On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow Shoes

Are you looking for a new pair of running shoes? You might have heard about On Cloud X3 and Cloudflow. These two popular shoes from the Swiss company On Running have a lot to offer.

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud X3 and Cloudflow shoes is their intended use. On Cloud X3 is designed for versatile training and everyday wear, offering more cushioning and support.

Cloudflow, on the other hand, is built for speed and performance, with a lighter design and responsive feel for faster runs and races.

Here’s a detailed comparison table for On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow shoes:

FeatureOn Cloud X3Cloudflow
WeightSlightly heavierLighter
CushioningMore cushioningLess cushioning
UpperEngineered meshHelion superfoam
MidsoleCloudTec podsCloudTec with Helion foam
OutsoleRubber podsRubber grip pads
Drop6mm6mm
Best forVersatile training, dailySpeed workouts, races
DurabilityMore durableLess durable
PriceSlightly more expensiveSlightly less expensive

In summary: On Cloud X3 is a versatile shoe for training and everyday use, while Cloudflow is made for speed and racing. X3 has more cushioning and support, but is heavier. Cloudflow is lighter and more responsive, perfect for fast runs.

What Makes These Shoes Special?

Both the On Cloud X3 and Cloudflow are known for being lightweight and comfortable. They’re made by On Running, a company that’s become famous for its unique cloud-like cushioning. But what sets these two shoes apart? Let’s dive in and find out!

On Cloud X3: The All-Rounder

The On Cloud X3 is a shoe that can do it all. Whether you’re running, working out at the gym, or just walking around town, this shoe has got you covered. It’s designed to be versatile and comfortable for many different activities.

Cloudflow: The Speed Demon

The Cloudflow, on the other hand, is built for speed. It’s made for runners who want to go fast and feel light on their feet. If you’re training for a race or just love to run quickly, this might be the shoe for you.

Durability: Built to Last

Both shoes are made to last, but they have some differences:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has a tough outer layer that can handle different surfaces. It’s good for both indoor and outdoor use, so it can keep up with your varied activities.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is designed for road running. Its sole is made to withstand the impact of running on hard surfaces like sidewalks and streets.

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow

Breathing: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Having shoes that let your feet breathe is important. Here’s how these shoes stack up:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has a mesh upper that lets air flow in and out. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even during tough workouts.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow also has good breathability. Its upper is made of a light, airy material that helps sweat evaporate quickly.

Cushioning: The Cloud-Like Feel

On Running is known for its special cushioning. Let’s see how these shoes compare:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has On’s signature CloudTec cushioning. It gives you a soft landing but still feels springy when you push off.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow has Helion superfoam cushioning. It’s designed to be responsive and give you energy return with each step.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Getting the right fit is super important for comfort and performance:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has a wider toe box, which gives your toes more room to spread out. This can be great if you have wider feet or just like more space.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow has a more snug fit, especially in the midfoot. This can be good for people with narrower feet or those who like a close, sock-like feel.

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Stability helps prevent injuries and keeps you comfortable:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has a wider base, which can help you feel more stable. This is great for different types of workouts where you might be moving in different directions.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is designed more for forward motion. It has good stability for running but might not feel as secure for side-to-side movements.

Comfort: Feeling Good on Your Feet

Comfort is key when it comes to shoes. Here’s how these two compare:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 is made to be comfortable for long periods. Whether you’re standing all day or doing a variety of activities, it’s designed to keep your feet happy.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is comfortable for running. It’s lightweight and has cushioning in the right places to make your runs feel good.

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow

Quality: Swiss Engineering

On Running is known for making high-quality shoes:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 is made with durable materials and attention to detail. It’s built to handle different activities and last a long time.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is also well-made, with a focus on performance. It’s designed to hold up to many miles of running.

Style: Looking Good While You Move

How a shoe looks can be important too:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has a sleek, modern look. It comes in several colors and can look good with workout clothes or casual outfits.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow has a more traditional running shoe look. It also comes in different colors, but it’s designed to look fast and sporty.

