
6.8
/10
Best for Breathable Comfort (in the Dry Heat!)

6.8
/10
Best for Breathable Comfort (in the Dry Heat!)
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Stay Cool, Tread Light: The Ultimate Hot Weather Sneaker (If You're Gentle) – Allbirds Tree Runners Review
Stay Cool, Tread Light: The Ultimate Hot Weather Sneaker
Sweltering destinations demand breathable footwear. The Allbirds Tree Runner swaps wool for cool eucalyptus fiber, promising to keep your feet fresh even when the mercury skyrockets. I put them to the test in the intense 105°F heat of Dubai to see if this sustainable swap can handle the heat of travel.
🌬️
Breathability
9.5
Eucalyptus fiber knit provides exceptional airflow, significantly cooler than wool or synthetics. Ideal for truly hot and dry climates.
☁️
Comfort
7.5
Soft, flexible knit feels great against the skin without socks. Lightweight construction adds to the barely-there feel.
🌿
Sustainability
7
Made with renewable eucalyptus fiber and sugarcane midsole. Reflects strong brand commitment to eco-friendly materials.
🧳
Packability
7.5
Lightweight and flexible design packs down relatively easily. Less bulky than traditional sneakers, aiding minimalist packing for warm trips.
Perfect For
☀️
Warm Climates
🌿
Sustainable Travel
🦶
Sockless Comfort
🏙️
City Exploring
🧼
Easy Cleaning
Quality & Comfort
The Tree Runner immediately impresses with its lightweight feel and soft, flexible knit upper made from eucalyptus fiber (Tencel™ Lyocell). It feels noticeably cooler against the skin than the Wool Runner, making it exceptionally comfortable for sockless wear, especially in warm conditions. My Dubai testing confirmed this – after a 12,000-step day navigating crowded souks and then ducking into air-conditioned malls where the temperature was a good 40 degrees cooler, my feet stayed significantly drier and cooler than they would have in other sneakers. They really do let your feet breathe, which is a lifesaver in 95°F+ (35°C+) heat.\n\nLike its wool counterpart, however, the Tree Runner offers minimal arch support – basically zero for long hauls. The included insole is basic, and the unstructured knit upper doesn't provide much inherent stability. While comfortable for casual wear in the heat, they lack the support needed for demanding travel days involving extensive walking or standing on hard surfaces. Fit can also be tricky as Allbirds doesn't offer half sizes, and consistency between models varies. If you need serious support for museum marathons, these might not be your best bet, even if they keep you cool.


Durability
The ReactX foam midsole and durable rubber outsole are built to withstand regular use on mixed surfaces. The outsole lugs provide reliable grip and have shown good wear resistance in user reports and our testing. The main durability question mark revolves around the engineered mesh upper. While comfortable, some users have reported concerns about the mesh's long-term resilience, particularly in high-flex areas or when subjected to significant abrasion from rocks and trail debris. It doesn't feel as 'bombproof' as the uppers on dedicated hiking shoes. For typical mixed travel use, it should hold up well, but extreme, rugged use might expose potential weaknesses faster. The GTX version naturally adds a layer of durable protection.
Packability
As a hybrid shoe, the Pegasus Trail 5 isn't exceptionally lightweight or compressible compared to minimalist options. It packs like a standard running shoe, requiring a moderate amount of luggage space. However, its value in packability comes from its versatility. If the Pegasus Trail 5 allows you to replace both a dedicated road running/walking shoe and a light hiking shoe (as it did for my New Zealand trip), it represents a significant net saving in both space and weight. Its ability to perform competently across different activities is its key packing advantage for multi-faceted trips.


