On Cloud vs Ultraboost Shoes

Are you looking for a new pair of cool kicks? Maybe you’ve heard about On Cloud and Ultraboost shoes, but you’re not sure which ones to pick.

On Cloud vs Ultraboost Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud shoes and Ultraboost shoes is their cushioning technology. On Cloud uses unique hollow pods that compress and rebound, creating a cloud-like feel.

Ultraboost uses Boost foam, which provides a springy, energetic feel. On Cloud tends to be lighter, while Ultraboost often offers more cushioning and a trendier style.

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

Feature	On Cloud	Ultraboost
Cushioning	Cloud pods	Boost foam
Weight	Lighter (around 8 oz)	Heavier (around 10-11 oz)
Fit	Snug, especially in heel	Roomier toe box
Upper material	Engineered mesh	Primeknit
Breathability	Very good	Excellent
Style	Modern, unique	Trendy, popular
Price range	$130 – $200	$180 – $220
Best for	Running and everyday use	Running and casual wear
Arch support	Moderate	Moderate
Durability	Good	Very good
Flexibility	Good	Excellent
Water resistance	Some models water-repellent	Generally not water-resistant

In summary: Both On Cloud and Ultraboost are high-quality shoes with unique features. On Cloud offers a lightweight, versatile option with distinctive cushioning, while Ultraboost provides plush comfort and trendy style.

Your choice depends on whether you prefer a lighter shoe with a unique feel (On Cloud) or a more cushioned, flexible option (Ultraboost).

What’s the Big Deal with On Cloud and Ultraboost?

Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why these shoes are so popular. On Cloud is a Swiss brand that’s known for its unique cloud-like cushioning. Ultraboost, made by Adidas, is famous for its comfy Boost foam technology. Both brands have lots of fans, but they have some key differences that might make one better for you than the other.

A Quick Look at On Cloud

On Cloud shoes were created by former pro athlete Olivier Bernhard and his friends. They wanted to make a shoe that felt like you were running on clouds (hence the name!). These shoes have a special sole with hollow pods that cushion your feet and help you bounce back with each step.

What’s Up with Ultraboost?

Adidas Ultraboost shoes hit the market in 2015 and quickly became a hit with runners and fashion lovers alike. They use Adidas’ Boost technology, which is made up of thousands of tiny foam particles. This gives the shoes a springy feel that many people love.

Durability: Which Shoe Lasts Longer?

When you’re spending your hard-earned money on shoes, you want them to last, right? Let’s see how On Cloud and Ultraboost compare in terms of durability.

On Cloud Durability

On Cloud shoes are built to last. The company uses high-quality materials that can handle a lot of wear and tear. The unique cloud pods on the sole are made from a tough rubber that resists breaking down, even after many miles of running or walking.

Ultraboost Durability

Ultraboost shoes are also known for their durability. The Boost foam doesn’t lose its springiness easily, which means your shoes will feel comfy for a long time. The upper part of the shoe is made from a strong, flexible material that can withstand plenty of use.

Breathing Room: Keeping Your Feet Fresh

Nobody likes sweaty, stinky feet. That’s why it’s important to choose shoes that let your feet breathe. Here’s how On Cloud and Ultraboost handle this:

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. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even during intense workouts or on hot days.

Ultraboost Breathability

Ultraboost shoes also prioritize breathability. They use a special knit material called Primeknit for the upper part of the shoe. This fabric is not only flexible but also lets air circulate, helping to prevent sweaty feet.

Cushioning: Walking on Clouds or Bouncing on Foam?

One of the most important aspects of a good shoe is how it cushions your feet. Both On Cloud and Ultraboost have unique approaches to this:

On Cloud Cushioning

True to their name, On Cloud shoes aim to give you a cloud-like feeling when you walk or run. The hollow pods on the sole compress when you land and then spring back as you push off. This creates a soft landing and a bit of bounce in your step.

