Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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As far as running goes, the way you go about it depends on your needs.
There are many different types of runners, and for every distance and every pace, there is a style of running that is best for you.
If you’re starting and want to take your running to the next level, you may want to try out trail running.
Road running might be your best option for seasoned runners who want to up their mileage.
There’s also hilly running, cross-country running, and much more.
Wherever you run may depend on the surface you’re running on and even the type of shoes you’re wearing.
So, what is the best running shoe for road, trails, or cross-country?
This article major on two types of running shoes: On Cloud vs HOKA. You will learn about the different features and advantages the two brands bear.
Table of Contents
Briefly on On Cloud Shoes vs HOKA One One
HOKA One One is a brand that specializes in all types of running shoes. The company is well known for its innovative and unique designs.
HOKA shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and durable.
On the other hand, On Cloud is a famous brand that makes running shoes for road, trails, and cross-country.
See also: On Cloud vs Salomon
The company makes a wide range of footwear options like trainers, men’s shoes, women’s shoes, and hiking boots.
HOKA and On Cloud are two different companies sharing the same market for running shoes.
Some key points to consider when buying these running shoes:
- Chafing Protection: Shoes built with mesh or mesh-synthetic materials provide maximum ventilation, which aids in reducing the chafing of feet from friction and environmental conditions.
- Comfortable Shoes: Shoes built with advancements in synthetic fabrics offer you maximum comfort during your runs or hikes, even on longer distances.
- Breathable Upper Material: Shoes built with waterproof upper material offers additional security from weather changes such as rain or snow traction.
- Vibration Isolating Footbeds Also Known as “Foam Cushioning”: The shoes are designed with vibration-isolating footbeds that reduce internal foot strain by absorbing shock and force.
- Shock Absorbing Tubes: Footbeds made with shock-absorbing tubes that absorb shock and force.
- Molded Toe Boxes: The shoes are designed with molded toe boxes that offer maximum comfort and stability on the sole while providing a firm ankle hold.
- Ankle Support: The shoes are designed with reinforced ankle support that provides extra support to the ankle area, which helps in reducing impact forces when you take running steps.
- Exterior Toe Protection: The shoes are designed prevents injury by preventing toe slippage between the shoe’s outer layer and your foot.
Both brands of shoes have these fantastic features that make them unique and ideal for runners.
However, they still have their differences in most of these fascinating features.
On Cloud vs HOKA: Main Differences
HOKA and On Cloud shoes differ in some way. Even though they are both running shoes, here are their main differences:
On Cloud shoes
- On Cloud uses a lighter material than HOKA.
- On Cloud also has less stability in the midsole, which results in more flexibility.
- The On Cloud shoes are designed to be lightweight, making them ideal for trails.
HOKA shoes
- HOKA is a neutral (no rigidity) running shoe.
- Heavy traction compared to the On Cloud shoes.
- HOKA shoes are designed with different materials and build quality resulting in a higher level of comfort than On Cloud shoes.
- HOKA is more durable and stable.
See also: On Cloud vs New Balance
On Cloud vs HOKA: Features
The On Cloud shoes have an assortment of features like ridged soles for increased traction.
HOKA shoes do not have the same traction and flexibility level as On Cloud shoes because they are made from more durable materials.
However, they still allow for a reasonably lightweight shoe so that you can enjoy running on trails without worrying about your footwear.
See also: Best On Cloud Shoes for Narrow Feet
Durability
The On Cloud shoes are pretty great when speaking durability, but HOKA shoes are not as durable, so it is essential to know what kind of surfaces you will be running on.
The On Cloud shoes are more durable than HOKA shoes because they have a more rigid and stable sole that allows for more durability.
However, some people may prefer the lower weight of HOKA shoes because they feel sturdier.
When looking at the specifics, their durability does not differ so much.
The On Cloud shoes will last for around 350 to 550 miles. The HOKA shoes will last for about 300 to 500 miles before looking for a new pair.
