On Cloud vs Inov-8 Shoes

Are you trying to decide between On Cloud and Inov-8 shoes?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll compare these two awesome brands to help you find the perfect pair for your feet.

Whether you’re into running, hiking, or just looking for comfy everyday shoes, we’ll break down everything you need to know.

Let’s lace up and get started!

Quick Comparison: On Cloud vs Inov-8 Shoes

The main difference between On Cloud and Inov-8 shoes is their focus. On Cloud shoes are made for comfort and everyday running, with soft cushioning that feels like walking on clouds. Inov-8 shoes are built tough for trail running and outdoor adventures, with better grip for rough ground.

Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for On Cloud vs Inov-8 Shoes:

Feature	On Cloud	Inov-8
Best for	Road running, everyday wear	Trail running, outdoor sports
Cushioning	Soft, cloud-like	Firmer, more responsive
Weight	Very light (220-250g)	Light (250-300g)
Fit	Snug, narrower	Wider toe box
Durability	Good	Excellent
Grip	Good for roads	Excellent for trails
Breathability	Very good	Good
Style	Modern, sleek	Rugged, sporty
Price Range	$130 – $200+	$110 – $180+
Waterproofing	Limited options	Many waterproof choices

On Cloud and Inov-8 are both great shoe brands, but they’re made for different things. On Cloud shoes are super comfy and light, perfect for running on roads or wearing all day.

They feel soft and bouncy, like walking on clouds! Inov-8 shoes are tough and grippy, made for running on trails and doing outdoor sports. They let you feel the ground more and keep your feet safe on rough paths.

Also Read: On Cloud vs Timberland

What’s the Deal with On Cloud and Inov-8?

Before we dive into the details, let’s quickly introduce these two brands:

On Cloud: Swiss Precision

On Cloud is a Swiss company that’s been making waves in the running world since 2010. They’re known for their unique cushioning system that looks like little clouds on the bottom of the shoe. Pretty cool, right?

Inov-8: Born in the British Hills

Inov-8, on the other hand, comes from the rugged hills of northern England. They started in 2003 and focus on making shoes for trail running and tough outdoor activities. Their name even means “innovate,” which shows how much they care about coming up with new ideas.

Now that we know a bit about where these shoes come from, let’s see how they stack up against each other!

Durability: Built to Last?

When you’re buying shoes, you want them to last, right? Let’s see how On Cloud and Inov-8 hold up over time.

On Cloud: Cloud-like Toughness

On Cloud shoes are pretty tough cookies. They use high-quality materials that can take a beating, whether you’re pounding the pavement or hitting the trails. The special rubber on the bottom, called CloudTec, is designed to last a long time without wearing down too quickly.

Inov-8: Ready for Anything

Inov-8 shoes are built for rough and tumble adventures. They use strong materials like Kevlar (yep, the same stuff used in bulletproof vests!) in some of their shoes. This means they can handle rocky trails and muddy paths without falling apart.

Brand	Durability Rating	Best For
On Cloud	8/10	Road running, everyday
Inov-8	9/10	Trail running, outdoors

Breathing Room: Let Those Feet Breathe!

Nobody likes sweaty, stinky feet. That’s why it’s important for shoes to let air flow through. Here’s how our contenders do in the breathability department:

On Cloud: Light and Airy

On Cloud shoes are like a breath of fresh air for your feet. They use lightweight mesh materials that let air flow in and out easily. This helps keep your feet cool and dry, even on hot days or during long runs.

Inov-8: Balancing Act

Inov-8 shoes need to be tough for trails, but they also know your feet need to breathe. They use breathable materials in the upper part of the shoe, but sometimes the extra protection for rough terrain can make them a bit less airy than On Cloud.

Cushioning: Soft Steps or Firm Footing?

The way a shoe cushions your feet can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel. Let’s see how On Cloud and Inov-8 approach cushioning:

On Cloud: Walking on Clouds

As you might guess from the name, On Cloud is all about that cushy feel. Their CloudTec system uses hollow pods on the bottom of the shoe that compress when you step down and spring back when you lift your foot. It’s like having tiny trampolines under your feet!

Inov-8: Feel the Ground

Inov-8 takes a different approach. They believe in what they call “natural running,” which means letting your feet feel the ground more. Their cushioning is usually firmer, giving you better control and stability on uneven surfaces.

