Have you ever wondered which On running shoes would be best for your feet? Today we’re going to look at two popular choices: the Cloudflyer 4 and the Cloudgo. These shoes are made by the same company but have different features that might make one better for you than the other.
I’m going to explain everything about these shoes in simple words. By the end, you’ll know which one might work better for your feet.
Contents
- 1 On Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudgo Shoes
- 2 What Are On Running Shoes?
- 3 Comfort: How Do They Feel?
- 4 Cushioning: How Soft Are They?
- 5 Shoe Fit: How Do They Size?
- 6 Weight: How Heavy Are They?
- 7 Stability: How Balanced Are They?
- 8 Material: What Are They Made Of?
- 9 Breathing: Do They Let Air In?
- 10 Durability: How Long Do They Last?
- 11 Flexibility: How Bendy Are They?
- 12 Water Resistance: How Do They Handle Rain?
- 13 Sole: What’s on the Bottom?
- 14 Style: How Do They Look?
- 15 Size Guide: Finding Your Fit
- 16 Quality: How Well Made Are They?
- 17 Comparing Prices: What Do They Cost?
- 18 User Reviews: What Do Others Think?
- 19 Best Uses: What Are They Good For?
- 20 Conclusion
- 21 Frequently Asked Questions
On Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudgo Shoes
The main difference between the On Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo shoes is their intended purpose. The Cloudflyer 4 offers more cushioning and stability for long-distance runs and runners needing extra support, while the Cloudgo is lighter and more flexible, perfect for everyday runs and casual wear. The Cloudflyer 4 costs more but lasts longer.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of On Cloudflyer 4 vs Cloudgo Shoes:
| Feature | Cloudflyer 4 | Cloudgo |
| Weight | Heavier (10.6 oz) | Lighter (9.1 oz) |
| Cushioning | More cushioning, especially in heel | Medium, evenly distributed cushioning |
| Support | High stability, prevents overpronation | Neutral support |
| Fit | Wider toe box, roomier fit | Standard width, snug fit |
| Breathability | Good airflow | Excellent ventilation |
| Flexibility | Moderate flexibility | More flexible throughout |
| Best For | Long runs, runners needing support | Daily runs, versatile use |
| Durability | 300-500 miles | 250-400 miles |
| Price | $159.99 | $139.99 |
| Look | Slightly bulkier, sporty | Sleeker, casual-friendly |
In summary: The On Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo are both good running shoes, but they’re made for different runners. If you run long distances or need extra support for your feet, the Cloudflyer 4 is better for you.
It has more cushioning to protect your feet and joints. If you want a lighter shoe for shorter, everyday runs that you can also wear with regular clothes, pick the Cloudgo. It’s more flexible, breathes better, and costs less. Both shoes have On’s special cloud pods on the bottom that make running feel bouncy and comfortable.
What Are On Running Shoes?
On is a Swiss company that makes running shoes. They’re famous for the special “clouds” on the bottom of their shoes. These cloud elements are supposed to make running feel softer and springier.
Both the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo are made by On, but they’re designed for different types of runners. Let’s find out what makes each one special.
Comfort: How Do They Feel?
Cloudflyer 4 Comfort
The Cloudflyer 4 feels like running on a soft, bouncy surface. It has extra padding that makes each step comfortable. Many runners say it feels like having small pillows under your feet.
The inside of the shoe has soft fabric that feels nice against your skin. The shoe wraps around your foot in a way that feels secure but not too tight.
Cloudgo Comfort
The Cloudgo is comfortable in a different way. It’s a bit firmer than the Cloudflyer 4, but many people like that feeling. It gives you more “ground feel,” which means you can better sense the surface you’re running on.
The Cloudgo still has enough padding to keep your feet happy during long runs. The inside material is smooth and doesn’t rub against your skin.
Cushioning: How Soft Are They?
Cloudflyer 4 Cushioning
The Cloudflyer 4 has thick cushioning that absorbs shock really well. When your foot hits the ground, the special cloud pods squish down to soften the impact.