Functionality
The core function of the Pegasus Trail 5 is versatility. It successfully bridges the gap between road running comfort and moderate trail capability. The ReactX foam provides cushioning suitable for pavement, while the moderately lugged outsole offers significantly better grip than road shoes on dirt, gravel, wet grass, and non-technical trails. Our testing confirmed it feels capable on roads and confident on light-to-moderate trails. It struggles on highly technical terrain – steep descents with loose rock or deep mud overwhelm the outsole grip and softer midsole. The standard version isn't waterproof, but the available GTX version adds reliable wet weather protection, further enhancing its functional range for unpredictable travel conditions.
Value
Priced as a premium running/trail shoe, the Pegasus Trail 5's value hinges on leveraging its versatility. If your travels genuinely involve a mix of road running, city walking, and light-to-moderate hiking, it offers excellent value by potentially replacing two or even three specialized pairs of shoes. The cost is justified by its ability to perform well across these varied activities. However, if your trips are solely urban, or conversely, involve only serious, technical hiking, its hybrid nature means you're paying for features you won't use, and more specialized (and potentially cheaper) options would offer better value. Its best value is realized by the multi-activity traveler seeking a 'one-shoe quiver' for non-extreme conditions.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5: the only shoes you'll need on vacation! It's a very solid shoe. You don't feel the lugs while running on roads, yet they're grippy on the dirt.
- Reddit User r/RunningShoeGeeks
Did You Know?
Nike ReactX foam is engineered to provide a higher energy return compared to standard React foam while also reducing the carbon footprint of the midsole production process.
Quick Verdict
✕


Performance Scores
Packable
7.5
Sustainability
7
Comfort
7.5
Breathability
9.5
Breathability
9.5
Comfort
7.5
Sustainability
5
Washable
7
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Highly breathable knit keeps feet remarkably cool, best for intensely hot weather.
✓
Comfortable for sockless wear in the heat, feels light and airy.
✓
Made with sustainable eucalyptus fibers and a sugarcane-based midsole.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Lacks arch support; not great for all-day pounding on hard surfaces if you need support.
x
No half sizes available, which can make finding the perfect fit inconsistent or difficult.
x
Shows wear and tear relatively quickly with heavy use; durability is not a strong point.
x
Zero water resistance – they get soaked immediately in rain, just like their woolly cousins.
Final Verdict
6.8
Versatile
One shoe handles road and trail adventures with surprising competence.
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a masterclass in versatility, successfully blending the comfortable cushioning needed for road running and city walking with the reliable grip required for non-technical trails. This makes it an ideal 'one-shoe' solution for travelers whose itineraries include diverse activities, significantly simplifying packing, as my 3-week New Zealand adventure demonstrated by handling everything from Auckland's streets to Fiordland's trails.
While it lacks the ruggedness of dedicated hikers for truly challenging terrain and the upper mesh durability could be a long-term concern for heavy users, its ability to seamlessly transition between environments is its key strength. With comfortable ReactX foam and a capable all-terrain outsole (plus an available waterproof GTX option), the Pegasus Trail 5 is a highly recommended choice for active travelers seeking adaptability and a shoe that can keep up with their varied explorations. It's the travel shoe that says "yes" to (almost) everything.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
$
ReactX foam
All-terrain outsole
Flywire technology integration
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
You Might Also Like
Best for Long-Term Multi-Terrain Travel


Salomon XA Pro 3D V9
$
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for Active Mixed-Use Travel


Hoka Clifton 9
$150
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for High-Mileage Walking


Adidas Ultraboost 22
$72
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for Minimalist Packers