Ultraboost Cushioning

Ultraboost shoes use Adidas’ famous Boost technology for cushioning. The Boost foam is made up of lots of tiny capsules that store and release energy as you move. Many people describe it as feeling springy and responsive.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Getting the right fit is crucial for comfort and preventing injuries. Let’s see how On Cloud and Ultraboost handle fit:

On Cloud Fit

On Cloud shoes tend to have a more snug fit, especially in the heel area. This can be great for keeping your foot secure during activities. However, some people with wider feet might find them a bit tight.

Ultraboost Fit

Ultraboost shoes often have a roomier toe box, which can be more comfortable for people with wider feet. The Primeknit upper is also very flexible, allowing it to adapt to different foot shapes.

Stability: Keeping You on Your Feet

Whether you’re running a marathon or just walking to school, you want shoes that keep you stable. Here’s how our contenders measure up:

On Cloud Stability

On Cloud shoes offer good stability thanks to their unique sole design. The cloud pods provide a wide base, which can help prevent rolling your ankle. Some models also have additional support features for extra stability.

Ultraboost Stability

Ultraboost shoes have a different approach to stability. They use a plastic frame around the heel, called the heel counter, which helps keep your foot in place. Some models also have extra support in the midsole for added stability.

Comfort: Your Feet’s Best Friend

At the end of the day, you want shoes that feel good on your feet. Both On Cloud and Ultraboost aim for top-notch comfort, but in different ways:

On Cloud Comfort

On Cloud shoes are designed to be comfortable right out of the box. The cloud pods provide a unique sensation that many people find very comfy. The shoes are also lightweight, which can make them feel more comfortable during long periods of wear.

Ultraboost Comfort

Ultraboost shoes are often praised for their comfort. The Boost foam provides a lot of cushioning, which can feel great, especially on hard surfaces. The stretchy Primeknit upper also adapts to your foot shape, adding to the overall comfort.

Quality: Getting What You Pay For

Both On Cloud and Ultraboost are considered premium shoe brands, but how do they stack up in terms of quality?

On Cloud Quality

On Cloud puts a lot of emphasis on quality. They use high-grade materials and have strict quality control processes. This attention to detail shows in the finished product, with shoes that are well-made and durable.

Ultraboost Quality

Adidas is known for producing quality shoes, and the Ultraboost line is no exception. The materials used are top-notch, and the construction is solid. Many users report that their Ultraboosts hold up well over time.

Style: Looking Good While Feeling Good

While performance is important, let’s face it – we all want shoes that look cool too. Here’s how On Cloud and Ultraboost compare in the style department:

On Cloud Style

On Cloud shoes have a unique, modern look thanks to their distinctive sole design. They come in a variety of colors and styles, from sleek and minimalist to bold and eye-catching. Many people find them stylish enough to wear both for workouts and casual outings.

Ultraboost Style

Ultraboost shoes have become something of a fashion icon. They have a sporty yet trendy look that’s popular both in the gym and on the street. Adidas often collaborates with designers and artists to create limited edition Ultraboosts, adding to their style appeal.

Size Matters: Finding the Right Fit

Getting the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. Here’s what you need to know about sizing for On Cloud and Ultraboost:

On Cloud Sizing

On Cloud shoes generally run true to size, but some people find they need to go up a half size, especially if they have wider feet. It’s a good idea to try them on if possible, or check the size guide carefully when ordering online.

Ultraboost Sizing

Ultraboost sizing can be a bit tricky. Some people find they run small and need to go up a half size, while others say they’re true to size. The Primeknit upper does stretch a bit over time, which can affect the fit.

Material World: What Are These Shoes Made Of?

The materials used in a shoe can affect everything from comfort to durability. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into On Cloud and Ultraboost shoes:

On Cloud Materials

On Cloud uses a variety of high-quality materials in their shoes. The uppers are often made from engineered mesh or synthetic materials that are lightweight and breathable. The soles use a special rubber compound for the cloud pods, designed to be durable and provide good traction.

Ultraboost Materials

Ultraboost shoes are known for their Primeknit upper, which is a flexible, breathable fabric. The midsole is made from the signature Boost foam, and the outsole usually uses Continental rubber for good grip. Some models incorporate recycled materials as part of Adidas’ sustainability efforts.

Weight: Light as a Feather or Solid as a Rock?

