On Cloud vs Ecco Shoes

You might have heard about On Cloud and Ecco, two popular shoe brands known for their quality and comfort.

We’ll compare these two brands to help you decide which one is best for you.

On Cloud vs Ecco Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud and Ecco shoes is their focus and design. On Cloud specializes in lightweight, sporty shoes with unique cushioning for running and active lifestyles.

Ecco offers a wider range of styles, including dress shoes, and is known for durability and comfort in everyday wear. Both brands prioritize quality and comfort but cater to different needs.

Here’s a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Ecco shoes:

Feature	On Cloud	Ecco
Origin	Swiss, founded in 2010	Danish, founded in 1963
Speciality	Running and athletic shoes	Wide range of casual and dress shoes
Cushioning	CloudTec® pods	ECCO Comfort Fibre System™
Fit	Narrower, snug fit	Wider range of sizes and widths
Weight	Very lightweight	Slightly heavier
Waterproofing	Some water-resistant models	Many GORE-TEX® waterproof options
Style	Modern, sporty look	Classic, versatile designs
Price Range	$130 – $200	$100 – $250
Best For	Running, active lifestyles	Everyday wear, work, formal occasions
Materials	Synthetic materials, engineered mesh	High-quality leather, some synthetics
Durability	Good for athletic use	Excellent for long-term wear

Summary: On Cloud and Ecco both make high-quality, comfortable shoes but for different purposes. On Cloud is great for athletes and those who want a light, sporty shoe.

Ecco shoe is better for people who need versatile, durable shoes for everyday wear or work. Your choice depends on your lifestyle and what you’ll use the shoes for most.

Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?

When you buy a pair of shoes, you want them to last a long time. Let’s see how On Cloud and Ecco compare in terms of durability.

On Cloud Durability

On Cloud shoes are built to withstand the wear and tear of running and everyday use. The CloudTec® soles are made from durable rubber that can handle many miles of running or walking. The upper part of the shoe is usually made from a strong mesh material that resists tearing.

Ecco Durability

Ecco shoes are known for their long-lasting quality. The leather used in many Ecco shoes is treated to be extra durable and resist scuffs and scratches.

The soles are often made from a tough material called polyurethane, which can last for years without wearing down.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry

Nobody likes sweaty, smelly feet. Let’s see how these brands handle breathability.

On Cloud Breathability

On Cloud shoes are designed with breathability in mind. Many of their models use a lightweight mesh upper that allows air to flow freely, keeping your feet cool and dry. Some models also have special moisture-wicking linings to help manage sweat.

Ecco Breathability

Ecco uses a technology called GORE-TEX® in many of their shoes. This material is waterproof but also lets sweat escape, keeping your feet dry from both outside moisture and inside perspiration.

Even their leather shoes often have small perforations to improve air flow.

Cushioning: Comfort for Your Soles

Good cushioning can make a big difference in how comfortable your shoes feel, especially if you’re on your feet all day.

On Cloud Cushioning

The CloudTec® system in On Cloud shoes provides unique cushioning. The hollow pods compress to absorb impact when you step down, then quickly spring back to their original shape. This gives you a soft landing and a firm push-off with each step.

Ecco Cushioning

Ecco uses a variety of cushioning technologies in their shoes. Many models feature a cushioned insole made from a material called ECCO Comfort Fibre System™. This provides soft cushioning that molds to the shape of your foot over time.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Getting the right fit is crucial for comfort and preventing foot problems. Here’s how On Cloud and Ecco approach fit:

On Cloud Fit

On Cloud shoes tend to have a narrower fit, especially in the heel area. They offer different models for various foot shapes, including options for wider feet. Many runners find that On Cloud shoes provide a snug, secure fit that’s great for athletic activities.

Ecco Fit

Ecco is known for offering a wider range of sizes and widths. They use a special last (foot model) called ECCO Freedom Fit™, which is roomier in the toe box but snug in the heel. This allows your toes to spread naturally while keeping your foot secure.

