RunToTheFinish

Online Running Coach | Running Shoe and Gear Reviews

On Cloud vs Hoka Shoes: How to Choose (Side By Side Comparisons)

Last Updated on by Amanda Brooks
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

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.hoka vs on cloud running shoesOur team has now reviewed every single Hoka and On running shoe from the last two years. That’s INSANE. But it also means we have a lot of experience to tell you 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.

Both brands have changed over the years, so we’ll focus on where they are right now and what’s the best pick for your foot.

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 options
  • Generally accommodating to an average width foot and many shoes available in wide
  • 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 Best On Running Shoes  >>

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.

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 5

As noted above both On and Hoka 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, which is nice because this definitely isn’t the softest of stability shoes.

on cloudflyer 5 feel

Buy On Cloudflyer 5

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, we like a lot of other On Cloud shoes better.

👉HOKA Gaviota 5

The Gaviota 5 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.

Hoka Gaviota

Buy HOKA Gaviota 5

  • Weight: 10.9 oz Men’s, 9.1 oz Women’s
  • Heel drop: 6 mm
  • Stack height: 36 mm
  • 9 colors
  • Available in wide
  • Available from hoka.com for $175

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 Cloudmonster

For years now this has been one of their top selling shoes and one that we have continued to use despite other styles being released. They continue to sell it in the originally released version, just in new colorways.

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.

The Cloudmonster feels like a shoe that can handle long runs, easy days and still pick up the pace a little bit.cloudmonster reviewIt’s by no means their most cushioned running shoe any more, but it’s still a go to option.

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.

Buy On Cloudmonster

👉HOKA Clifton 10

The first shoe that must be mentioned is the Clifton as their flagship shoe and the one that started it all. We’ve been on this ride with them since model 1.

The Clifton 10 is a go to neutral running shoe that’s going to be durable and handle easy runs and long mileage. As noted above while it’s still a go to for many, it may not be our absolute top pick for everyone anymore. They simply have too many other great options.

Hoka Clifton 10 FitIt’s not plush, but it’s a cushion that just feels really nice underfoot (particularly under the heel for us heel strikers). In part, this is due to more foam! You guessed it, the stack height increased to 42mm and yet the shoe continues to feel extremely stable.

The shoe also has a lightweight design, which makes it ideal for those who are looking for a shoe that won’t weigh them down during their runs. Truly not always easy to find a combination of cushion and low weight!

Lightweight, Speedwork Shoe

👉On Cloudsurfer Next

This is a running shoe for those looking to not have a massive shoe rotation, but a pair that will carry them for miles and work for tempo runs and goal pace miles.

You could easily take these to a 5K to possibly half marathon race day, though they are not what we would now consider a “race shoe” or even a super trainer with a carbon or nylon plate.On Cloudsurfer Next ReviewThe On Cloudsurfer Next is similar feel to the On Cloudmonster. It’s got a similar mid-level of cushion, weighs the same and shares the 6mm heel drop (where the Cloudsurfer is softer and 10mm).

The Next pods are designed with that forward flow of motion and a bit more rocker, which means this shoe should help you pick up the pace when you want to vs the easy trainer style of the Cloudmonster.

👉Hoka Mach 6

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.hoka mach 6 reviewThe Mach features a lightweight foam midsole that provides a quick, lively feel, while the meta-rocker design helps to encourage a more natural gait.

Buy Hoka Mach 6

Max Cushioned Running Shoe

👉On Cloudboom Max

Technically we should list the On Cloudsurfer Max here because it’s not plated, but we just didn’t like it! And so we don’t think it’s the best option to be giving you! On is transitioning away from the Cloudeclipse which we really liked and are a bit sad to see go, but this is a fun replacement.

This is a plated shoe for the middle of the pack marathon runner. Allowing you to have a super light weight, well cushioned shoe that can help you pick up the pack or just feel really good for 4-6 hours of running.On Cloudboom Max Cushion

👉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.

Hoka Skyflow Review

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.

Buy Hoka Skyflow

Race Day Shoes

Now we’re getting in to the front of the pack carbon plated race day shoes. They are absolutely not for everyone, these are very much designed with the 3 hour marathon runner in mind.

👉Hoka Cielo X 1 2.0

We thought the first model was a fun ride, but the second model feels like they have dialed in lot of features to really make this a front of the pack shoe.

This is definitely a shoe that can take you sub 1:30:00 in the half marathon or under 3:00:00 for a marathon.

With explosive PEBA foam, an aggressive forefoot rocker, and a winged carbon-fiber plate, it’s designed to keep you rolling forward and feeling fast from start to finish.

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 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!

