Are you looking for a new pair of running shoes? Whether it's time to replace your current kicks or you want to try something new, consider the soft comfort and fantastic energy return of the On Cloud shoe line. This innovative brand is based in Switzerland and utilizes several unique technologies to support all runners and foot types. In our On Cloud running shoes review, we'll walk you through all the pros, cons, and details of the different models and help you make the most informed choice.
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A Quick Look at On Cloud Shoes
On Cloud running shoes are stylish, lightweight, and packed with Swiss technology (the company is based in Zurich). The brand creates a variety of models ranging from sturdy trail shoes to carbon-plated racing flats. The brand is known for its innovation and strives to work with your unique foot and stride. You'll recognize the On Cloud shoes by their unique outsoles—these nubby elements cushion upon impact for a soft and bouncy ride.
Here Are a Few of Our Favorite Pairs
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- On Cloud 5 - Men's | Women's
- On Cloudvista Trail Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
- On Cloud X Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
- On Cloudswift Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
- On Cloudmonster Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
- On Cloudventure Waterproof - Men's | Women's
- On Cloudflyer Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
On Cloud 5
SPECS
- Weight: 8.82 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (4), Women (6)
- Drop: 8mm
With CloudTec® Zero gravity foam for cushioning and On's Speedboard® for propulsion, you'll feel swift and supported in this shoe. This is a lightweight, neutral shoe best for beginner runners or anyone looking for a comfy athleisure option. The Cloud 5 will also do well for gym visits, walks, or short runs, but you might need a stronger shoe if you're running a lot. The sole is flexible, and the bungee lacing system locks down the fit, so you'll be comfortable from the first step. We also like that the brand includes 44% recycled materials in its line. For a casual shoe with a lot of style, the Cloud 5 is a great option.
What We Like
- Partially made from recyclable materials
- Lightweight
- Bungee cord lacing system makes for easy on/off
- Breathable mesh upper provides sock-like fit
What We Don't Like
- Durability issues
- Debris can get stuck in the outsole
Buy: On Cloud 5 - Men's | Women's
On Cloudvista Trail Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 8.82 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (2), Women (3)
- Drop: 7mm
We like the stylish design of this lightweight trail running shoe. The Cloudvista was made for trail running but is versatile enough for the road. The combination of Helion™ superfoam, Cloudtec® cushioning, and Speedboard® provides a smooth and comfortable ride. For grip on slippery and uneven surfaces, the Cloudvista features lugs and Missiongrip™ rubber on the outsoles. Like other On Cloud shoes, this model runs narrow, and some users reported that the laces are a bit too thin. That said, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better all-around trail running shoe.
What We Like
- Exceptional traction from squared lugs on the heel and forefoot and multi-angled lugs on the shank and toe areas
- Includes recycled materials
- Lightweight and breathable
What We Don't Like
- Laces are on the thin side
- The glacier/black colorway shoes dirt easily
- The fit runs narrow and shallow
Buy: On Cloudvista Trail Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
On Cloud X Road Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 8.57 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (2), Women (2)
- Drop: 6mm
Are you on the prowl for a lightweight and responsive performance shoe? The On Cloud X might be the answer. This neutral shoe features a breathable upper with a full-length sock liner for a comfortable fit. No matter how much you kick up the speed, the seamless construction of this footwear will keep you comfortable. The brand's proprietary CloudTec® elements cushion each foot strike, and the rigid Speedboard® helps with propulsion. The Cloud X is a shoe built for going fast, so save these for workout and race days, where they promise to shine.
What We Like
- Lightweight and bouncy feel
- Stiffer speedboard® for extra propulsion
- Breathable mesh upper
- Sock-like fit and seamless tongue to reduce chafing
What We Don't Like
- The 6mm drop can take some getting used to
- Not the most durable On Cloud model—this is built for performance
Buy: On Cloud X Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
On Cloudswift Road Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 9.9 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (3), Women (1)
- Drop: 7mm
The Cloudswift is a neutral daily trainer built for the gym, strength training, or short runs. It looks exceptionally stylish, and the Helion™ superfoam midsoles and CloudTec® technology in the rear and forefoot make it feel good, too. We like that the outsole is exceptionally grippy on wet pavement and slick surfaces. It's a bit stiffer than other shoes in its class, but if you favor a responsive shoe, you might enjoy the feel. The brand describes this as the ultimate urban running shoe, and they're not wrong; it really shines on paved surfaces, whether you're running miles or running errands.
What We Like
- Engineered mesh upper is fully recycled
- Grippy outsole provides superior traction
- Stylish design
What We Don't Like
- Not the fastest shoe—best for slow, short runs
- Lack of separate tongue can lead to fit/lock down issues
Buy: On Cloudswift Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
On Cloudmonster Road Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 9.7 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (3), Women (3)
- Drop: 6mm
The Cloudmonster is a maximally cushioned daily trainer with a premium feel. When looking for a comfortable running experience, this shoe is an excellent place to start. It's a neutral trainer, so it works for most runners, although if you need stability elements, this isn't the best option. It has a high stack height and a lot of cushioning, but it's still relatively lightweight for its class. We particularly like the forefoot rocker to keep you going mile after mile. And the unique CloudTec® elements cradle and cushion each foot strike. While this isn't the cheapest shoe on the market, you'll notice the difference in the quality of materials and design.
