I know choosing between these brands can be tricky, so I’m here to help you understand everything about them. Whether you’re looking for shoes for sports, school, or hanging out with friends, this guide will help you make the right choice.

Contents
- 1 On Cloud vs Adidas Shoes
- 2 Understanding the Basics
- 3 Durability: How Long Will They Last?
- 4 Breathing and Comfort
- 5 Cushioning and Support
- 6 Fit and Sizing Guide
- 7 Stability and Support Features
- 8 Materials and Quality
- 9 Weight and Flexibility
- 10 Water Resistance and Protection
- 11 Style and Design
- 12 Size Guide and Fitting
- 13 Materials Used
- 14 Weight Comparison
- 15 Flexibility and Movement
- 16 Water Resistance Properties
- 17 Sole Technology
- 18 User Reviews and Ratings
- 19 Price Comparison
On Cloud vs Adidas Shoes
The main difference between On Cloud and Adidas shoes is that On Cloud specializes in lightweight running shoes with unique cloud-like cushioning, while Adidas offers a broader range of athletic footwear with traditional cushioning.
On Cloud shoes are usually more expensive but provide instant comfort, whereas Adidas shoes are more affordable and versatile but may need breaking in.
Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Adidas Shoes:
Feature | On Cloud | Adidas |
Price | $130-180 | $60-180 |
Comfort | Instant comfort | Needs break-in time |
Weight | Very light (8-10 oz) | Light to medium (9-12 oz) |
Cushioning | Cloud pods technology | Boost/Bounce foam |
Fit | Runs true to size, narrow | Runs small, wider options |
Durability | 8-12 months | 12-15 months |
Style Options | Limited colors, modern | Many choices, classic to modern |
Best For | Running, daily wear | All sports, casual wear |
Size Range | Limited | Extensive |
Water Resistance | Moderate | Varies by model |
In summary: If you’re trying to choose between these shoes, here’s what you should know: On Cloud shoes feel super comfy right away and are great for running, but they cost more money. Adidas shoes are less expensive and come in more styles and colors. They’re also great for lots of different sports.
Understanding the Basics
The Story Behind Each Brand
On Cloud started in Switzerland in 2010 with a cool idea – making shoes that feel like running on clouds. It’s like they put tiny clouds under your feet! Adidas, on the other hand, has been around since 1949 and has helped many famous athletes win competitions. They’re like the wise grandparent of sports shoes.
Why These Brands Matter
Both brands make awesome shoes, but they’re different in many ways. Think of it like choosing between two different flavors of ice cream – they’re both good, but you might like one better than the other.
Durability: How Long Will They Last?
On Cloud Durability
These shoes are built tough with special materials that can handle lots of running and walking. The bottom part (called CloudTec®) is really strong but might catch small rocks sometimes. Most kids can wear these shoes for about 8-12 months before needing new ones.
Adidas Durability
Adidas uses something called Continental™ rubber (the same company that makes car tires!) for their soles. These shoes usually last 12-15 months of regular wear. They’re great for rough playground activities and sports.

Breathing and Comfort
How Well Do They Let Your Feet Breathe?
The way shoes let air flow around your feet is super important. Here’s how they compare:
Breathing Features | On Cloud | Adidas |
Air Flow | Excellent | Very Good |
Material Type | Light mesh | Mixed materials |
Summer Comfort | Very cool | Pretty cool |
Sweat Control | Great | Good |
Cushioning and Support
On Cloud’s Special Cushioning
Remember those clouds I mentioned? On Cloud uses special cushions that actually compress when you step down and bounce back when you lift your foot. It feels like walking on springy marshmallows!
Adidas Cushioning Technology
Adidas uses different types of cushioning like Boost and Bounce. These feel more like having a bouncy mat under your feet. They’re especially good when you’re running or jumping.
Fit and Sizing Guide
Sizing Tips | On Cloud | Adidas |
True to Size | Yes | Runs small |
Width | Narrow-Medium | Medium-Wide |
Size Up Needed? | No | Usually ½ size |
Break-in Time | Very short | 1-2 weeks |
Stability and Support Features
Both brands care about keeping your feet stable, but they do it differently:
On Cloud Stability
They use something called a “speedboard” that helps your feet stay steady. It’s like having an invisible helper keeping your feet in the right position.
Adidas Stability
Adidas uses special support frames in their shoes. Think of it like having guard rails that help your feet move the right way.
Materials and Quality
Material Type | On Cloud | Adidas |
Upper Material | Premium mesh | Various options |
Sole Material | CloudTec® | Continental™ rubber |
Laces Quality | Very good | Excellent |
Overall Build | Premium | Very good |
Weight and Flexibility
Both brands make lightweight shoes, but On Cloud shoes are usually a bit lighter. They’re like wearing feathers on your feet! Adidas shoes are still light but feel more solid.
Water Resistance and Protection
Neither brand makes completely waterproof shoes in their regular lines, but both offer some protection from light rain. Think of it like wearing a light jacket – it’ll help with a drizzle but not a downpour.

