When you’re looking for the perfect pair of running shoes, the choices can feel endless. Two brands that often come up in discussions about the best running shoes are On Cloud and ASICS Gel Nimbus.
Both of these shoes are famous for being comfortable, durable, and stylish. But which one is the best for you? Whether you are just starting to run or have been running for years, it’s important to know the key differences between these two shoes before making your choice.

Contents
- 1 On Cloud vs ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
- 2 What Makes Running Shoes Great?
- 3 Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?
- 4 Breathability: Keep Your Feet Cool
- 5 Cushioning: Comfort for Your Feet
- 6 Fit: Which Shoe Fits Best?
- 7 Stability: Keeping Your Feet Aligned
- 8 Comfort: Which Shoe Feels Best?
- 9 Style: Which Shoe Looks Better?
- 10 Weight: Which Shoe is Lighter?
- 11 Flexibility: Which Shoe Moves Better with You?
- 12 Water Resistance: Will These Shoes Handle Wet Weather?
- 13 Sole
- 14 User Reviews and Price
On Cloud vs ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
On Cloud and ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes is their cushioning technology and design purpose. On Cloud features unique cloud-like pods that provide a lighter, bouncier feel perfect for everyday use and short runs.
ASICS Gel Nimbus uses gel cushioning technology that offers more support and comfort, making it better for longer runs and people needing extra stability.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs!
Feature | On Cloud | ASICS Gel Nimbus |
Weight | Lighter (8.8 oz) | Heavier (10.2 oz) |
Cushioning | Cloud pods technology | Gel cushioning system |
Best For | Daily wear, short runs | Long distance running |
Price | $130 | $160 |
Fit | Wider toe box | Snug throughout |
Durability | 6-8 months | 8-10 months |
Support Level | Moderate | High |
Style | Modern, sleek | Traditional, sporty |
In summary: If you’re looking for a super comfy everyday shoe that looks cool and feels light, go for the On Cloud. But if you need a shoe that gives you lots of support for running long distances, pick the ASICS Gel Nimbus.
The On Cloud is like bouncing on little clouds, while the ASICS feels like running on soft cushions. Both are great shoes – it just depends on what you want to use them for!
What Makes Running Shoes Great?
Before we dive into the details, let’s quickly talk about what makes a great running shoe. When you’re picking running shoes, you should look for a few key things:
- Comfort: You want shoes that feel good on your feet and don’t cause pain.
- Support: Good running shoes should support your foot to avoid injury.
- Cushioning: Cushioning is important for shock absorption. It helps protect your joints as you run.
- Durability: You need shoes that will last through lots of miles.
- Fit: A good fit ensures your foot doesn’t slide around in the shoe, which can lead to blisters or other problems.
Now that we understand what to look for, let’s see how the On Cloud shoes and ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes measure up in each of these areas.
Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are known for being lightweight and durable. The shoes are made with high-quality materials, and the sole is designed to last through many miles.
However, some runners have found that the CloudTec® technology (the technology in the sole) wears down a little faster than other shoes, especially on rougher surfaces.
These shoes are a great option for shorter runs or road running, but if you’re running on tougher trails, you might want to keep an eye on the soles.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are built to be extra durable. These shoes are made with a strong and stable design, perfect for people who put a lot of miles on their shoes.
The GEL® cushioning system in the heel and forefoot helps absorb shock, making the shoes last longer without losing comfort. Overall, ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes tend to last longer than On Cloud shoes, especially for longer runs and more intense training.
Shoe Brand | Durability |
On Cloud Shoes | Good |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Very Good |
Breathability: Keep Your Feet Cool
On Cloud Shoes
One of the standout features of On Cloud shoes is how breathable they are. The mesh upper (the fabric part of the shoe) allows air to flow freely through the shoe, helping keep your feet cool and dry.
This is especially important during the summer or when you’re running for a long time. If you’re looking for shoes that help keep your feet cool, On Cloud shoes are a great choice.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes also have great breathability. The engineered mesh allows air to circulate, so your feet won’t get too hot during a run.
However, the material of the Nimbus shoes is a bit thicker, so they might not be as breathable as On Cloud shoes, especially in warmer weather.
Shoe Brand | Breathability |
On Cloud Shoes | Excellent |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Good |
Cushioning: Comfort for Your Feet
On Cloud Shoes
The cushioning in On Cloud shoes is very soft and flexible. The CloudTec® technology uses small pods that compress with each step, which makes the shoes feel like they have a soft, springy cushion. This is great for runners who want a comfortable, lightweight shoe that still gives them some cushion.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes offer amazing cushioning with their GEL® technology. The cushioning is firmer than On Cloud’s, but it still offers a lot of support.
The GEL® system absorbs shock when your foot hits the ground, helping protect your joints during long runs. If you’re looking for a shoe with a lot of cushioning that supports your foot during long-distance runs, ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are an excellent choice.
Shoe Brand | Cushioning |
On Cloud Shoes | Soft & Flexible |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Firm & Supportive |
Fit: Which Shoe Fits Best?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes fit snugly and securely, but they don’t feel too tight. Many people find that the shoes fit true to size. The flexible material in the shoe helps them mold to the shape of your foot, which makes them feel comfortable.
However, people with wider feet might find the On Cloud shoes a bit too narrow, so it’s important to try them on before buying if you have wide feet.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are a bit roomier than On Cloud shoes. They have more space in the toe box (the part of the shoe where your toes are) and may feel more comfortable for people with wide feet.
The shoes also offer a snug fit around the midfoot to help keep your foot stable while running. Overall, the ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are a great choice if you need a bit more room or if you have wider feet.