The weight of your shoes can make a big difference, especially if you’re running or on your feet all day. Here’s how On Cloud and Ultraboost compare:

On Cloud Weight

On Cloud shoes are known for being lightweight. The exact weight varies by model, but many of their shoes weigh less than 8 ounces (about 230 grams) for a men’s size 9. This can make them feel very nimble and fast.

Ultraboost Weight

Ultraboost shoes tend to be a bit heavier than On Cloud, typically weighing around 10-11 ounces (about 280-310 grams) for a men’s size 9. While this is still relatively light for a running shoe, you might notice the difference if you’re used to very lightweight shoes.

Flexibility: Bend It Like Beckham

A flexible shoe can help your foot move more naturally. Let’s see how our contenders handle flexibility:

On Cloud Flexibility

On Cloud shoes offer good flexibility thanks to their unique sole design. The spaces between the cloud pods allow the sole to bend easily with your foot. The upper materials are also usually quite flexible, allowing for natural foot movement.

Ultraboost Flexibility

Ultraboost shoes are known for their flexibility. The Primeknit upper moves easily with your foot, and the Boost midsole, while cushioned, still allows for good flex. This can make the shoes feel very natural and comfortable during movement.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry in Wet Conditions

While neither of these shoes is designed to be fully waterproof, it’s still good to know how they handle a bit of water:

On Cloud Water Resistance

Some On Cloud models have water-repellent treatments that can help keep your feet dry in light rain or wet conditions. However, they’re not fully waterproof, so your feet might get wet in heavy rain or deep puddles.

Ultraboost Water Resistance

Standard Ultraboost models don’t have specific water-resistant features, although the knit upper can provide some protection from light splashes. Adidas does offer some water-resistant versions of Ultraboost for those who need more protection from the elements.

Sole Searching: What’s on the Bottom?

The sole of a shoe is super important – it’s what connects you to the ground! Let’s take a closer look at the soles of On Cloud and Ultraboost:

On Cloud Sole

On Cloud shoes have a unique sole design with hollow pods (the “clouds”). These pods compress when you land and then lock firm when you push off, aiming to give you both soft landings and explosive take-offs. The outsole usually has good grip for various surfaces.

Ultraboost Sole

Ultraboost shoes use a combination of Boost foam for the midsole and Continental rubber for the outsole. The Boost provides cushioning and energy return, while the Continental rubber (yes, the same company that makes car tires!) offers excellent grip on different surfaces.

User Reviews: What Do Other People Think?

It’s always helpful to know what other people think about these shoes. Here’s a quick summary of user reviews for both brands:

Brand	Average Rating	Comfort	Durability	Style
On Cloud	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5 ½	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5
Ultraboost	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5 ½	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4/5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5

As you can see, both brands are highly rated by users, with Ultraboost having a slight edge in overall rating and comfort.

Price Comparison

Now, let’s talk money. Here’s a general price range for these shoes:

Brand	Price Range
On Cloud	$130 – $200
Ultraboost	$180 – $220

Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the specific model and where you buy them.

Pros and Cons

Pros: On Cloud Shoes

• Very lightweight
• Unique cloud-like cushioning
• Good for both running and everyday wear
• Often more affordable than Ultraboost

Cons: On Cloud Shoes

• May feel too narrow for wide feet
• Less cushioning than Ultraboost
• Some models not water-resistant

Pros: Ultraboost Shoes

• Very comfortable with lots of cushioning
• Flexible and adaptive fit
• Trendy style
• Durable

Cons: Ultraboost Shoes

• Heavier than On Cloud shoes
• More expensive
• Sizing can be tricky
• Not water-resistant

In conclusion: After all this information, you might be wondering which shoe you should choose. The truth is, both On Cloud and Ultraboost are great shoes, but the best one for you depends on your personal needs and preferences.

Choose On Cloud if:

• You prefer a lightweight shoe
• You like a unique cushioning feel
• You want a shoe that’s good for both running and everyday wear

Choose Ultraboost if:

• You want maximum cushioning
• You have wider feet
• You’re looking for a shoe with a trendy style

Remember, the most important thing is that the shoe feels comfortable to you. If possible, try both on and see which one feels better on your feet.