Are you looking for the perfect running shoe? You’re not alone! Choosing between On Cloud and Brooks Ghost can be tricky.
Don’t worry, though – we’re here to help you make the best choice for your feet.
Let’s dive into the world of these popular running shoes and figure out which one might be your perfect fit.
Contents
- 1 On Cloud vs Brooks Ghost Shoes
- 2 Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity
- 3 Understanding On Cloud and Brooks Ghost
- 4 Durability: Built to Last?
- 5 Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool
- 6 Cushioning: The Comfort Factor
- 7 Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match
- 8 Stability: Keeping You Balanced
- 9 Comfort: The Ultimate Test
- 10 Quality: Built to Perform
- 11 Style: Looking Good on the Run
- 12 Size and Fit: Getting It Right
- 13 Materials: What Are They Made Of?
- 14 Weight: Light on Your Feet?
- 15 Flexibility: Bend and Flex
- 16 Water Resistance: Keeping Dry
- 17 Sole: The Foundation of Your Run
- 18 User Reviews and Ratings
- 19 Price Comparison
- 20 Pros and Cons
On Cloud vs Brooks Ghost Shoes
The main difference between On Cloud and Brooks Ghost shoes is their cushioning systems. On Cloud uses unique cloud-like pods that compress and spring back, giving a bouncy feel. Brooks Ghost has a more traditional cushioning that’s soft and smooth. Both aim for comfort but feel different when running.
On Cloud is lighter and more stylish, while Brooks Ghost offers more width options and consistent comfort.
Here’s a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Brooks Ghost shoes:
| Feature | On Cloud | Brooks Ghost |
| Cushioning | Cloud pods, bouncy feel | DNA LOFT, soft and smooth |
| Weight | Lighter (8-10 oz) | Slightly heavier (10-11 oz) |
| Fit | Snug heel, roomy toe box | Accommodating, multiple widths |
| Style | Modern, unique look | Traditional running shoe appearance |
| Durability | Good, engineered mesh upper | Very good, sturdy materials |
| Breathability | Excellent, lightweight upper | Good, engineered mesh upper |
| Flexibility | Very flexible, especially in forefoot | Good balance of flex and support |
| Price Range | $130 – $180 | $130 – $160 |
| Best For | Short to medium runs, speed work | Long distances, everyday comfort |
| User Rating | 4.5/5 stars | 4.7/5 stars |
Summary: On Cloud and Brooks Ghost are both great running shoes, but they suit different needs. On Cloud is lighter, more stylish, and offers a unique bouncy feel. It’s great for shorter runs and people who like a responsive shoe.
Brooks Ghost is more traditional, with soft cushioning that works well for long distances. It offers more width options and is known for its consistent comfort. Your choice depends on your running style and what feels best on your feet.
Also Read: On Cloud vs CloudNova Flux
Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity
For Running
On Cloud
Designed for versatile, everyday runs. It offers a unique, bouncy feel with its Cloud pod cushioning. Lightweight and responsive, it’s great for shorter to medium distances. The distinctive sole provides good energy return, making it feel fast and fun.
Brooks Ghost
Built for comfortable, long-distance running. It features soft DNA LOFT cushioning that provides a smooth, plush ride. Ideal for runners who prioritize consistent comfort over many miles. Its balanced cushioning suits various running styles and paces.
For Walking
On Cloud
Excellent for casual walks and everyday wear. The lightweight design and cloud-like cushioning make it comfortable for strolls around town or running errands. Its stylish appearance also makes it suitable for various casual settings.
Brooks Ghost
While designed for running, it’s very comfortable for walking too. The soft cushioning provides all-day comfort for leisurely walks or long days on your feet. It offers a more traditional athletic shoe look compared to On Cloud.
For Standing All Day
On Cloud
Well-suited for long periods of standing in various environments. The unique cushioning system helps reduce fatigue, and its lightweight nature doesn’t weigh you down. It has a sleek appearance that can fit into more formal settings.
Brooks Ghost
Provides excellent support and cushioning for all-day wear. The plush DNA LOFT cushioning helps absorb impact and reduce foot fatigue when standing for extended periods. It may look more like a typical running shoe, which might not suit all work environments.
