The On Cloud has remained a very popular shoe since its release in 2014. I have been wearing On Clouds since their first release in 2014, and I have since had plenty of experience using the On Cloud for my active lifestyle and running. This On Cloud vs Cloud X comparison should hopefully help make your buying decision clearer.
Recently On re-engineered the Cloud and made some serious improvements based on all the feedback from runners of the first Cloud combined with using the latest materials and technological innovations of how to build it.
At the same time, the On Cloud X has also been released. A new On shoe that goes in a different direction to the pure On Cloud, which is more focused on the dedicated runner. Read on to discover the differences between the two shoes and which one I think is the best.
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See the table below for an easy to digest On Cloud vs Cloud X feature comparison table with the added benefit of my own personal thoughts.
| On Cloud | On Cloud X | |
 |  | |
| Running Surface | Road | Road |
| Fit and Design | Neutral – Very comfortable fit as they have been designed to allow triathles to run in them without socks. | Neutral – Also a very comfortable shoe does feet a bit more snug in the toe box than other On running shoes. |
| Weight | 230g (US M 8.5) | 218g (US M 8.5) |
| Lacing System | Elasticated (Slip-on Style) | Standard lacing system |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm |
| Outsole | The Cloud uses the newer CloudTec® system made from On’s Zero-Gravity EVA Foam. This foam helps keep the weight down on both shoes | The Cloud X uses the CloudTec® system made from On’s Zero-Gravity EVA Foam. This foam helps keep the weight down on both shoes |
| Running Feel | The Cloud definitely has a more minimal feel to it due to the lack of cushioning on the insole. The elasticated lacing system won’t hug your feet in the same way as with the Cloud X. But don’t forget, this is also a very good active lifestyle shoe, so not just for running. | The Cloud X takes the win for me when it comes to comfort while running. The flexible, stretchy and breathable upper mesh combined with the traditional laces all for a very comfortable experience. |
| Original Review Post | On Cloud Review | On Cloud X Review |
| Best Price | $129.99 | $139.99 |
For a more detailed look at the On Cloud or the Cloud X
- On Cloud Review: On’s Lightweight Performance Shoe
- On Cloud X Review: On’s Lightest, Fully-Cushioned Shoe
Cloud vs Cloud X Summary
So there you have it, my On Cloud vs Cloud X comparison in all its tabular beauty. If it’s a lightweight running shoe that offers comfort, flex and breathability then I recommend going for the On Cloud X running shoe. This is my current ‘go-to’ shoe for all my road running training, I love everything about it and the fact my feet feel so good after using them for hard sessions.
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If you’re after a lightweight versatile shoe for an active lifestyle that you plan to use every day, and looking fashionable is important to you, then I recommend the On Cloud. Its convenient ‘slip-on’ feature with elasticated laces is great for people constantly on the move and it’s nice knowing you can break out into a run with this high-performance shoe whenever necessary.
Although the On Cloud and Cloud X shoes share a similar name and offer some of the same design features, they are actually quite different. I wouldn’t say one is better than the other, they are both excellent for the purpose they were designed for.
Let me know which you prefer in the comments below, whether you have used them before or not. We love to hear your views.
Would you like us to compare other shoes? If so, let us know below.
Still not sure which On Running Shoes to buy?
Visit our Best On Running Shoes Guide for an ordered list of the top ON shoes for road and trail running. It has been designed to make your buying decisions easier.
