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11 best cloud shoes, according to podiatrists | Choices from 2024

Posted on by Pranco
11 best cloud shoes, according to podiatrists | Choices from 2024

There’s a reason why everyone from your dentist to your personal trainer wears these On Cloud sneakers– and that’s not just because those soles with holes look so hip. “They cushion every step you take,” podiatrist from New York Brad Schaeffer, DPM, tells SELF. That’s thanks to the Swiss brand’s signature CloudTec cushioning (aka the holes underfoot), which provides comfort and stability. In fact, these kicks are so good that Dr. Schaeffer not only recommends them to patients, he also has a few himself.

To find the best On Cloud shoes, we asked podiatrists which styles were made for walking, running and more, and tested some of these pairs ourselves. Whether you are a runner, a walker or have a job keeps you going all day longthese are our favorite On Cloud pairs to shop now.

Our top picks

  1. Best Overall: Cloudwalk 3
  2. Best for walking: Cloud 5
  3. Best for Running: Cloud stream 4
  4. Best for standing all day: Cloud monster 2
  5. Best for the Treadmill: Cloud X 4
  6. Best for Long Distance: Cloud stratus 3
  7. Best for Flat Feet: Cloud flyer 5
  8. Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Cloud pulse
  9. Best for Wide Feet: Cloudgo wide

What to look for when shopping for On Cloud shoes

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

When trying on a shoe for the first time, Houston-based podiatrist Hira Mirza, DPM, suggests making sure there is a thumb’s width of space between your big toe and the front of the sneaker. (Some On Cloud models may run small and slightly narrow, so you may need to size up.) “You want a toe box that gives your toes room to spread – you don’t want to feel tight or compressed there,” Texas – based podiatrist Anne Sharkey, DPM, tells SELF.

Then perform a few test steps: “Your heels shouldn’t pop out of (the shoe) — you shouldn’t feel like your toes are gripping the shoe to keep it on,” adds Dr. Mirza added. Finally, check “where the sneaker bends to make sure it’s not too thin. “If you put a shoe on the floor and lift the heel, that crease should form where your big toe joint is,” says Dr. Sharkey (off center, under the arch).

How supportive your shoes should be usually depends on your foot type; people with flat feet need this the most, says Dr. Sharkey. Fortunately, she adds, On Cloud has your back: “No matter which model you choose, you will feel supported.” Note: Shoes with a strong heel cup that encloses the back of your foot (such as the Cloud flyer) tend to be more stable, she adds, which can help you choose between similar pairs.

The amount of padding in On Cloud sneakers varies by model. If you understand the impact of long distance running or tiring days spent on your feet, grab a shoe with super thick cushioning, like the Cloud monster 2 or the Cloud stratus. Want a lighter, more minimalist choice for walking or running? Look at the quick one Cloud stream 4.

Shop the best On Cloud shoes

Best Overall: Cloudwalk 3

Positives

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

Disadvantages

  • Reviewers say the back of the shoe comes up high and can rub your Achilles tendon

For a sturdy shoe for everyday use, according to Dr. Sharkey hard to beat the Cloudswift. “It offers a little more support than a regular casual shoe,” she says. “(For) a student or someone who is in an urban area and is going to run to catch the train, I love the Cloudswift.”

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

Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Materials: Polyester, polyamide, elastane, recycled polyester | To colour: 11

Best for walking: Cloud 5

Positives

  • Good cushioning
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to put on

Disadvantages

  • Some Nordstrom reviewers say they are small

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

Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Materials: Recycled polyester, polyester, polyurethane | To colour: 10

Best for Running: Cloud stream 4

Positives

  • Lightweight
  • Responsive ride
  • Breathable upper

Disadvantages

Weighing just over 220 grams, the Cloudflow 4 is one of On’s lightest shoes, making it “a great training shoe for speed work,” says Dr. Sharkey. It doesn’t have all the cushion you would want for running longer distances, like a marathon (see the Cloudstratus 3 below). But if you have interval or tempo sessions planned, this shoe’s spoon-shaped ‘speedboard’ will give you a boost. Even better: the breathable upper ensures that your feet do not overheat.

Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Material: Recycled polyester | To colour: 8

Best for standing all day: Cloud monster 2

Positives

  • Maximum cushioning
  • Durable
  • Super comfortable

Disadvantages

Airports, long lines and busy days at work are no match for the Cloudmonster 2. “It falls into the running shoe category, but it’s just a really soft, cushioned shoe for shock absorption, which is great if you run a lot. standing still,” says Dr. Sharkey. For people like nurses or retail workers who sit on hard surfaces (like tile or concrete) all day, that extra soft feeling will keep your feet happy. Dr. Schaeffer adds that it can also relieve some pressure for people who experience pain in the ball of their foot.

Also important: how durable they are. I’ve had my pair for almost a year now and I regularly wear them for long walks, runs of all distances and days out. As long as I wear these, I know I won’t get sore feet.

Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Materials: Recycled polyester, polyester | To colour: 7

Image may contain clothing, shoes, shoe, sneaker and person

Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich

Best for the Treadmill: Cloud X 4

Positives

  • Versatile enough for cross-training
  • The upper is made from at least 90% recycled materials
  • Padded heel and tongue

Disadvantages

  • May not feel soft enough for long distances

If you’re running on the treadmill, you’re probably also doing some other workouts while you’re at the gym, so you want a shoe that can do it all, like the Cloud are as tough as running on the street, so you can get away with (wearing a shoe with) a little less cushioning,” says Dr. Schaeffer. Although not specifically designed for running, the Cloud just now soft enough. Plus, once you’ve completed your run, you can start right away go to the weight room-no change of shoes required.

Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Material: Recycled polyester | To colour: 5

Best for Long Distance: Cloud stratus 3

Positives

  • Plush cushioning
  • Rocker bottom creates forward momentum
  • 100% recycled base material

Disadvantages