On Cloud vs Brooks Running Shoes

Comparing On Cloud vs Brooks running shoes is another great running shoe match up. Both have some of the same traditional shoe features and yet, Cloud running is breaking the old school mold.

Over the years, I have been able to test out models from both brands to give you some personal insight along with basic shoe details.

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.

Brooks Vs On Cloud Key Differences

On Cloud and Brooks offer a lot of similar features and models for all kinds of runners. There are options for moderate to max cushion and overpronation.

I would say neither brand is super high on the list of shoes that ultramarathon runners love, unlike the Hoka.

Brooks has been around forever and is a long standing favorite of running stores and distance runners alike.

Meanwhile, 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:

Brooks Running Shoes

• Traditional running shoe with 6mm-12mm heel drop (a LOT of models at 12mm)
• Exclusively designs running shoes, with a huge variety of models
• Science-driven to accommodate rather than correct gait
• Has more fun holiday styled shoes than any other brand (Christmas, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, St Pat’s)
• Increasing focus on performance apparel

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 now has incredible 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. Here you’ve got two of  my well worn models!

ON Running vs Brooks Feature Comparison

While ON is newer to the running market, Brooks has a long history that often makes it hard for many runners to switch to the newer style.

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.
• Brooks shoes have a life expectancy ranging from 300 to 500 miles, or three to six months, depending on your monthly mileage.

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

On 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.

Brooks shoes have a wider toe box than other traditional models, which makes them a great choice for runners with wide feet or bunions. The brand recommends that buyers go up a half size from their everyday shoe.

Brooks does a great job with online fit, the Brooks shoe fit finder will give you an idea of what to look for in a running shoe when you do visit your local store.

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.

Brooks uses two types of cushioning in their designs, which allows for a wide variety of cushion from plush to more minimal.

• DNA LOFT – Soft cushioning, that adapts to a runner’s profile, stride, and speed
• BioMoGo DNA – also adapts to runner’s profile, stride, and speed, providing a more balanced experience with a bit of spring.

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.

Rather than “fix” the way someone runs, Brooks technology helps to stabilize your stride based on how you naturally run. So in essence, both brands have the same take on stability. Just different technology.

Whether that’s a little bit more support in the arch or through the midline of the foot it helps hips, knees, and joints to move naturally, offering support when needed. Neutral runners may only require them to kick in when their stride is off.

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, and Brooks start at a at $100 to $160.

The most popular models for On are around $150 and same for Brooks, 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.

Brooks Vs On Cloud Models

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

When it comes to stability, On is trying not to force the foot in to any kind of rigid position. This means 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.

• Weight: 10.6 oz Men’s, 8.8 oz Women’s
• Heel drop: 9 mm
• 5 colors available
• Not available in wide
• Available from on.com for $170
• Check out our full review of the On Cloudflyer 5 here >>

👉Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

This shoe is great for runners who need more support without sacrificing comfort or cushion.

While the foam upgrade made these shoes feel more comfortable and cushioned than past versions, they still maintain the firm feel of a stability shoe.

This shoe is great for runners who need more support without sacrificing comfort or cushion.

While the foam upgrade made these shoes feel more comfortable and cushioned than past versions, they still maintain the firm feel of a stability shoe.

The other thing you’ll find is they made a change we applaud going from 12mm to 10mm heel to toe drop.

This is still considered a high heel-to-toe drop running shoe, but moving in the right direction for many. This is something to play with, as for those with plenty of ankle mobility, it can create some knee pain, BUT the flip side can also work well for stability shoes.

• Weight: 10.6 oz Men’s, 9.5 oz Women’s
• Stack Height: 37 mm
• Heel Drop: 10 mm
• Available in 9 colors
• Available in wide or extra wide
• Available on Brooks Running for $155.00
• Read our full review of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 here >>

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 8. Though it’s simply listed as the new Cloudsurfer. This is absolutely far and away my favorite version of most On Running shoes!

Can you run a marathon in this shoe? Absolutely, though it’s not our first recommendation. But this is not a fast shoe for high intensity speed work or hitting a sub-3:30 marathon.

