The 11 best cloud shoes, according to podiatrists | 2024 election

There’s a reason everyone from the dentist to the personal trainer wears one On Cloud sneakers— and it’s not just because those perforated soles look so stylish. “They cushion every step you take,” the New York podiatrist Brad Schaeffer, DPM, says SELF. This is thanks to the Swiss brand’s signature CloudTec cushioning (hereafter referred to as those gaps underfoot), which provides comfort and stability. These kicks are so good, in fact, that Dr. Schaeffer not only recommends them to patients, but also owns a few pairs himself.

To find the best On Cloud shoes, we asked podiatrists what models were made for walking, running and more, and tested some of these pairs ourselves. Whether you’re a runner, walker or have a job that keeps you on your feet all daythese are our favorite On Cloud pairs to shop now.

Our top picks

1. Best Overall: Cloudswift 3
2. Best for walking: Cloud 5
3. Best for Running: Cloudflow 4
4. Best for standing all day: Cloudmonster 2
5. Best for Treadmill: Cloud X 4
6. Best for Long Distance: Cloudstratus 3
7. Best for flat feet: Cloudflyer 5
8. Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Cloudpulse
9. Best for wide feet: Cloudgo Wide

What to look for when buying On Cloud shoes

The right On Cloud sneakers will do more than complete your outfit. As you search for your perfect pair, experts recommend keeping these details in mind.

Shop the best On Cloud shoes

Best Overall: Cloudswift 3

Pro

• Balanced cushioning and support
• Soft, sock-like upper
• Additional padding in the heel

Cons

• Reviewers say the back of the shoe rides up and can rub your Achilles

For a solid everyday shoe, Dr. Sharkey says it’s hard to beat the Cloudswift. “It has a little more support than a regular casual shoe,” she says. “(For) a college student or someone who is in an urban area and will be running to catch the train, I like Cloudswift.”

Designed for running on hard concrete, this sneaker has enough cushion to soften your landings without feeling wobbly underfoot. Meanwhile, the sock-like knit upper comfortably conforms to different foot shapes and moves with you to prevent blisters, while extra padding in the heel creates a super secure fit. But you don’t have to be a runner to appreciate the plush ‘superfoam’ in the sole – it works just as well for everyday city life.

Best for walking: Cloud 5

Pro

• Good cushioning
• Easy
• Easy to slip

Cons

• Some Nordstrom reviewers say they run small

Sure, you TO go for a walk in a Converse-style sneaker that’s completely flat, but your joints might start to complain after a while. Instead, Dr. Sharkey recommends trying On’s Cloud 5 shoe, which offers comfortable cushioning in a lightweight, 7.5-ounce design that won’t weigh you down as you walk. Bonus: the elastic laces help you slip these shoes on quickly without having to fiddle with knots. But the shoes also come with a pair of traditional laces for better ankle support if you need it, Dr. Mirza says.

Best for running: Cloudflow 4

Pro

• Easy
• Responsive ride
• Breathable upper

Cons

Weighing in at just over 7 ounces, the Cloudflow 4 is one of On’s lightest shoes, making it “a really great training shoe (for) speed work,” says Dr. Sharkey. It doesn’t have all the cushion you’d want for longer distance running, like a marathon (For that, see Cloudstratus 3 below). But when you have intervals or tempo sessions on the schedule, this shoe’s spoon-shaped “speed plate” will give you a boost. Even better, the breathable upper will keep your feet from overheating.

Best for standing all day: Cloudmonster 2

Pro

• Maximum damping
• SUSTAINABLE
• Super comfortable

Cons

Airports, long lines and busy days at work are no match for the Cloudmonster 2. “It’s in the running shoe category, but it’s just a very soft, cushioned shoe for shock absorption, which is great if you do a lot of walking. with the steady state,” says Dr. Sharkey. For people like nurses or retail workers who are stuck on hard surfaces (like tile or concrete) all day, this extra plush will help keep your feet happy. Dr. Schaeffer adds that it can also relieve some pressure for those struggling with leg pain.

Also key: how durable they are. I’ve had my pair for almost a year now and regularly break them in for long walks, long distance runs and days of sightseeing. As long as I have these, I know I won’t end up with sore feet.

Original photo by author Jennifer Heimlich

Best for Treadmill: Cloud X 4

Pro

• Versatile enough for cross training
• The face is made with at least 90% recycled materials
• Padded heel and tongue

Cons

• It may not feel soft enough for long distances

If you’re hitting the treadmill, you’ll likely be squeezing in other workouts while you’re at the gym, so you’ll want a shoe that can do it all, like the Cloud X 4. “That’s the nice thing about treadmills. is that they’re not as hard as running on the street, so you can get away with (wearing a shoe that has) a little less cushioning,” says Dr. Schaeffer. Although not specifically designed for running, the Cloud X 4 has a “superfoam” (aka well-cushioned) midsole for landings that are only quite comfortable. Plus, after you finish your run, you can immediately hit the weight room— no need to change shoes.

Best for Long Distance: Cloudstratus 3

Pro

• Plush lining
• Bottom rocker creates forward momentum
• 100% recycled base material

Cons