Running shoes can make a big difference in how you feel when you run. Two brands many people like are On Cloud and ASICS. Let’s look at how they compare so you can pick the best ones for your feet.
Contents
- 1 On Cloud 5 vs ASICS Shoes
- 2 The Brands Behind the Shoes
- 3 How They Feel on Your Feet
- 4 Finding Your Size
- 5 How Long They Last
- 6 Keeping Your Feet Cool
- 7 Keeping You Stable
- 8 Weight and Flexibility
- 9 Price and Value
- 10 What Runners Say About These Shoes
- 11 Rain and Weather Protection
- 12 Materials Used
- 13 Special Features
- 14 For Different Types of Running
- 15 For Different Foot Types
- 16 Looks and Style
- 17 Shoe Parts Explained
- 18 Who Should Buy Each Shoe?
- 19 Taking Care of Your Shoes
- 20 Finding the Right Fit
- 21 Changing From One Brand to Another
- 22 Popular Models From Each Brand
- 23 Conclusion
- 24 Frequently Asked Questions
On Cloud 5 vs ASICS Shoes
On Cloud 5 and ASICS shoes is their design approach. On Cloud 5 shoes are lighter, more stylish, and feature unique cloud-pod cushioning for a bouncy feel. ASICS shoes are more supportive, durable, and come in many width options with gel cushioning that absorbs impact better for longer runs.
| Feature | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Weight | Very light (about 8.5 oz) | Heavier (about 10 oz) |
| Cushioning | CloudTec pods (bouncy feel) | GEL cushioning (soft, protective) |
| Durability | 300-400 miles | 400-500+ miles |
| Width Options | Limited | Many (narrow to extra wide) |
| Price | $130-$140 | $70-$160 |
| Best For | Short runs, casual wear | Long runs, all types of feet |
| Style | Modern, fashionable | Traditional running look |
| Support | Minimal | Options from minimal to maximum |
| Materials | Light mesh, recycled materials | Varies by model, sturdy materials |
| Fit | Often runs narrow | Usually true to size |
In summary: On Cloud 5 and ASICS are both good running shoes but for different runners. On Cloud 5 is light, stylish, and good for short runs on roads. ASICS lasts longer, offers more support, and comes in more sizes. If you want a cool-looking, light shoe, pick On Cloud 5. If you need support and durability, choose ASICS. The best shoe is the one that feels good on your feet when you try it on.
The Brands Behind the Shoes
On Cloud: Swiss Shoes
On Cloud started in Switzerland in 2010. That’s not very long ago! They became famous for their special cushions that look like little clouds on the bottom of their shoes. The Cloud 5 is their most popular shoe that many runners love.
ASICS: Japanese Shoes
ASICS started in Japan way back in 1949. That’s over 70 years ago! The name ASICS stands for “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.” They make shoes that help keep runners from getting hurt.
How They Feel on Your Feet
On Cloud 5 Feel
The On Cloud 5 has little hollow pods on the bottom called “CloudTec.” These pods squish down when your foot hits the ground. Then they get firm when you push off to take your next step.
One runner said: “When I put on my Cloud 5 shoes, it feels like walking on soft pillows, but I can still feel the ground under me.”
ASICS Feel
ASICS uses something they call GEL in many of their shoes. This gel is soft and helps absorb shock when your foot hits the ground. ASICS shoes often feel very cushioned and soft, which many runners really like.
| Feel | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Cushion Type | CloudTec pods | GEL cushioning |
| How It Feels | Light, bouncy | Soft, padded |
| Shock Absorption | Good | Very good |
| Weight | Very light | A bit heavier |
| Best For | Fast runs, roads | Long runs, hard surfaces |
Finding Your Size
On Cloud 5 Sizing
The On Cloud 5 is usually true to size but can be a bit narrow in the middle of the foot. If you have wide feet, you might need to go up half a size.
The Cloud 5 has a cool feature – speed laces! These let you slip the shoes on and off quickly without tying them. But don’t worry – they also come with normal laces in the box if you prefer those.
ASICS Sizing
ASICS makes shoes in many widths – narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide. This is great if you have very narrow or very wide feet. Their shoes usually have good arch support too.
| Sizing | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Width Options | Not many | Lots (narrow to extra wide) |
| Toe Box Space | Some | Usually roomy |
| Arch Support | Not much | Many options |
| Heel Fit | Snug | Very snug |
| Size Advice | Sometimes go up half a size | Usually true to size |
How Long They Last
On Cloud 5 Lifespan
The On Cloud 5 usually lasts about 300-400 miles for most runners. The top part is well-made, but the cloud pods on the bottom may wear down faster than regular rubber soles, especially if you run on rough roads.
ASICS Lifespan
ASICS shoes are known for lasting a long time. Many pairs go 400-500+ miles before wearing out. Their rubber soles (called AHAR) are very tough and last a long time on all kinds of surfaces.
| Lifespan | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Miles They Last | 300-400 miles | 400-500+ miles |
| Bottom Durability | OK | Very good |
| Top Durability | Good | Very good |
| Value For Money | OK | High |
| Best Surfaces | Roads, smooth paths | All surfaces |
Keeping Your Feet Cool
On Cloud 5 Airflow
The On Cloud 5 has a mesh top that lets air flow through very well. This keeps your feet cool when it’s hot outside. The shoes feel light and airy, which is nice during summer runs.
ASICS Airflow
ASICS uses mesh in most of their shoes too. Some models let in lots of air, while others have thicker material that might not breathe quite as well but gives more support.
| Airflow | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Top Material | Light mesh | Varies (mesh common) |
| Airflow Rating | Very good | Good to very good |
| Hot Weather Use | Very good | Good |
| Drying When Wet | Fast | Medium to fast |
| Sweat Control | Good | Very good |
Keeping You Stable
On Cloud 5 Stability
The Cloud 5 is mainly a neutral running shoe. This means it doesn’t have special features to control how your foot rolls. It’s best for people who don’t need extra support.
ASICS Stability
ASICS makes many different shoes for all types of feet. They have neutral shoes like the Gel-Nimbus, but also shoes with lots of support like the Gel-Kayano. These help runners who need help with foot rolling (called overpronation).
| Stability | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Roll Control | Very little | Options from none to lots |
| Arch Support | Some | Various levels |
| Heel Firmness | Somewhat firm | Usually very firm |
| Middle Support | Natural stability | Built-in systems |
| Best For | Neutral runners | All runner types |
Weight and Flexibility
On Cloud 5 Weight
The Cloud 5 is very light – about 8-9 ounces (depending on size). This light weight makes them feel like almost nothing on your feet. They bend pretty well too, letting your foot move naturally.
ASICS Weight
ASICS shoes tend to be a bit heavier, usually about 9-11 ounces. This extra weight comes from their bigger cushioning and support systems. Some ASICS shoes bend easily, while others are more stiff to provide support.
| Weight & Bend | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Weight (Men’s) | ~8.5 oz | ~10 oz |
| Flexibility | Medium to high | Low to medium |
| Heel-to-Toe Roll | Smooth, quick | Varies |
| Energy Return | Good | Very good |
| Best For | Midfoot strikers | All running styles |
Price and Value
On Cloud 5 Price
The On Cloud 5 usually costs around $130-$140. This is on the higher end for running shoes. They’re not the most expensive shoes out there, but they do cost more than basic running shoes.
ASICS Price Range
ASICS makes shoes at many different prices. Their basic models start around $70-$90, while their top shoes cost about $130-$160. This means there’s probably an ASICS shoe that fits your budget.
| Price | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Price Range | $130-$140 | $70-$160 |
| Budget Options | Few | Many |
| Premium Models | Mid-range | Multiple levels |
| Sales Frequency | Sometimes | Often |
| Value For Money | Good | Very good |
What Runners Say About These Shoes
On Cloud 5 Reviews
Runners really like the On Cloud 5 for being light, stylish, and good for both running and everyday wear. Many people love how comfy they are for shorter runs and just walking around town.
| On Cloud 5 Ratings | Stars (out of 5) |
| Overall Score | ★★★★☆ (4.3) |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ (4.5) |
| Durability | ★★★☆☆ (3.2) |
| Style | ★★★★★ (4.8) |
| Value | ★★★☆☆ (3.4) |
ASICS Reviews
ASICS shoes get high marks for lasting a long time, giving good support, and working well run after run. Many loyal ASICS users say they’ve worn the brand for years because they’re reliable and help prevent injuries.
| ASICS Ratings | Stars (out of 5) |
| Overall Score | ★★★★☆ (4.2) |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ (4.1) |
| Durability | ★★★★☆ (4.4) |
| Style | ★★★☆☆ (3.7) |
| Value | ★★★★☆ (4.3) |
Rain and Weather Protection
On Cloud 5 in Bad Weather
The regular Cloud 5 is not made for wet weather, though they dry pretty quickly if they get wet. On does make a waterproof version called the Cloud 5 Waterproof that keeps your feet dry on rainy days.
ASICS in Bad Weather
Many ASICS shoes handle light rain pretty well. They also make special waterproof shoes with GORE-TEX that keep your feet very dry in wet conditions.
| Weather | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Rain Resistance | Low to medium | Medium |
| Waterproof Options | Yes | Yes |
| Winter Grip | Not great | Good in trail models |
| Hot Weather Comfort | Very good | Good |
| Drying Time | Fast | Medium |
Materials Used
On Cloud 5 Materials
The Cloud 5 uses light materials that often include recycled stuff. The cloud pods are made from a special foam and rubber mix. The inside is soft and feels good with or without socks.
ASICS Materials
ASICS uses many different materials in their shoes. Their cushioning is often made from a foam called FlyteFoam. The tops are usually mesh or other durable materials. The famous gel inserts are made from a special silicone material.
| Materials | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Upper Material | Recycled mesh | Various meshes |
| Cushion Material | CloudTec foam | FlyteFoam, GEL |
| Sole Material | Rubber and foam | AHAR rubber |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | Some models |
| Special Features | Cloud pods | GEL inserts |
Special Features
On Cloud 5 Special Features
The Cloud 5 has a quick-lace system that lets you slip the shoes on and off without tying laces. They also have a firm plate in the middle (called a speedboard) that helps you push off more efficiently when running.
ASICS Special Features
ASICS puts a lot of technology in their shoes. They have systems to guide your foot as it rolls from heel to toe. They have special support pieces that keep the shoe light while still being supportive. Many models also have flex grooves to help the shoe bend in the right places.
| Features | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Lacing | Speed laces | Normal laces |
| Energy Return | Speedboard | FlyteFoam Propel |
| Foot Guidance | Minimal | Impact Guidance System |
| Design By Gender | Small differences | Some specific features |
| Special Editions | Limited colors | Frequent special models |
For Different Types of Running
On Cloud 5 Running Types
The On Cloud 5 works best for road running, treadmills, and gym workouts. They’re great for faster runs where you want to feel light on your feet. Many people also use them for 5K and 10K races.
ASICS Running Types
ASICS makes shoes for all kinds of running. They have road shoes, trail shoes, racing shoes, and training shoes. No matter what type of running you do, ASICS probably has a shoe designed for it.
| Running Type | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Road Running | Very good | Very good |
| Trail Running | Not good | Good (trail models) |
| Track/Speed | Good | Very good (racing models) |
| Long Distance | OK | Very good |
| Gym/Cross-Training | Good | Good |
For Different Foot Types
On Cloud 5 Foot Types
The On Cloud 5 works best for people with neutral feet (feet that don’t roll in or out too much). They’re also good for people with narrow to normal width feet and medium to high arches.
ASICS Foot Types
ASICS makes shoes for all foot types. They have shoes for neutral feet, feet that roll inward too much (overpronators), and even some for feet that roll outward (underpronators). They make shoes in many widths too.
| Foot Type | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Neutral | Very good | Very good |
| Overpronation | Not good | Very good (support models) |
| Underpronation | OK | Good (cushion models) |
| Flat Feet | Not good | Very good (support models) |
| High Arches | Good | Good (cushion models) |
Looks and Style
On Cloud 5 Style
Let’s be honest – the On Cloud 5 looks really cool! Many people wear them even when they’re not running because they look so good. They come in clean, simple designs with nice color options. The cloud pods on the bottom give them a unique look that stands out.
ASICS Style
ASICS shoes tend to look more like traditional running shoes. They focus on function over fashion, though they’ve been making more stylish shoes lately. Some of their retro models have become popular for casual wear too.
| Style | On Cloud 5 | ASICS |
| Look | Modern, unique | Traditional, functional |
| Color Options | Clean, simple | Wide range |
| Casual Wear | Very good | OK |
| Recognition | Distinctive cloud pods | ASICS stripe logo |
| Fashion Appeal | High | Medium |
Shoe Parts Explained
The Top Part (Upper)
The upper is the top part of the shoe that wraps around your foot.
On Cloud 5 Upper
The Cloud 5 upper is made of light mesh that breathes well. It has a clean, simple design with few seams to rub your foot.
ASICS Upper
ASICS uppers vary by model but usually have more structure and support. They often use different materials in different zones for support where needed.
The Middle Part (Midsole)
The midsole is the cushioning layer between the upper and the outsole.
On Cloud 5 Midsole
The Cloud 5 midsole has those unique cloud pods that compress when you land. It also has a firm plate (speedboard) to help with energy return.
ASICS Midsole
ASICS midsoles usually have their GEL cushioning in the heel and sometimes in the forefoot. They also use different foams like FlyteFoam that provide cushioning and bounce.
The Bottom Part (Outsole)
The outsole is the very bottom of the shoe that touches the ground.
On Cloud 5 Outsole
The Cloud 5 outsole is made of rubber placed in key wear areas, with the cloud pods visible. The design creates a unique feel but may catch small rocks.
ASICS Outsole
ASICS outsoles use their AHAR rubber in high-wear areas. The design varies by model but usually provides good grip and durability.
