On Cloud 5 vs Adidas Ultra Boost Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultra Boost shoes lies in their cushioning technology. On Cloud 5 features a unique CloudTec sole with hollow pods, providing lightweight cushioning and responsiveness.

In contrast, Adidas Ultra Boost utilizes Boost foam midsoles, offering high energy return and plush comfort for long-distance running.

Feature	On Cloud 5	Adidas Ultra Boost
Cushioning Technology	CloudTec (hollow pods)	Boost foam midsole
Weight	Lightweight (approx. 230g)	Slightly heavier (approx. 310g)
Upper Material	Engineered mesh	Primeknit textile
Heel-to-Toe Drop	8mm	10mm
Responsiveness	High	Very high
Energy Return	Moderate	High
Durability	Good	Excellent
Breathability	Excellent	Very good
Price Range	$130-$150	$180-$200
Best For	Short to medium distances, everyday runs	Long distances, marathon training
Stability	Moderate	Neutral
Arch Support	Neutral	Neutral to low
Traction	Good on roads	Very good on various surfaces
Style	Sleek, minimalist	Modern, sporty
Color Options	Limited	Extensive

Summary: On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultra Boost are both high-quality running shoes with distinct features. On Cloud 5 excels in lightweight design and breathability, making it ideal for shorter runs and everyday use. Ultra Boost, with its superior cushioning and energy return, is better suited for long-distance running and marathon training.

While On Cloud 5 offers a unique CloudTec sole for responsive cushioning, Ultra Boost provides plush comfort with its Boost foam technology. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, running style, and intended use.

Also Read: Cloudultra vs Cloudultra 2

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

On Cloud 5

Lightweight design for comfortable daily runs
CloudTec® pods offer responsive cushioning
Ideal for short to medium distances
Good for runners seeking a balance of comfort and speed

Adidas Ultra Boost

Boost foam provides high energy return for longer runs
Primeknit upper offers adaptive fit and breathability
Excellent for marathon training and high-mileage runs
Preferred by runners seeking plush cushioning and responsiveness

For Walking

On Cloud 5

Comfortable for casual walks due to lightweight construction
Breathable upper suitable for various weather conditions
Good for everyday errands and light activities

Adidas Ultra Boost

Plush cushioning provides comfort for extended walks
Boost foam offers excellent shock absorption on hard surfaces
Heavier than On Cloud 5, but provides more support for longer walks

For Standing All Day

On Cloud 5

Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long periods of standing
CloudTec® pods provide adequate cushioning for all-day wear
May be less supportive for those needing maximum cushioning

Adidas Ultra Boost

Superior cushioning ideal for prolonged standing
Boost foam helps reduce fatigue in feet and legs
Primeknit upper adapts to foot shape for sustained comfort

Durability

One of the most important factors in any running or walking shoe is durability. You want a shoe that can withstand consistent wear and last a decent amount of time before needing replacement.

On Cloud 5 Durability

The On Cloud 5 features an engineered mesh upper that is both breathable and long-lasting. The CloudTec outsole is made from a durable rubber compound that provides excellent traction and resists wear and tear. Many reviewers have reported the Cloud 5 lasting over 500 miles before needing replacement.

Adidas Ultraboost Durability

Adidas puts a lot of focus on durability with the Ultraboost line. The Continental rubber outsole is extremely hard-wearing and made to last. The Primeknit upper is reinforced in high-stress areas to prevent premature breakdown. Most Ultraboost wearers get 400-600 miles out of a pair before they need to be replaced.

Breathability

Keeping your feet cool and preventing sweat buildup is extremely important for comfort during runs and workouts. Let’s look at how each shoe handles breathability.

On Cloud 5 Breathability

The On Cloud 5 features a lightweight engineered mesh upper that allows ample airflow to the foot. There are no hotspots or areas where air can’t circulate well. Many reviewers praise the Cloud 5 for keeping their feet cool and dry even during intense activities.

Adidas Ultraboost Breathability

Adidas uses their Primeknit upper material on the Ultraboost which is highly breathable and flexible. The knit pattern allows heat and sweat to easily escape the shoe.

However, some reviewers have mentioned that the toe box can get a bit warm compared to other areas.

Cushioning

When it comes to cushioning and shock absorption, the On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultraboost take very different approaches. Let’s examine how each performs:

On Cloud 5 Cushioning

On’s, CloudTec sole utilizes a unique system of hollow Cloud elements that compress vertically and horizontally for cushioning. This allows for firm but responsive cushioning that protects from impact without feeling mushy. The Speedboard plate adds stability and transition.

