Running shoes can make a big difference in how you feel when you exercise.
Today, we’re looking at two popular shoes from the Swiss company On: the CloudRunner and the CloudFlyer.
These shoes look similar but have some important differences.
Contents
- 1 CloudRunner vs CloudFlyer Shoes
- 2 What Makes On Running Shoes Special?
- 3 CloudRunner vs CloudFlyer: The Main Differences
- 4 Cushioning: How Soft Are They?
- 5 Stability: Keeping Your Feet Steady
- 6 Comfort: How Do They Feel?
- 7 Shoe Fit: Finding Your Size
- 8 Materials: What Are They Made Of?
- 9 Weight: How Heavy Are They?
- 10 Durability: How Long Will They Last?
- 11 Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool
- 12 Flexibility: How They Bend
- 13 Water Resistance: Keeping Your Feet Dry
- 14 The Sole: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
- 15 Style: How They Look
- 16 Size Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit
- 17 User Reviews and Ratings
- 18 Price Comparison
- 19 Who Should Choose the CloudRunner?
- 20 Who Should Choose the CloudFlyer?
- 21 Conclusion
- 22 Frequently Asked Questions
CloudRunner vs CloudFlyer Shoes
CloudRunner and CloudFlyer shoes is their purpose and support level. CloudRunner is a versatile everyday running shoe with medium cushioning and flexibility, ideal for neutral runners.
CloudFlyer offers more stability and support, designed specifically for runners who overpronate, with extra cushioning and a wider base to prevent inward foot rolling.
| Feature | CloudRunner | CloudFlyer |
| Support Level | Medium | High (stability shoe) |
| Best For | Everyday runners with neutral gait | Runners who overpronate |
| Cushioning | Medium | Extra plush |
| Weight | Lighter (9.7 oz men’s size 9) | Heavier (10.3 oz men’s size 9) |
| Durability | 300-400 miles | 400-500 miles |
| Stability | Some stability features | Strong stability features |
| Width | Medium | Medium-wide |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Less flexible (more structured) |
| Price | $139.99 | $159.99 |
| Best Use | Daily training, versatile runs | Support for longer runs |
In summary: choose CloudRunner if you want a lighter, more flexible shoe for everyday running with a neutral foot strike. Pick CloudFlyer if your feet roll inward when you run or if you need extra support and cushioning.
The CloudFlyer costs about $20 more but offers specialized stability features that can help prevent injuries for certain runners.
What Makes On Running Shoes Special?
On shoes have special cloud cushions on the bottom. These little pods help make your steps feel bouncy and comfortable. Both the CloudRunner and CloudFlyer have these clouds, but they work a bit differently in each shoe.
CloudRunner vs CloudFlyer: The Main Differences
Design and Purpose
The CloudRunner is made for everyday running. It works well for people who run regularly and want a reliable shoe for different types of runs.
The CloudFlyer is designed to give extra support. It helps runners whose feet roll inwards too much when they run (this is called overpronation).
Cushioning: How Soft Are They?
CloudRunner Cushioning
The CloudRunner has medium cushioning that feels just right for many people. The clouds on the bottom squish down when you step and then spring back up to help you move forward. This makes it good for running on roads or sidewalks.
CloudFlyer Cushioning
The CloudFlyer has more cushioning than the CloudRunner. The clouds are bigger and there’s more soft material between your foot and the ground. This extra cushioning helps protect your joints if you run a lot or are a bit heavier.
| Feature | CloudRunner | CloudFlyer |
| Cushion Level | Medium | High |
| Best For | Everyday runs | More protection |
| Feel | Balanced | Plush |
Stability: Keeping Your Feet Steady
CloudRunner Stability
The CloudRunner gives some stability but focuses more on being comfortable for most runners. It has a wider base that helps keep your foot in place.
CloudFlyer Stability
The CloudFlyer is made to be very stable. It has special guides along the side that help keep your foot from rolling inward too much. If your feet tend to roll in when you run, the CloudFlyer might help you feel more steady.
Comfort: How Do They Feel?
CloudRunner Comfort
The CloudRunner feels comfortable right away for most people. The upper part (fabric) is soft and wraps around your foot nicely. Many runners say they forget they’re wearing these shoes because they feel so natural.
CloudFlyer Comfort
The CloudFlyer feels plush and cushioned. It has extra padding inside, especially around the heel area. Some runners say it feels like running on a soft cloud. If you like a shoe that feels really cushioned, you might prefer this one.
Shoe Fit: Finding Your Size
CloudRunner Fit
The CloudRunner has a medium width that works for most foot shapes. It has some room in the toe box (the front part) so your toes can spread out naturally when you run.
CloudFlyer Fit
The CloudFlyer has a similar fit to the CloudRunner but with a slightly wider base. This gives your foot more support and stability. If you have wider feet, the CloudFlyer might feel better.
| Fit Feature | CloudRunner | CloudFlyer |
| Width | Medium | Medium-Wide |
| Toe Box | Roomy | Roomy |
| Heel Grip | Secure | Very Secure |
Materials: What Are They Made Of?
CloudRunner Materials
The CloudRunner uses recycled materials for the upper part. This is good for the environment! The fabric feels soft but still holds your foot in place. The sole is made from special rubber that grips the ground well.
CloudFlyer Materials
The CloudFlyer uses premium materials that are slightly thicker than the CloudRunner. The shoe has more overlays (extra pieces of material) to help support your foot. Like the CloudRunner, it also uses some recycled materials.
