Does your daily walk sometimes feel like a chore for your feet? You pound the pavement, hoping for comfort, but often end up with tired, achy soles. Finding the perfect walking shoe can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when a brand as popular as On Cloud offers so many different models.
On Cloud shoes are famous for their unique cushioning, but not every model is ideal for a simple stroll around the neighborhood or a long walk through the park. Some feel too firm, others too light, and you might worry about choosing the wrong one and wasting your money. We know you want support that lasts all day without weighing you down.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly which On Cloud shoes deliver the best blend of cushioning, support, and lightweight design specifically for walking. By the end of this post, you will know precisely which pair belongs on your feet for happy, comfortable steps.
Top On Cloud Shoe For Walking Recommendations
- Fabric: Performance mesh
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents, Lightweight design, Cushioned collar and perforated tongue, Removable insole, Patented CloudTec sole, Designed for everyday wear
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents, Lightweight design, Cushioned collar and perforated tongue, Removable insole, Patented CloudTec sole, Designed for everyday wear
- Round toe
- Upper Same Cloud 6 look, now more functional than ever. The new mesh upper has improved durability and breathability, with a stronger abrasion resistance to take on daily wear.
- Midsole / outsole The midsole is 50% bio-attributed, reducing the bottom unit’s CO2 footprint by 20%. An updated outsole features connected rubber pods for better traction, grip and durability.
- Speedboard The Speedboard is engineered for optimal all-day performance, torsional support and stability – stable landings, soft toe-offs.
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners or walkers focused on improving their fitness, the Revel 8 offers a smooth, distraction-free ride to power through your workouts. Its unique mesh upper combines style and performance, giving you the casual look you want without compromising on the support and comfort you need. This Brooks Revel 8 has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Revel 7.
- ENGINEERED FOR COMFORT: Adaptable DNA Loft v2 cushioning provides underfoot comfort for any activity that adapts to your stride, weight, and speed to help protect you by deflecting impact away from your body.
- ENGINEERED MESH UPPER: The updated engineered mesh upper offers superior structure, a sleek design, and enhanced breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during every run or workout.
- ROADTACK OUTSOLE: The RoadTack rubber outsole is lightweight, durable, and designed for optimal rebound, providing superior traction and responsiveness to keep you moving with confidence.
- Rubber sole
- Speed-laces, Reflective logo details
- Round toe
- Breed ready running shoe for speed and comfort during competition
- Redesigned top with recycled mesh and seamless comfort
- Responsive and cushioning from Helion Superfoam provides road protection
- The Speedboard midsole gives every step a natural, energetic spring
- Rubber traction pads provide an improved grip around tight, fast curves
- Lightweight and breathable
- Signature speed-lacing with elastic laces
- Updated Speedboard
- Zero-Gravity foam
- Round toe
- Comfort & Shock Absorption: These fashion sneakers boast a plush, high-rebound EVA midsole that cushions each step, alleviating strain on your knees. Feel the softness and shock absorption with these sneakers.
- Traction & Durability: From city streets to running paths, enjoy stability and lasting performance, step after step thanks to the robust rubber outsole.
- Breathability & Coolness: The soft and light woven mesh upper is gentle against your skin, ensuring your feet stay cool, while also boasting effortless cleaning and upkeep.
- Support & Stability: Designed with a TPU film, these athletic shoes offer increased foot support. Experience a secure fit that reduces the risk of injury during workouts or daily activities.
- Versatile Wear: Whether you're walking, running, hitting the gym, walking the dog, or commuting to work, these women's walking sneakers are your reliable companion.
Choosing Your Perfect On Cloud Walking Shoe: A Buyer’s Guide
On Cloud shoes are famous for their unique sole design. They feel light and springy. If you plan to walk a lot, picking the right pair matters. This guide helps you find the best On Cloud shoe for your walking adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for On Cloud walking shoes, focus on these important parts:
- CloudTec® Cushioning: This is the signature feature. Look for the hollow “pods” on the sole. These pods compress when you step down and then spring back up. This gives you a soft landing and a quick push-off.