Who Should Buy Each Shoe?
On Cloud 5 Is Perfect For You If:
- You want very light shoes
- You like shoes that look cool for both running and everyday wear
- You run shorter distances (under 6 miles)
- You have narrow to normal width feet
- You want a clean, simple design
- You don’t need special support for your feet
- You run mainly on roads or treadmills
ASICS Are Perfect For You If:
- You need support for your arches or ankles
- You want shoes that last a very long time
- You have wide feet
- You run long distances
- You run on different surfaces
- You want the best value for your money
- You’ve had foot injuries before
Taking Care of Your Shoes
How to Keep On Cloud 5 Shoes Nice
- Wear them mainly on roads and smooth paths
- Clean mud off with a soft brush
- Wash by hand with mild soap if they get very dirty
- Let them dry naturally (not in the dryer or near heat)
- Take out the insoles to dry separately
- Replace after about 300-400 miles
How to Keep ASICS Shoes Nice
- Clean dirt off regularly
- Wash by hand if needed (not in washing machine)
- Stuff with newspaper to help dry and keep shape
- Keep away from direct heat when drying
- Rotate between two pairs if you run a lot
- Replace after about 400-500 miles
Finding the Right Fit
Getting shoes that fit right is super important. Here are some tips:
- Shop in the afternoon when your feet are slightly bigger
- Wear the socks you’ll use for running
- Make sure you have a thumb’s width of space at the toe
- Walk and jog around the store if possible
- Pay attention to any tight spots or rubbing
- Remember that running shoes should feel good right away
Both On Cloud and ASICS let you return shoes if they don’t work out after a few runs (check the store’s policy).
Changing From One Brand to Another
Switching From ASICS to On Cloud
If you’re used to ASICS and want to try On Cloud:
- Expect a lighter feel
- You might need to go up half a size
- The cushioning will feel different – more responsive and less plush
- Start with shorter runs to get used to them
- They might not last as long as your ASICS did
Switching From On Cloud to ASICS
If you’re used to On Cloud and want to try ASICS:
- Expect a more padded, cushioned feel
- They will probably feel heavier
- You’ll likely have more support
- They might last longer than your On Clouds did
- Look for lighter ASICS models if weight is important to you
Popular Models From Each Brand
Popular On Cloud Models
- On Cloud 5: Their flagship everyday shoe
- On Cloudflow: For faster runs and races
- On Cloudstratus: More cushioning for longer runs
- On Cloudflyer: Added stability for mild overpronation
- On Cloudventure: Their trail running model
Popular ASICS Models
- ASICS Gel-Nimbus: Maximum cushioning for neutral runners
- ASICS Gel-Kayano: Stability shoe for overpronators
- ASICS GT-2000: Moderate stability for mild overpronation
- ASICS Gel-Cumulus: Cushioned neutral shoe
- ASICS Novablast: Bouncy, energetic feel for neutral runners
Conclusion
Both On Cloud 5 and ASICS make great running shoes, but they’re very different.
On Cloud 5 shoes are light, stylish, and feel bouncy. They’re perfect for shorter runs and people who want shoes that look good with jeans too.
ASICS shoes are supportive, durable, and come in many types for different needs. They’re great for serious runners who put in lots of miles or need special support.
The best way to decide is to try both on your feet. Visit a running store and take each for a short test run. Your feet will tell you which feels better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are On Cloud 5 shoes good for long runs?
While some people use On Cloud 5 for long runs, they’re better for shorter runs up to about 6 miles. For marathon training, ASICS usually has better cushioning options that protect your feet over many miles.
Do ASICS shoes run true to size compared to On Cloud?
ASICS shoes usually run true to size and come in more width options than On Cloud. Many runners need to go up half a size in On Cloud shoes, especially if they have wider feet.
Which lasts longer, On Cloud 5 or ASICS shoes?
ASICS shoes typically last longer. Most ASICS will go 400-500+ miles before wearing out. On Cloud 5 shoes usually last about 300-400 miles for most runners.
Can I use On Cloud 5 or ASICS for walking and everyday wear?
Both brands work well for walking and everyday wear. On Cloud 5 shoes are very popular for casual use because they look stylish and feel light. ASICS provide great support for all-day walking.
Which shoe is better if my feet roll inward too much?
ASICS has much better options for overpronation (when feet roll inward). They make models for mild, moderate, and severe overpronation. The On Cloud 5 is mainly a neutral shoe with limited stability features.
Which brand is better for beginners?
For most beginning runners, ASICS might be better because they offer more support and durability. However, if you’re a naturally efficient runner with no foot problems, the On Cloud 5 could work well and feel very comfortable right from the start.