Shoe Brand | Fit |
On Cloud Shoes | Snug & Secure |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Roomy & Comfortable |
Stability: Keeping Your Feet Aligned
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes offer moderate stability. The CloudTec® system is designed to give you a comfortable ride, but it doesn’t have as much support for people who overpronate (when your foot rolls inward too much when running).
These shoes are great for neutral runners who don’t need extra support. They provide good stability for casual runners or those who run on smooth surfaces.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are made to offer more stability. They have a system called Guidance Trusstic that helps keep your foot aligned as you run.
This makes them a great choice for runners who need more control or those who overpronate. If you need extra support, the ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are built to help keep your foot stable.
Shoe Brand | Stability |
On Cloud Shoes | Moderate Stability |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | High Stability |
Comfort: Which Shoe Feels Best?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are known for being incredibly comfortable. The CloudTec® technology gives you a soft, cushioned feel that feels great on your feet during runs.
They are light, flexible, and breathable, which means they won’t feel too heavy or hot, even during long runs. Overall, they are very comfortable, especially if you prefer a lighter shoe.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are also very comfortable, especially if you’re looking for more support. The GEL® cushioning system and the padded upper give your feet a plush, comfortable feeling.
While they are a bit heavier than On Cloud shoes, the added weight gives you more stability and support, making them great for long runs.
Shoe Brand | Comfort |
On Cloud Shoes | Very Comfortable |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Extremely Comfortable |
Style: Which Shoe Looks Better?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are known for their modern, sleek look. They have a clean, minimalist design with plenty of color options.
Whether you want something bold and bright or more neutral, On Cloud shoes offer a wide variety of styles that match different tastes. If you care about the look of your shoes as much as their performance, On Cloud shoes are a great choice.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are more traditional in their design, with a bulkier look. They still look great, but their style is more classic and sporty than sleek. If you’re someone who prefers a shoe with a more established running brand design, the Nimbus is a solid option.
Shoe Brand | Style |
On Cloud Shoes | Sleek & Modern |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Traditional & Sporty |
Weight: Which Shoe is Lighter?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are some of the lightest running shoes out there. They are made with lightweight materials, making them feel barely there as you run. If you want a shoe that won’t weigh you down and allows for fast-paced running, On Cloud shoes are the way to go.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are heavier than On Cloud shoes. They are designed with more cushioning and stability, which adds weight. While they may feel a little heavier, they are built to provide extra support, making them better for long-distance running or heavier runners.
Shoe Brand | Weight |
On Cloud Shoes | Lightweight |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Heavier |
Flexibility: Which Shoe Moves Better with You?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are very flexible. The sole bends easily with your foot’s movement, which helps you feel light and quick during runs. The flexibility makes them a great option for runners who prefer a more natural feel and a faster stride.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are less flexible than On Cloud shoes. They are made to be more stable and supportive, which means they don’t bend as easily. However, this added stiffness is helpful for long-distance runners who need extra control and support.
Shoe Brand | Flexibility |
On Cloud Shoes | Very Flexible |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Less Flexible |
Water Resistance: Will These Shoes Handle Wet Weather?
On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud shoes are not waterproof, but their mesh upper does a decent job of handling light rain. If you’re running in a small amount of rain, these shoes should dry quickly. However, if you’re running in heavy rain or puddles, your feet will likely get wet.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are also not waterproof, but they handle wet conditions a little better than On Cloud shoes. The thicker materials can resist light water, but they aren’t fully waterproof.
Shoe Brand | Water Resistance |
On Cloud Shoes | Low |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Moderate |
Sole
On Cloud Shoes
The CloudTec® sole of On Cloud shoes is designed to provide a responsive and cushioned feel. It features hollowed-out pods that compress on impact, offering a soft landing and springy take-off. The sole is durable and works well for runners who prefer a lighter shoe.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes
The ASICS Gel Nimbus has a thicker and more durable sole that is designed to provide extra support and stability. It has the Trusstic System® to help improve the shoe’s structural integrity and reduce weight. This makes the sole great for long-distance running.
Shoe Brand | Sole |
On Cloud Shoes | Responsive and Cushioned |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | Stable and Durable |
User Reviews and Price
Here’s a look at what users say about these shoes and their price.
Shoe Brand | Average Rating | Price Range |
On Cloud Shoes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) | $130 – $160 |
ASICS Gel Nimbus Shoes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) | $140 – $170 |
In conclusion: both On Cloud shoes and ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are excellent choices for runners, but they cater to slightly different needs.
If you prioritize lightweight design, flexibility, and a responsive feel, the On Cloud shoes are perfect for you.
However, if you’re looking for extra support, stability, and cushioning for long-distance running, the ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes might be a better fit.
Which shoe is better for long-distance running?
Both shoes are great for long distances, but the ASICS Gel Nimbus offers more cushioning and stability for long runs, while the On Cloud shoes are better for lighter, faster runs.
Are On Cloud shoes good for daily wear?
Yes, On Cloud shoes are not only great for running but also for casual wear due to their stylish look and comfortable fit.
Which shoe is more durable?
ASICS Gel Nimbus shoes are generally more durable, especially for heavy-duty use and rough conditions.
Can I use On Cloud shoes for trail running?
On Cloud shoes are better suited for road running, though they can handle light trails. For rugged terrains, the ASICS Gel Nimbus would be a better choice.
Are the shoes true to size?
Both shoes typically fit true to size, but it’s always a good idea to try them on if possible, especially for wide or narrow feet.