Are On Clouds Good for Running? Pros, Cons, and Best Picks

Are you wondering, Are On Clouds good for running? Then, good news. The answer is simple.

Here it is:

On Cloud shoes are a great choice if you want light shoes with responsive cushioning and a modern design. They work best for short to mid-distance runs, which makes them perfect for tempo workouts and everyday training on roads. Many runners also love that they look good enough for daily wear.

But wait.

Here, we share our real experience using On Clouds, along with pros and cons. We’re also comparing them with Nike, so don’t go anywhere.

Let’s begin!

Key Takeaways

• On Clouds are a good choice for running because they are lightweight, which helps you run faster without extra effort.

• CloudTec cushioning gives a soft landing and quick push-off.

• They work best for short to medium distances on roads.

• Stylish design makes them great for running and casual wear.

• Responsive ride makes them ideal for speed workouts.

• They are not the most cushioned shoes for long runs.

Are On Clouds Good for Running? (Review)

Yes, On Clouds are good for running if you want light shoes with responsive cushioning and a sleek design. They work best for short to mid-distance runs and speed training. The CloudTec pods give you a soft landing followed by a firm push-off, making them ideal for tempo runs and everyday training on roads.

Lightweight Construction

On Clouds are built to help you run faster without feeling weighed down. Many models are noticeably lighter than standard running shoes, which keeps your legs feeling fresher.

When you first put them on for a speed workout, you might feel how much easier it is to move your feet. That lightness can make sprints feel sharper. We remember our first interval session in these shoes. By the end, we felt less heavy-footed than usual, even though the workout was tough.

On Clouds have a modern look that makes them easy to wear beyond running. The mesh upper keeps your feet cool and helps moisture escape during warm runs. We often wore them straight from a workout to coffee without feeling out of place.

CloudTec Cushioning

The most unique part of On Clouds is the CloudTec pods on the bottom. They compress when you land to soften the impact. That’s not it. They also firm up as you push off.

We have run many mid-distance sessions in these shoes and enjoyed the balance between comfort and speed. For most runners, this cushioning is ideal for workouts that require both comfort and quick turnover.

Responsive Ride

Many runners like On Clouds because they respond quickly when you move. The shoes feel light and springy, which can help you run faster and keep a steady pace.

When you run fast or work out at the gym, each step can feel quick and smooth. In our tempo runs, we felt closer to the ground and faster when pushing off. This can really help when every second matters.

4 Cons of On Cloud Running Shoes

While On Clouds have many strengths, they are not perfect for every runner. Some models do not have enough cushioning for long distances. Moreover, the outsole can trap small stones. The ride can feel firm, and durability depends on the model and how you run.

Not Ideal for All Distances

Many On Cloud models are best suited for short or medium runs. They often do not provide enough deep cushioning for comfort on very long runs. If you take them out for a half-marathon training run, you might find they feel great at first but become less forgiving as the miles add up.

This does not mean you cannot use them for longer runs. Some runners do just fine. But if you are sensitive to impact, you might be more comfortable with a different shoe.

Stone Catching Issue

The outsole design can sometimes catch small stones, especially if you run on gravel or trails. The open spaces in the CloudTec pods can trap bits of debris. We have had runs where we had to stop and remove a small rock because it changed how the shoe felt. On paved roads, this almost never happens.

Some of the newer On models have changed the outsole slightly to help with this, but the issue is not completely gone. If you want to avoid it, it is best to stick to roads.

Firm Midsole Feel

If you are used to plush cushioning like that in Hoka or Nike ZoomX shoes, you might be surprised by the more structured feel. For us, that firmness was an advantage during speed training. But on easy days, we sometimes preferred something softer.

Durability Varies

How long On Clouds lasts depends a lot on the model and your running habits. Lightweight shoes like the Cloud 5 may show wear sooner if you run high mileage every week. We have had pairs last well beyond 300 miles, while others started to lose bounce earlier.

Are On Clouds Good for Trail Running?

On Clouds can work for light trail running, but they are not built for technical or rocky terrain. Their grip and cushioning are designed mainly for roads and packed dirt paths. On dry trails, they feel light and quick, which can make your run enjoyable.

We have taken them on forest trails with hard-packed dirt and found them comfortable for distances up to 10K. They keep your feet cool, and the CloudTec cushioning makes landings smooth. However, when trails get rocky, the grip is less secure, and you may find yourself slipping. Small stones can also get caught in the outsole, which is distracting.

Are On Cloud Shoes Good for Working Out?

Yes, On Cloud shoes can be good for gym workouts, especially if you mix cardio and strength training. Their lightweight feel and responsive cushioning make them comfortable for treadmill runs.

When we wore them for a full-body gym session, they felt stable during squats and lunges. The breathable upper kept our feet from overheating, even in a warm indoor space. For agility drills, the responsive midsole made movements feel fast and controlled.

However, if your workouts involve heavy lifting, you might want a flatter shoe for more stability under load.

Are On Cloud Cloudnova 2 Good for Running?

The On Cloudnova 2 is better for everyday wear and light exercise than for serious running. It still has On’s soft CloudTec cushioning, but it is made more for style and comfort than for top running performance.

We tried the Cloudnova 2 on a short 5K run and it felt good at an easy pace. The cushioning was soft when landing, but it did not have the quick, springy feel of On’s faster running shoes like the Cloudflow or Cloudboom. The upper feels sturdy, which is great for walking or wearing all day, but it does not let in as much air as their pure running shoes.

If you want a shoe you can wear every day and use for short, casual runs, the Cloudnova 2 is a good choice. But if running is your main goal, one of On’s running-focused shoes will work better.

Best On Cloud Shoes for Running

If you want the best On Cloud shoes for running, look for models that balance cushioning, responsiveness, and durability. Here are the best options:

Is On Cloud Better Than Nike?

Whether On Cloud is better than Nike depends on what you like most in a running shoe. On makes light shoes with its special CloudTec cushioning. This gives you a quick and responsive feel, which works well for short and medium runs.

Nike has a bigger range of shoe designs and technologies. Some models use ZoomX foam or Air cushioning to give a softer and bouncier feel. Nike also makes more shoes for specific needs, from everyday running to high-level racing.

When you compare them, On feels lighter and closer to the ground. Nike usually feels softer and gives more bounce, especially in shoes like the Vaporfly or Invincible. On shoes are often more breathable, while Nike gives you more choices for cushioning.

If you want a firm and quick-feeling shoe that also looks good for casual wear, On is a good pick. If you want the softest ride or the most advanced racing shoes, Nike has more options. Both are great brands, so the better one for you depends on the kind of running you do.

Are Cloudrunners Actually Good for Running?

Yes, the On Cloudrunner is a good running shoe if you need stability and support. It is comfortable for medium-distance runs and works well for beginners and intermediate runners.

We have run up to 10 miles in the Cloudrunner. The cushioning reduces impact, and the wider base keeps your foot secure. The upper is soft and breathable, which makes it comfortable for longer runs.

It is not as light or fast as On’s racing shoes, but it is reliable for daily training. For easy runs and steady workouts, it is a durable and comfortable option.

Final Thoughts

On Cloud shoes can be good for running, but the best choice depends on the model and your needs. Many of their shoes are light and comfortable, with CloudTec cushioning that helps you move forward more easily. They work well for short and medium runs, and some people also use them for daily training.

Certain models, like the Cloudflow or Cloudboom, are made for speed and racing. Others, like the Cloudrunner, focus more on steady running. Most On shoes are breathable and look good enough to wear casually.

If you run very long distances, you may want a model with extra cushioning for comfort. Overall, On Clouds can be a good option for many runners.