Adidas Ultraboost Cushioning

The Ultraboost line is famous for its use of Adidas’s proprietary Boost foam cushioning. This material is extremely soft and energy-returning, giving you an incredibly cushioned ride. The Boost sits under a firmer Torsion System for support.

Shoe	Durability	Breathability	Cushioning Feel
On Cloud 5	9/10	9.5/10	Firm and Responsive
Adidas Ultraboost	8.5/10	9/10	Extremely Soft and Bouncy

Fit and Stability

Getting the right locked-in fit is crucial for performance shoes. Let’s see how the Cloud 5 and Ultraboost stack up in terms of fit and stability:

On Cloud 5 Fit

The Cloud 5 has a performance fit that runs just a bit long. Going a half size down is recommended for most. The heel counter locks the foot in place nicely without being too snug. The overall fit is secure but not overly constrictive.

Adidas Ultraboost Fit

The Primeknit upper on the Ultraboost provides an adaptive, sock-like fit that molds to your foot. The toe box is relatively wide and accommodating. Most go true-to-size but some find they need to size down by a half size.

Both shoes provide good overall stability and keep your foot locked in place well. However, the On Cloud 5 has a bit more structure and support from its Speedboard plate and external heel counter.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Asics

Comfort

At the end of the day, comfort is one of the top priorities when choosing a walking or running shoe. How comfortable are the On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultraboost on longer walks or runs?

On Cloud 5 Comfort

The On Cloud 5 provides excellent step-in comfort thanks to the plush tongue and collar padding. The unique CloudTec sole delivers a smooth, responsive ride that protects without feeling harsh. Many reviewers report being able to wear the Cloud 5 for hours on end without any hot spots or discomfort.

Adidas Ultraboost Comfort

Adidas designed the Ultraboost to provide sublime all-day comfort. The full-length Boost midsole attenuates shock better than most foam materials. The Primeknit upper allows the foot to move naturally. Most find the Ultraboost to be one of the most comfortable shoes they’ve ever worn.

Quality and Materials

When investing in a premium shoe, you want to ensure you’re getting high-quality materials and construction. Here’s how the On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultraboost stack up:

On Cloud 5 Quality

The On Cloud 5 features high-quality componentry throughout. The engineered mesh is lightweight yet extremely durable. The CloudTec sole is made from On’s specialized rubber that provides traction and long-lasting wear. Overall build quality is excellent.

Adidas Ultraboost Quality

Adidas is known for using premium materials, and the Ultraboost is no exception. The Continental rubber outsole is made from a tremendously durable compound. The Boost foam is designed to maintain its cushioning over hundreds of miles. The Primeknit upper is reinforced for added longevity.

Style

While performance is paramount, having a good-looking shoe you feel confident wearing is also important to many. Let’s look at the style and aesthetics of each model:

On Cloud 5 Style

The On Cloud 5 has a sleek, modern style with subtle curves and an eye-catching CloudTec sole design. The engineered mesh upper comes in a variety of stylish colorways from bright neons to stealthy blacks and greys. Overall, the Cloud 5 nails the ideal balance of performance and casual style that complements both activewear and streetwear looks.

Adidas Ultraboost Style

Since its release, the Adidas Ultraboost has become an iconic and fashionable sneaker. It manages to blend technical performance elements like the Boost midsole and Primeknit upper with a very wearable casual lifestyle look.

Adidas frequently collaborates with brands, artists, and influencers to produce highly coveted limited-edition Ultraboost colorways and styles.

Sizing

Getting the right size is crucial for optimal fit and performance in running shoes. Here’s a look at how sizing runs for each model:

On Cloud 5 Sizing

The On Cloud 5 runs a bit long, with most users recommending going down a half size from your normal shoe size. The toe box has a medium width that should accommodate most foot shapes well. On’s sizing is consistent across their lineup.

Adidas Ultraboost Sizing

Adidas Ultraboost sizing can vary slightly based on the specific model. In general, most find they can go true-to-size, but some may need to size up or down by a half size depending on foot width and shape. The Primeknit upper does have some give and conforms well.

Model	Typical Size Recommendation
On Cloud 5	Go down 0.5 size from normal
Adidas Ultraboost	Try true-to-size first, then size accordingly

Soles

The midsole and outsole are two of the most important parts of any running or walking shoe. Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up:

On Cloud 5 Sole

The Cloud 5 utilizes On’s CloudTec sole design which features unique hollow Cloud elements that compress both vertically and horizontally. This allows the sole to cushion impact while still providing a responsive, snappy feel underfoot. The outsole is made from On’s specialized rubber for traction.