What We Like
- Tons of cushioning but not overly mushy
- Relatively lightweight for a max-cushioned shoe
- Utilizes recycled materials in the upper
- CloudTec® elements are a unique and innovative form of cushioning
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Runs a bit on the wide side
Buy: On Cloudmonster Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
On Cloudventure Waterproof
SPECS
- Weight: 11.5 oz. (M)
- Colors: Men (1), Women (1)
- Drop: 6mm
With welded seams, rubber toe bumpers, and a tightly woven mesh upper, comfort is the name of the game for the On Cloudventure. The Missiongrip™ rubber on the outsoles is exceptionally grippy, so you won't have to stress about losing your balance. This shoe is durable and can handle almost any type of terrain.
The Cloudventure is an everyday trail running shoe; it's not for fast pursuits. However, it'll keep your feet dry and protected, which can be worth its weight in gold. Users did note that the soles can easily trap dirt and debris, so if you plan on running on technical terrain, keep that in mind.
What We Like
- Wind and waterproof design keeps feet comfy
- Recycled materials in the upper
- Upper is very durable
What We Don't Like
- Small rocks and debris get stuck in the CloudTec® elements
- Laces feel too thin
Buy: On Cloudventure Waterproof - Men's | Women's
On Cloudflyer Road Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 9.8 oz.
- Colors: Men (3), Women (1)
- Drop: 7mm
The Cloudflyer was made for runners who need a little more stability underfoot. The forked Cloud outsoles reinforce the shoes' medial sides, which helps to prevent overpronation. The Helion™ Superfoam offers cushioning, and the multilayer speedboard® adds stability to the shoe. These Cloudflyers have great aesthetics, and the unique star lacing system provides a locked-down fit. We wouldn't recommend these shoes for competition (check out the On Cloud X for race day), but if you want a stylish shoe with a fair amount of stability, the Cloudflyer is an excellent option.
What We Like
- Stability tube in the midfoot
- Star lacing system for improved fit and comfort
- Made with premium materials for a luxury feel
What We Don't Like
- Rocks and debris get stuck in Cloud elements
- Feels a bit too firm
Buy: On Cloudflyer Road Running Shoes - Men's | Women's
What are On Cloud Shoes Good For?
On Cloud shoes can work for a variety of activities from racing 5ks to running errands. Each model has slightly different specs, so depending on the shoe, it might be better for road running, trail running, or casual walking.
On Cloud Features
,br />CloudTec®
The most recognizable feature in On Cloud shoes is the little nubs on the outsole. These individual elements combine to form the brand's CloudTec® cushioning system. The Cloud elements compress upon impact and expand upon toe-off for a cushioned feel and energy return. Because the elements compress vertically and horizontally, they do a great job absorbing impact and vibrations—potentially reducing injury risk.
Speedboard®
Another unique brand element is the Speedboard®. This liquid-injected plate of thermoplastic polymer is sandwiched between the CloudTec® midsole and the shoe's upper. The energy released with each foot landing is captured by the Speedboard® and propels the runner forward.
Our Verdict
The On Cloud series has something for almost everyone—from the hard asphalt of city streets (try the Cloudswift) to single-track trails (consider the Cloudvista). The unique CloudTec® cushioning absorbs impact, and the Speedboard® propels the runner forward. These two design elements make for an exceptionally smooth yet bouncy ride. The shoes are also lightweight and stylish—you'll want to wear them even on rest days. Some wearers report occasional issues with rocks and debris getting stuck in the outsole, so if you regularly run on uneven terrain, that's something to keep in mind.
FAQs About On Cloud Shoes
Are On Cloud shoes good for your feet?
In general, yes. The Cloudtec® cushioning collapses both vertically and horizontally upon impact, which does a great job of absorbing shock. The unique horizontal compression technology reduces the force sent into the body upon foot impact and may help reduce injury.
What are the benefits of On Cloud shoes?
The Cloudtec® cushioning system absorbs impact and harnesses it to create better energy return. Meanwhile, the Speedboard® propels the runners forward, helping them to run faster with the same amount of effort. These two main tech features combine for a supremely smooth ride.
How long should a pair of On Cloud shoes last?
The lifespan of a pair of On Cloud shoes will vary depending on how often you run, your body type, and the conditions where you train. Most running shoes last somewhere around 500 miles, but that can vary. If you're unsure, carefully inspect the shoe for wear and tear. Does the outsole show excessive wear? Is the upper starting to fray? Have you been experiencing any new aches and pains? Additionally, On Running has a unique subscription service that allows runners to recycle their shoes and receive new ones every six months.
About the Author
Megan is a runner and writer who resides in upstate New York. She is a former collegiate runner and regularly competes in marathons. Megan uses her personal experience in competitive running to review fitness equipment and write running guides.
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