On Cloud X3 vs On Cloud 5 Shoes

We’ve got you covered! We’ll break down everything you need to know about these two awesome running shoes. We’ll compare them side by side and help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your feet and your running style.

On Cloud X3 vs On Cloud 5 Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud X3 and On Cloud 5 shoes is their design purpose. The X3 is more versatile, made for various workouts and runs, while the Cloud 5 is best for everyday runs.

The X3 has a wider toe box and newer technology, but the Cloud 5 offers a softer, more classic On feel.

Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for On Cloud X3 vs On Cloud 5 Shoes:

Feature	On Cloud X3	On Cloud 5
Purpose	Versatile: running and other workouts	Everyday running
Toe Box	Wider	Narrower
Cushioning	Balanced: soft landing, firm takeoff	Softer overall
Weight	8.47 oz (240g)	8.82 oz (250g)
Breathability	Very good	Excellent
Stability	Moderate	Neutral
Flexibility	Good, especially in forefoot	Good, thanks to cloud elements
Water Resistance	Some water-resistant properties	Limited
Price	$139.99	$129.99
Fit	True to size, roomier	True to size, snugger
Technology	Latest On innovations	Classic On features

In summary: Both the On Cloud X3 and On Cloud 5 are great running shoes, but they’re made for slightly different uses. The X3 is more of an all-rounder, good for different types of exercise, while the Cloud 5 is perfect for everyday runs.

The X3 has newer tech and a wider toe box, but the Cloud 5 gives that classic On feel that many runners love. Your choice might depend on whether you want a do-it-all shoe (X3) or a comfy daily runner (Cloud 5).

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

On Cloud X3

The On Cloud X3 is designed for versatility, catering to runners who enjoy mixed-use workouts. It’s ideal for those who switch between running, gym sessions, and various fitness activities. The X3 offers a responsive and balanced ride, making it a solid choice for dynamic training environments.

On Cloud 5

The On Cloud 5 is better suited for lighter, everyday runs. It provides a comfortable, lightweight feel that’s perfect for casual runners and shorter distances. With good energy return, the Cloud 5 is versatile enough to handle various running needs, but it’s more focused on comfort than high performance.

For Walking

On Cloud X3

While the On Cloud X3 is primarily a running and training shoe, its design also supports casual walking. The shoe’s versatility and comfortable cushioning make it a good option for those who want a single pair of shoes for both workouts and daily activities.

On Cloud 5

The On Cloud 5 excels in casual walking scenarios. Its lightweight build and comfortable cushioning are perfect for everyday walks and general wear. The Cloud 5’s design is more oriented towards comfort during casual activities, making it a great choice for all-day wear.

For Standing All Day

On Cloud X3

The Cloud X3, with its balanced support and cushioning, can be worn for extended periods, especially if you’re moving between different activities. However, it might feel a bit firmer compared to the Cloud 5, which could be a factor if standing still for long periods is your primary need.

On Cloud 5

The On Cloud 5 is particularly well-suited for all-day wear in casual or office settings. Its soft cushioning provides comfort without adding bulk, making it ideal for those who need to stand for long periods in various environments. The Cloud 5’s design ensures that you stay comfortable throughout the day.

Understand to On Running Shoes

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk a bit about On Running. This Swiss company has been making waves in the running world with their unique designs and comfy shoes. They’re known for their special CloudTec cushioning, which looks like little clouds on the bottom of the shoe. Pretty cool, right?

Now, let’s meet our contenders: the On Cloud X3 and the On Cloud 5. Both of these shoes are part of On’s popular Cloud series, but they have some key differences that might make one a better choice for you than the other.

Durability: Built to Last

When you’re picking out a new pair of running shoes, you want them to last, right? Let’s see how these two stack up in the durability department.

The On Cloud X3 is built with tough materials that can handle lots of miles. The upper part of the shoe is made with a strong mesh that resists tears and wear. The sole is designed to hold up well, even if you’re running on rough surfaces.

On the other hand, the On Cloud 5 also boasts good durability. It uses a mix of materials in the upper that are meant to last through many runs. The sole on this shoe is a bit different, with separate cloud elements that are sturdy but might wear down a bit faster than the X3 if you’re a heavy runner.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Nobody likes sweaty, stinky feet after a run. That’s why breathability is super important in running shoes. Let’s see how our two contenders handle keeping your feet fresh.

