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HOKA vs. On Cloud Running Shoes Compared

Man and woman running on a street in a pair of HOKA running shoes

HOKA and On are among the top running shoe brands on the market today. With the popularity of the HOKA running shoe line and On’s Cloud running shoe line, you’ve probably heard of both while searching for a new pair of shoes to enhance your workouts. 

Choosing the right pair of running shoes is essential to perform at your best and prevent injuries. We all have different foot types, builds, natural running strides, and training goals, so various shoes are available to help. 

In this article, we’ll examine several of the HOKA and On Cloud shoes that are best for different running goals, foot types, and personal preferences to help you choose the ideal pair. The categories we’ll cover include:

By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which pair of running shoes in these lines is the right fit for you. 

Daily Trainers: HOKA Clifton 9 vs. On Cloudsurfer

Runners just getting started or training in multiple styles will benefit from a versatile pair of daily trainers that are great for everything from uptempo workouts to long-distance runs. 

After thoroughly reviewing the best HOKA shoes and the best On Cloud shoes, we found that the HOKA Clifton 9 and On Cloudsurfer stand out as terrific daily trainers. 

While both are top choices, they have a few distinct differences that will make them better for some runners than others. Let’s compare the two head-to-head to help you decide which is right for your needs. 

On Cloudsurfer Side View
HOKA Clifton 9 Side View

Comfort and Fit

The HOKA Clifton 9 and On Cloudsurfer feature curved soles to ease the transition from heel to toe when running. However, depending on the type of runner you are, key differences between the two will impact your experience. 

Cushioning

One of the main differences is how the cushioning feels between the two. 

The HOKA Clifton 9’s foam midsole is thicker and firmer, providing more support on longer runs and helping maintain a steady running pace. 

The On Cloudsurfer’s foam is softer and more plush, helping to reduce fatigue for those with a harder foot strike. 

Heel-To-Toe Drop

The Clifton 9s have a 5mm drop, whereas the Cloudsurfers have a 10mm drop. Both lower-drop and higher-drop shoes have pros and cons. 

Lower-drop shoes like the Clifton 9s promote a more natural midfoot or forefoot strike that can help improve cadence and place less stress on the hips and knees. 

Higher-drop shoes like the Cloudsurfers allow for some heel strike since the extra elevation helps absorb impact, while placing less stress on the achilles, shins, and calves. 

Versatility and Performance

Both of these shoes can act as daily trainers and are good for all types of running. That said, there are still a couple of key differences here. 

The Clifton 9’s thicker foam and wider platform give them a bulkier feel with more support. That means they provide great stability while running. However, some runners say they don’t like the bulkiness of them as much when doing speed training, but many do appreciate the extra support on longer-distance runs. 

The Cloudsurfer’s impact-absorbing abilities and lighter feel make them better suited for uptempo runs where you naturally have harder foot strikes. 

Durability and Design

Both shoes have excellent build quality but achieve this in different ways. 

The Clifton 9’s thick midsole and durable upper layer make them a reliable choice for runners who log many miles, ensuring the shoe maintains its comfort and support over time. However, its bulkier design might not appeal to those looking for a sleeker shoe.

The Cloudsurfer, with its updated CloudTec Phase midsole, offers a more streamlined design that doesn’t compromise on durability. The only downside might be the limited outsole rubber, which could affect the shoe’s longevity on rougher surfaces.

Final Recommendation Between HOKA Clifton 9 vs. On Cloudsurfer

Overall, you can’t go wrong with either pair since they provide versatile performance, but your preferred training style can help you choose between the two. 

The HOKA Clifton 9’s firm support provides the best experience for long-distance runners, while the On Cloudsurfer’s soft cushioning minimizes impact during speed training or for those with harder foot strikes. 

