On Cloud X vs Cloudswift Shoes

You might have heard about On Cloud X and Cloudswift, two popular options from the Swiss company On Running. We’ll compare these two shoes to help you decide which one fits your needs best. We’ll look at things like how comfortable they are, how long they last, and what they’re made of.

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud X and Cloudswift shoes is their intended use. On Cloud X is designed for versatile training and racing, while Cloudswift is built for urban running.

Both offer On’s signature CloudTec cushioning, but Cloudswift features Helion superfoam for extra comfort on hard surfaces. On Cloud X is lighter and more responsive.

Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for On Cloud X vs Cloudswift Shoes:

FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
WeightLighter (about 8.5 oz)Heavier (about 10.6 oz)
CushioningCloudTecCloudTec + Helion superfoam
Best forVersatile training, racingUrban running
UpperEngineered meshEngineered mesh
Heel-to-toe drop6mm7mm
ResponsivenessMore responsiveLess responsive
DurabilityModerateHigh
PriceSlightly higherSlightly lower

In summary: On Cloud X is a lighter, more versatile shoe suitable for various activities, while Cloudswift is designed specifically for urban running with extra cushioning. Both use On’s CloudTec technology, but Cloudswift adds Helion superfoam for more comfort on hard surfaces.

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

On Cloud X Shoes

Made for different kinds of workouts and races. It’s super light and bouncy, great for fast runs and training. Good for people who like to mix up their running with other exercises.

Cloudswift Shoes

Built for city running. It has extra cushioning to protect your feet on hard streets. It’s good for faster runs in the city and helps you feel energetic on concrete.

For Walking

On Cloud X Shoes

Nice for walks too. It’s light and comfy, so you can wear it all day. Good for people who want a shoe that’s comfy for walking but can also handle a run.

Cloudswift Shoes

Can work for walking, especially in the city. It’s really comfy on hard sidewalks. But it might feel a bit much if you’re just going for a casual stroll.

For Standing All Day

On Cloud X Shoes

Good for standing a lot, like at work. It’s comfy without looking too sporty, so it’s nice for offices or stores where you’re on your feet all day.

Cloudswift Shoes

Really good for standing on hard floors all day. It has special foam that keeps your feet comfy for hours. It looks more like a running shoe, though, so it might not be right for all jobs.

What Are On Cloud X and Cloudswift?

Before we dive into the details, let’s get to know these shoes a bit better.

On Cloud X: The All-Around Performer

The On Cloud X is a shoe that’s good for many different activities. You can use it for running, gym workouts, or just walking around town. It’s lightweight and flexible, which means it can keep up with whatever you’re doing.

Cloudswift: The Road Runner

The Cloudswift is more focused on road running. It’s designed to give you a smooth ride when you’re pounding the pavement. This shoe has some special features to help protect your feet when you’re running on hard surfaces.

Now that we know what these shoes are for, let’s compare them in different areas.

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift

Comfort: Which Shoe Feels Better?

When you’re choosing running shoes, comfort is super important. You want your feet to feel good, whether you’re going for a quick jog or a long run.

On Cloud X Comfort

The On Cloud X is known for being very comfortable. It has a soft, cushioned feel that many people love. The shoe wraps around your foot nicely, almost like a cozy sock. Many runners say it feels great right out of the box, which means you don’t have to spend a lot of time breaking them in.

Cloudswift Comfort

The Cloudswift also gets high marks for comfort, but in a different way. It has a firmer feel, which some runners prefer. The shoe has extra cushioning in the heel and forefoot, which can help absorb shock when your foot hits the ground. This can make your run feel smoother, especially on hard surfaces.

Comfort FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
Initial FeelSoft, cozyFirm, supportive
Break-in TimeShortMay need more time
CushioningBalancedExtra in heel and forefoot

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

Nobody wants to buy new shoes every few months. Let’s see how these shoes hold up over time.

On Cloud X Durability

The On Cloud X is built to last. The upper part of the shoe (the fabric part) is made of strong materials that resist wear and tear. The sole is also durable, though some runners say it might wear down a bit faster if you use it a lot on rough surfaces.

Cloudswift Durability

Cloudswift shoes are also known for being tough. They use a special rubber on the sole that’s designed to last longer on roads. The upper part is made of a sturdy mesh that can handle a lot of use. Many runners say these shoes keep looking good even after many miles.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

When you’re running, your feet can get hot and sweaty. Shoes that let air flow through can help keep your feet comfortable.

On Cloud X Breathability

The On Cloud X has a lightweight mesh upper that lets air move in and out easily. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even on warm days or during intense workouts.

Cloudswift Breathability

The Cloudswift also has good breathability, but it’s a bit different. The upper is made of a special material that’s supposed to adapt to the temperature. It aims to keep your feet warm when it’s cool and cool when it’s warm.

