These two popular models from the Swiss brand On Running have a lot to offer, but how do they compare?
Let’s take a closer look at these shoes to help you decide which one might be best for your feet.
Contents
On Cloud vs Cloudflow Shoes
The main difference between On Cloud and Cloudflow shoes is their purpose. On Cloud shoes are made for everyday comfort and casual wear. They’re super comfy and easy to slip on and off. Cloudflow shoes, on the other hand, are built for running fast.
They’re more snug and give you an extra push when you run. So, On Cloud is great for walking around all day, while Cloudflow is best for speedy runs.
Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Cloudflow Shoes:
| Feature | On Cloud | Cloudflow |
| Best Use | Everyday wear, light exercise | Running, speed training |
| Comfort | Very comfortable, roomy toe box | Comfortable, but snugger fit |
| Weight | Very lightweight | Lightweight |
| Cushioning | Soft CloudTec cushioning | Responsive Helion superfoam |
| Fit | Relaxed, slip-on design | Snug, performance fit |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
| Flexibility | Very flexible | Less flexible, more structured |
| Style | Casual, minimalist | Athletic, performance-oriented |
| Price | Around $130 | Around $140 |
In Summary: On Cloud shoes are perfect if you want super comfy shoes for everyday wear. They’re light, easy to put on, and look cool with jeans or casual clothes. Cloudflow shoes are better if you’re into running fast. They fit more snugly and help you run quicker.
Choose On Cloud for comfort all day, or Cloudflow if you want to zoom around the track!
Comfort and Fit
How They Feel on Your Feet
Both On Cloud and Cloudflow shoes are designed to be comfortable, but they feel a bit different when you wear them.
On Cloud Comfort
On Cloud shoes are like wearing a cozy blanket on your feet. They have a soft, cushioned feel that makes them great for walking around all day. The shoes have a roomy toe box, which means your toes have plenty of space to move around.
Cloudflow Comfort
Cloudflow shoes feel more snug and fitted. They’re still comfortable, but in a way that makes you want to start running. The cushioning is firmer, which gives you more energy return when you push off the ground.
Getting the Right Size
Getting the right size is super important for any shoe. Here’s what you need to know about sizing for On Cloud and Cloudflow:
On Cloud Sizing
On Cloud shoes tend to run true to size. This means that if you usually wear a size 8, you’ll probably want to get a size 8 in On Cloud shoes too. However, if you have wide feet, you might want to go up half a size for extra room.
Cloudflow Sizing
Cloudflow shoes also usually run true to size, but they have a slightly narrower fit. If you have wider feet, you might want to try going up half a size in these too.
| US Size | EU Size | UK Size | Foot Length (cm) |
| 6 | 39 | 5.5 | 24 |
| 7 | 40 | 6.5 | 25 |
| 8 | 41 | 7.5 | 26 |
| 9 | 42.5 | 8.5 | 27 |
| 10 | 44 | 9.5 | 28 |
| 11 | 45 | 10.5 | 29 |
| 12 | 46.5 | 11.5 | 30 |
Performance and Durability
How Long Will They Last?
When you buy new shoes, you want them to last a while. Let’s see how On Cloud and Cloudflow stack up in terms of durability:
On Cloud Durability
On Cloud shoes are built to handle everyday wear and tear. The rubber soles are tough and can stand up to lots of walking on different surfaces. Many people find that their On Cloud shoes last for about 300-400 miles of use.
Cloudflow Durability
Cloudflow shoes are made for running, so they’re designed to handle more impact. The soles are made with a special rubber that’s both grippy and long-lasting. Runners often report getting 400-500 miles out of their Cloudflow shoes before needing to replace them.
Performance in Different Conditions
Your shoes need to perform well in various situations. Here’s how On Cloud and Cloudflow handle different conditions:
On Cloud Performance
On Cloud shoes are great for everyday use. They perform well on sidewalks, in the gym, and even on light trails. However, they’re not the best choice for serious running or very wet conditions.
Cloudflow Performance
Cloudflow shoes shine when it comes to running performance. They’re responsive and springy, which helps you run faster. They perform well on roads and tracks, but like the On Cloud, they’re not ideal for very wet or muddy conditions.