HOKA Men's Clifton 9 Black/White lateral side
HOKA Men's Clifton 9 Black/White lateral side
HOKA Men's Clifton 9 Harbormist/Black lateral side
HOKA Men's Clifton 9 Nimbus Cloud/Steel Wool lateral side
Hoka Men's Clifton 9 side view
HOKA Men's Clifton 9 - Oat Milk/Barley
+16
Sale

HOKA Clifton 9

Men's Shoes
original price:$144.95 price:$115.95 – 145.00
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 - Dusk/Pink Twilight
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 - Dusk/Pink Twilight
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 Black/White lateral side
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 Gull/Sea Ice lateral side
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 - Evening Sky/Coral
HOKA Women's Clifton 9 - Vanilla/Astral
+20
Sale

HOKA Clifton 9

Women's Shoes
original price:$144.95 price:$144.95 – 145.00
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer Iron/Glacier lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer Iron/Glacier lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer Auburn-Frost lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer All Black lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer Cobalt/Black lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudsurfer Creek/White lateral side
+3
Sale

On Running Cloudsurfer

Men's Shoes
original price:$159.95 price:$109.95 – 159.95
On Running Women's Cloudsurfer - Black/Cobalt
On Running Women's Cloudsurfer - Black/Cobalt
On Running Women's Cloudsurfer - Auburn/Frost lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudsurfer Iron/Glacier lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudsurfer - Pearl/Ivory
Women's On Running Cloudsurfer Mineral/Aloe side view
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Sale

On Running Cloudsurfer

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original price:$159.95 price:$109.95 – 159.95

Speed Trainers: HOKA Mach 6 vs. On Cloudflow 4

When you have speed in mind, the HOKA Mach 6 and On Cloudflow 4 are excellent choices for interval training and uptempo runs. Here’s how they compare in essential categories. 

On Cloudflow 4 Side View
HOKA Mach 6 Side View

Responsiveness and Speed

The HOKA Mach 6 is very responsive. This pair of shoes uses an EVA midsole, which is lightweight, compressible, and flexible foam with a bouncy feel. It helps maintain a steady pace during tempo runs. However, some runners say this pair lacks the explosive “pop” they look for during intensive speed workouts. 

The On Cloudflow 4 has a bit more of that “pop” to it. The foam midsole is a bit firmer and doesn’t feel as cushy. However, it does help support more explosive running. These shoes also feature a Speedboard plate that flexes and snaps back to enhance the rebound of each stride and a rockered geometry (curved sole) to enhance the heel-to-toe transition to really propel you forward. 

Weight

The HOKA Mach 6 is the lighter of the two, coming in at 8.2 oz for men and 6.7 oz for women. The lightness makes it more versatile to reduce fatigue on longer runs and keep your strides quick when you want to pick up the pace. 

The On Cloudflow 4 is slightly heavier, coming in at 8.29 oz for men and 7.05 oz for women. While this pair is slightly heavier, the extra support features that add weight, like the Speedboard plate and firmer cushioning, also give it that extra snap for sprints and help support harder, more intense strides. 

Final Recommendation on HOKA Mach 6 vs. On Cloudflow 4

Those who want a lighter, more versatile shoe for distance running and speed training will enjoy the HOKA Mach 6. However, if you want to focus on pure speed or interval training, the On Cloudflow 4’s explosive support system might be better suited to your needs. 

HOKA Men's Mach 6 White/Nimbus Cloud lateral side
HOKA Men's Mach 6 White/Nimbus Cloud lateral side
HOKA Men's Mach 6 - Black/Electric Tangerine
HOKA Men's Mach 6 side view
HOKA Men's Mach 6 side view
HOKA Men's Mach 6 Dusk/Shadow lateral side
+5
Sale

HOKA Mach 6

Men's Shoes
original price:$139.95 price:$111.95 – 140.00
HOKA Women's Mach 6 White/Nimbus Cloud lateral side
HOKA Women's Mach 6 White/Nimbus Cloud lateral side
HOKA Women's Mach 6 Cloudless/Waterpark lateral side
HOKA Women's Mach 6 Illusion/Dusk lateral side
HOKA Women's Mach 6 Frost/Rose Gold lateral side
HOKA Women's Mach 6 Black/Fuchsia lateral side
+6
Sale

HOKA Mach 6

Women's Shoes
original price:$140 price:$139.95 – 140.00
On Running Men's Cloudflow 4 - Black/White
On Running Men's Cloudflow 4 - Black/White
On Running Men's Cloudflow 4 Black/Storm lateral side
On Running Cloudflow 4 side view
Men's On Cloudflow 4 White/Hay lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudflow 4 - White/Sand
Sale

