Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow Shoes

We’re going to talk about two awesome shoes from On Running: the Cloudflyer 4 and the Cloudflow.

If you’re wondering which one to pick, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down everything you need to know about these shoes, from how comfy they are to how long they last.

Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow

Quick Comparison: Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow Shoes

The main difference between Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow shoes is their purpose. Cloudflyer 4 is designed for maximum support and cushioning, ideal for long-distance runners or those needing extra stability. Cloudflow, on the other hand, is lighter and more responsive, better suited for fast-paced runs and racing.

Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow shoes:

FeatureCloudflyer 4Cloudflow
WeightHeavier (10.05 oz / 285 g)Lighter (8.29 oz / 235 g)
CushioningMore cushioningLess cushioning
SupportHigh supportNeutral support
Best forLong-distance runs, stabilityFast-paced runs, racing
Cloud elementsLarger, more supportiveSmaller, more responsive
Upper materialEngineered meshLightweight mesh
Heel-to-toe drop9 mm6 mm
DurabilityMore durableLess durable
PriceGenerally more expensiveGenerally less expensive

In summary: Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow are two different running shoes made by On. Cloudflyer 4 is heavier and gives more support. It’s good for long runs and people who need extra help with their feet. Cloudflow is lighter and faster. It’s better for short, quick runs and races.

Cloudflyer 4 has more cushioning to make your feet comfy, while Cloudflow lets you feel the ground more. Cloudflyer 4 usually costs more money than Cloudflow. Both shoes are good, but they’re made for different types of running and runners.

What’s the Big Deal About On Running Shoes?

Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why On Running shoes are so popular. On Running is a Swiss company that makes shoes with a special cushioning system called CloudTec®. This system uses hollow pods (they call them “clouds”) on the sole of the shoe to give you a soft landing and a springy takeoff. Pretty cool, right?

Now, let’s look at how the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow stack up against each other in different areas.

Comfort: Feeling Good on Your Feet

Cloudflyer 4: The Cozy Cushion

The Cloudflyer 4 is like a pillow for your feet. It’s designed for people who want lots of cushioning, especially if you have flat feet or need extra support. The shoe has a thick layer of foam that makes it feel super soft when you walk or run.

Cloudflow: Light and Speedy

The Cloudflow, on the other hand, is more about feeling fast and light. It still has cushioning, but it’s not as thick as the Cloudflyer 4. This shoe is great if you want to feel more connected to the ground and move quickly.

Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Cloudflyer 4: Roomy and Secure

The Cloudflyer 4 has a wider fit, especially in the toe box (that’s the front part of the shoe where your toes go). This is great if you have wider feet or if your feet tend to swell during long runs. The shoe also has a special lacing system that helps keep your foot in place.

Cloudflow: Snug and Streamlined

The Cloudflow has a more snug fit. It hugs your foot closer, which can feel great if you have narrow or average-width feet. The shoe is designed to feel like a second skin, moving with your foot as you run.

Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Cloudflyer 4: Extra Support

If you’re looking for a shoe that helps keep your foot from rolling inward (that’s called overpronation), the Cloudflyer 4 is your friend. It has special features built into the sole to give you extra stability.

Cloudflow: Natural Movement

The Cloudflow doesn’t have as much built-in stability. It’s designed for people who have a neutral running style or who prefer a more natural feel. This can be great for strengthening your feet and ankles over time.

Stability FeatureCloudflyer 4Cloudflow
Pronation ControlHighLow
Arch SupportHighMedium
Heel CounterFirmModerate

Durability: Built to Last

Cloudflyer 4: Tough and Long-Lasting

The Cloudflyer 4 is built to handle a lot of miles. The sole is made with durable rubber, and the upper part of the shoe (where your foot goes in) is made with strong materials that can take a beating.

Cloudflow: Lightweight but Resilient

While the Cloudflow might not be as tough as the Cloudflyer 4, it’s still a durable shoe. The materials are chosen to be light but strong, so you can expect them to last through many runs.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Cloudflyer 4: Well-Ventilated Comfort

The Cloudflyer 4 has a mesh upper that lets air flow through easily. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even on long runs or hot days.

Cloudflow: Lightweight Breathability

The Cloudflow also has excellent breathability. Its lighter design means there’s less material to trap heat, and the upper is made of a thin, airy mesh.

Quality: Swiss Engineering at Its Finest

Both the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow are high-quality shoes. On Running is known for their attention to detail and use of premium materials. You can expect both shoes to be well-made and perform consistently.

Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow

Style: Looking Good on the Run

Cloudflyer 4: Bold and Supportive

The Cloudflyer 4 has a chunkier look due to its extra cushioning. It comes in several color options, from classic black and white to bolder color combinations.

Cloudflow: Sleek and Fast

The Cloudflow has a more streamlined appearance. It looks fast even when standing still! You can find it in a range of colors, from subtle to eye-catching.

Size and Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Both shoes come in a wide range of sizes for men and women. It’s always a good idea to try on running shoes before buying if you can. If you’re ordering online, check the size guide carefully.

Sizing FactorCloudflyer 4Cloudflow
True to SizeYesYes
Width OptionsRegular, WideRegular
Size Range (US)7-14 (Men), 5-11 (Women)7-14 (Men), 5-11 (Women)

Materials: What Are These Shoes Made Of?