Breathability and Materials
Keeping Your Feet Cool
Nobody likes sweaty feet. Let’s see how these shoes help keep your feet dry and comfortable:
On Cloud Breathability
On Cloud shoes are made with a lightweight, breathable mesh upper. This material lets air flow through the shoe, helping to keep your feet cool and dry. The shoes also have antimicrobial treatment to help prevent odors.
Cloudflow Breathability
Cloudflow shoes also feature a breathable mesh upper, but it’s a bit more tightly woven for a more secure fit. This means they might not be quite as airy as the On Cloud, but they still do a good job of keeping your feet from overheating during runs.
What Are They Made Of?
The materials used in a shoe can affect how it feels, performs, and lasts. Here’s what On Cloud and Cloudflow are made of:
On Cloud Materials
On Cloud shoes use a mix of synthetic materials and mesh for the upper part of the shoe. The soles are made of a special rubber compound that On calls “Zero-Gravity foam.” This material is designed to be lightweight but still provide good cushioning.
Cloudflow Materials
Cloudflow shoes use similar materials to the On Cloud, but with some differences. The upper is made of an engineered mesh that’s designed to be more supportive. The soles use On’s “Helion” superfoam, which is meant to provide better energy return for runners.
Weight and Flexibility
How Light Are They?
When it comes to shoes, lighter often means more comfortable. Let’s compare the weight of On Cloud and Cloudflow:
On Cloud Weight
On Cloud shoes are known for being incredibly light. A typical pair weighs about 230 grams (8.1 ounces) for men’s shoes and 190 grams (6.7 ounces) for women’s shoes. This makes them one of the lightest everyday shoes you can find.
Cloudflow Weight
Cloudflow shoes are also very light, but slightly heavier than the On Cloud. A typical pair weighs about 235 grams (8.3 ounces) for men and 198 grams (7 ounces) for women.
The small difference in weight is due to the extra features that make Cloudflow better for running.
How Flexible Are They?
Flexibility in a shoe can make it more comfortable and better for your feet. Here’s how On Cloud and Cloudflow compare:
On Cloud Flexibility
On Cloud shoes are very flexible. The unique sole design with separate “cloud” elements allows the shoe to bend and flex easily with your foot. This makes them great for walking and light jogging.
Cloudflow Flexibility
Cloudflow shoes are also flexible, but in a different way. They’re designed to be stiffer in the midfoot area to provide more support when running, but they still flex well in the forefoot area where your toes bend.
Stability and Support
Keeping You Steady
Good stability in a shoe can help prevent injuries and make you feel more confident when moving. Let’s see how On Cloud and Cloudflow provide stability:
On Cloud Stability
On Cloud shoes offer moderate stability. The wide base of the shoe and the cloud elements on the sole help keep your foot stable when walking or standing.
However, they’re not designed for intense athletic activities that require a lot of quick side-to-side movements.
Cloudflow Stability
Cloudflow shoes provide more stability, especially for running. They have a slightly firmer midsole and a more structured upper that helps keep your foot in place during forward motion. This makes them better suited for faster runs and races.
Support for Your Feet
Good support is crucial for keeping your feet healthy and comfortable. Here’s how these shoes support your feet:
On Cloud Support
On Cloud shoes offer good general support for everyday activities. The cloud elements in the sole provide cushioning and some arch support. However, they’re not designed for people who need extra support due to issues like flat feet.
Cloudflow Support
Cloudflow shoes provide more targeted support for runners. They have a bit more arch support and a snugger fit around the midfoot, which helps keep your foot stable during runs.
They’re a good choice for people with neutral arches who don’t need specialized support.
Water Resistance and Sole Design
Keeping Your Feet Dry
While neither of these shoes is fully waterproof, they do have some features to help keep your feet dry:
On Cloud Water Resistance
On Cloud shoes have a water-repellent upper that can handle light rain or wet sidewalks. However, they’re not suitable for very wet conditions or puddles.
Cloudflow Water Resistance
Cloudflow shoes also have a water-repellent upper, similar to the On Cloud. They can handle light rain during a run, but they’re not designed for running in heavy rain or through water.
