On Cloud vs Altra Shoes

Are you in the market for a new pair of running shoes? If so, you’ve probably come across two popular brands: On Cloud and Altra.

Both offer innovative designs and promise superior performance, but which one is right for you?

On Cloud vs Altra Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud and Altra shoes is their cushioning. On Cloud uses CloudTec pods for a bouncy feel, while Altra has a flat, wide toe box and zero-drop design.

On Cloud is lighter and more responsive, good for road running. Altra is better for trail running and people with wide feet.

Here’s a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Altra shoes:

Feature	On Cloud	Altra
Cushioning	CloudTec pods	EVA foam
Drop	6-8mm	Zero-drop (0mm)
Toe box	Regular	Wide and foot-shaped
Weight	Lighter	Heavier
Best use	Road running, daily wear	Trail running, wide feet
Price range	$130-$200	$110-$160
Durability	Moderate	High
Styles	Sleek, modern	Functional, practical

Summary: On Cloud and Altra shoes are different in many ways. On Cloud is lighter and bouncier, good for road running and everyday use.

Altra has a wider toe box and zero drop, making it better for trail running and people with wide feet. Choose based on your foot shape and where you’ll use them most.

Also Read: On Cloud vs ASICS Kayano

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

On Cloud Shoes

Made for everyday runs. They’re light and comfy, good for short to medium runs. They give you a bouncy feel and work well on roads.

Altra Shoes

Great for trail running. They have a wide toe box and zero drop, which means your heel and toes are at the same level. This can help with your running form.

For Walking

On Cloud Shoes

Nice for casual walks. They’re light and comfy, making them good for everyday use. They look cool too, so you can wear them anywhere.

Altra Shoes

Good for longer walks, especially if you have wide feet. The wide toe box gives your toes room to spread out. This can be comfy for long walks.

For Standing All Day

On Cloud Shoes

Good for standing in offices or stores. They’re comfy without looking too sporty. Your feet won’t get tired as fast.

Altra Shoes

Great if you stand on hard floors all day. The wide base and cushioning help your feet feel good. But they might look more like running shoes than On Cloud.

Brand Overview

On Cloud: Swiss Engineering Meets Running Innovation

On Cloud, a Swiss company founded in 2010, has quickly become a favorite among runners and fitness enthusiasts. Known for their unique CloudTec® cushioning system, On Cloud shoes promise a soft landing and explosive take-off.

Altra: Zero Drop Pioneers

Altra, founded in 2009 in Utah, USA, revolutionized the running shoe industry with their Zero Drop™ platform and FootShape™ toe box. These features aim to promote natural foot positioning and comfort during runs.

Durability

On Cloud Durability

On Cloud shoes are built to last, featuring high-quality materials and construction. The brand uses durable rubber compounds for their outsoles, ensuring longevity even with frequent use.

Altra Durability

Altra shoes also prioritize durability, with reinforced high-wear areas and resilient outsole materials. However, some users report that the Zero Drop design may lead to faster wear in certain areas of the shoe.

Breathability

On Cloud Breathability

On Cloud shoes typically feature lightweight, breathable mesh uppers that allow for excellent airflow. This design helps keep your feet cool and dry during long runs or intense workouts.

Altra Breathability

Altra also emphasizes breathability in their shoe designs. Many models incorporate quick-drying mesh and strategically placed ventilation zones to enhance air circulation.

Cushioning

On Cloud Cushioning

The standout feature of On Cloud shoes is their CloudTec® cushioning system. This innovative design uses hollow “cloud” elements in the sole that compress upon impact and provide a responsive, energetic feel during push-off.

Altra Cushioning

Altra takes a different approach to cushioning with their Balanced Cushioning™ technology. This design places your heel and forefoot at an equal distance from the ground, promoting a more natural stride and potentially reducing impact on joints.

Shoe Fit

On Cloud Fit

On Cloud shoes generally offer a snug, performance-oriented fit. They tend to have a narrower midfoot and heel area, with a slightly wider toe box for comfort.

Altra Fit

Altra’s FootShape™ toe box is a defining feature of their fit. This design allows your toes to spread naturally, potentially improving balance and comfort. Altra shoes also tend to have a wider overall fit compared to On Cloud.

Stability

On Cloud Stability

While not marketed specifically as stability shoes, many On Cloud models offer good support through their structured uppers and CloudTec® elements. Some models feature additional stabilizing features for overpronators.

Altra Stability

Altra’s Zero Drop™ platform and wide base provide inherent stability. Some Altra models also include GuideRail™ technology for additional support, particularly beneficial for runners who need extra stability.