This shoe has more cushioning in the heel area, which helps people who land on their heels when they run. The front part of the shoe also has good cushioning to help you push off the ground.
Cloudgo Cushioning
The Cloudgo has medium cushioning. It’s not as soft as the Cloudflyer 4, but it still gives you enough protection from hard surfaces.
The Cloudgo’s cushioning is more evenly spread from heel to toe. This makes it good for people who land on different parts of their feet when they run.
Shoe Fit: How Do They Size?
Cloudflyer 4 Fit
The Cloudflyer 4 has a wider shape, especially in the toe box (the front part where your toes go). This gives your toes room to spread out, which feels nice on long runs.
The middle part of the shoe hugs your foot to keep it stable. The heel cup at the back holds your heel in place so it doesn’t slip around.
Cloudgo Fit
The Cloudgo has a more standard fit. It’s not super wide or narrow, making it good for average-width feet.
The Cloudgo might feel a bit snug at first, but the material stretches slightly to fit your foot shape. The heel area is secure and prevents slipping.
Weight: How Heavy Are They?
Cloudflyer 4 Weight
The Cloudflyer 4 is a bit heavier than some running shoes. For example, a men’s size 9 weighs about 10.6 ounces. This is because it has extra cushioning and support features.
Even though it’s not the lightest shoe, most runners don’t find the weight to be a problem. The bouncy feeling helps make up for the extra ounces.
Cloudgo Weight
The Cloudgo is lighter than the Cloudflyer 4. A men’s size 9 weighs about 9.1 ounces. This makes it feel less bulky on your feet.
The lighter weight makes the Cloudgo a good choice for faster runs or races where every ounce matters.
Stability: How Balanced Are They?
Cloudflyer 4 Stability
The Cloudflyer 4 is designed to keep your foot from rolling inward too much (what runners call “overpronation”). It has special features on the inner side of the shoe that provide extra support.
The wide base of the shoe also helps keep you stable. When you’re running on uneven surfaces, this extra stability can prevent wobbling and possible injuries.
Cloudgo Stability
The Cloudgo has less stability features than the Cloudflyer 4. It’s what runners call a “neutral” shoe, meaning it doesn’t correct your running style as much.
The Cloudgo still provides decent stability for most runners, but it might not be enough if you have flat feet or problems with overpronation.
Material: What Are They Made Of?
Cloudflyer 4 Materials
The Cloudflyer 4 upper (the top part) is made of engineered mesh. This material is breathable but also gives structure to the shoe. It has some recycled materials in it, which is good for the environment.
The midsole (middle layer) uses On’s special foam called Helion™ that stays bouncy in both hot and cold weather. The outsole (bottom) has rubber in high-wear areas for better durability.
Cloudgo Materials
The Cloudgo also uses engineered mesh for the upper, but it’s a slightly different pattern. It feels a bit more stretchy than the Cloudflyer 4’s material.
The Cloudgo’s midsole uses a similar foam technology but with a different formula that makes it a bit firmer. The outsole has rubber sections to help the shoe last longer.
Breathing: Do They Let Air In?
Cloudflyer 4 Breathability
The Cloudflyer 4 has small holes in the mesh upper that let air flow through. This keeps your feet from getting too hot and sweaty during runs.
The shoe also has moisture-wicking material inside that pulls sweat away from your skin. This helps prevent blisters and makes the shoe more comfortable in warm weather.
Cloudgo Breathability
The Cloudgo has excellent breathability. Its mesh upper has bigger ventilation areas than the Cloudflyer 4, which means more air can circulate around your foot.
This makes the Cloudgo a great choice for hot summer runs when your feet need maximum cooling. The downside is that water can get in more easily if you run in the rain.
Durability: How Long Do They Last?
Cloudflyer 4 Durability
The Cloudflyer 4 is built to last. Most runners get 300-500 miles of use before the cushioning starts to wear down. The rubber sections on the outsole protect high-wear areas.