Stability: Keeping You Steady on Your Feet

Stability is important for preventing injuries and maintaining good posture. Let’s see how these brands stack up:

On Cloud Stability

On Cloud shoes provide good stability through their unique sole design. The individual Cloud elements can adapt to your foot’s movement, providing a stable base. Some models also have a firm heel counter to prevent excessive rolling of the foot.

Ecco Stability

Ecco shoes often feature a technology called ECCO FLUIDFORM™, which creates a stable and flexible sole. Many of their shoes also have a built-in heel cup and arch support for added stability.

Comfort: Walking on Clouds or Danish Design?

Comfort is king when it comes to shoes. Both brands prioritize comfort, but in different ways:

On Cloud Comfort

On Cloud shoes are designed to feel light and bouncy. The CloudTec® cushioning aims to make you feel like you’re walking on clouds (hence the name).

Many users report that On Cloud shoes feel comfortable right out of the box, with little to no break-in period needed.

Ecco Comfort

Ecco’s approach to comfort focuses on using soft, high-quality materials and ergonomic design. Their leather shoes often mold to your feet over time, providing a custom-like fit. Many Ecco shoes also feature removable insoles, allowing you to use custom orthotics if needed.

Quality: Swiss Precision vs Danish Craftsmanship

Both brands are known for quality, but they have different approaches:

On Cloud Quality

On Cloud emphasizes innovative design and high-tech materials. Their shoes are made to precise specifications, with a focus on performance and durability for active lifestyles.

Ecco Quality

Ecco is renowned for their attention to detail in the shoe-making process. They control every step of production, from tanning their own leather to manufacturing the final product. This allows them to maintain high quality standards throughout.

Style: Fashion Meets Function

While both brands prioritize comfort and functionality, style is also an important factor for many shoppers.

On Cloud Style

On Cloud shoes have a modern, sleek look that appeals to many younger consumers. Their designs often feature bold colors and distinctive sole patterns. While they started as a running shoe brand, they now offer styles suitable for casual wear as well.

Ecco Style

Ecco offers a wide range of styles, from casual sneakers to formal dress shoes. Their designs tend to be more classic and versatile, with a focus on timeless appeal rather than following fast-changing trends.

Size Range: Finding Your Fit

Having a wide range of sizes available is crucial for getting the right fit. Here’s how these brands compare:

On Cloud Size Range

On Cloud offers shoes in a good range of sizes for both men and women. However, they may have fewer options for those with very small or very large feet compared to some other brands.

Ecco Size Range

Ecco is known for offering an extensive range of sizes, including half sizes and different widths. This makes it easier for people with hard-to-fit feet to find a comfortable shoe.

Materials: What Are These Shoes Made Of?

The materials used in a shoe can affect its comfort, durability, and environmental impact.

On Cloud Materials

On Cloud uses a mix of synthetic materials in their shoes. The uppers are often made from engineered mesh or synthetic leather. The soles use their proprietary rubber compound for the CloudTec® pods.

Ecco Materials

Ecco is known for their high-quality leather, which they produce in their own tanneries. They also use synthetic materials in some of their shoes, especially for athletic styles. Many Ecco shoes feature GORE-TEX® waterproof membranes.

Weight: Light on Your Feet

The weight of a shoe can make a big difference in how it feels, especially if you’re wearing it all day or for sports.

On Cloud Weight

On Cloud shoes are designed to be lightweight. Many of their models weigh less than 250 grams per shoe, making them some of the lightest options on the market.

Ecco Weight

Ecco shoes tend to be a bit heavier than On Cloud, especially their leather models. However, they still prioritize keeping their shoes as light as possible while maintaining durability and support.

Flexibility: Bending with Your Feet

A flexible shoe can make walking and running more comfortable and natural.

On Cloud Flexibility

The unique sole design of On Cloud shoes allows for excellent flexibility. The individual Cloud elements can move independently, allowing your foot to flex naturally.

Ecco Flexibility

Ecco uses technologies like ECCO FLUIDFORM™ to create soles that are both flexible and durable. Their shoes are designed to move with your foot, providing a natural walking or running experience.