Breathability
HOKA shoes are less breathable than On Cloud shoes in terms of breathability.
HOKA shoes are made from a material that is still pretty breathable but not as much as On Cloud shoes.
HOKA shoes are made from materials like EVA foam, which is lightweight and flexible but not quite as breathable or sticky as the EVA foam found in On Cloud shoes.
The material of On Cloud shoes does a better job of retaining heat, making them more breathable and stickier, less able to absorb moisture.
Although there is a benefit to wearing a more durable shoe with no cushioning, it also means that your feet will be more exposed.
Fit
HOKA shoes fit differently from On Cloud shoes for the sole and upper part of the shoe.
The On Cloud shoes usually have a flat sole and a lace-up system with a stable structure that allows the ankle and foot to move naturally with your runs.
The HOKA’s soles are slightly curved before the heel and have a slightly higher heel to provide more ankle support.
The shoe also has arch support and heel grip, and more toe bumper protection.
There are no fundamental differences other than the shape of the sole and laces because it is essential to consider these things when choosing between the two.
If you want more stability in your shoe, you may want to opt for those On Cloud shoes, but if you like flexibility, then it might be best to go with HOKA shoes.
Cushioning
The On Cloud shoes use CloudTec technology in their soles to provide a more cushioned and shock-absorbing experience.
As the name implies, CloudTec technology prevents your run from being interrupted by the ground.
Cushions are added to the shoe’s sole to give you more comfort while running.
It is an excellent feature if you have a lot of pain in your feet and want to reduce stress on your legs.
HOKA, however, doesn’t use this kind of technology. Instead, cushioning comes from the EVA material used in the midsole.
EVA is commonly used in cushions for sports shoes because it is soft and elastic, which would prevent injury for people who don’t like flat ground so much.
Stability
The On Cloud shoes have a highly-advanced patented technology that allows the shoe to stabilize individual foot movements.
The midsole then uses this feedback to direct the foot in motion towards the ideal direction, either backward or forward.
The rigid sole of the HOKA shoe works with your foot’s movements to provide support and stability at all times, so you will never feel unstable when you run.
That is something that only flat-soled running shoes can achieve because of their flexible nature.
Pricing
The On Cloud shoes are averagely priced, making them a good pick for anyone looking for an excellent running shoe for the first time.
However, if you are looking for a pair of shoes that will last more than a season or two, you may want to consider investing in something more expensive.
Since these shoes are not as durable, they may not last as long as the HOKA shoes would.
On the other hand, HOKA shoes could cost high, depending on the type of shoe you choose and the level of technology it contains.
Therefore, boasting that they are a good value for money is quite true if you’re looking for flat-soled running shoes that will last for about 3-4 months before getting a new pair.
On Cloud vs HOKA for Walking
If you are looking for a pair of walking shoes, you may want to consider these two brands as both offer an excellent selection for those looking for flat-soled shoes that look good and will last through the summer months.
Both the On Cloud and HOKA shoes are comfortable to walk in, support the feet well while moving with the pace of your step, and are relatively lightweight.
The only difference between them is that the On Cloud is a more stylish-looking shoe while slightly less expensive than HOKA.
See also: On Cloud vs adidas
On Cloud vs HOKA Bondi
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
See also: On Cloud vs Allbirds
Conclusion: On Cloud vs HOKA Running Shoes
Both On Cloud and HOKA shoes have their strengths and weaknesses, as discussed above, but which one is better depends on your needs as an individual runner.
Selecting a pair of minimalist running shoes may seem like an easy choice because you might only be wearing them for about 3-4 months out of the year compared to other people who wear their shoes all year round.
Ideally, get a pair that will suit your running needs, whether short-distance daily runs or long-distance races.
Related articles of ours:
- Best On Cloud Running Shoes
- On Cloud vs ASICS
- Best On Cloud Shoes for Walking
- On Cloud vs Nike
- On Cloud vs Brooks
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