- Weight: On shoes are generally light. A lighter shoe reduces fatigue, especially on long walks.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: This is the height difference between the heel and the front of the shoe. A lower drop often feels more natural for walking.
- Fit Around the Midfoot: Ensure the shoe hugs your arch securely without squeezing.
2. Important Materials Matter
The materials decide how long the shoe lasts and how comfortable it feels.
Upper Materials
Most good walking models use engineered mesh. This material lets air flow through easily. Good airflow keeps your feet cool and dry. For rainier days, look for models with a water-repellent (or waterproof) membrane.
Midsole and Outsole
The main cushioning is usually made from a special foam called Zero-Gravity (Zero-G) foam. This foam provides the best energy return. The bottom of the sole (the outsole) needs durable rubber in high-wear areas. This rubber adds grip and stops the pods from wearing down too fast.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all On Cloud shoes are made the same. Some details increase the shoe’s quality significantly.
Quality Boosters:
- Speedboard®: Many advanced models include a stiff plate inside the sole called the Speedboard. This plate helps guide your foot smoothly from heel strike to toe-off. This makes walking feel more efficient.
- Durable Tread: Shoes with more rubber coverage on the bottom tend to last longer on concrete sidewalks.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Mesh: Very thin mesh uppers might feel cool, but they can tear easily if you snag them on steps or rough paths.
- Overly Soft Pods: If the CloudTec pods feel too squishy and don’t spring back, the shoe might lack the support needed for long distances.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you walk most often. This guides your final choice.
Everyday Casual Walking:
If you walk around the neighborhood or run errands, models known for comfort and style are best. These shoes often prioritize soft cushioning over rugged support.
Fitness Walking and Pavement:
For brisk walks on sidewalks or treadmills, you need a balance of cushion and responsiveness. Models with the Speedboard are excellent here because they promote a forward rolling motion.
Light Trail or Uneven Surfaces:
If your walks involve gravel paths or light dirt trails, choose an On Cloud model with a slightly more rugged outsole pattern. These versions offer better grip than the slicker street models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About On Cloud Walking Shoes
Q: Are On Cloud shoes good for people with high arches?
A: Yes, generally they are. On shoes are known for having decent built-in arch support. However, if you have very flat feet, you might need to remove the standard insole and insert a custom orthotic.
Q: How long do On Cloud walking shoes usually last?
A: With regular walking (a few miles most days), you can expect a good pair to last between 300 to 500 miles. After that, the cushioning starts to compress, and you might feel less spring.
Q: Do I need to size up in On Cloud shoes?
A: Most people find that On Cloud shoes fit true to size. If you plan to wear thick walking socks, try them on with those socks. Some wearers say the toe box feels slightly snugger than other brands.
Q: Are On Cloud shoes waterproof?
A: Not all of them are. You must look specifically for models labeled “Waterproof” or “GTX” (Gore-Tex). The standard mesh models are highly breathable but will let water soak through.
Q: What is the main difference between On running shoes and walking shoes?
A: Walking shoes often have slightly softer CloudTec pods and sometimes a more flexible forefoot. Running models focus heavily on forward propulsion and might feel firmer underfoot.
Q: How do I clean my On Cloud shoes?
A: Always clean them by hand. Use mild soap and a soft brush or cloth. Wipe the mesh gently. Never put them in the washing machine or dryer, as the heat damages the specialized foam and glue.
Q: Are On Cloud shoes good for walking all day long?
A: Yes, many users report excellent comfort for long days on their feet, like at theme parks or work shifts, because the Zero-G foam reduces impact fatigue.
Q: Do the Cloud pods wear down quickly?
A: The pods are made of durable rubber, but they are the first part to show wear. If you walk mostly on abrasive surfaces like rough asphalt, the pods will wear down faster than the rest of the sole.
Q: Can I wear these shoes for light hiking?
A: You can use them for very light, well-maintained paths. For serious hiking with loose rocks or mud, a dedicated trail shoe with deeper lugs (treads) is a safer choice.
Q: What is the best way to test if the cushioning feels right?
A: When trying them on, perform a few small hops or quick steps in the store. You should feel the ground soften on impact and get a noticeable, gentle push back as you lift your foot.