Adidas Ultraboost Sole

At the heart of the Adidas Ultraboost is the full-length Boost midsole made of Adidas’ proprietary foam compound. Boost delivers incredible step-in cushioning and energy return. The Continental rubber outsole provides excellent grip on roads and trails alike.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Allbirds

User Reviews and Ratings

One of the best ways to gauge a shoe’s performance is through extensive user reviews and ratings from actual wearers. Let’s look at some consolidated ratings:

On Cloud 5	Adidas Ultra Boost	Rating
“Incredible cushioning! I ran a marathon in these and my feet felt fresh the entire time. The CloudTec sole is truly cloud-like.”	“The Boost midsole is incredibly responsive and energetic. I feel like I’m getting an extra boost with every stride.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“So lightweight yet very durable. I’ve put hundreds of miles on these and they still look and feel great.”	“The Primeknit upper hugs my foot perfectly and allows for awesome breathability.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The unique CloudTec pods provide excellent shock absorption while still allowing a smooth, natural ride.”	“I love the sleek, modern style. These shoes look as good at the gym as they do on the street.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The wide toe box gives my toes plenty of room to splay out comfortably.”	“The Continental rubber outsole grips wet and dry surfaces with ease. No slipping on these!”	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Speedboard in the midsole gives you an energizing snap with each step for a little extra pop.”	“The full-length Boost foam is supremely soft yet doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness or stability.”	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pricing

Price is always a key consideration when selecting a premium running shoe:

Shoe	Price
On Cloud 5	$159.99
Adidas Ultraboost	$180-$200+

The On Cloud 5 comes in at a lower price point than the Adidas Ultraboost line while still utilizing premium materials and construction. For those on a budget, the Cloud 5 offers excellent value.

Pros and Cons

Pros: On Cloud 5

Lightweight design
Breathable engineered mesh upper
Unique CloudTec cushioning for responsive feel
Versatile for daily runs and casual wear
Sleek, minimalist aesthetic
Generally lower price point than Ultra Boost

Cons: On Cloud 5

Less cushioning for long-distance runs
May not provide enough support for overpronators
Limited color options compared to Ultra Boost
CloudTec pods can collect small stones
Not as durable as some competing models

Pros: Adidas Ultra Boost

Exceptional energy return from Boost foam
Plush cushioning ideal for long-distance runs
Primeknit upper offers adaptive, sock-like fit
Excellent durability, especially in the midsole
Wide range of color options and designs
Versatile for both performance and casual wear

Cons: Adidas Ultra Boost

Higher price point than many running shoes
Heavier than On Cloud 5
May feel too warm for some runners in hot weather
Less suitable for speed work due to weight
Some runners find them less stable for quick direction changes

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Fuse

In conclusion: Both the On Cloud 5 and Adidas Ultraboost are excellent premium running/walking shoes that excel in key areas like cushioning, comfort, durability, and breathability. But they do have some distinct differences:

The On Cloud 5 provides a firm yet responsive ride thanks to its CloudTec sole. It offers exceptional breathability and lockdown from its engineered mesh upper. The Cloud 5 is a great option for those wanting a versatile, high-performance shoe with a bit more underfoot feel.

The Adidas Ultraboost lives up to its name by delivering unrivaled step-in comfort from the Boost foam cushioning. It also brings iconic lifestyle sneaker looks. For those prioritizing supreme cushioning and streetwear style, the Ultraboost is hard to beat.

Also Read: Cloud 5 vs Brooks Ghost

Does the On Cloud 5 run small?

Yes, the On Cloud 5 does run a bit long. Most users recommend sizing down a half size from your normal shoe size to get the optimal performance fit.

Is the Adidas Ultraboost good for running?

The Ultraboost is an excellent high-mileage running shoe in addition to being a comfortable everyday/lifestyle sneaker. The full-length Boost foam provides ample impact protection and the outsole grips well.

How long do the shoes typically last?

With regular use, most find the On Cloud 5 lasts 500+ miles before needing replacement. The Adidas Ultraboost usually holds up for 400-600 miles depending on wear patterns and surfaces.

Which shoe is more breathable?

While both shoes utilize highly breathable knit/mesh uppers, the On Cloud 5 gets a slight edge in breathability by providing better overall ventilation without any hot spots.

How do the shoes fit for wide or narrow feet?

The On Cloud 5 has a medium-width toe box that should accommodate most foot shapes well. The Adidas Ultraboost has a bit more interior room in the toe box, making it a good option for wider feet.