The On Cloud X3 has a breathable mesh upper that lets air flow through easily. This means your feet can stay cool and dry, even on hot days or long runs. The shoe also has some areas with extra ventilation to help moisture escape.

The On Cloud 5 also does a great job with breathability. Its upper is made with a light, airy material that allows for good airflow. Some runners say it feels even more breathable than the X3, which might be a plus if you have extra sweaty feet or run in hot weather a lot.

Cushioning: Comfort for Your Feet

Now, let’s talk about one of the most important parts of any running shoe: cushioning. This is what helps protect your feet from the impact of hitting the ground with each step.

The On Cloud X3 uses On’s latest CloudTec cushioning. It’s designed to give you a soft landing when your foot hits the ground, but still feels firm and responsive when you push off. This means you get comfort without losing that springy feeling that helps you run faster.

The On Cloud 5 also uses CloudTec, but it’s a slightly different version. Some runners find it a bit softer than the X3, which might be better if you like a really cushioned feel. However, it might not feel quite as springy when you’re trying to pick up the pace.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Getting the right fit is super important for any shoe, but especially for running shoes. Let’s see how these two models compare when it comes to fit.

The On Cloud X3 is designed with a slightly wider toe box, which means there’s more room for your toes to spread out. This can be great if you have wider feet or just like a bit more space up front. The heel and midfoot areas are snug to keep your foot in place.

The On Cloud 5 has a more traditional fit. It’s a bit narrower overall, which some runners with slimmer feet prefer. The shoe hugs your foot more closely throughout, which can give a more secure feeling.

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Stability in a running shoe helps keep your foot from rolling inward too much (which is called overpronation) and can help prevent injuries. Let’s check out how stable these shoes are.

The On Cloud X3 offers moderate stability. It has a wider base in the heel and midfoot areas, which helps keep your foot steady. The shoe also has a firm heel counter (that’s the back part of the shoe) which adds to the stable feel.

The On Cloud 5 is considered a neutral shoe, which means it doesn’t have extra stability features. This can be great if you have a neutral running stride or if you prefer a more flexible feel. However, if you need more support, the X3 might be a better choice.

Comfort: Happy Feet, Happy Runner

Comfort is king when it comes to running shoes. After all, you want to enjoy your runs, not be thinking about sore feet! Let’s see how comfy these shoes are.

The On Cloud X3 gets high marks for comfort from many runners. The cushioning provides a nice balance of softness and responsiveness, and the roomier toe box allows for natural toe splay. The padded tongue and collar add to the overall comfort.

The On Cloud 5 is also known for being very comfortable. Its softer cushioning can feel great, especially on longer runs. The snugger fit can make some runners feel more secure, which adds to the comfort for those who prefer a close-fitting shoe.

Quality: Built to Perform

When you’re spending your hard-earned money on running shoes, you want to make sure you’re getting good quality. Let’s take a look at how these shoes measure up in terms of quality.

The On Cloud X3 shows off On’s commitment to quality. The materials used are top-notch, from the durable outsole to the engineered mesh upper. The construction is solid, with neat stitching and no loose ends.

The On Cloud 5 also demonstrates good quality. While it might not use the absolute latest materials like the X3, it’s still well-made with attention to detail. The CloudTec elements are precisely shaped and the upper is carefully constructed.

Style: Looking Good on the Run

While performance is the most important thing in a running shoe, it doesn’t hurt to look good while you’re working out! Let’s check out the style of these shoes.

The On Cloud X3 has a sleek, modern look. It comes in a range of cool colors, from subtle to bold. The design is a bit more streamlined than earlier models, which gives it a fast, sporty appearance.

The On Cloud 5 has a classic On look that many fans of the brand love. It also comes in various color options to suit different tastes. The distinctive cloud elements on the sole make it stand out from other running shoes.

Size: Finding the Right Fit

Getting the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. Let’s talk about how these shoes fit in terms of size.

The On Cloud X3 generally runs true to size, meaning you can usually order your normal shoe size. However, because of the wider toe box, some runners with narrow feet might want to go down a half size.

The On Cloud 5 also tends to run true to size for most people. Its snugger fit means that even if you have narrower feet, you’ll likely be fine with your usual size.

Remember, it’s always best to try shoes on if possible, or check the brand’s size guide if you’re ordering online.

Material: What Are They Made Of?