The Cloudsurfer 2 is cushioned and versatile enough that I’d highly recommend for runners who incorporate walking into their routines.

• Weight: 9.2 oz Men’s, 7.9 oz Women’s
• Heel drop: 9mm
• 4 colors
• Not available in wide
• Available at On.com for $160
• Check out our full review of the On Cloudsurfer 2 here >>

👉Brooks Ghost 17

The change our team is most excited about is in the heel to toe drop.The Ghost 17 is a neutral running shoe now with a 10mm heel to toe drop.

It’s not a huge difference, but if the 12 mm felt too high, you’ll really appreciate this. Plus, the lower drop will make a difference in potentially reducing knee pain or IT Band issues that often pop up with newer runners.

The second change that you may notice if you’ve worn previous models is from the cushion in the midsole. Brooks still uses its DNA Loft v3 foam but added more nitrogen in the forefoot (3mm) and heel (1mm) for a more cushioned and snappy feel underfoot.

The increase in stack height is actually why they changed the heel drop. It’s allowing for more stability in the shoe and ensures that you aren’t sinking to the ground as they keep adding cushion.

The Brooks Ghost 17 is a mix between soft and firm, like a shoe that you’d throw on when you want to hit party paces, but you also want to be able to get down to business.

They kept the same DNA Loft v3 foam but added more nitrogen to the heel and forefoot to give a little bit more of a pop and softer feeling underfoot. Now, there’s not enough pop that you’d grab these for a speed workout, or if you’re looking to run something like a fast 5k.

• Heel toe drop: 10mm
• Weight: 9.0 oz women’s, 10.1 oz men’s
• Stack: 36 mm
• Available in six colors
• Available in Wide, Narrow and Extra Wide in select colorways
• Available from Brooksrunning.com for $150
• See our full review of the Ghost 17 here >>

Cushioned Running Shoe

👉Cloudmonster 2

This was one of the first On shoes that immediately got me hooked. I have now been running in it for over a year and continue to like that this shoe isn’t super squishy soft, but isn’t hard like previous On Running shoes.

For the Cloudmonster 2 they actually went with a dual layer of foam that sandwiches a nylon speedboard. That’s not the same as a carbon plate, instead it’s about providing more stability to a high stack running shoe.

The Cloudmonster pods are slightly larger than other models and combined with their Helion Superfoam to create that combination of cushion, plus power. In a super plush shoe, you often lose the spring off the ground and that’s a component that On is not willing to sacrifice.

If you like the original, you are going to be supremely happy with the On Running Cloudmonster 2. They have added a new layer of compressed Helion foam to the forefoot, which makes it feel just a wee bit softer. But also you’ll see in the fit section that it has changed.

Absolutely a daily running shoe that we would recommend.

• Heel Drop: 6mm
• Weight: 8.1 oz women’s, 10.40 oz men’s
• Moderate cushion, neutral
• Available in 3 colors
• Available at On Running, REI and retail stores for $180
• Read our full review of the On Cloudmonster 2 here >>

👉Brooks Glycerin 23

It‘s a great all–around running shoe, providing great cushioning for a variety of running distances.

The Glycerin 23 uses nitrogen infused DNA Tuned cushioning, the same as the Glycerin 22s, with 2mm more foam in the forefoot. YES!! In our Glycerin 22, we mentioned a few times wisher for more under the forefoot. Clearly Brooks is taking feedback from runners.

These shoes were created with a tune dual cell technique which means the heel has large cells for plush landings and the forefoot has small cells for responsive toe-offs.

While this is going to provide great support with each step, it’s considered a neutral shoe. If you’re looking for a little extra stability, that’s where the well loved Glycercin GTS (or any GTS Brooks shoe) would come into play.

• Weight: 10.6 oz Men’s, 9.5 oz Women’s
• Stack Height: 38 mm 
• Heel Drop: 8 mm
• Available 8 Colors
• Available in wide and extra wide
• Available on Brooksrunning.com for $175
• Read our full review of the Brooks Glycerin 23 here >>

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!