All About the Sole
The sole of a shoe is crucial for comfort and performance. Let’s look at how On Cloud and Cloudflow soles compare:
On Cloud Sole
On Cloud shoes have a unique sole design with hollow “cloud” elements. These provide cushioning and help absorb shock when you walk or run. The sole is designed to be comfortable for all-day wear.
Cloudflow Sole
Cloudflow shoes also use the cloud element design, but with some differences. The elements are arranged to provide more forward propulsion, which is great for running. The sole also has more rubber coverage for better traction and durability.
Style and Looks
How Do They Look?
While performance is important, many people also care about how their shoes look. Here’s how On Cloud and Cloudflow compare in terms of style:
On Cloud Style
On Cloud shoes have a sleek, modern look that works well for both casual and slightly dressier occasions. They come in a wide range of colors, from neutral tones to bright, eye-catching shades.
Cloudflow Style
Cloudflow shoes have a more athletic look that clearly says “running shoe.” They also come in various colors, but the designs tend to be bolder and more sports-oriented.
User Reviews and Ratings
To give you a better idea of what real users think, here’s a summary of user reviews for both shoes:
| Shoe Model | Overall Rating | Comfort | Durability | Performance |
| On Cloud | 4.5/5 ½ | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Cloudflow | 4.5/5 ½ | 4/5 | 4.5/5 ½ | 5/5 |
Price Comparison
Here’s a quick look at the typical price range for these shoes:
| Shoe Model | Price Range |
| On Cloud | $130 – $150 |
| Cloudflow | $140 – $160 |
Please note that prices can vary depending on where you buy the shoes and any sales or discounts.
Pros and Cons
Pros: On Cloud
- Super lightweight – feels like you’re not wearing shoes
- Very comfy for everyday wear
- Good for walking and light running
- Stylish look – great for school or hanging out
- Easy to slip on and off
- Comes in lots of cool colors
Cons: On Cloud
- Not the best for serious running or sports
- The sole design can pick up small rocks sometimes
- Might wear out faster if you use them for heavy exercise
- Not very water-resistant
- Can be a bit pricey
Pros: Cloudflow
- Great for running – designed for speed
- More supportive for your feet during exercise
- Good cushioning for longer runs
- Breathable – keeps your feet cool
- Comes in fun, bright colors
- Durable for regular runners
Cons: Cloudflow
- Might feel too firm for some people
- Not as comfy for all-day wear as the Cloud
- Look more like running shoes – not as stylish for everyday use
- Can be expensive
- Heavier than the Cloud model
In conclusion: After looking at all these details, you might be wondering which shoe is the best choice for you. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
Choose On Cloud if:
- You want a comfortable shoe for everyday wear
- You do a mix of activities like walking, light jogging, and gym workouts
- You prefer a softer, more cushioned feel
- You want a shoe that looks good with casual outfits
Choose Cloudflow if:
- You’re primarily looking for a running shoe
- You want a shoe that can handle faster runs and races
- You prefer a firmer, more responsive feel
- You don’t mind a more athletic look
Remember, the best shoe for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If possible, try on both shoes to see which one feels better on your feet.
Are On Cloud and Cloudflow shoes good for flat feet?
While both shoes offer some support, they’re not specifically designed for flat feet. If you have flat feet, you might need a shoe with more arch support or stability features.
Can I use On Cloud shoes for running?
On Cloud shoes can be used for light jogging, but they’re not designed for serious running or long distances. For more intense running, Cloudflow would be a better choice.
Are Cloudflow shoes good for everyday wear?
While Cloudflow shoes are comfortable, they’re designed more for running than everyday wear. On Cloud shoes might be a better choice if you’re looking for an all-day, everyday shoe.
How often should I replace my On Cloud or Cloudflow shoes?
As a general rule, you should replace running shoes every 400-500 miles. For everyday wear, replace them when you notice significant wear on the soles or loss of cushioning.
Can I wash my On Cloud or Cloudflow shoes?
It’s best not to machine wash these shoes. Instead, clean them with a soft brush and mild soap, then let them air dry away from direct heat.