Brand	Cushioning Style	Feel
On Cloud	Soft and bouncy	Like walking on clouds
Inov-8	Firm and responsive	Connected to the ground

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Match

Getting the right fit is super important. A shoe that’s too tight or too loose can cause all sorts of problems. Here’s how On Cloud and Inov-8 handle fit:

On Cloud: Snug and Secure

On Cloud shoes are known for having a snug fit that hugs your foot. They often have a narrower shape, especially in the heel and midfoot. This can be great if you have narrow or average-width feet, but might feel tight if you have wider feet.

Inov-8: Room to Move

Inov-8 shoes often have a wider toe box, which means more room for your toes to spread out. This can be really comfortable, especially on long runs or hikes. They also offer different width options in some of their shoes, so you can find the perfect fit for your foot shape.

Stability: Keeping You on Your Feet

Whether you’re running on a smooth track or a bumpy trail, you want shoes that’ll help you stay upright. Let’s look at how stable these shoes are:

On Cloud: City Slicker Stability

On Cloud shoes are designed with road running and everyday use in mind. They provide good stability for smooth surfaces and light trails. The CloudTec pods help distribute your weight evenly, which can help with balance.

Inov-8: Trail Tamer

Inov-8 really shines when it comes to stability on rough terrain. Their shoes often have features like deep lugs (those grippy bits on the bottom) and rock plates (to protect your feet from sharp rocks) that help you stay steady on uneven ground.

Also Read: On Cloud vs Converse

Comfort: Happy Feet, Happy You

At the end of the day, you want shoes that feel good on your feet. Here’s how On Cloud and Inov-8 measure up in the comfort department:

On Cloud: Plush and Cozy

On Cloud shoes are all about comfort. The soft cushioning and lightweight design make them feel great for all-day wear. Many people say it feels like wearing slippers!

Inov-8: Comfort with a Purpose

Inov-8 shoes are comfortable in their own way. They might not feel as plush as On Cloud, but they’re designed to keep your feet comfy during tough activities. The firmer feel can actually be more comfortable for some people, especially on long adventures.

Brand	Comfort Level	Best For
On Cloud	Very High	Everyday wear, long walks
Inov-8	High	Active outdoor pursuits

Quality: Built to Impress

When you’re spending your hard-earned money on shoes, you want to know they’re well-made. Let’s check out the quality of On Cloud and Inov-8:

On Cloud: Swiss Precision

On Cloud brings that famous Swiss attention to detail to their shoes. They use high-quality materials and have strict quality control. This means you’re likely to get a well-made shoe that looks and feels premium.

Inov-8: Tough as Nails

Inov-8 focuses on creating shoes that can stand up to harsh conditions. They use durable materials and construction techniques that are designed to last. While they might not have the same luxury feel as On Cloud, they’re built to take a beating.

Style: Looking Good on the Move

We all want shoes that perform well AND look cool. Here’s how On Cloud and Inov-8 stack up in the style department:

On Cloud: Sleek and Modern

On Cloud shoes have a distinct look with their unique sole design. They come in lots of colors and have a modern, streamlined appearance that works well for both athletic and casual wear. Many people love how they look with jeans as well as workout clothes.

Inov-8: Function First, but Still Funky

Inov-8 puts performance first, but that doesn’t mean their shoes are boring to look at. They often have bold color choices and a rugged, capable appearance. While they might not be as fashionable for everyday wear as On Cloud, they definitely look cool out on the trails.

Size Matters: Finding the Right Fit

Getting the right size is crucial for comfortable shoes. Here’s what you need to know about sizing for On Cloud and Inov-8:

On Cloud: True to Size

Most On Cloud shoes fit true to size, which means you can usually order your normal shoe size. However, because they tend to be a bit narrow, some people with wider feet might want to go up half a size.

Inov-8: Size Up for Comfort

Inov-8 shoes often run a bit small, especially in the toe box. Many people find they need to go up half a size or even a full size from their usual. It’s a good idea to try them on or check the size guide carefully before buying.

Material World: What Are These Shoes Made Of?

The materials used in a shoe can affect everything from comfort to durability. Let’s see what On Cloud and Inov-8 use to make their shoes:

On Cloud: High-Tech Fabrics

On Cloud uses a mix of synthetic materials designed for performance. This includes lightweight meshes for breathability, and special blends of foam and rubber for the CloudTec soles. They also use some recycled materials in some of their shoes, which is great for the environment.

Inov-8: Tough Stuff

Inov-8 chooses materials that can stand up to rough conditions. This includes strong mesh uppers, rubber compounds for grip, and sometimes even Kevlar for extra durability. They also use materials like Gore-Tex in some shoes to make them waterproof.

Also Read: On Cloud vs Vibram

Weight: Light as a Feather or Solid as a Rock?

