider range of different strides. The only area where I think this shoe may fall short for some is for long-distance runs outside.
This shoe may still feel a touch too heavy for some and the durability may not be the best in certain running contexts outdoors. For example, I’d skip on this model for sessions in the rain. Conversely, for treadmill running and running outdoors in dry settings, I like this model a lot.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 for Hybrid Workouts and Light Training
If you’re wanting to invest in the Tree Dasher 2 for hybrid workout and light training, then I think you’ll enjoy this model. This is the perfect type of shoe for training days where you’re hitting something like a 5k, then implementing in some light lifting or bodyweight work. The Tree Dasher 2 will likely be my shoe for active recovery days for the unforeseeable future.
The midsole in this shoe is responsive, but also stable enough to support lighter loads with dumbbells and kettlebells. I would not suggest training heavy in this shoe much like with every running shoe, however, I do like this shoe’s performance for hybrid workouts.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 for Walking and Daily Wear
Like with most Allbirds shoes, I think one of the areas where they excel is the most is for walking and daily wear. If you want this shoe for running errands, walking longer periods, or standing all day at work, then I think you’ll really enjoy this shoe’s overall comfort.
They offer a nice blend of cushion and support for different walking and standing contexts. Plus, with the reworked outsole in the Tree Dasher 2, I also think this is a better model for wearing outdoors in different settings. For example, you’ll get more grip with this shoe on loose terrain and in the grass.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Vs Tree Dasher
There are multiple construction updates with the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 that differentiate it and make it a better model than the original Tree Dasher, in my opinion. Personally, there are three key construction updates that are worth noting and paying attention to.
First, Allbirds updated the heel counter in the Tree Dasher 2. In the original Tree Dasher, the boot and heel counter came in pretty aggressively which had the potential to cause blisters on the Achilles. My first pair of Tree Dashers still has a bloodstain from the break-in process.
In the Tree Dasher 2, there’s a thicker layer of Merino Wool and it looks like the upper material covering the wool was brought down slightly and angled more vertically. I have yet to notice any blister or friction issues with the reworked heel counter so if this is something that bothered you in the original model, then I think you’ll enjoy this construction change.
Second, the outsole on the Tree Dasher 2 received a nice update. In this model, Allbirds has implemented small lugs throughout the outsole and the heel and forefoot both have slightly more aggressive lugs.
This is great because it improves the range of surfaces that you can now use the Tree Dasher 2 on. Plus, it increases the traction of this shoe on surfaces like turf and tracks if you’re also using these for working out. The original Tree Dasher featured a flat outsole that would limit its performance on some surfaces especially if there was any moisture or dampness.
Third and lastly, the heel construction in the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 was reworked to be less blocky than the Tree Dasher. The posterior part of the heel has a bit more of a lip and angle which I like for running purposes and the decreased material has also helped bring down the weight slightly in the Tree Dasher 2.
The original Tree Dasher’s sole was a little clunky at times and its weight wasn’t the best especially if you were wearing them for longer runs.
The Winner: I think unless there’s a seriously good deal on the original Tree Dasher, then going for the Tree Dasher 2 is the better call for your investment. This shoe has better construction and I think it’s a stronger performer in the contexts of casual running, light workouts, and daily wear.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Sizing
For the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, most athletes and runners should be safe going true to size. The length fits true and the width of this model is what I would describe as being neutral. I think if you have narrow, neutral, and slightly wider foot, then you’ll find this model to be comfortable going true to size.
- Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Sizing Thoughts: Go true to size.
If you have additional Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 sizing and fit questions, drop a comment below and I can try to help you size for this shoe accordingly.
Price Breakdown
For the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, you can expect to pay $135 USD. Personally, I think this price point is fair for what this shoe offers especially if you’re picking up this shoe for casual runs, daily wear, and light workouts.
It excels in all of these areas and it’s super comfortable, so when you factor this in with the sustainability of the materials used in this the price point seems justified, in my opinion.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
$135
Best For
- Short and Mid-Distance Runs
- Walking and Standing
- Daily and Casual Wear
- Light Workouts
Falls Short
- For Long-Distance Runs
- For Wet and Harsh Training Settings
Construction Details
One of the cool things about the Allbirds Tree Dasher is the construction details that go into this shoe. Allbirds purposely make their footwear have as little of a carbon footprint as possible.
Below are some of the biggest construction callouts for the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 that influence its performance.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 10.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- FSC-certified TENCEL™ Lyocell Upper
- Merino Wool Heel Liner
- Natural Rubber Outsole
- SweetFoam Midsole
- Shoelaces Made Out of Recycled Water Bottles
If you have additional questions about the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2’s construction, drop a comment below or check out Allbirds’ page to read more about the sustainability details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Are the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 good for walking?
Q:Can you work out in the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2?
Takeaway Thoughts
Across the board, I like the changes that Allbirds implemented with the Tree Dasher 2. It seems like Allbirds listened to consumer feedback about the original Tree Dasher and made multiple positive changes to this model.
If you’re looking for an environment-friendly shoe for light workouts, casual runs, and daily wear, then I think you’ll enjoy the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2.
If you have any additional questions about the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly).
I buy and test the products featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training shoes and gear. I may earn commissions on sales made through the links on my site.