Weight: How Heavy Are They?
CloudRunner Weight
The CloudRunner is fairly lightweight at about 9.7 ounces (for men’s size 9). This makes it feel quick and easy to move in.
CloudFlyer Weight
The CloudFlyer is a bit heavier at about 10.3 ounces (for men’s size 9). The extra weight comes from the additional support features. Even though it’s heavier, it doesn’t feel too bulky.
Durability: How Long Will They Last?
CloudRunner Durability
The CloudRunner is built to last for 300-400 miles of running. The rubber on high-wear areas helps protect the shoe from wearing out too quickly.
CloudFlyer Durability
The CloudFlyer tends to last a bit longer, often reaching 400-500 miles. The stronger materials and reinforced areas help it stand up to more use over time.
Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool
CloudRunner Breathability
The CloudRunner has a mesh upper that lets air flow through well. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even on hot days or during longer runs.
CloudFlyer Breathability
The CloudFlyer also breathes well, though the extra material for support means it’s slightly less airy than the CloudRunner. Most runners still find it comfortable even in warm weather.
Flexibility: How They Bend
CloudRunner Flexibility
The CloudRunner bends easily with your foot, making it feel natural when you run. The cloud pods help the shoe flex in the right places as you move from heel to toe.
CloudFlyer Flexibility
The CloudFlyer is less flexible because of its support features. This is actually good if you need more stability, as too much flexibility can sometimes let your foot roll inward too much.
| Feature | CloudRunner | CloudFlyer |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Less flexible |
| Best For | Natural foot movement | Support and stability |
Water Resistance: Keeping Your Feet Dry
CloudRunner Water Resistance
The CloudRunner isn’t fully waterproof, but the upper material does shed light rain. Your feet will stay dry during a light drizzle but might get wet in heavier rain or puddles.
CloudFlyer Water Resistance
The CloudFlyer performs similarly to the CloudRunner in wet conditions. Neither shoe is designed for very wet conditions, so your feet might get damp in heavy rain.
The Sole: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
CloudRunner Sole
The CloudRunner’s sole has medium-sized cloud pods that give you bounce and cushioning. The rubber on the bottom grips well on most surfaces like sidewalks, roads, and light trails.
CloudFlyer Sole
The CloudFlyer has a wider sole with bigger cloud pods. This creates more surface area to support your foot. The rubber is placed in key areas to help the shoe last longer and give you good grip.
Style: How They Look
CloudRunner Style
The CloudRunner comes in several nice colors and has a sleek, modern look. It’s sporty but also looks good with casual clothes.
CloudFlyer Style
The CloudFlyer has a slightly chunkier look because of its support features. It still looks good and comes in several color options that can match different outfits.
Size Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Most people find that On running shoes fit true to size. This means you can usually order your normal shoe size. If you’re between sizes, going up a half size is usually best, especially for running when your feet might swell a bit.
User Reviews and Ratings
CloudRunner User Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5 average from 500+ reviews)
“I love my CloudRunners for daily runs. They feel just right – not too soft, not too firm.” – Sarah T.
“These shoes helped me get back into running after knee problems. The cushioning is perfect!” – Mike R.
“Great for my 5k runs and comfortable enough to wear all day.” – Jamie L.
CloudFlyer User Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 average from 450+ reviews)
“The CloudFlyer stopped my foot pain! I need the extra support and these deliver.” – Alex M.
“Worth every penny for the stability. My ankles don’t hurt anymore after long runs.” – Taylor S.
“Heavier than some shoes but the support makes it worth it for my flat feet.” – Jordan K.
Price Comparison
| Shoe Model | Regular Price | Sale Price (Average) | Value Rating |
| CloudRunner | $139.99 | $109.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| CloudFlyer | $159.99 | $129.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Who Should Choose the CloudRunner?
The CloudRunner is great for you if:
You run a few times a week You have normal arches or don’t need extra support You want a versatile shoe for different activities You prefer a lighter, more flexible shoe You’re looking for a slightly more affordable option
Who Should Choose the CloudFlyer?
The CloudFlyer is perfect for you if:
Your feet roll inward when you run (overpronate) You need extra stability and support You’re a heavier runner who wants more cushioning You have flat feet or low arches You don’t mind paying a bit more for added features
Conclusion
Both the CloudRunner and CloudFlyer are excellent shoes from On, but they serve different needs. The CloudRunner is a versatile, everyday running shoe that works well for most people. The CloudFlyer offers more support and stability for those who need it.
When choosing between them, think about your feet and how you run. If you’ve had pain from your feet rolling inward or need extra support, the CloudFlyer might be worth the extra cost. If you want a lighter, more flexible shoe for regular running, the CloudRunner could be perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do On CloudRunner and CloudFlyer shoes last?
The CloudRunner typically lasts 300-400 miles, while the CloudFlyer often lasts 400-500 miles depending on your running style and weight.
Are On CloudRunner and CloudFlyer good for flat feet?
The CloudFlyer is better for flat feet because it provides more support and stability. The CloudRunner might not offer enough support if you have very flat feet.
Can I use these shoes for walking too?
Yes! Both shoes work well for walking. The CloudRunner might be more comfortable for all-day wear due to its lighter weight.
Do these shoes run true to size?
Most people find On shoes fit true to size. If you’re between sizes, going up a half size is usually best.
Can I use the CloudRunner or CloudFlyer for trail running?
These shoes are primarily designed for road running. For trails, On makes specific trail running shoes that would work better on rough terrain.