On Cloud 5 vs Cloudflow Shoes | Which is Right for You?

Are you in the market for a new pair of running shoes?

If so, you’ve likely come across two popular options from the Swiss brand On: the Cloud 5 and the Cloudflow.

Both shoes have garnered attention from runners worldwide, but which one is right for you?

In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down the key features of each shoe to help you make an informed decision.

On Cloud 5 vs Cloudflow Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud 5 and Cloudflow shoes lies in their intended use. Cloud 5 is designed for everyday wear and light runs, offering superior comfort and versatility.

In contrast, Cloudflow is geared towards performance running, providing enhanced responsiveness and speed for more serious athletes and longer distances.

Feature	On Cloud 5	Cloudflow
Intended Use	Everyday wear, light runs	Performance running
Weight	Lighter (approx. 230g)	Slightly heavier (approx. 235g)
Cushioning	Softer, more plush	Firmer, more responsive
Heel-to-Toe Drop	8mm	6mm
Upper Material	Engineered mesh	Helion superfoam
Midsole	CloudTec® in Zero-Gravity foam	Helion™ superfoam
Outsole	Rubber pods	Rubber grip pads
Durability	Moderate	High
Breathability	High	Very high
Stability	Moderate	High
Price Range	$130-$140	$140-$150
Best For	Casual runners, everyday wear	Serious runners, racing
Shoe Profile	Low	Low to medium
Flexibility	Very flexible	Moderately flexible
Color Options	Wide range	Limited

Summary: On Cloud 5 and Cloudflow shoes cater to different running needs. The Cloud 5 is designed for everyday wear and casual runs, offering superior comfort and versatility with its softer cushioning and lighter weight. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort in their daily activities.

On the other hand, the Cloudflow is engineered for performance running, providing enhanced responsiveness and speed. With its firmer cushioning and more stable design, it’s ideal for serious runners and races. While both shoes feature On’s signature CloudTec® technology, they differ in weight, drop, and overall construction to suit their respective purposes.

Also Read: Cloud 5 vs Brooks Ghost

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

On Cloud 5

Designed for lighter, everyday runs. It offers a comfortable, lightweight feel suitable for casual runners and shorter distances. The Cloud 5 provides good energy return but is less performance-oriented than the Cloudflow.

Cloudflow

Better suited for performance-oriented runners. It’s designed for faster-paced runs and races, offering a more responsive feel. The Cloudflow is ideal for runners seeking speed and efficiency in their training and competitions.

For Walking

On Cloud 5

More suitable for walking compared to the Cloudflow. Its lightweight nature and comfortable cushioning make it a good choice for casual walks and everyday wear.

Cloudflow

While it can be used for walking, it’s more running-focused. It may feel overly responsive for casual walking compared to the Cloud 5.

For Standing All Day

On Cloud 5

Better suited for all-day wear in casual or office settings. It offers comfort without a bulky appearance, making it a good choice for those who need to stand for extended periods.

Cloudflow

Less ideal for all-day standing. Its performance-oriented design may not provide the same level of long-term comfort as the Cloud 5 for extended periods of standing.

Introduction to On Running Shoes

Before we dive into the specifics of the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow, let’s take a moment to understand what sets On running shoes apart from the competition.

The On Brand Story

On was founded in 2010 by former professional athlete Olivier Bernhard and his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti. Their goal was to revolutionize the running experience by creating a shoe that provided a soft landing followed by an explosive take-off. This innovative approach led to the development of their signature CloudTec® technology.

CloudTec® Technology: The Heart of On Shoes

At the core of every On running shoe is CloudTec® technology. This unique system features hollow pods on the sole of the shoe, which compress upon impact to cushion your landing and then lock to provide a firm platform for take-off. This technology aims to deliver a running experience that feels “like running on clouds” – hence the brand name.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s compare the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow in detail.

Durability: Built to Last?

When investing in a pair of running shoes, durability is a crucial factor to consider. Let’s see how the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow measure up in this department.