Size: Finding the Right Fit

Getting the right size is crucial for comfort:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 tends to run true to size. Its wider toe box might make it feel roomier than other shoes.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow might feel a bit snugger. Some people find they need to go up a half size for the best fit.

Material: What They’re Made Of

The materials used in a shoe affect how it performs:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 uses a mix of synthetic materials. The upper is made of a durable mesh, and the sole uses On’s special CloudTec rubber.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow also uses synthetic materials. Its upper is a lightweight engineered mesh, and the sole uses Helion superfoam.

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow

Weight: Light on Your Feet

Lightweight shoes can help you move faster and feel less tired:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 is lightweight for a versatile shoe. It weighs about 8.47 oz (240g) for a men’s size 8.5.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is even lighter, weighing about 7.76 oz (220g) for a men’s size 8.5. This makes it great for fast running.

Flexibility: Moving with Your Foot

How a shoe bends and moves with your foot is important:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has good flexibility, allowing your foot to move naturally during different activities.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is designed to be flexible in the right places for running. It bends easily at the ball of the foot to help you push off.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry

Keeping your feet dry can be important, especially if you run in wet conditions:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has some water resistance, but it’s not waterproof. It can handle light rain or wet surfaces.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow is similar. It can handle some moisture, but it’s not meant for very wet conditions.

Sole: The Bottom Line

The sole of a shoe affects how it feels and performs:

On Cloud X3 Shoes

The X3 has On’s CloudTec sole with individual cloud elements. These provide cushioning and adapt to your movement.

Cloudflow Shoes

The Cloudflow also uses CloudTec, but its sole is designed more specifically for running. It has a bit more structure for forward motion.

On Cloud X3 vs Cloudflow

User Reviews and Ratings

Here’s what some users have to say about these shoes:

ShoeUser RatingComments
On Cloud X3⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Great for everything from running to gym workouts. So comfortable!”
On Cloud X3⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Love the versatility, but took a little time to get used to the unique sole.”
Cloudflow⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Perfect for my fast training runs. Feels like I’m flying!”
Cloudflow⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Very comfortable for running, but a bit narrow for my wide feet.”

Price Comparison

Here’s how the prices compare:

ShoePrice Range
On Cloud X3$139.99 – $159.99
Cloudflow$139.99 – $149.99

Prices may vary depending on where you buy and any sales or promotions.

Pros and Cons

On Cloud X3 Pros

Good for many types of workouts More comfortable for long walks Lasts longer Better for heavier runners

On Cloud X3 Cons

A bit heavy for fast runs Costs more money Not as good for races

Cloudflow Pros

Very light and fast Great for races and speed workouts Feels bouncy when you run Costs less than X3

Cloudflow Cons

Not as comfy for long walks Wears out faster Less support for heavier runners.


In conclusion: Both the On Cloud X3 and Cloudflow are great shoes, but they’re designed for different needs:

  • Choose the On Cloud X3 if you want a versatile shoe that can handle different activities. It’s great if you do a mix of running, gym workouts, and everyday wear.
  • Go for the Cloudflow if you’re focused on running, especially if you like to go fast. It’s lighter and designed specifically for road running.

Remember, the best shoe for you depends on your personal needs, foot shape, and what activities you’ll be doing. If possible, try both on to see which feels better on your feet.

Can I use the On Cloud X3 for running?

Yes, you can use the X3 for running. It’s designed to be versatile, so it works well for running as well as other activities.

Is the Cloudflow good for long distances?

The Cloudflow can be used for long distances, but it’s designed more for speed than ultra-long runs. Some runners prefer more cushioning for very long distances.

Are these shoes good for people with wide feet?

The On Cloud X3 might be better for wide feet because it has a wider toe box. The Cloudflow tends to have a narrower fit.

How long do these shoes typically last?

With regular use, both shoes can last around 300-500 miles. This can vary depending on how you use them and how you run.

Can I use these shoes if I have flat feet?

Both shoes offer some support, but if you have flat feet or need specific arch support, you might want to try them on first or consult with a podiatrist.