Water Resistance: Keeping Your Feet Dry

Whether you’re caught in a rainstorm or stepping in a puddle, water resistance can be a valuable feature in a shoe.

On Cloud Water Resistance

Some On Cloud models feature water-repellent treatments on the upper material. However, not all of their shoes are fully waterproof.

Ecco Water Resistance

Many Ecco shoes use GORE-TEX® technology, which provides excellent waterproofing while still allowing your feet to breathe. Even their non-GORE-TEX® leather shoes often have good water resistance due to their special tanning process.

Sole: The Foundation of Your Shoe

The sole of a shoe affects its durability, comfort, and performance. Let’s compare the soles of On Cloud and Ecco shoes:

On Cloud Soles

On Cloud’s distinctive CloudTec® soles feature hollow pods that compress and rebound as you walk or run. This design aims to provide both cushioning and responsiveness. The soles are made from a durable rubber compound.

Ecco Soles

Ecco uses a direct injection process called ECCO FLUIDFORM™ to create their soles. This results in a flexible, durable sole that’s firmly bonded to the upper part of the shoe. Many Ecco soles are made from polyurethane, which is known for its long-lasting properties.

User Reviews and Ratings

To give you a better idea of how these shoes perform in real life, here’s a summary of user reviews and ratings:

Brand	Average Rating	Comfort	Durability	Style
On Cloud	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	4.7/5	4.3/5	4.6/5
Ecco	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	4.6/5	4.5/5	4.2/5

As you can see, both brands receive high marks from users, with On Cloud scoring slightly higher overall and in style, while Ecco edges out in durability.

Price Comparison

Here’s a general price range for different types of shoes from each brand:

Brand	Casual Sneakers	Running Shoes	Dress Shoes
On Cloud	$130 – $150	$140 – $200	N/A
Ecco	$100 – $160	$130 – $180	$150 – $250

On Cloud tends to be slightly more expensive for casual and running shoes, while Ecco offers a wider range of prices and styles, including dress shoes.

Pros and Cons

Pros: On Cloud Shoes

• Very lightweight
• Unique cushioning system
• Great for running and sports
• Modern, stylish designs

Cons: On Cloud Shoes

• Limited style options
• Can be expensive
• Not as durable for everyday wear
• Fewer size options for hard-to-fit feet

Pros: Ecco Shoes

• Wide range of styles
• Very durable
• Good for everyday wear
• Many waterproof options

Cons: Ecco Shoes

• Can be heavy for sports
• Some find the style less exciting
• More expensive dress shoe options
• Not as specialized for running

In conclusion: Both On Cloud and Ecco offer high-quality shoes with a focus on comfort and performance. Your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose On Cloud if:

• You want a lightweight, responsive shoe for running or active lifestyles
• You prefer a modern, sporty style
• You’re looking for shoes with unique cushioning technology

Choose Ecco if:

• You want a wide range of styles, including dress shoes
• You prioritize durability and long-lasting quality
• You need shoes with excellent water resistance
• You have hard-to-fit feet and need a wide range of sizes and widths

Remember, the best shoe for you is the one that fits well and feels comfortable on your feet. If possible, try on shoes from both brands to see which one suits you better.

Are On Cloud shoes good for everyday wear?

Yes, while On Cloud started as a running shoe brand, many of their models are suitable and popular for everyday wear.

Do Ecco shoes run true to size?

Generally, yes. Ecco shoes are known for their consistent sizing, but it’s always best to try them on or check the size guide for each specific model.

Can I use On Cloud shoes for sports other than running?

Yes, many On Cloud models are versatile enough for various athletic activities, but choose a model designed for your specific sport for the best performance.

Are Ecco shoes worth the price?

Many users find Ecco shoes to be a good investment due to their durability and comfort, often lasting for several years with proper care.

Do On Cloud shoes need a break-in period?

Most On Cloud shoes are comfortable right out of the box and need little to no break-in period.

Are all Ecco shoes waterproof?

Not all Ecco shoes are fully waterproof, but many models feature GORE-TEX® technology for excellent water resistance. Check the product details for each specific model.