On Cloud 5 Durability

The Cloud 5 is designed with durability in mind, especially for everyday use. Its outsole features:

• Reinforced CloudTec® elements
• Strategically placed rubber pads in high-wear areas

These features help extend the life of the shoe, making it a reliable choice for daily runners and casual wearers alike.

Cloudflow Durability

The Cloudflow, while also durable, is built more for performance than longevity. Its construction includes:

• Helion superfoam in the outsole for increased resilience
• A streamlined design that may wear faster under intense use

While the Cloudflow can certainly handle regular running, it may show signs of wear sooner than the Cloud 5 if used primarily for high-intensity workouts or races.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Cloudflyer

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Proper ventilation is essential for comfortable running, especially during warmer months or longer distances. Here’s how these two models compare in terms of breathability:

Cloud 5 Breathability

The Cloud 5 features:

• An engineered mesh upper that promotes airflow
• Strategic perforations to enhance ventilation

These elements work together to keep your feet cool and dry during runs or throughout the day.

Cloudflow Breathability

The Cloudflow takes breathability up a notch with:

• A newly engineered mesh upper designed for maximum airflow
• Ventilated tongue construction

This enhanced breathability makes the Cloudflow an excellent choice for runners who prioritize keeping their feet cool during intense workouts or races.

Cushioning: Finding the Right Balance

Cushioning plays a vital role in your running experience, affecting both comfort and performance. Let’s examine how the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow approach this crucial aspect.

Cloud 5 Cushioning

The Cloud 5 offers:

• Moderate cushioning suitable for everyday use
• Zero-Gravity foam for a soft, comfortable ride
• CloudTec® elements that provide adaptive cushioning

This combination makes the Cloud 5 a versatile choice for various activities, from casual walks to light runs.

Cloudflow Cushioning

The Cloudflow takes a different approach with:

• Helion superfoam for responsive cushioning
• A firmer overall feel compared to the Cloud 5
• CloudTec® elements tuned for performance running

This setup results in a shoe that’s more responsive and better suited for faster-paced runs and races.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Cloudmonster

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

A proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance in any running shoe. Here’s what you need to know about the fit of the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow:

Cloud 5 Fit

The Cloud 5 is designed to accommodate a variety of foot shapes:

• Slightly wider toe box for natural toe splay
• Snug midfoot for secure lockdown
• Available in standard and wide widths

This versatile fit makes the Cloud 5 a great option for those with average to slightly wider feet.

Cloudflow Fit

The Cloudflow offers a more performance-oriented fit:

• Snugger overall fit for a more secure feel
• Narrower toe box compared to the Cloud 5
• Engineered mesh upper that adapts to your foot shape

Runners with narrow to average-width feet may find the Cloudflow more suitable, especially for faster-paced activities.

Stability: Keeping You Steady

Stability is an important factor in preventing injuries and maintaining proper form during your runs. Let’s see how these two models stack up in terms of stability:

Cloud 5 Stability

The Cloud 5 provides moderate stability through:

• A wider base in the heel and forefoot
• Strategically placed CloudTec® elements for balanced support
• A molded heel for secure foot lockdown

These features make the Cloud 5 a good choice for neutral runners or those who need a bit of extra support during everyday activities.

Cloudflow Stability

The Cloudflow offers a different approach to stability:

• A more streamlined design for a closer-to-ground feel
• Helion superfoam for enhanced responsiveness and support
• A snugger fit that helps prevent in-shoe movement

While the Cloudflow may not provide as much inherent stability as the Cloud 5, its design promotes a more natural running gait, which can benefit experienced runners.

Comfort: The Feel-Good Factor

Comfort is subjective, but certain features can contribute to a more enjoyable running experience. Here’s how the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow compare in terms of overall comfort:

Cloud 5 Comfort

The Cloud 5 prioritizes all-day comfort with:

• Soft, plush interior lining
• Adaptive CloudTec® cushioning
• A roomier fit that accommodates foot swelling

These elements make the Cloud 5 an excellent choice for those who value comfort above all else, whether for running or everyday wear.