Understanding On Cloud and Brooks Ghost
Both On Cloud and Brooks Ghost are well-known names in the running world. On Cloud, a Swiss company, burst onto the scene with their unique cloud-like cushioning. Brooks, an American brand, has been making quality running shoes for over 100 years. Their Ghost line is a fan favorite for its comfort and reliability.
What Makes These Shoes Special?
On Cloud shoes stand out with their distinctive sole design. It looks like little clouds that compress when you run, giving you a bouncy feel. Brooks Ghost, on the other hand, is known for its soft cushioning and smooth ride. Both aim to make your runs more comfortable, but they do it in different ways.
Durability: Built to Last?
On Cloud Durability
On Cloud shoes are made with high-quality materials. The upper part is often made of engineered mesh, which is strong and long-lasting. The unique cloud pods on the sole are designed to withstand many miles of running.
Brooks Ghost Durability
Brooks Ghost shoes are known for their durability. They use sturdy materials in the upper and a tough rubber outsole. Many runners report their Ghost shoes lasting for 400-500 miles or more.
Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool
On Cloud Breathability
On Cloud shoes usually have a lightweight, breathable upper. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even on long runs or hot days.
Brooks Ghost Breathability
Brooks Ghost also offers good breathability. The engineered mesh upper allows air to flow, helping to prevent sweaty, uncomfortable feet.
Cushioning: The Comfort Factor
On Cloud Cushioning
On Cloud’s unique selling point is its CloudTec cushioning. These “cloud” elements on the sole compress when you land and spring back when you take off. This gives a distinctive feel that many runners love.
Brooks Ghost Cushioning
Brooks Ghost uses DNA LOFT cushioning, which is soft and responsive. It provides a plush feel underfoot without being too squishy. Many runners describe it as a “just right” level of cushioning.
Also Read: On Cloud vs CloudNova
Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match
On Cloud Fit
On Cloud shoes often have a snug fit in the heel and midfoot, with a roomier toe box. They tend to work well for people with narrow to medium-width feet.
Brooks Ghost Fit
Brooks Ghost shoes are known for their accommodating fit. They come in multiple widths, making it easier to find the right fit for your foot shape.
Stability: Keeping You Balanced
On Cloud Stability
While not marketed as stability shoes, On Cloud models offer good stability for neutral runners. The cloud pods provide a stable base, especially during straight-ahead running.
Brooks Ghost Stability
Brooks Ghost is a neutral shoe but offers some inherent stability. Its wide base and balanced cushioning help keep your foot aligned during your run.
Comfort: The Ultimate Test
On Cloud Comfort
Many runners rave about the comfort of On Cloud shoes. The unique cushioning system provides a responsive, bouncy feel that can make running feel easier and more fun.
Brooks Ghost Comfort
Brooks Ghost is often praised for its out-of-the-box comfort. The plush cushioning and accommodating fit make it a go-to shoe for many runners seeking comfort.
Quality: Built to Perform
On Cloud Quality
On Cloud puts a lot of emphasis on quality materials and construction. Their shoes often have a premium feel and look.
Brooks Ghost Quality
Brooks has a long history of producing quality running shoes, and the Ghost line is no exception. These shoes are well-made and designed to withstand regular use.
Style: Looking Good on the Run
On Cloud Style
On Cloud shoes have a distinctive, modern look. Their unique sole design and often sleek upper make them stand out. They’re popular not just for running but as casual wear too.
Brooks Ghost Style
Brooks Ghost has a more traditional running shoe look. While not as flashy as some brands, they offer clean designs and come in a variety of color options to suit different tastes.
Size and Fit: Getting It Right
On Cloud Sizing
On Cloud shoes generally run true to size, but some runners find they need to go up a half size, especially if they have wider feet.
Brooks Ghost Sizing
Brooks Ghost shoes are known for their consistent sizing. They offer multiple width options, making it easier to find the right fit.
Materials: What Are They Made Of?
On Cloud Materials
On Cloud uses high-quality synthetic materials in their uppers, often including engineered mesh for breathability. The distinctive sole is made from a durable rubber compound.
Brooks Ghost Materials
Brooks Ghost shoes feature engineered mesh uppers, DNA LOFT cushioning in the midsole, and rubber outsoles. They focus on using materials that balance comfort, durability, and performance.