On Cloud 6 Coast
$
View Full Review
View Full Review


Sustainable Breathability
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Stay Cool, Tread Light: The Ultimate Hot Weather Sneaker
6.8
SCORE
One shoe handles road and trail adventures with surprising competence.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Sweltering destinations demand breathable footwear. The Allbirds Tree Runner swaps wool for cool eucalyptus fiber, promising to keep your feet fresh even when the mercury skyrockets. I put them to the test in the intense 105°F heat of Dubai to see if this sustainable swap can handle the heat of travel.
✓
Strengths
Highly breathable knit keeps feet remarkably cool, best for intensely hot weather.
Comfortable for sockless wear in the heat, feels light and airy.
Made with sustainable eucalyptus fibers and a sugarcane-based midsole.
Machine washable for easy cleaning (follow gentle cycle instructions).
X
Consider
Lacks arch support; not great for all-day pounding on hard surfaces if you need support.
No half sizes available, which can make finding the perfect fit inconsistent or difficult.
Shows wear and tear relatively quickly with heavy use; durability is not a strong point.
Zero water resistance – they get soaked immediately in rain, just like their woolly cousins.
View Current Price
Compare
💨
Breathability
9.5
☁️
Comfort
7.5
🌿
Sustainability
5
🧼
Washable
7
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
☀️
Warm Climates
🌿
Sustainable Travel
🦶
Sockless Comfort
🏙️
City Exploring
🧼
Easy Cleaning
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The Tree Runner immediately impresses with its lightweight feel and soft, flexible knit upper made from eucalyptus fiber (Tencel™ Lyocell). It feels noticeably cooler against the skin than the Wool Runner, making it exceptionally comfortable for sockless wear, especially in warm conditions. My Dubai testing confirmed this – after a 12,000-step day navigating crowded souks and then ducking into air-conditioned malls where the temperature was a good 40 degrees cooler, my feet stayed significantly drier and cooler than they would have in other sneakers. They really do let your feet breathe, which is a lifesaver in 95°F+ (35°C+) heat.\n\nLike its wool counterpart, however, the Tree Runner offers minimal arch support – basically zero for long hauls. The included insole is basic, and the unstructured knit upper doesn't provide much inherent stability. While comfortable for casual wear in the heat, they lack the support needed for demanding travel days involving extensive walking or standing on hard surfaces. Fit can also be tricky as Allbirds doesn't offer half sizes, and consistency between models varies. If you need serious support for museum marathons, these might not be your best bet, even if they keep you cool.
Durability
The ReactX foam midsole and durable rubber outsole are built to withstand regular use on mixed surfaces. The outsole lugs provide reliable grip and have shown good wear resistance in user reports and our testing. The main durability question mark revolves around the engineered mesh upper. While comfortable, some users have reported concerns about the mesh's long-term resilience, particularly in high-flex areas or when subjected to significant abrasion from rocks and trail debris. It doesn't feel as 'bombproof' as the uppers on dedicated hiking shoes. For typical mixed travel use, it should hold up well, but extreme, rugged use might expose potential weaknesses faster. The GTX version naturally adds a layer of durable protection.
Packability
As a hybrid shoe, the Pegasus Trail 5 isn't exceptionally lightweight or compressible compared to minimalist options. It packs like a standard running shoe, requiring a moderate amount of luggage space. However, its value in packability comes from its versatility. If the Pegasus Trail 5 allows you to replace both a dedicated road running/walking shoe and a light hiking shoe (as it did for my New Zealand trip), it represents a significant net saving in both space and weight. Its ability to perform competently across different activities is its key packing advantage for multi-faceted trips.
Functionality
The core function of the Pegasus Trail 5 is versatility. It successfully bridges the gap between road running comfort and moderate trail capability. The ReactX foam provides cushioning suitable for pavement, while the moderately lugged outsole offers significantly better grip than road shoes on dirt, gravel, wet grass, and non-technical trails. Our testing confirmed it feels capable on roads and confident on light-to-moderate trails. It struggles on highly technical terrain – steep descents with loose rock or deep mud overwhelm the outsole grip and softer midsole. The standard version isn't waterproof, but the available GTX version adds reliable wet weather protection, further enhancing its functional range for unpredictable travel conditions.




Value
Priced as a premium running/trail shoe, the Pegasus Trail 5's value hinges on leveraging its versatility. If your travels genuinely involve a mix of road running, city walking, and light-to-moderate hiking, it offers excellent value by potentially replacing two or even three specialized pairs of shoes. The cost is justified by its ability to perform well across these varied activities. However, if your trips are solely urban, or conversely, involve only serious, technical hiking, its hybrid nature means you're paying for features you won't use, and more specialized (and potentially cheaper) options would offer better value. Its best value is realized by the multi-activity traveler seeking a 'one-shoe quiver' for non-extreme conditions.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5: the only shoes you'll need on vacation! It's a very solid shoe. You don't feel the lugs while running on roads, yet they're grippy on the dirt.
- Reddit User r/RunningShoeGeeks
You Might Also Like
Versatile
One shoe handles road and trail adventures with surprising competence.
8.8
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a masterclass in versatility, successfully blending the comfortable cushioning needed for road running and city walking with the reliable grip required for non-technical trails. This makes it an ideal 'one-shoe' solution for travelers whose itineraries include diverse activities, significantly simplifying packing, as my 3-week New Zealand adventure demonstrated by handling everything from Auckland's streets to Fiordland's trails.
While it lacks the ruggedness of dedicated hikers for truly challenging terrain and the upper mesh durability could be a long-term concern for heavy users, its ability to seamlessly transition between environments is its key strength. With comfortable ReactX foam and a capable all-terrain outsole (plus an available waterproof GTX option), the Pegasus Trail 5 is a highly recommended choice for active travelers seeking adaptability and a shoe that can keep up with their varied explorations. It's the travel shoe that says "yes" to (almost) everything.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author

Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author

Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author

Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited