On Cloud vs Hoka Shoes

Comparing On Cloud vs Hoka running shoes is one of the more challenging comparisons I’ve done because the shoes feel, fit and function so differently. Yet, the one thing they have in common is how unique and recognizable both are! Here we will look at specific comparable models and what sets the brands apart.

I’ve run in many models from both brands and hope this breakdown will help you decide which one to slip on to your foot!

We’ve got details on construction, fit, feel, fabric and more. But ultimately it’s really the feel on your foot that’s going to make the decision.

You’ll see I have tested a lot of these shoes and like both brands, but have some bias based on what feels good to me! So I definitely went in search of other opinions to round it out.

Hoka Vs On Cloud Key Differences

On Cloud and Hoka offer similar features and models for all kinds of runners, from the new runner to Ultramarathoner to the flat-footed or high-arched. Both really do offer some of the best running shoes to fit your specific feet and needs.

Hoka One One first became popular with Ultrarunners and has since moved in the to main stream of running. I myself have run in a number of models and previously compared Hoka styles.

It feels like On took hold in the triathlon market first and then quickly moved mainstream running.

I break down the differences in more detail below, but here’s a quick overview:

Hoka Running Shoes

• Maximal shoe – has the larger sole for stability and smooth ride
• Usually more cushioned
• Some state they run narrow, but compared to other brands like Nike I disagree
• Does have some casual shoes, gym shoes and recovery sandals

If you’re just looking for a comparison of HOKA models >>

On Running Shoes

• More narrow fit in older styles, some newer styles have a wider forefoot
• Recognizable sole with the pods
• Claims their CloudTec sole reduces muscle fatigue and lowers HR
• Focus on improving speed off ground and reducing impact
• Mostly running shoes, but has incredible running jackets, pants, etc as well

If you’re looking for just a detailed look a On, checkout this full On Cloud Review >>

I’ve worn both brands and will add some personal thoughts, along with links to detailed reviews. And remember it’s important to rotate running shoes, so you might want a shoe from multiple different brands.

ON Running vs HOKA ONE ONE Feature Comparison

Both brands are newer to the market compared to many, but have quickly gained avid fans.

Both offer options to aid with comfort, support, stability, and cushion. Where they differ most are in the feel of the shoe while running.

The following breaks down each shoe based on the components buyers need to consider when purchasing a running shoe.

It’s gonna get a little TECHY…so you can just skip on down to the specific model comparison if you want, but personally if I’m shelling out $150 for shoes, I kinda want to know why.

Durability 

The lifespan of shoes from both companies is fairly comparable.

• On recommends swapping out for new shoes every 310 to 465 miles, a bit more specific than most brands.
• HOKA is often reported to last longer. I don’t know if this is more trail runners and thus less hard surfaces which extends the life of the shoe or simply their maximal design.

Determining when to replace running shoes, of course, all depends on your gait, weight, and whether you run mostly on trail or road.

Shoe Fit

Cloud shoes are a little hard for me to describe because I think they’ve changed over the last few years and are different with each model that I’ve tested.

While the length runs true to size, I would say some are a narrow fit and some have a little more room in the toebox.

I would not consider any of them a wide shoe.

HOKA shoes run true to size from my testing. Some models are definitely a little more narrow than others, as with most brands. In fact, they have been working on increasing the toebox in newer models and I would say it’s more comfortable for a wider foot and with more toe room than most On shoes.

They also have a shoe finder quiz to help you get in to the right model.

Cushioning

On uses CloudTec technology which is entirely what makes their shoe look and feel different. They have little open pockets on the bottom of the shoe that compress with each step to absorb impact and in their words feel like a cloud.

I would say they are cushioned, but not plush.

HOKA likes to say they provide marshmallow softness. More technically PROFLY.

I’m going to admit that I was really skeptical of HOKA at the start because I assumed all that cushion would make it heavy. It turned out I was wrong and instead have been running in them since of their very first shoes.

• They have 3 levels of cushion, which is important because plush isn’t what you want on all runs
• Cushion that provides both a good landing and plenty of stability for push off
• Hubble Heel – their newest shoes with a longer heel which is supposed to improve heel to toe transition

Stability

On goes against the grain of most stability shoes and works with your foots motion rather than trying to stop it. I appreciate this as it’s one of the many reasons I steer folks away from most stability shoes.

Instead, they changed the shape and location of some of the pieces under the arch of the foot which allows all of your muscles to continue firing, but slows that inward roll.

HOKA was designed entirely with stability in mind.

It was a core foundation of their shoes because it allows runners to move quicker with less risk of injury. This is why they created a wide stable platform.

In fact, they call their heel system the “bucket seat”, like the seat of a race car. It cushions the heel and foot without posts or guide rails — this means the midsole remains more cushioned.

Overview of heel to toe drop and type of cushion in most shoe brands.

Affordability

The prices between the two brands are fairly comparable.

• On prices range between $130 to $170
• HOKA’s start at a at $120 to $250.

The most popular models for On are around $150 and for HOKA also around $150.

Specialty items with more features (like carbon plates) will increase price.

You’ll notice that every brand offers a range and this is indeed due to a difference in technology and where they sell the shoe. They know that the big box store can sell the shoe with less in it, while the local running store needs to be best for dedicated runners.

HOKA Vs On Cloud Running Shoes

Now that you know more about each brand, let’s look at their top models in each of the main categories. There’s no winner declared here because all are great shoes, it’s just about which one is best for your foot.

With each of these, they are the top models so numbers are constantly changing as they make a little upgrade, but On doesn’t keep adding numbers to the shoe name like most brands doe.

Stability Running Shoe

👉On Cloudflyer

As noted above both On and Altra do a good job of not trying to force the foot in to position, but rather providing a wider base that immediately provides stability. So it’s a  more natural feel that most stability running shoes.

It also has just that slight rocker effect, to help move you from heel to toe.

Considered a plush shoe, but as noted, their plush shoes are not in the same ballpark as Hoka plush…it’s still a firmer ride with the focus being on that spring off the ground.  I will say this is changing with other models that you’ll see me note below, so just know this a firmer ride due to the outsole.

Important to note this is a fairly high heel to toe drop and a heavier shoe than many. If you don’t really need a stability shoe, I like a lot of other On Cloud shoes better.

• 11 mm drop (this is a big drop for many)
• 9 oz women’s, 10.5 oz men’s
• $169

One of the ongoing issues I have with On shoes is this…rocks.

👉HOKA Gaviota 4

The Gaviota 4 is the highest level stability shoe offered by HOKA, right along side that plush cushioning feel from the Bondi! All of that combined does make it their heaviest shoe.

The Gaviota is a maximum cushioning running shoe that provides a smooth, cushioned ride with some stability for long distances. This shoe is best for runners who need extra cushioning for their feet, especially for those who suffer from joint pain or who are looking for a shoe that will help them to recover after a long race.

• 5mm drop
• 9.3oz women’s, 11.3oz men’s
• $170

Many have said they like this for an all day shoe as well because it’s providing that support and cushion to keep the feet and legs happy. Probably one of the shoes I recommend first for many looking to help with overpronating on long runs.

Neutral Running Shoe

👉On Cloudsurfer

I’ve run in a few of the earlier models of this shoe, but as their most popular shoe it’s one of the few that continues to get a number to note that it’s new and improved!

We are currently up to model 7. And this one is a game changer. I like it so much more than all previous versions.

This finally provides that soft landing for road running that I’ve always hoped from the name “cloud”.

I would look at this as a speed training and 6-8 mile training shoe, for the design focused on really springing off the ground. Then again I like really low profile, low cushion shoes like the Saucony Kinvara for long easy runs too…so you do you.

This one is designed with moderate cushion for those medium distance runs (5K to half marathon). In other words, it doesn’t have the extra padding or structure that we often like to see in a marathon shoe.

• 10 mm drop
• 7.8 oz. women’s, 8.6 oz men’s
•  $150
• See my new Cloudsurfer review >>

👉Hoka Mach 6

I know some are surprised not to see the Clifton here, but I really think the Mach is just a better shoe for so many.

When you’re ready to turn on the speed, the Mach is your HOKA of choice. It’s not a carbon plate shoe, instead it’s a super lightweight running shoe designed to spring off the ground and help you find that quick turnover.

Why it’s on the list though is it’s not just a speed shoe, it’s very much a great daily trainer.The Mach features a lightweight foam midsole that provides a quick, lively feel, while the meta-rocker design helps to encourage a more natural gait.

Cushioned Running Shoe

👉On Cloudmonster

I really enjoyed my first run in these shoes and was excited to take them out again. It’s no where near as firm as the other On shoes and has since become a consistent item in my running shoe rotation the last few years.

While the Hoka Bondi feels like you put your foot in a cloud. For On the cushion is more about the absorbing of impact, rather than what you might think of as traditional cushion. That’s not a bad thing, just different expectations.

This absolutely felt like the most cushioned On running shoe I’ve tested, until the Cloudeclipse, but this is still a better every day running shoe if you’re only getting one pair.

It’s a good daily easy run trainer. I’ve put in a lot of miles on it and gifted my husband a pair because I thought it was that sweet spot of cushion and support for his flat feet.

And yes, please note this is the original, not the Cloudmonster 2!! We have reviewed it as well and the fit was just large and sloppy.

• 6 mm drop
•  8.11 oz women’s, 10.76 oz men’s
•  $170

See my full review of the On Cloudmonster >>

If you are looking for a max cushion option, then checkout the On Cloudeclipse. We like the rotate between both of these models when doing a lot of mileage!

👉Hoka Skyflow

I am super excited to be updating this article with the Skyflow to replace the Bondi. While it was a good shoe, it was so plush that I found some runners ended up with back pain because they simply sink in to the show and lose good form.

The Skyflow will not have that issue and you’ll be getting an even better quality foam! In fact, you’re getting the same supercritical foam that we see in top end shoes. That means cushion with a little bounce.

Due to the weight, this is definitely not a fast tempo run kind of shoe and yet with the same cushion as the Mach, it’s 100% a shoe that I could a lot of runners using on race day for the half or marathon. It just feels good underfoot and has enough room in the shoe for your foot to swell a bit on those long runs.

• Heel drop: 5 mm (41 mm stack on men’s)
• Weight: 8.6 oz women’s, 10 oz men’s
• Available in wide
• Available in the most sizes and colors on HOKA.com for $160
• Read my review of the Hoka Skyflow>>

Carbon Fiber Plate Shoes

Are they cool new technology, yes.

Do they last as long as your other shoes, nope.

So if you want to test these out use them for speed work and then race day!

👉Hoka Cielo X1

I am a huge fan of HOKA, but did not like the Hoka Carbon X and the RocketX2 ripped my heel apart, so of course I was nervous….but then YESSS this was a winning shoe.

HI guess the first thing I should say, is wow. This shoe underfoot feels really speedy and the energy savings were apparent to me in the first mile repeat. I would say this is definitely a marathon distance shoe, less of a 5K race shoe, but again that depends on the runner.

Another new design in the Cielo X1 is the winged carbon fiber plate. The goal of this design is to provide a little bit more stability to the shoe and further assist with that forward propulsion.

The carbon fiber plate is actually nestled between two layers of PEBA foam – a more cushioned softer foam positioned above the plate and a sturdier variant below.

100%  I am excited to race in this shoe…perhaps my next half or marathon!

• 7 mm heel drop
• 9.3 oz Men’s 10, 7.4 oz women’s 8 (unisex shoe)
• $250
• See the complete HOKA Cielo X1 review

👉On Cloudboom Strike

After seeing Helen Obiri win Boston, a lot of runners stood up to take notice of what On was doing with carbon fiber. It’s a very different type of shoe than Nike and for a lot of runners, that’s a good thing.

This is a big stack height and slightly higher heel drop than many of the other super shoes on the market. Compared to the Nike Vaporfly 2 or 3, that are very narrow, it’s a 100% different fit and feeling.

This was a shoe we fell in love with immediately and are excited to see where it goes. While it’s absolutely considered a top end carbon plated racing shoe, a lot of runners are going to have fun with hitting some speed in it.

It feels incredibly light and bouncy!

• 4 mm heel drop
• 6.8 oz women’s and 7.7 oz men’s
• Carbon fiber neutral shoe
• Available in 2 colors
• Not available in wide
• Available at On Running for $280
• Detailed review of the Cloudboom Strike >>

Walking Shoes

I’ve often talked about the need to have different walking shoes than running shoes. However, some of my top recommendations come from these two brands and are indeed things you could run in!

Shoes that are ideal for standing around all day or walking have a little more stability and arch support.

👉Best for Standing at Work – On Cloud X 4

If you’re standing all day long you might want to consider wearing compression socks, along with finding great shoes.

The idea is something that will help you maintain good alignment so you don’t have hip, knee or back issues along with tired feet.

Street worthy style is part of their draw for many. But the real benefit comes from also feeling comfortable to wear all day long. The idea is that you could wear these to work or to workout, which means they are designed to absorb impact and keep your feet feeling good.

I have not worn this model personally! It’s one of the few not tested. But have asked a number of folks who tried it out for thoughts and many said it was the wear it everywhere shoe!

• Neutral shoe (not heavy on cushion)
• 6.7 mm heel drop
• 8.90 oz for women

👉Hoka Bondi

For the walking who wants to feel clouds under their feet, I give you the HOKA Bondi. In over 13 years of gear testing, I still believe this is the plushiest shoe that I’ve ever put on.

The upper is designed to be lightweight and breathable, while the outsole is engineered for maximum durability and grip. The Bondi is perfect for those who LOVE cushion and whose body will benefit from the added reduction of ground impact.

Sometimes it’s noted that a heavier walker may appreciate the additional cushion, but I think it’s more about what feels good to you. And if you have to stand on your feet all day long, the cushion really does help with those leg aches.

While this is not a stability shoe, you will hear people mention that it provides great stability. This goes back to the wider platform that we talked about at the beginning.

This shoe is MUCH MORE plush. That might feel amazing to you or you might find that you get lazy with it. What does that mean? It means that while standing you could allow your posture to sink a little bit in to the shoe over time and get some low back pain. Again this means knowing yourself and how you move.

• Neutral plush cushioned shoe (truly softest shoe I’ve ever tried on)
• Similar fit to the Clifton
• 4mm heel drop
• 8.9 oz women’s, 10.2 oz men’s
• Available in 12 colors
• Available in Wide in some colors

See current Hoka Bondi colors and prices on Hoka >>

Trail Running Shoes

I admit that my experience running in On shoes for the trails is limited because I had enough issues with rocks in the road shoes. However, I think the Cloudultra fixes this issue!

On the other hand, I’ve run in a ton of Hoka Trail Running shoes and they are a go to recommendation.

👉Hoka Speedgoat

Loving how this neutral shoe feels on my foot and with a slightly wider toe box than many it’s meant no issues with blisters from downhill running. It’s also just a really great amount of cushion.

Comfy, but not too heavy for a nice long run either.

While they’re also listed as a neutral shoe, I was thrilled to see my foot didn’t drop in one bit when I put them on which is common in other shoes. Another example of how their shoes have some natural support due to the bigger platform.

• True to size
• Very similar to Clifton, just the additional lugs for traction
• Good room in the toebox
• Neutral Trail Running shoe
• Moderate Cushion
• 4 mm drop
• 8.5 oz women’s, 10.3 oz men’s
• Available in 11 colors
• Available in Wide in some colors
• $140
• See all HOKA Speedgoat models (also includes a waterproof option)

👉On Cloudultra 2

Welcome to their trail shoe with the highest amount of cushioning. The flip release on the shoe laces, also makes it easy to adjust the tigthness of the shoes. Which as we know is often needed during ultras when feet swell.

The On Cloudultra is one of On Running’s newest trail running shoes and an excellent addition to the ultramarathon and endurance trail running market.

Partially because they shifted the pod set up, so you will catch less rocks than with the road shoes!! They add lugs for more grip and took the pods way, way down.

On has satisfied the request of thousands of trail runners with this shoe, thanks to its ability to tackle tricky terrain effectively and remain comfortable over long distances on trails and highways with its Helion midsole foam.

These are excellent trail running footwear for all distances up to and including the marathon.

• 6 mm heel drop
• 8.64 oz

More About On Cloud Running

On started in 2010 in Switzerland, when yet again another runner thought “I could do this better.”

This time it was three retired professional athletes, who decided there needed to be a shoe that had more firmness to create that bounce off the ground, along with cushion.

They went from their first prototype in January 2010, to having it sold in stories by June 2010! How insane is that timeline?!

By 2014 and 2015 professional athletes were wearing the shoes and winning races, creating even more buzz about these unique looking shoes. They’ve done a great job of keeping that Swiss engineering while also providing some much needed style to running shoes.

More about HOKA ONE ONE

Let’s start with how do you pronounce Hoka One One? “Ho-Kah O-nay O-nay” which is a Māori phrase that means “to fly over the earth.”

But they’re kind of like Madonna and just need one name: Hoka.

Founded by two mountain trail runners in the Swiss Alps, Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, former Salomon employees, had an epiphany during their training that lead to the foundation of a new shoe and new company in 2009.

This makes them a mere baby in the world of running shoes, as many of the brands from Brooks to ASICS have been around 100+ years now. Pictured here is their first prototype.

At first they simply wanted a shoe that would allow them to run downhill faster and thus win!

Quickly they realized there was something more here with a smooth, super light, cushioned and stable shoe. Their maximal design took many of by surprise in a time where Zero Drop running shoes and Barefoot running were the in thing.

In 2020, the company was purchased by Deckers (owners of UGG and Teva). Hopefully that just means more marketing to keep the shoes going and not a change to what their doing right.

Your gait and feet will likely change over time and you may need to change shoes.

This is also why I recommend rotating through several pairs of shoes at once.

And remember, just because these are two of the most well known brands on the market, there are still plenty of other shoe brands to select from if neither an On shoe nor HOKA has the right sneakers for you.

Keep in mind that shoe design can change, even with the same model, so always assess how the shoe fits every time you replace a pair.

For more help selecting the right shoe for you, don’t worry, I’ve got you:

• Nike Vs New Balance running shoes
• Altra Running Shoes Review
• Top 5 Marathon Running Shoes
• New Balance Vs Brooks
• Checkout some ideas on the best gifts for runners!

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Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish

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