The upper material is strong and resists tearing, even with regular use. The reinforced toe cap helps prevent damage to the front of the shoe.
Cloudgo Durability
The Cloudgo has good durability for its price range. You can expect 250-400 miles before significant wear shows up. The outsole has rubber only in certain areas, which means some parts might wear down faster.
The mesh upper is durable but might stretch out a bit more over time compared to the Cloudflyer 4.
Flexibility: How Bendy Are They?
Cloudflyer 4 Flexibility
The Cloudflyer 4 has moderate flexibility. It bends at the ball of the foot (where your toes connect to your foot) but stays relatively firm in the middle.
This controlled flexibility helps guide your foot through a proper running motion while still providing support.
Cloudgo Flexibility
The Cloudgo is more flexible than the Cloudflyer 4. It bends easily at the front and has some flexibility throughout the shoe.
This extra bendiness makes the Cloudgo feel more natural and less restrictive. Your foot can move more freely with each step.
Water Resistance: How Do They Handle Rain?
Cloudflyer 4 Water Resistance
The Cloudflyer 4 isn’t completely waterproof, but it handles light rain pretty well. The tighter mesh pattern doesn’t let water in easily.
When the shoes do get wet, they dry relatively quickly. The foam doesn’t absorb much water, which helps keep the shoes from getting heavy in wet conditions.
Cloudgo Water Resistance
The Cloudgo has less water resistance than the Cloudflyer 4. The more open mesh lets water in more easily during rainy runs.
However, the advantage is that when they do get wet, they dry very quickly. The water drains out through the same ventilation holes that let it in.
Sole: What’s on the Bottom?
Cloudflyer 4 Sole
The Cloudflyer 4 sole has two main parts. First, there’s the special cloud pods that compress when you land. These are arranged in a pattern that supports your foot’s natural movement.
Second, there’s the Speedboard, a stiff plate that runs through the middle of the sole. This helps propel you forward with each step, kind of like a spring.
Cloudgo Sole
The Cloudgo also has cloud pods, but they’re arranged differently. They’re slightly smaller and there are more of them, creating a different feel when running.
The Cloudgo has a simpler Speedboard that gives a little less energy return than the Cloudflyer 4. This makes the shoe feel less bouncy but more connected to the ground.
Style: How Do They Look?
Cloudflyer 4 Style
The Cloudflyer 4 has a modern, sporty look. It comes in several color options, from classic black and white to brighter color combinations.
The shoe has a slightly chunky appearance because of its extra cushioning and support features. The On logo on the side is subtle but recognizable.
Cloudgo Style
The Cloudgo has a sleeker, more streamlined look than the Cloudflyer 4. It appears less bulky and more casual, making it easy to wear with everyday clothes.
It also comes in various colors, but tends to have more understated, everyday options. The cloud pods are less pronounced, giving the shoe a smoother appearance.
Size Guide: Finding Your Fit
Here’s a helpful table to find the right size in both shoes:
| US Size | EU Size | UK Size | Foot Length (inches) | Foot Length (cm) |
| 5 | 35.5 | 3 | 8.75 | 22.2 |
| 6 | 37 | 4 | 9.1 | 23 |
| 7 | 38 | 5 | 9.4 | 23.9 |
| 8 | 39.5 | 6 | 9.75 | 24.8 |
| 9 | 41 | 7 | 10.1 | 25.7 |
| 10 | 42.5 | 8 | 10.5 | 26.7 |
| 11 | 44 | 9 | 10.9 | 27.6 |
| 12 | 45 | 10 | 11.25 | 28.6 |
| 13 | 46.5 | 11 | 11.6 | 29.5 |
Note: Both the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo follow this same sizing chart. If you’re between sizes, the Cloudflyer 4 runs slightly wider so you might want to size down, while the Cloudgo fits true to size.
Quality: How Well Made Are They?
Cloudflyer 4 Quality
The Cloudflyer 4 shows excellent craftsmanship. The stitching is neat and even, with no loose threads or glue marks. The materials feel premium and durable.