👉Brooks Hyperion Elite 5

The Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 is a lightweight, high-performance running shoe designed for speed and efficiency. It’s doesn’t have a full solid plate like we see in other Super Shoes and the reasoning behind that is both to keep the shoe lighter and only provide stability to the cushioning not dampen it.

SpeedVault Race+ plate has been “fine tuned” so that the plate is actually different based on the size of the shoe and thus meeting the needs of that runner. The larger the shoe, the stiffer the plate in essence.

Now they are using what they call DNA Gold 100% Super Critical PEBA foam, instead of Super Critical EVA. This helped to drop an entire oz of weight from the shoe, but more importantly, changed the feel underfoot.

• Weight: 6.9 oz
• Stack Height: 40 mm
• Heel drop: 8mm
• Available in two colorways
• Not available in wide.
• Available at brooksrunning.com for $275
• Read our full review of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 here >>

👉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.

Slipping on the On Cloudboom Strike, I could tell right away a lot of things had changed from the first model in 2020. Changed for the better!

• Increased cushion for distance running
• No pods along the bottom to collect rocks
• Better overall fit and foot room

This is a BIG stack height , but lower 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!

• Weight: 6.8 women’s, 7.7 men’s
• Heel drop: 4mm
• Available in 2 colors
• Available at On Running for $280
• Detailed review of the On Cloudboom Strike >>

Trail Running Shoes

On is a little newer to the trail running shoe game, but if you already enjoy their road shoes then you’ll find they’ve done a good job on the Ultra. Brooks meanwhile actually has a pretty wide range of shoes here.

👉Brooks Caldera 8

It’s been a few years since I’ve run in this particular model, but I really enjoyed it at the time. I’ve just been testing a lot of other shoes!

When you first look at these shoes, your eyes are probably immediately drawn to the amount of foam. But don’t worry, this doesn’t translate to the Caldera 8 being a super squishy ride. The cushion is there to help protect your feet from rugged trails. But the trade-off is that it’s missing some of that responsiveness to help you pick up the pace.

The DNA Loft v3 foam brought the cushion but was still firm and bouncy enough to feel connected to the trail.  With all the cushion the Caldera 8 was still stabilizing, flexible, and responsive enough to handle the most poorly chosen line through roots and rocks.

This is a perfect match for trail and ultra runners looking for a little extra cushion while spending lots of time on the trails.

• Weight: 14.4 oz Men’s, 9.3 oz Women’s
• Heel drop: 6 mm

•  2 colors
• Not available in wide
• Available from Brooksrunning.com for $150
• Read our full review of the Brooks Caldera 8 here >>

👉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.

• Weight: 10.4 oz Men’s, 9.3 oz Women’s
• Heel drop:  5mm
• Stack Height: 30mm
• Usage: trail running
• 4 colors available
• Not available in wide
• Available from On.com for $180

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.

More About Brooks

Believe it or not, Brooks started out in 1914 making ballet slippers and bathing shoes. Since then, they have made everything from baseball and football cleats to roller skates.

It wasn’t until Frank Shorter won the marathon at the 1972 Munich Olympics that Brooks considered limiting its focus. The first running shoe debuted in 1974 and their most popular running shoe, the Adrenaline GTS first hit the market in 1999.

In 2001, Brooks decided to focus solely on running.

They introduced the Transcend in 2013, a shoe that used new biomechanics technology to create a GuideRails technology, allowing runners to run naturally without trying to correct their gait.

The Seattle-based company is also well known for its commitment to sustainability and giving back. Brooks donates time, gear, and money to companies that align with their values around diversity, equity, and inclusion and staff receive paid annual volunteer time.

How to Choose On or Brooks Running Shoes?

Now that we’ve gone through the different models, you have a better feeling for what sets each apart. I can’t recommend enough that you buy knowing you can take them out for a few runs and return.

Seriously, return policies are pretty amazing.

And remember: 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.

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

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