Comfort

On Cloud Comfort

On Cloud shoes are praised for their out-of-the-box comfort. The CloudTec® cushioning provides a plush feel, while the snug fit ensures minimal internal movement.

Altra Comfort

Altra shoes focus on natural foot comfort. The wide toe box and Zero Drop™ platform allow your feet to sit in a more natural position, which many users find incredibly comfortable, especially on long runs.

Also Read: On Cloud vs Brooks for Walking

Quality

On Cloud Quality

On Cloud is known for its high-quality construction and attention to detail. The brand uses premium materials and innovative technologies to ensure durability and performance.

Altra Quality

Altra also prioritizes quality in their shoe designs. While their approach differs from On Cloud, Altra shoes are built to withstand the demands of serious runners and offer consistent performance.

Style

On Cloud Style

On Cloud shoes often feature sleek, modern designs that appeal to both athletes and casual wearers. Their distinct cloud-like soles make them easily recognizable.

Altra Style

Altra shoes tend to have a more traditional running shoe appearance, with some models featuring bold color options. The wider toe box gives them a distinct look compared to many other brands.

Size and Fit

On Cloud Sizing

On Cloud shoes generally run true to size, though some users find them slightly narrow in the midfoot. It’s recommended to try them on or consult the brand’s size guide before purchasing.

Altra Sizing

Altra shoes are known for their generous fit, particularly in the toe box. Some users find they need to size down half a size compared to their usual running shoe size.

Materials

On Cloud Materials

On Cloud utilizes a mix of high-performance materials, including engineered mesh, synthetic overlays, and their proprietary Helion™ superfoam for cushioning.

Altra Materials

Altra shoes feature a range of materials, including quick-drying air mesh, durable rubber compounds, and their own cushioning foams like Ego™ and Quantic™.

Weight

On Cloud Weight

On Cloud shoes are generally lightweight, with most models ranging from 6.5 to 10 ounces (184 to 283 grams) depending on size and specific design.

Altra Weight

Altra shoes vary in weight, but many models fall within a similar range to On Cloud. The brand’s focus on natural running doesn’t necessarily translate to ultralight shoes.

Flexibility

On Cloud Flexibility

The segmented CloudTec® sole of On Cloud shoes allows for good flexibility, particularly in the forefoot. This design promotes natural foot movement during your stride.

Altra Flexibility

Altra shoes are designed to allow your foot to flex and move naturally. The Zero Drop™ platform and wide toe box contribute to overall flexibility, though some models may feel stiffer than others depending on their intended use.

Water Resistance

On Cloud Water Resistance

While not all On Cloud shoes are water-resistant, the brand does offer some models with weather-protection features, such as the Cloudflyer Waterproof.

Altra Water Resistance

Altra also provides water-resistant options in their lineup, particularly in their trail running models. However, most of their road running shoes are not specifically designed for water resistance.

Also Read: On Cloud Ultra vs Hoka Speedgoat 5

Sole Design

On Cloud Sole

The distinctive CloudTec® sole is the hallmark of On Cloud shoes. These hollow, cloud-like elements compress upon impact and then lock firm for a powerful push-off.

Altra Sole

Altra soles feature their FootPod™ technology, which maps the bones and tendons of the human foot to encourage natural flexing. The Zero Drop™ platform is consistent across all their models.

User Reviews and Rating

Here’s a table showcasing user reviews and pricing for popular On Cloud and Altra shoe models:

Shoe Model	User Rating
On Cloud Cloudmonster	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Altra Lone Peak 6	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
On Cloud X	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Altra Escalante 3	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
On Cloud Waterproof	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Altra Torin 5	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price Comparison

Model	On Cloud	Altra
Entry-level Road	$130 – $150	$110 – $130
Premium Road	$160 – $200	$140 – $180
Trail Running	$150 – $200	$130 – $170

Pros and Cons

Pros: On Cloud

• Light and comfy
• Bouncy feel
• Good for roads
• Looks cool

Cons: On Cloud

• Can be pricey
• Not great for trails
• Might not fit wide feet

Pros: Altra

• Wide toe box
• Good for trails
• Fits wide feet well
• Zero drop helps posture

Cons: Altra

• Heavier than On Cloud
• Might feel flat to some
• Not as stylish
• Can take time to get used to

In conclusion: Both On Cloud and Altra offer unique technologies and designs that cater to different running preferences.

On Cloud shoes excel in responsive cushioning and sleek design, making them a great choice for runners who prioritize energy return and style. Altra, with its Zero Drop™ platform and wide toe box, appeals to those seeking a more natural running experience and foot-shaped fit.