The materials used in a running shoe can affect its performance, durability, and comfort. Let’s take a closer look at what these shoes are made of.

The On Cloud X3 uses high-quality, engineered mesh for the upper. This material is breathable, flexible, and durable. The sole uses On’s special Zero-Gravity foam, which is designed to be lightweight but still provide good cushioning.

The On Cloud 5 also uses a mesh upper, though it’s a slightly different type than the X3. The sole is made with On’s signature CloudTec cushioning, which uses hollow “cloud” elements to provide soft landings.

Weight: Light on Your Feet

Nobody wants to feel like they’re running with bricks on their feet. Let’s see how these shoes compare in terms of weight.

The On Cloud X3 is designed to be super lightweight. It weighs in at about 8.47 oz (240g) for a men’s size 8.5, which is pretty light for a running shoe with this much cushioning.

The On Cloud 5 is also lightweight, weighing about 8.82 oz (250g) for the same size. While it’s slightly heavier than the X3, the difference is so small that most runners probably wouldn’t notice it.

Flexibility: Bend and Flex

A flexible shoe can help your foot move more naturally as you run. Let’s see how bendy these shoes are.

The On Cloud X3 offers good flexibility, especially in the forefoot area. This allows your foot to bend naturally as you push off with each step. The shoe’s design also includes flex grooves in the sole to enhance this movement.

The On Cloud 5 is also flexible, though in a slightly different way. The individual cloud elements on the sole allow for a lot of movement, which some runners really enjoy. However, the overall structure might not bend quite as easily as the X3.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry

While these aren’t designed as waterproof shoes, it’s still good to know how they handle a bit of water. Let’s check it out.

The On Cloud X3 has some water-resistant properties in its upper material. While it won’t keep your feet dry in a downpour, it can handle light rain or morning dew without getting soaked through.

The On Cloud 5 doesn’t have specific water-resistant features, but its mesh upper does dry fairly quickly if it gets wet. However, water can get in more easily than with the X3.

Sole: The Foundation of Your Run

The sole of a running shoe is super important – it’s what comes between your foot and the ground! Let’s take a closer look at the soles of these shoes.

The On Cloud X3 has a sole that’s designed for versatility. It uses On’s CloudTec cushioning, but in a way that provides a good balance of softness for landing and firmness for pushing off. The outsole (the very bottom part) has rubber sections for good grip on different surfaces.

The On Cloud 5’s sole is all about that classic On feel. It has separate cloud elements that compress when you land and then provide a firm platform for take-off. The spaces between the elements can sometimes pick up small rocks, which is something to be aware of.

User Reviews and Ratings

Now that we’ve gone through all the details, let’s see what other runners think about these shoes. Here’s a summary of user reviews and ratings:

Shoe Model	Average Rating	Comfort	Performance	Durability
On Cloud X3	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5
On Cloud 5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1/5

As you can see, both shoes are well-liked by runners, with the X3 scoring slightly higher overall.

Price Comparison

Here’s a quick look at the prices for these shoes:

Shoe Model	MSRP (USD)
On Cloud X3	$139.99
On Cloud 5	$129.99

The On Cloud X3 is a bit more expensive, but it also uses newer technology. The On Cloud 5 offers great value for its price.

Pros and Cons

On Cloud X3

Pros

• More versatile for different activities
• Wider toe box for more toe room
• Uses On’s newest technology
• Slightly lighter weight
• More stable for runners who need it

Cons

• A bit more expensive
• Might feel too roomy for narrow feet
• Not as soft as the Cloud 5

On Cloud 5

Pros

• Great for everyday runs
• Softer, more cushioned feel
• Classic On design that many love
• More breathable
• Slightly cheaper

Cons

• Not as versatile for different workouts
• Narrower fit might not suit wide feet
• Doesn’t have the latest On technology
• Can sometimes pick up small rocks in the sole

In conclusion: Both the On Cloud X3 and On Cloud 5 are excellent running shoes, each with its own strengths. The X3 is a bit more versatile and uses On’s latest technology, making it great for various types of runs and workouts. The Cloud 5 offers that classic On feel that many runners love, with a softer ride that’s great for everyday runs.

If you’re looking for a do-it-all shoe with a bit more room in the toe box, the X3 might be your best bet. If you prefer a snugger fit and softer feel, and don’t mind a slightly less versatile shoe, the Cloud 5 could be perfect for you.