Breathability FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
Upper MaterialLightweight meshTemperature-adapting fabric
Air FlowExcellentGood
Moisture ManagementVery goodVery good

Cushioning: Softening the Impact

Good cushioning can make your run more comfortable and help protect your joints. Let’s see how these shoes stack up.

On Cloud X Cushioning

The On Cloud X uses On’s special “CloudTec” cushioning. It has little hollow pods on the sole that compress when you land and then bounce back when you push off. This gives you a mix of soft landings and energetic takeoffs.

Cloudswift Cushioning

The Cloudswift takes cushioning up a notch. It uses a newer version of CloudTec called “Helion” foam. This is supposed to be even bouncier and more responsive. The extra cushioning in the heel and forefoot can be especially nice if you’re running on hard surfaces like concrete.

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

A shoe that fits well can make all the difference in your running experience. Let’s look at how these shoes fit.

On Cloud X Fit

The On Cloud X is known for having a comfortable fit for many foot types. It has a medium width in the toe box, which works well for a lot of people. The shoe tends to run true to size, so you can usually order your normal shoe size.

Cloudswift Fit

The Cloudswift has a slightly different fit. It’s a bit snugger in the midfoot, which can give you a secure feeling. The toe box is roomy, giving your toes space to spread out. Some people find they need to go up half a size in the Cloudswift.

Fit FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
Toe Box WidthMediumRoomy
Midfoot FitRegularSnug
Sizing AdviceTrue to sizeConsider half size up

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Stability in a running shoe helps keep your foot aligned and can prevent injuries. Let’s see how these shoes handle stability.

On Cloud X Stability

The On Cloud X offers moderate stability. It has a wider base than some running shoes, which can help you feel more balanced. The shoe also has a firm heel counter (the back part of the shoe) that helps keep your heel in place.

Cloudswift Stability

The Cloudswift is designed with stability in mind, especially for road running. It has a special “sidewall” design that helps guide your foot as you run. This can be helpful if your foot tends to roll inward (overpronate) when you run.

Quality: Built to Last

When you’re investing in running shoes, you want to know they’re well-made. Both On Cloud X and Cloudswift are known for their quality, but let’s look closer.

On Cloud X Quality

The On Cloud X shows attention to detail in its construction. The stitching is neat and strong, and the materials feel premium. The shoe holds up well over time, maintaining its shape and support.

Cloudswift Quality

Cloudswift also demonstrates high quality. The special Helion foam keeps its bounce even after many miles. The upper material is tough but still flexible. Many runners praise how well these shoes maintain their performance over time.

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift

Style: Looking Good on the Run

While performance is key, it’s also nice to have shoes that look good. Both of these shoes have a sleek, modern style, but with some differences.

On Cloud X Style

The On Cloud X has a clean, minimalist look. It comes in a range of colors, from neutral tones to brighter options. The shoe has a sporty appearance that works well for both running and casual wear.

Cloudswift Style

The Cloudswift has a bit more of a technical look. The visible cushioning pods and the unique sidewall design make it stand out. It also comes in various colors, often with bold color combinations.

Style FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
Overall LookMinimalist, sportyTechnical, bold
Color OptionsWide rangeWide range with bold combos
Casual WearVery suitableMore running-focused

Size Range: Finding Your Fit

It’s important that a shoe comes in your size. Let’s look at what sizes are available for these shoes.

On Cloud X Sizes

The On Cloud X comes in a wide range of sizes for both men and women. Men’s sizes typically range from 7 to 14, while women’s sizes go from 5 to 11. Some half sizes are also available.

Cloudswift Sizes

The Cloudswift offers a similar size range. Men can usually find sizes from 7 to 14, and women from 5 to 11. Again, half sizes are available in many of these ranges.

Materials: What Are They Made Of?

The materials used in a shoe affect how it performs and how long it lasts. Let’s look at what goes into these shoes.

On Cloud X Materials

The On Cloud X uses a mix of materials. The upper is made of a lightweight, breathable mesh. The sole uses On’s CloudTec rubber for the pods, with a firmer rubber in high-wear areas for durability.

Cloudswift Materials

The Cloudswift uses some different materials. The upper is made of a specially engineered mesh that’s meant to be both durable and temperature-regulating. The sole uses the Helion foam for cushioning, with a durable rubber outsole for traction.

Weight: Light on Your Feet

A lighter shoe can help you feel faster and less tired during long runs. Let’s see how these shoes compare in weight.

On Cloud X Weight

The On Cloud X is known for being very lightweight. A typical men’s size 8.5 weighs about 8.47 ounces (240 grams). This light weight makes it great for fast runs and workouts.