Cloudflow Comfort

The Cloudflow takes a performance-oriented approach to comfort:

• Engineered mesh upper that adapts to your foot shape
• Responsive Helion superfoam cushioning
• A snugger fit that may feel less plush but more secure

While the Cloudflow may not feel as immediately comfortable as the Cloud 5, many runners find its responsive feel more comfortable during fast-paced runs or races.

Quality: Swiss Engineering at Its Finest

Both the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow showcase On’s commitment to quality, but there are some differences worth noting:

Cloud 5 Quality

The Cloud 5 demonstrates quality through:

• Durable materials built for everyday use
• Attention to detail in stitching and construction
• Consistent performance across various activities

Cloudflow Quality

The Cloudflow exhibits quality in its:

• High-performance materials like Helion superfoam
• Precision engineering for optimal running efficiency
• Durability that stands up to intense training

Both shoes reflect On’s Swiss engineering heritage, but the Cloudflow’s performance-oriented features may justify its higher price point for serious runners.

Style: Looking Good on the Run

While performance is paramount, style can also play a role in your shoe choice. Let’s compare the aesthetic appeal of the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow:

Cloud 5 Style

The Cloud 5 offers:

• A sleek, minimalist design
• Various color options to suit different tastes
• Versatility for both athletic and casual wear

Its clean lines and understated elegance make the Cloud 5 a popular choice for those who want a shoe that transitions seamlessly from workouts to everyday life.

Cloudflow Style

The Cloudflow presents:

• A more technical, performance-oriented look
• Bold color choices that stand out on the road
• Streamlined silhouette that appeals to serious runners

While the Cloudflow may not be as versatile in terms of casual wear, its eye-catching design is sure to turn heads at your next race or group run.

Size: Finding the Right Fit

Proper sizing is crucial for comfort and performance. Here’s what you need to know about sizing for the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow:

Cloud 5 Sizing

The Cloud 5 generally:

• Runs true to size for most wearers
• Offers a bit more room in the toe box
• Comes in both standard and wide widths

When trying on the Cloud 5, make sure you have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

Cloudflow Sizing

The Cloudflow:

• May run slightly small for some wearers
• Has a snugger overall fit
• Is available in standard width only

Some runners find they need to go up a half size in the Cloudflow, especially if they’re between sizes or prefer a bit more room in the toe box.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Cloudnova

Material: The Building Blocks of Performance

The materials used in a running shoe can significantly impact its performance, durability, and comfort. Let’s examine the materials used in the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow:

Cloud 5 Materials

The Cloud 5 features:

• Engineered mesh upper for breathability and flexibility
• Zero-Gravity foam in the CloudTec® outsole
• Antimicrobial treatment for odor control

These materials contribute to the Cloud 5’s versatility and all-day comfort.

Cloudflow Materials

The Cloudflow utilizes:

• Helion superfoam in the midsole and CloudTec® elements
• Engineered mesh upper designed for high-performance breathability
• Rubber reinforcements in high-wear areas of the outsole

The use of Helion superfoam gives the Cloudflow its responsive feel and enhanced durability.

Weight: Light on Your Feet

The weight of a running shoe can affect your speed and endurance. Here’s how the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow compare:

Cloud 5 Weight

• Men’s: Approximately 8.82 oz (250g)
• Women’s: Approximately 7.05 oz (200g)

The Cloud 5’s lightweight design contributes to its versatility and all-day wearability.

Cloudflow Weight

• Men’s: Approximately 9.17 oz (260g)
• Women’s: Approximately 7.76 oz (220g)

While slightly heavier than the Cloud 5, the Cloudflow’s weight is still considered light for a performance running shoe.

Flexibility: Moving with Your Foot

Flexibility in a running shoe allows for a more natural foot movement and can contribute to a more comfortable run. Let’s see how these two models compare:

Cloud 5 Flexibility

The Cloud 5 offers:

• Moderate flexibility throughout the shoe
• CloudTec® elements that allow for natural foot flexion
• A comfortable balance between structure and give

This level of flexibility makes the Cloud 5 suitable for a variety of activities and foot types.