On cloudboom strike review

Buy On 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.

👉On Cloudsurfer 2

If you’re looking for a light, cushioned, and comfortable daily trainer that can also easily translate to streetwear, here it is.

The midsole features On’s CloudTec Phase cushioning technology and Helion superfoam. This combo makes for a smooth, energetic run and a soft landing with each stride.

The Cloudsurfer 2 is lightweight but feels supportive enough to protect you through a variety of runs. It balances performance with weight in a way that makes this a reliable, smooth trainer.

On Cloudsurfer 2 OverviewCloudsurfer 2 is a moderately cushioned, lower stack height, running shoe for shorter easy runs that’s also high on our list of great walking shoes.

You could absolutely run a marathon in this shoe, but it’s definitely not our first recommendation.

Buy On Cloudsurfer 2

👉Hoka Bondi 9

With the new design, the Hoka Bondi is going to be a shoe that you can use for literally almost everything- walking, running and standing for hours!

The Hoka Bondi is built for comfort over speed, making it an ideal choice for those longer training runs. This is a shoe for middle and back of the pack runners looking for a daily trainer that’s a triple whammy…. durable, supportive and has a cushiony feel.

Hoka Bondi 9 Review

Even with all that cushioning, the Bondi 9 still manages to feel lightweight, which is a huge win for a shoe this plush.

Hoka also upped the stack height by 2mm, bringing it to 43mm in the heel, and while that might sound like a lot, it didn’t feel bulky or unstable at all.

Buy Hoka Bondi 9

The Hoka Bondi is always on our Most Comfortable Hoka Walking Shoes. Check out the full list here. >>

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 6

I admit it’s starting to seem like I am biased towards Hoka, but it’s really their trail shoes that have won me over.

While the Speedgoat 6 is 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.

It absolutely is providing some stability, which for most of us feels really good when the feet are rolling over varied terrain. It’s not overbearing, but a benefit of the shoe that most probably don’t realize is happening.

Hoka Speedgoat 6 ReviewThe upper and midsole both seemed to breakdown faster leaving me feeling a bit less locked in and supported. Remember that when the cushion breaks down it actually changes your gait, no bueno for staying injury free.

Buy Hoka Speedgoat 6

👉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 Cloudultra 2 Overview

Buy On Cloudultra 2

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.

If you’re looking for a road to trail option, we previously reviewed and really like the On Cloudsurfer Trail.

On vs HOKA Feature Comparison

Both brands are newer to the market compared to say the longevity of Nike, 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

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 On’s a wide shoe. If you need wide, look for models with a wide option.

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.

  • Hoka is also well known for a more moderate heel drop at 5mm
  • On has a wide variety of drops, but you’ll notice most of what we recommend here is around 6mm

This means both brands are a good option for those who might have some knee pain from higher heel drop shoes.

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.

Again they have really changed in the last few years and their newer models are much more plush. But within the stability category or their most popular Cloudmonster model, you’ll still find more firmness. All still use their pods, which controls the feel and speed of the shoe.

Most models have eliminated the issues along the bottom that collected rocks.

on cloud pods

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
  • Heel Bevel – you’ll notice many of their shoes have an extended heel to help with 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.

comparing running shoe models

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.

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.

on running shoe review

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.Hoka Prototype | Hoka Vs ASICS

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:

 

Category: Hoka, On, Running Shoe Comparisons, Running Shoe Reviews
Google News

Add RunToTheFinish to your Google News Feed

Amanda Brooks Avatar

Author

Amanda Brooks
I am a running coach with over a decade of experience helping thousands of runners to achieve their goals from running injury free to crossing that marathon finish line with a PR. I’ve run over 28,000 miles in my own running journey since 2002. Run To The Finish is my place to share that love and my deep dive in to researching all things running. I hold multiple run coaching certifications, as well as a personal training certification. But it’s my ongoing desire to learn and progress as a coach that has allowed me to help runners from their 20’s through their 70’s! More ways to connect with me:

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Nicole

    My (college athlete) daughter loves her Clifton 8’s. She started looking for new shoes recently, didn’t much like the Clifton 9’s and ended up in ON Cloudmonsters instead. Some deep diving online found Clifton 8’s in her size, so those two shoes will be her rotation for the next year or so.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Build The Perfect Shoe Rotation

Why Running in Just One Pair of Shoes Could Be Hurting You and What 2-3 You Need.

15585

First Timer Here?

Confused by all the running shoes?

Our 3 keys to find your

perfect shoe match (after testing

thousands of shoes).

Close the CTA

Running Shoe Secrets:

10 Pro Tips To Save You Hundreds Every Year💰

15585