Cloudswift Weight

The Cloudswift is a bit heavier, but still relatively light. A men’s size 8.5 usually weighs about 9.95 ounces (282 grams). The extra weight comes from the additional cushioning and support features.

Flexibility: Bending with Your Foot

A flexible shoe can help your foot move more naturally. Let’s see how these shoes flex.

On Cloud X Flexibility

The On Cloud X is quite flexible. The CloudTec pods on the sole allow the shoe to bend easily with your foot. This can give you a more natural running feel.

Cloudswift Flexibility

The Cloudswift is less flexible than the On Cloud X. It’s designed to be a bit stiffer to provide more support and stability, especially for road running.

Flexibility FeatureOn Cloud XCloudswift
Overall FlexibilityHighModerate
Forefoot FlexVery goodGood
Midfoot StabilityModerateHigh

Water Resistance: Staying Dry

While neither of these shoes is fully waterproof, it’s good to know how they handle a bit of water.

On Cloud X Water Resistance

The On Cloud X has some water-resistant properties. The mesh upper can repel light rain or splashes. However, in heavy rain or puddles, your feet might get wet.

Cloudswift Water Resistance

The Cloudswift is similar in terms of water resistance. The upper material can handle light moisture, but it’s not designed for very wet conditions.

Sole: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

The sole of a running shoe is crucial for comfort, durability, and performance. Let’s examine the soles of these shoes.

On Cloud X Sole

The On Cloud X sole features the distinctive CloudTec pods. These hollow circles compress when you land and spring back when you take off. The sole also has areas of firmer rubber for better durability in high-wear spots.

Cloudswift Sole

The Cloudswift sole uses the newer Helion foam in its CloudTec pods. This is meant to provide more energy return and durability. The sole also has a rocker shape, which can help you roll through your stride more smoothly.

On Cloud X vs Cloudswift

User Reviews: What Do Runners Say?

Let’s take a look at what other runners think about these shoes. Here’s a summary of user reviews:

Shoe ModelAverage RatingComfortDurabilityPerformance
On Cloud X⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cloudswift⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Users often praise the On Cloud X for its versatility and comfort right out of the box. Many say it’s great for both running and gym workouts. Some mention that the sole might wear down a bit faster on rough surfaces.

Cloudswift users often highlight the shoe’s cushioning and support, especially for road running. Many appreciate the durable construction. Some users mention that it might take a little time to get used to the firmer feel.

Price: What’s the Cost?

The price of running shoes can be an important factor in your decision. Here’s how these shoes compare:

Shoe ModelAverage Price Range
On Cloud X$130 – $150
Cloudswift$150 – $170

Remember that prices can vary depending on where you buy the shoes and if there are any sales or discounts.

Pros and Cons

On Cloud X Shoes

Pros

It’s super light and comfy. You can use it for lots of different activities like running, gym workouts, or even races. It feels bouncy and helps you move fast.

Cons

It might not last as long as some other shoes. It’s a bit pricey. If you run on really hard surfaces a lot, it might not have enough cushioning.

Cloudswift Shoes

Pros

It’s great for running in the city. It has extra cushioning to protect your feet on hard sidewalks. It’s tough and lasts a long time.

Cons

It’s a bit heavier than the On Cloud X. It’s not as good for other activities besides running. Some people might find it less bouncy or springy compared to the On Cloud X.


In concusion: After looking at all these factors, which shoe should you choose? Here’s a quick summary:

Choose the On Cloud X if:

  • You want a versatile shoe for running and other activities
  • You prefer a lighter, more flexible shoe
  • You like a softer, more cushioned feel

Choose the Cloudswift if:

  • You mainly run on roads
  • You want extra cushioning and support
  • You prefer a firmer, more responsive feel

Both shoes are high-quality options from a respected brand. The best choice for you depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use the shoes.

Are On Cloud X and Cloudswift good for beginners?

Yes, both shoes can work well for beginners. The On Cloud X might be better if you’re doing a mix of activities, while the Cloudswift could be good if you’re focusing on road running.

Can I use these shoes for marathon training?

Many runners use both shoes for marathon training. The Cloudswift might be better for long road runs, while the On Cloud X could be good for mixing up your training with other activities.

Do these shoes work for people with wide feet?

The On Cloud X has a medium width that works for many people. The Cloudswift has a roomy toe box that might be good for wider feet, but it’s best to try them on if possible.

How often should I replace these shoes?

Most running shoes, including these, should be replaced after about 300-500 miles of use. This can vary based on your running style and the surfaces you run on.

Can I use On Cloud X or Cloudswift for trail running?

While you can use them on light trails, neither shoe is designed specifically for trail running. On makes other models that are better suited for trail use.