Style and Design
On Cloud Style Options
On Cloud shoes look modern and clean, like something from the future. They come in cool colors but not as many choices as Adidas.
Adidas Style Choices
Adidas offers tons of different looks, from classic to super modern. You can find almost any color you want, and many shoes have the famous three stripes that everyone recognizes.
Size Guide and Fitting
When it comes to getting the right size, here’s what you need to know:
On Cloud Sizing
The sizes in On Cloud shoes stay pretty consistent across different styles. If you wear size 5 in most shoes, you’ll likely want size 5 in On Cloud too. They make sizes for kids starting around size 3.5 and go up to adult sizes. The toe box (where your toes go) is a bit narrow, so if you have wider feet, you might want to try them on first.
Adidas Sizing
Adidas shoes often run about half a size smaller than other brands. So if you usually wear size 5, you might need size 5.5 in Adidas. They offer a wider range of youth sizes, starting from really small kids’ sizes up to adult sizes. Many of their shoes come in different width options too.

Materials Used
Material Type | On Cloud | Adidas |
Upper Material | Engineered mesh, recycled materials | Primeknit, mesh, recycled ocean plastic |
Inner Lining | Antimicrobial fabric | Textile and synthetic |
Insole | Memory foam | EVA foam |
Midsole | Zero-Gravity foam | Boost or Lightstrike foam |
Outsole | CloudTec® rubber | Continental™ rubber |
Weight Comparison
The weight of your shoes can make a big difference in how they feel all day long:
On Cloud Weight Features
Most On Cloud shoes weigh between 8-10 ounces (that’s about as light as a hamster!). Their youth shoes are even lighter, usually around 6-8 ounces. The lightweight design helps you move faster and keeps your feet from getting tired.
Adidas Weight Features
Adidas shoes typically weigh between 9-12 ounces for regular models. Their running shoes can be as light as On Cloud, but their basketball and training shoes are usually a bit heavier because they need extra support.
Flexibility and Movement
Flexibility Features | On Cloud | Adidas |
Bend Point | Front foot | Mid-foot |
Twist Resistance | Medium | Medium to High |
Easy to Move | Very Easy | Easy |
Break-in Period | 1-2 days | 1-2 weeks |
Water Resistance Properties
On Cloud Water Protection
While most On Cloud shoes aren’t completely waterproof, they do offer some water resistance. The mesh upper helps water roll off in light rain. They also make special waterproof versions of some shoes that use a material called On Shield™ protection.
Adidas Water Protection
Adidas uses different water-resistant treatments depending on the shoe model. Their outdoor shoes often have better water protection than their regular sneakers. Some models use a special coating called AdiPrene® that helps keep your feet dry.
Sole Technology
This is where both brands really shine with their special features:
On Cloud Soles
The bottom of On Cloud shoes has their famous CloudTec® sole design. Imagine little hollow tubes that squish when you step down and spring back when you lift your foot. These tubes (they call them “clouds”) work differently in different areas of your foot to give you the right support where you need it.

Adidas Soles
Adidas uses Continental™ rubber (yes, like car tires!) for their soles. This makes them super grippy and long-lasting. They also have different patterns on the bottom for different activities – like special zigzags for running or circles for basketball.
Sole Features | On Cloud | Adidas |
Grip Level | Very Good | Excellent |
Durability | Good | Very Good |
Shock Absorption | Excellent | Very Good |
Traction Pattern | Cloud pods | Activity-specific |
User Reviews and Ratings
Feature | On Cloud Rating | Adidas Rating |
Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
Style | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Value | ⭐⭐⭐½ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price Comparison
Shoe Category | On Cloud | Adidas |
Basic Models | $130-140 | $60-80 |
Sport Specific | $150-160 | $80-120 |
Premium Models | $170-180 | $140-180 |
In conclusion: If you want super comfortable, lightweight shoes and don’t mind spending more money, On Cloud might be perfect for you. If you want more style choices and potentially better value for money, Adidas could be your best bet. Both brands make great shoes – it really depends on what matters most to you!
Which brand is better for playing sports?
Both are great, but Adidas offers more sport-specific options. On Cloud is fantastic for running and everyday activities.
How do I pick the right size?
Try going to a store to try them on if you can. For Adidas, consider going up half a size. On Cloud usually fits true to size.
Are these shoes good for wide feet?
Adidas typically offers better options for wide feet. On Cloud tends to run a bit narrow.
How do I keep these shoes clean?
Use a soft brush with mild soap and water. Let them air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
Which brand lasts longer?
Both brands are durable, but Adidas often has a slight edge in longevity, especially for rough play.