On Cloud vs. Hoka: How To Choose The Best Shoes For You, Per Podiatrists

If you ask any experienced runner about their favorite shoes, two of the styles that you'll hear about most often are On Running Shoes and Hoka.

While both have brands have plenty of fans—including podiatrists—which one is better for running?

Hoka is celebrated for its maximalist approach to cushioning that has earned the podiatric APMA Seal of Acceptance, indicating the shoes promote good foot health. 

The brand was founded in 2009 by two avid runners, Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, who aimed to create a shoe that would provide enhanced cushioning and support for runners, particularly those tackling longer distances. 

Fun fact: Even if you've had six pairs, you probably don't know the brand's name is derived from the Maori language. "Hoka one one" means to "fly over the earth." This name reflects the brand's commitment to creating shoes that allow runners to glide effortlessly and comfortably over various terrains.

Plenty of doctors and podiatrists have recommended Hoka for its beneficial design and enhanced cushioning. Tim Dutra, DPM, M.S., MHCA, says, "Hoka offers a variety of shoes with a wide range of cushioning and support and width options, and Hoka shoes are a favorite of runners, walkers, and hikers." 

Maybe it's the brand's Meta-Rocker technology that employs a curved sole geometry for a smooth and efficient gait cycle, or maybe it's the maximalist cushion that reduces the impact on joints and improves overall gait dynamics. 

On Cloud is known for its innovative running shoes that emphasize lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and unique sole technology.

The brand was founded in Switzerland in 2010 by Olivier Bernhard, Caspar Coppetti, and David Allemann, who sought to create running shoes that would provide a comfortable and natural running experience. 

To this day, all products are Swiss-engineered in the On Lab, with a low carbon footprint from alternative materials.

The hallmark feature of On Cloud shoes is the brand's CloudTec technology, which involves individual pods or "clouds" integrated into the sole of the shoe. 

These clouds are designed to provide cushioning and support during both landing and push-off phases of running. When the foot strikes the ground, the clouds compress to absorb impact, and when the foot pushes off, the clouds firm up to aid in propulsion. 

What's more, the shoes are designed to adapt to the runner's gait and provide a responsive feel, promoting a smooth and comfortable stride.

On Cloud shoes are lightweight, which can be particularly appealing to runners who prioritize agility and a more minimalistic feel.

Winner: On

On running shoes typically fall within a midrange price category, making them more accessible to a broader group. Prices for On shoes start around $100 and can go up to around $200 for certain specialized models with advanced features. 

HOKA shoes generally start between $100 and $130 for basic designs. Premium models with advanced cushioning and features can range from $130 to $250 or higher.

Winner: On

Both Hoka and On have sustainability efforts, but On comes out on top when it comes to sustainability.

On's innovation team is always at work investigating lower-impact, fossil-free materials: advanced recycled sources, carbon-emissions-based materials, and bio-based materials. The brand even partnered with the circular thermoplastics experts Borealis, carbon recycling specialists LanzaTech, and engineering leaders Technip Energies to use captured carbon emissions in the CleanCloud™ foam. 

With this new EVA foam, On is aiming not just to reduce carbon emissions but to turn carbon emissions into performance products. 

The brand even has a program that allows you to send back old shoes every six months to be recycled. The best part? You'll get a new recycled pair sent back to you in its place.

Hoka is also transparent about its efforts, sharing plans to reduce energy usage in its footwear by 25% per shoe by 2030 and to make its distribution center a zero-waste facility by the end of 2023.

There are a few key differences between On Clouds and Hokas. First: the cushioning systems. 

On Cloud shoes are known for their CloudTec technology, which features individual pods or "clouds" in the sole that provide a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. The focus is on lightweight design and quick transitions. Cloud shoes are often favored by runners who appreciate a more agile and natural feel underfoot. 

In contrast, Hoka shoes are recognized for their maximalist cushioning, offering generous midsole cushioning that absorbs impact over longer distances. The Meta-Rocker technology promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Hoka shoes are often chosen by runners seeking enhanced comfort and joint protection during extended runs.

When it comes to weight and profile, On Cloud shoes are designed with a lightweight profile, often targeting runners who value agility, versatility, and quicker transitions. Hoka shoes tend to feel bulkier or heavier due to their maximal cushioning; however, weight comparisons between the two brands also depend on the model and size. 

Ultimately, the choice between On Cloud and Hoka depends on your shoe preferences, physical activities, and biomechanics.

Podiatrists recommend considering factors such as foot shape, cushioning preferences, terrain, distance, fit, and individual comfort when deciding which brand and model best align with your running needs. 

Though both brands are liked and recommended by podiatrists, only Hoka has the APMA Seal of Approval—and it's a better choice if you're looking for a rocker bottom shoe with maximum cushioning.

On Cloud, however, wins from a sustainability standpoint and is favored by those with high arches who are looking for a lightweight shoe that still doesn't skimp on support.