The weight of your shoes can make a big difference in how they feel, especially if you’re running long distances. Here’s how our two brands compare:

On Cloud: Floating on Air

On Cloud shoes are known for being super lightweight. Most of their shoes weigh less than 250 grams (that’s about as much as a hamster!). This makes them feel great for long runs or all-day wear.

Inov-8: Light, but Ready for Action

Inov-8 shoes are also pretty light, but they’re usually a bit heavier than On Cloud. This is because they need to be tougher for trail running. Even so, most of their shoes are under 300 grams, which is still very light.

Brand	Average Weight	Feel
On Cloud	220-250g	Super light, bouncy
Inov-8	250-300g	Light, but solid

Flexibility: Bend It Like Beckham

Flexible shoes can help your feet move more naturally. Let’s see how bendy On Cloud and Inov-8 shoes are:

On Cloud: Go with the Flow

On Cloud shoes are pretty flexible, especially in the forefoot (that’s the front part of the shoe). This helps your foot bend naturally as you walk or run. The CloudTec pods also flex and adapt to your movements.

Inov-8: Flex When You Need It

Inov-8 shoes are designed to be flexible in the right places while still providing support. They often have a good balance between flexibility in the forefoot and stability in the heel and midfoot.

Water Resistance: Splish Splash

Sometimes you need shoes that can handle a little water. Here’s how our contenders do when things get wet:

On Cloud: Fair Weather Friends

Most On Cloud shoes aren’t designed to be waterproof. They’re great for dry conditions, but your feet might get wet if you step in a puddle. However, they do offer some waterproof models if you need them.

Inov-8: Ready for Rain

Many Inov-8 shoes are designed with wet conditions in mind. They offer waterproof options using materials like Gore-Tex, which keeps water out while still letting your feet breathe.

Sole Searching: What’s on the Bottom?

The sole of the shoe is super important for grip and comfort. Let’s take a look at what On Cloud and Inov-8 put on the bottom of their shoes:

On Cloud: Cloudy with a Chance of Comfort

On Cloud’s soles feature their unique CloudTec pods. These little cloud-shaped elements compress when you step down and spring back when you lift your foot. They’re designed to give you cushioning and energy return (that’s the springy feeling that helps push you forward).

Inov-8: Grip It and Rip It

Inov-8 focuses on creating soles with amazing grip. They use special rubber compounds and designs with deep lugs (those sticky-out bits) that can grip all sorts of surfaces. This is great for trail running or any activity where you need sure footing.

User Reviews: What Do Other People Think?

It’s always good to hear what other people have to say about shoes before you buy them. Here’s a quick look at how On Cloud and Inov-8 shoes are rated by users:

Brand	Overall Rating	Comfort	Durability	Performance
On Cloud	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	5/5	4/5	4.5/5
Inov-8	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	4/5	5/5	5/5

As you can see, both brands are highly rated, but for slightly different reasons. On Cloud wins on comfort, while Inov-8 edges ahead on durability and performance.

Price: What’s It Gonna Cost Me?

Of course, we can’t forget about price. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect to pay for these shoes:

Brand	Entry-Level Price	Mid-Range Price	High-End Price
On Cloud	$130	$150-$180	$200+
Inov-8	$110	$130-$160	$180+

Remember, prices can vary depending on the specific model and where you buy them. It’s always a good idea to shop around for the best deal!

Pros and Cons

Brand	Pros ✅	Cons ⚠️
On Cloud	Very comfy to wear	Not great for trail running
	Super light shoes	Can be a bit expensive
	Look cool and modern	Might feel tight if you have wide feet
	Good for everyday use	Not many waterproof options
	Nice and soft cushioning	Might wear out faster on rough ground
Inov-8	Great grip on trails	Not as comfy for everyday wear
	Very tough and long-lasting	Might feel too firm for some people
	Good for outdoor adventures	Not as stylish for casual outfits
	Many waterproof choices	Can be heavy for road running
	Feet can move freely in toe area	Might need to buy a bigger size than usual

Conclusion

After all this comparing, you might be wondering which shoe comes out on top. The truth is, there’s no clear winner – it all depends on what you need!

If you’re looking for a super comfy shoe for everyday wear or road running, On Cloud might be your best bet. They’re lightweight, stylish, and have that unique cloud-like feel.

But if you’re more into trail running or need a shoe that can handle tough outdoor activities, Inov-8 could be the way to go. They’re durable, have great grip, and are built to handle whatever nature throws at you.

In the end, the best shoe is the one that fits your feet and your needs. Why not try on both and see which one feels like it was made for you?

Frequently Asked Questions