On Running Cloudflow 4

Men's Shoes
original price:$159.95 price:$139.95 – 159.95
On Running Women's Cloudflow 4 - Black/White
On Running Women's Cloudflow 4 - Black/White
Women's On Cloudflow 4 Fade/Wisteria lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudflow 4 Quartz/Flame lateral side
On Running Cloudflow 4 side view
Women's On Cloudflow 4 White/Hay lateral side
Sale

On Running Cloudflow 4

Women's Shoes
original price:$159.95 price:$139.95 – 159.95

Race Day Shoes: HOKA Rocket X 2 vs. On Cloudboom Echo 3

Want to optimize performance on race day? The HOKA Rocket X 2 and On Cloudboom Echo 3 are some of the top choices in this category. Let’s dive into how they stack up to each other.

On Cloudboom Echo 3 Side View
HOKA Rocket x 3 Side View

Lightweight Design

On race day, you’ll want a shoe that’s light and keeps you propelling forward. Both of these shoes deliver in this category, but you should be mindful of a couple of differences when choosing which shoe is right for you. 

The HOKA Rocket X2 weighs 8.3 oz for men and 6.7 oz for women. HOKA designed these to be lightweight, with a minimal yet effective upper portion that’s breathable and provides structure without unnecessary bulk. 

The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is even lighter, weighing 7.5 oz for men and 6.6 oz for women. While it’s one of the lightest race-day shoes on the market, it still doesn’t compromise on durability or stability to ensure your feet and natural running stride feel supported. 

Propulsion and Speed

Both of these shoes have several features that contribute to optimized propulsion and achieving top race day speeds. They both feature Pebax-based midsoles, carbon fiber plates, and rocker geometry. 

Pebax is a low-density foam that provides cushioning without adding weight to the shoe, which keeps you running at top speeds. 

Carbon fiber plates are curved plates embedded in the midsole. They provide cushioning and shock absorption while increasing the midsole’s bending stiffness. When the shoe can snap back quickly after bending, you lose less energy per stride, and it helps propel you forward, making carbon plated shoes a top choice on race day.  

Rocker geometry provides a curved sole that eases the transition from heel to toe while running. 

The main difference in propulsion and speed between these shoes is that the On Cloudboom Echo 3’s midsole is a bit firmer. That extra firmness provides more support for shorter, high-intensity races and runs. 

On the other hand, the HOKA Rocket X 2’s extra bouncy and cushioned feeling makes them better for longer races. These are especially great for marathon runners. 

Technology and Innovation

The HOKA Rocket X 2 incorporates several cutting-edge technologies, including its Profly-X construction, which layers a softer foam above the carbon plate and a firmer foam below. This design optimizes energy return while maintaining stability. Additionally, the zonal rubber outsole provides excellent grip, ensuring confidence on various surfaces, which is crucial on race day.

The On Cloudboom Echo 3 stands out with its eco-friendly Pebax midsole, made from 46% bio-based materials. This midsole, combined with a more aggressive carbon fiber plate, offers a unique blend of firmness and responsiveness. In addition, the shoe’s lightweight upper is designed to wick moisture efficiently, and the outsole’s traction is very reliable, making it perform great in wet and dry conditions.

Final Recommendation on HOKA Rocket X 2 vs. On Cloudboom Echo 3

Overall, when running longer races, the extra cushion and bounce in the HOKA Rocket X 2 make them the top choice. However, if you’re participating in shorter races like 5Ks and 10Ks, where speed and responsiveness are key, the On Cloudboom Echo 3 might be the better pick. 

HOKA Unisex Rocket X 2 Ceramic/Evening Primrose lateral side
HOKA Unisex Rocket X 2 Ceramic/Evening Primrose lateral side
HOKA Unisex Rocket X 2 Black/Multi lateral side

HOKA Unisex Rocket X 2

Shoes
price:$249.95
On Running Men's Cloudboom Echo 3 White/Flame lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudboom Echo 3 White/Flame lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudboom Echo 3 Dustrose | Eclipse side view
On Running Men's Cloudboom Echo 3 Undyed White/Mint lateral side
Sale

On Running Cloudboom Echo 3

Men's Shoes
original price:$289.95 price:$289.95
On Running Women's Cloudboom Echo 3 White/Flame lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudboom Echo 3 White/Flame lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudboom Echo 3 Undyed White/Mint lateral side
On Running Cloudboom Echo 3 Dustrose | Eclipse side view
Sale

On Running Cloudboom Echo 3

Women's Shoes
original price:$289.95 price:$217.50 – 289.95

Max Cushioned Shoes: HOKA Bondi 8 vs. On Cloudmonster 2

When it comes to max-cushioned running shoes, the HOKA Bondi 8 and the On Cloudmonster 2 represent two distinct approaches to providing a comfortable support structure. 