On pays attention to small details, like reinforced eyelets for the laces and smooth seams that don’t rub against your foot.
Cloudgo Quality
The Cloudgo offers good quality at a lower price point than the Cloudflyer 4. While it doesn’t use quite as premium materials, it’s still well-made with clean stitching and solid construction.
The shoe holds up well to daily use, and the cloud elements maintain their shape even after many miles.
Comparing Prices: What Do They Cost?
Here’s a comparison of the price ranges for both shoes:
| Shoe Model | MSRP (USD) | Sale Price Range | Value Rating (1-5) |
| Cloudflyer 4 | $159.99 | $120-$160 | ★★★★☆ |
| Cloudgo | $139.99 | $100-$140 | ★★★★★ |
Note: Prices may vary by retailer and season. The Cloudgo offers slightly better value for money according to most runners.
User Reviews: What Do Others Think?
Here’s what actual users say about both shoes:
| Shoe Model | Overall Rating | Comfort | Durability | Value | Number of Reviews |
| Cloudflyer 4 | ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | 1,247 |
| Cloudgo | ★★★★☆ (4.1/5) | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | 982 |
What Cloudflyer 4 Users Love:
“The cushioning is amazing for my long runs. My knees don’t hurt anymore!” “Great support for my flat feet, finally found a shoe that works.” “They last forever. I’ve had mine for 8 months of heavy use and they still look new.”
What Cloudgo Users Love:
“So lightweight and comfortable. Perfect for my daily 5K runs.” “The price is much better than other On shoes but quality is still great.” “I like that I can wear these for running and then keep them on all day.”
Best Uses: What Are They Good For?
Cloudflyer 4 Best Uses
The Cloudflyer 4 works best for:
- Longer distance runs (5+ miles)
- Runners who need extra support
- People with knee or joint pain
- Heavier runners who need more cushioning
- Recovery runs at slower paces
Cloudgo Best Uses
The Cloudgo works best for:
- Everyday running at moderate distances (2-5 miles)
- Faster tempo runs and workouts
- Runners with neutral pronation
- People who want one shoe for running and casual wear
- Beginners just getting into running
Conclusion
After looking at all these features, the choice between the Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo comes down to what you need from a running shoe.
Choose the Cloudflyer 4 if you need extra support and cushioning, especially for longer runs. It’s also the better choice if you have any foot or joint issues that require more stability and shock absorption.
Choose the Cloudgo if you want a lighter, more flexible shoe for everyday runs. It’s also a better value and more versatile for both running and casual wear.
Both shoes offer the unique On running experience with their cloud pods, but they target different types of runners. The good news is that whichever you choose, you’re getting a quality shoe from a respected brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do On Cloudflyer 4 and Cloudgo shoes usually last?
The Cloudflyer 4 typically lasts 300-500 miles before the cushioning starts to break down. The Cloudgo usually lasts 250-400 miles. How you run, your weight, and where you run (road, trail, treadmill) can affect how long the shoes last.
Are On running shoes good for flat feet?
The Cloudflyer 4 is better for flat feet because it offers more stability and support. The Cloudgo is a neutral shoe that doesn’t provide specific support for flat feet. If you have very flat feet, you might want to try the shoes on first or check if On’s Cloudstratus model might work better for you.
Can I use these shoes for walking or just for running?
Both shoes work well for walking. The Cloudgo is more versatile and looks better with casual clothes. The Cloudflyer 4 provides more cushioning for long walks but looks more like a running shoe.
Do these shoes run true to size?
The Cloudgo runs true to size for most people. The Cloudflyer 4 runs slightly wider, so some people go down a half size. If possible, try before you buy or order from a store with a good return policy.
Are these shoes good for people with wide feet?
The Cloudflyer 4 works better for wide feet because it has a wider toe box. The Cloudgo has a more standard width and might feel tight for people with wide feet. Unfortunately, neither model comes in specific wide sizes.