Weight: Light on Your Feet?
On Cloud Weight
On Cloud shoes are generally lightweight, with most models weighing between 8-10 ounces for a men’s size 9.
Brooks Ghost Weight
Brooks Ghost shoes are slightly heavier, typically weighing around 10-11 ounces for a men’s size 9. However, many runners find them to feel lighter on foot than their actual weight suggests.
Also Read: On Cloud vs Cloudflow
Flexibility: Bend and Flex
On Cloud Flexibility
The cloud pods on On Cloud shoes allow for good flexibility, especially in the forefoot. This can contribute to a natural running feel.
Brooks Ghost Flexibility
Brooks Ghost shoes offer a good balance of flexibility and support. The shoes bend easily at the toe, allowing for a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Water Resistance: Keeping Dry
On Cloud Water Resistance
Most On Cloud shoes are not specifically designed to be water-resistant. However, some models offer water-repellent uppers for light rain protection.
Brooks Ghost Water Resistance
Like On Cloud, standard Brooks Ghost models are not water-resistant. They do offer some water-repellent models in their trail running lines.
Sole: The Foundation of Your Run
On Cloud Sole
The On Cloud sole is the star of the show. It features distinctive cloud pods that compress on impact and provide energy return as you push off.
Brooks Ghost Sole
The Brooks Ghost sole uses a combination of their DNA LOFT cushioning and a segmented crash pad. This design aims to provide smooth transitions and adapt to your individual stride.
User Reviews and Ratings
Let’s take a look at what other runners are saying about these shoes:
| Shoe Model | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
| On Cloud | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 2,500+ reviews |
| Brooks Ghost | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5,000+ reviews |
On Cloud User Comments
“Love the unique feel of these shoes. They make me feel faster!” “Great for both running and everyday wear. Stylish too!” “Took a little getting used to, but now I won’t run in anything else.”
Brooks Ghost User Comments
“So comfortable right out of the box. No break-in period needed.” “Perfect for my long runs. My feet feel great even after 15 miles.” “Appreciate the width options. Finally found a shoe that fits perfectly.”
Price Comparison
Here’s a quick look at the typical price ranges for these shoes:
| Shoe Model | Price Range |
| On Cloud | $130 – $180 |
| Brooks Ghost | $130 – $160 |
Remember, prices can vary depending on the specific model and where you buy them.
Also Read: On Cloud vs Cloud X
Pros and Cons
Pros: On Cloud Shoes
- Lightweight
- Unique, bouncy cushioning
- Stylish design
- Good for short to medium runs
Cons: On Cloud Shoes
- May not suit very long distances
- Limited width options
- Can take time to get used to
Pros: Brooks Ghost Shoes
- Consistent, soft cushioning
- Multiple width options
- Great for long distances
- Durable
Cons: Brooks Ghost Shoes
- Slightly heavier
- Less unique design
- May feel too soft for some runners
In conclusion: Both On Cloud and Brooks Ghost are excellent running shoes, but they cater to slightly different preferences.
Choose On Cloud if:
- You like a unique, bouncy feel when running
- You prefer a lightweight shoe
- Style is important to you, even in your running shoes
- You have narrow to medium-width feet
Choose Brooks Ghost if:
- You want a traditional, plush cushioning feel
- You need multiple width options
- Long-distance comfort is your top priority
- You prefer a shoe with a proven track record
Are On Cloud shoes good for long distances?
While many runners use them for long distances, they’re often preferred for shorter to medium-length runs. Some runners find the unique cushioning less suitable for very long distances.
Can Brooks Ghost shoes be used for everyday wear?
Absolutely! While designed for running, many people find Brooks Ghost comfortable for all-day wear, especially if they’re on their feet a lot.
Do On Cloud shoes run true to size?
Generally yes, but some runners find they need to go up a half size, especially those with wider feet.
Are Brooks Ghost shoes good for beginners?
Yes, Brooks Ghost shoes are often recommended for beginner runners due to their comfort and versatility.
Can I use On Cloud shoes for other sports besides running?
On Cloud shoes are primarily designed for running, but many people find them suitable for general fitness activities and casual wear.