On Cloudmonster 2 Side View
HOKA Bondi 8 Side View

Cushioning and Comfort

The HOKA Bondi 8 is known for its ultra-soft EVA midsole, which provides a pillowy, soft feel on each stride. The Bondi 8 also features a wide base and an extended heel, which add stability and smooth out your run. This shoe excels at absorbing impact, making it a great choice for runners needing extra support or for use during recovery runs. 

The On Cloudmaster 2 delivers its cushioning through dual-density Helion foam and the largest CloudTec pods ever used by On. CloudTec pods are hollow, compressing when your foot lands and springing back when your foot takes off to give these shoes extra bounce. The Cloudmonster 2 is designed for runners who like extra responsiveness in their shoe, with a rocker design that smoothly transitions through each stride. 

Fit and Stability

The Bondi 8 offers a snugger fit, especially in the forefoot, which may be a bit too tight for some runners. Those with wider feet might need to consider the wide version to avoid discomfort. Despite its extra-soft cushioning, the Bondi 8 feels stable and secure, thanks to its broader base and firm midsole.

The Cloudmonster 2 has a more generous fit, particularly in the toe box, which can feel too roomy for some runners. The shoe’s overall wider build has led to sizing issues for some people, so you might want to consider going a half size down if you don’t have a wider foot. Additionally, you’ll notice these shoes have an overall firmer feel, providing extra stability and bounce in each step. 

Final Recommendation on HOKA Bondi 8 vs. On Cloudmonster 2

When you prioritize an extra-soft cushioned feel, the HOKA Bondi 8 is a standout choice. However, runners who want something slightly firmer with more bounce in each step might prefer the On Cloudmonster 2. 

HOKA Men's Bondi 8 - Black/White
HOKA Men's Bondi 8 - Black/White
HOKA Men's Bondi 8 Real Teal/Shadow lateral side
Hoka One One Men's Bondi 8 - Sharkskin/ Harbor Mist (1123202-SHMS)
HOKA Men's Bondi 8 - Goblin Blue/Mountain Spring
HOKA Men's Bondi 8 - Blanc de Blanc/Solar Flare
+13
Sale

HOKA Bondi 8

Men's Shoes
original price:$164.95 price:$131.95
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 Black/White lateral side
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 Black/White lateral side
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 Airy Blue/Sunlit Ocean lateral side
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 - White/White
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 - Shadow/Dusk
HOKA Women's Bondi 8 - Harbor Mist/Lunar Rock
+12
Sale

HOKA Bondi 8

Women's Shoes
original price:$164.95 price:$131.95
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 - Black/Frost lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 - Black/Frost lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 Mineral | Aloe side view
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 Frost/Rock lateral side
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 side view
On Running Men's Cloudmonster 2 side view
+5

On Running Cloudmonster 2

Men's Shoes
price:$169.95 – 179.95
On Running Women's Cloudmonster 2 Mineral | Aloe side view
On Running Women's Cloudmonster 2 Mineral | Aloe side view
On Running Women's Cloudmonster 2 Asphalt/Lima lateral side
On Running Cloudmonster 2 - Black/Frost lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudmonster 2 Frost/Rock lateral side
On Running Women's Cloudmonster 2 White/Flame lateral side
+4

On Running Cloudmonster 2

Women's Shoes
price:$169.95 – 179.95

Visit Marathon Sports to Explore and Try on These HOKA and On Cloud Shoes

Each of the HOKA running shoes and On Cloud running shoes in this article are available at Marathon Sports. 

You can shop our online store to compare their specs further and get them conveniently shipped to your doorstep, or stop at one of our retail locations to try them on before purchasing. With our wide selection of shoes from top brands in the industry, we’re confident we have a pair that’s right for you, no matter what your running needs are.

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