Cloudflow Flexibility

The Cloudflow provides:

• Enhanced flexibility in the forefoot
• A more rigid midfoot for improved energy return
• Speedboard technology for added propulsion

The Cloudflow’s flexibility is optimized for fast-paced running, promoting a quick and efficient toe-off.

Water Resistance: Staying Dry on the Run

While neither shoe is designed to be fully waterproof, some degree of water resistance can be beneficial. Here’s how they compare:

Cloud 5 Water Resistance

The Cloud 5 offers:

• Moderate water resistance in light rain or dew
• Quick-drying engineered mesh upper
• Potential for water to enter through the CloudTec® elements

Cloudflow Water Resistance

The Cloudflow provides:

• Similar water resistance to the Cloud 5 in light moisture
• Engineered mesh that repels some water
• Potential for water entry through the ventilated design

Both shoes are best suited for dry conditions but can handle light moisture. For very wet conditions, On offers other models with enhanced water protection.

Sole: The Foundation of Your Run

The sole of a running shoe plays a crucial role in cushioning, stability, and overall performance. Let’s examine the sole construction of both models:

Cloud 5 Sole

The Cloud 5 sole features:

• CloudTec® elements made from Zero-Gravity foam
• Strategic rubber placements for durability and traction
• A wider base for improved stability

This sole construction provides a balance of cushioning and responsiveness suitable for various activities.

Cloudflow Sole

The Cloudflow sole incorporates:

• CloudTec® elements made from Helion superfoam
• A more streamlined design for faster runs
• Rubber reinforcements in high-wear areas

The Cloudflow’s sole is optimized for performance running, offering a more responsive and efficient ride.

User Reviews: Real Experiences

To give you a better idea of how these shoes perform in the real world, here’s a summary of user reviews for both models:

Cloud 5 User Reviews

Rating	Percentage of Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	70%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	20%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	7%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	2%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	1%

Common praise

• Excellent all-day comfort
• Versatile for various activities
• Stylish design

Common criticisms

• Some users find them less suitable for long-distance running
• Occasional durability issues with heavy use

Cloudflow User Reviews

Rating	Percentage of Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	65%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	25%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	8%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	1%
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	1%

Common praise

• Great for fast-paced runs and races
• Responsive and lightweight feel
• Improved breathability

Common criticisms

• Some users find them less comfortable for all-day wear
• Narrower fit may not suit all foot types

Price Comparison

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a price comparison table for the Cloud 5 and Cloudflow:

Model	MSRP	Typical Sale Price
On Cloud 5	$129.99	$99.99 – $119.99
On Cloudflow	$139.99	$109.99 – $129.99

Please note that prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

Also Read: On Cloud 5 vs Cloudstratus

Pros and Cons

Pros: On Cloud 5

• Versatile for everyday wear and light runs
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Suitable for walking and standing all day
• Stylish design for casual settings
• More color options available

Cons: On Cloud 5

• Less suitable for intense running sessions
• May lack performance features for serious runners
• Less responsive than Cloudflow for speed work
• Not ideal for long-distance running

Pros: Cloudflow

• Designed for performance running
• Highly responsive for speed work and races
• Better for longer distances and intense training
• Provides good energy return
• Offers more stability for serious runners

Cons: Cloudflow

• Less comfortable for all-day wear
• Not as versatile for casual use
• May feel too responsive for walking
• Typically more expensive
• Fewer color options compared to Cloud 5

Conclusion

After this comprehensive comparison, it’s clear that both the On Cloud 5 and the Cloudflow have their strengths. Your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose the Cloud 5 if

• You want a versatile shoe for both running and everyday wear
• Comfort is your top priority
• You prefer a softer, more cushioned ride
• You have wider feet or need a roomier toe box

Opt for the Cloudflow if

• You’re a performance-oriented runner looking for speed
• You prefer a more responsive, firmer feel
• You have narrow to average-width feet
• You’re willing to invest a bit more for enhanced running technology

Frequently Asked Questions