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- Allbirds has released a performance sneaker for trail running and hiking – the Trail Runner SWT.
- The shoe uses all of Allbirds durable materials and features grippy outsoles and mudguards.
- After trying a pair, the Trail Runner SWT is my new favorite shoe for outdoor activities.
With a popular performance running sneaker and a boundary-pushing collaboration with Adidas, Allbirds have made a name for themselves in the running sneaker category. Now, the brand known for its durable footwear is stepping away from the trail and tarmac and heading to the trail with its latest running sneaker, the Trail Runner SWT.
Designed for trail running, hiking, and all-terrain walking, the Trail Runner SWT features a durable water-repellent upper, a sock-like fit to keep dirt and debris out, and durable outsoles with 4mm multi-directional treads for all-way traction. terms.
The treads may look like macaroni, but they deliver incredible traction on everything from pavement and grass to dirt and gravel.
Amir Ismael / Initiate
Like any other pair of Allbirds shoes, the Trail Runner SWT uses durable materials throughout the design. You’ll find a blend of merino wool and eucalyptus fibers on the upper of the shoe, SweetFoam midsoles made from sugar cane, merino wool heel liners, merino wool and recycled ripstop polyester, recycled plastic laces, castor oil-based insoles and natural rubber outsoles.
Despite being rugged and trail-ready, the Trail Runner SWT is still incredibly light. Compared to the Tree Dasher 2, Allbirds latest performance running sneaker, the Trail Runner is just 2.06 ounces heavier.
What the Trail Runner SWT looks like
Amir wears the Allbirds Trail Runner SWT sneakers with the Allbirds R&R hoodie and track pants.
Amir Ismael / Initiate
While I appreciate the durability and comfort of Allbirds, my personal taste generally draws me towards more unique and collectible sneakers, but the Allbirds Trail Runner SWT is my new favorite for outdoor activities.
I don’t have a lot of hiking shoes in my collection, but of the few I have, the Allbirds Trail Runner SWT is the best due to its understated style and light weight.
While most hiking shoes take on a technical, rugged aesthetic that looks out of place in a casual setting, the Trail Runner SWT can easily be worn when you’re off the trail. Besides hiking, I have worn them while biking and they have worked just as well. At 12.36 ounces, they are much lighter than most traditional hiking shoes, allowing you to comfortably do other activities that you would typically want lightweight shoes for.
In addition to how they look on the feet, the Trail Runner features similar comfort technology as other Allbirds performance running sneakers. The upper isn’t as breathable as some of the all-knit shoes due to the water-resistant mudguards, but it’s a solid compromise for keeping feet dry while trekking.
Close up of the Allbirds Trail Runner SWT ripstop mudguard and taped seams.
Amir Ismael / Initiate
Size and Fit
I usually wear a size 8.5 so I choose a size 9 in Allbirds sneakers which only come in full sizes. However, the Trail Runner SWT and other performance models from Allbirds are available in half sizes, which is a major plus.
I picked up a size 9 before I knew this was available in half sizes and I have a little extra room in the toes, but the sock-like design still makes them secure on my feet. I would recommend ordering the right size, but if you plan to wear your Trail Runners with thicker hiking socks, go up a half size.
The bottom line
The Trail Runner SWT is a great shoe overall and another clear indication that Allbirds is not complacent in the shoe industry. The brand has done a great job in making casual and comfortable shoes, but its consistent focus on performance proves that the brand can successfully make all types of shoes.
At $140, the Trail Runner SWT is more expensive than other Allbirds shoes, but that’s to be expected for a performance model. Compared to similar hiking boots, these are still relatively affordable and, in my opinion, more versatile due to their low profile styling.
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