Cloudflyer 4: Supportive and Eco-Friendly

The Cloudflyer 4 uses recycled materials in its upper, which is great for the environment. The sole is made of On’s special Zero-Gravity foam and Helion™ superfoam for cushioning.

Cloudflow: Light and Responsive

The Cloudflow also uses some recycled materials. Its sole is made with Helion™ superfoam, which gives it a springy feel. The upper is a lightweight, breathable mesh.

Weight: How Heavy Are They?

Cloudflyer 4: Cushioned but Not Clunky

The Cloudflyer 4 is heavier than the Cloudflow due to its extra cushioning and support features. However, it’s still designed to feel light on your feet.

Cloudflow: Featherlight Speed

The Cloudflow is one of On Running’s lightest shoes. It’s designed for speed and agility, so every ounce is carefully considered.

Weight (approx.)Cloudflyer 4Cloudflow
Men’s (US 9)10.7 oz8.5 oz
Women’s (US 8)9.0 oz7.2 oz

Flexibility: Bending with Your Foot

Cloudflyer 4: Structured Flexibility

The Cloudflyer 4 is less flexible than the Cloudflow. This is because it’s designed to provide more support. However, it still allows for natural foot movement.

Cloudflow: Bend and Flex

The Cloudflow is very flexible. It’s designed to move with your foot, giving you a more natural running experience.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry

Neither the Cloudflyer 4 nor the Cloudflow is fully waterproof. However, both shoes have water-resistant properties that can help keep your feet dry in light rain or wet conditions.

Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow

Sole: The Foundation of Your Shoe

Cloudflyer 4: Cushioned Support

The Cloudflyer 4’s sole features larger CloudTec® elements, especially in the heel. This provides extra cushioning and stability. The outsole (bottom of the shoe) has plenty of rubber for good traction.

Cloudflow: Responsive Ride

The Cloudflow’s sole has a more uniform CloudTec® pattern. This gives you a consistent feel from heel to toe. The outsole has strategically placed rubber pads for grip without adding extra weight.

User Reviews: What Do Other Runners Say?

Let’s take a look at what other people think about these shoes:

ShoeOverall RatingComfortPerformanceDurability
Cloudflyer 4⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cloudflow⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cloudflyer 4 User Comments:

  • “So comfortable for my long runs!”
  • “Great support for my flat feet.”
  • “A bit heavy, but worth it for the cushioning.”

Cloudflow User Comments:

  • “Feels like I’m running on clouds!”
  • “Perfect for speed workouts and races.”
  • “Lightweight but still provides enough cushion.”

Cloudflyer 4 vs Popular Shoe Brands

The Cloudflyer 4 is a running shoe that stands out when compared to other popular shoes like the Cloudflow, Cloud X 3, and Cloudrunner 2.

If you look at the Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow, the Cloudflyer 4 offers more cushion and support, making it better for long runs.

When you compare the Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloud X 3, the Cloud X 3 is lighter and more flexible, great for quick workouts.

But if we look at Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudrunner 2, the Cloudflyer 4 gives better stability, making it a great choice for runners who need extra support.

Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudflow

Price: What’s the Damage?

Both the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow are premium running shoes, which means they’re not the cheapest options out there. However, many runners find that the quality and performance justify the price.

ShoePrice Range (USD)
Cloudflyer 4$159.99 – $169.99
Cloudflow$139.99 – $149.99

Remember, prices can vary depending on where you buy and if there are any sales going on.

Pros and Cons

ShoeProsCons ⚠️
Cloudflyer 4Very comfy for long runsHeavier than Cloudflow
Gives lots of supportMight feel too big for some people
Good for people with foot problemsCosts more money
Lasts a long timeNot great for fast running
CloudflowLight and easy to run inLess cushioning for your feet
Great for running fastNot as good for long distances
Helps you feel the groundMight wear out quicker
Costs less than Cloudflyer 4Not ideal if you need extra foot support

In conclusion: after all that, which shoe should you choose? Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

Choose the Cloudflyer 4 if:

  • You need extra support and cushioning
  • You have flat feet or overpronate
  • You’re looking for a shoe for long, comfortable runs
  • You don’t mind a slightly heavier shoe

Choose the Cloudflow if:

  • You want a lightweight, fast-feeling shoe
  • You have a neutral running style
  • You’re into speed workouts or racing
  • You prefer a more responsive, ground-feel shoe

Remember, the best shoe for you is the one that feels most comfortable and supports your running style. If possible, try both shoes on and see which one feels better on your feet.

Can I use the Cloudflyer 4 or Cloudflow for everyday walking?

Yes, you can! While they’re designed for running, both shoes are comfortable for everyday use too.

How long do these shoes typically last?

With regular use, you can expect both shoes to last around 300-500 miles. This can vary depending on your running style and how you care for the shoes.

Are these shoes good for people with wide feet?

The Cloudflyer 4 comes in a wide option and generally has a roomier fit. The Cloudflow has a more standard width.

Can I use custom orthotics with these shoes?

Yes, both shoes have removable insoles, so you can use custom orthotics if needed.

Are these shoes vegan-friendly?

Yes, both the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudflow are made with vegan materials.