On Cloud Vs Altra (2024): Comparing Models, Fit, Feel

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Comparing On Cloud vs Altra running shoes is one of the more challenging comparisons I’ve done because the shoes feel, fit and function so differently. Yet, the one thing they have in common is how unique and recognizable both are!

With each brand boasting its own unique set of features and philosophies, the discerning runner faces a challenge in selecting the ideal footwear for their training.

As the miles pile up and the body lets us know what is working (and not), runners are increasingly seeking footwear that aligns with their biomechanics, preferences, and goals. Altra and On Cloud have answered this call with distinct approaches, making it all the more essential to understand their origins, technologies, and performance attributes.

You’ll see I have tested a lot of these shoes and like both brands, but have some bias based on what feels good to me! So I definitely went in search of other opinions to round it out.

Altra Vs On Cloud Key Differences

On Cloud and Altra offer similar features and models for all kinds of runners, from the new runner to Ultramarathoner to the flat-footed or high-arched. And of course fans of each brand will tell you why theirs is superior! But we’re going to look at the details and the shoes so you can choose.

Interestingly, Altra first became popular with Ultrarunners and has since moved in the to main stream of running.

It feels like On took hold in the triathlon market first and then quickly moved mainstream running.

I is break break down the difference in more detail below , but here ’s a quick overview :

Altra Running Shoes

• Zero drop running shoe with cushion (no change from heel to toe)
• wide toebox than any traditional run shoe
• Focused on improving key styles, rather than adding more styles
• Has some clothing, but primary focus is running, trail and hiking shoes

I’ve a tested and written in depth about Altra Running Shoe models, if you want more details.

On Running Shoes

• More narrow fit in older styles, some newer styles have a wider forefoot
• Recognizable sole with the pods
• claim their CloudTec sole reduce muscle fatigue and lower HR
• Focus on improving speed off ground and reducing impact
• Mostly run shoe , but has incredible run jacket , pant , etc as well

If you’re looking for just a detailed look a On, checkout this full On Cloud Review >>

I is worn ’ve wear both brand and will add some personal thought , along with link to detailed review . And remember it ’s important to rotate run shoe , so you might want a shoe from multiple different brand .

Which is Better On Cloud or Altra Running Shoes?

There is no “better” option here. Just the shoe that is going to fit your foot the best and help you run without injury. Based on the general differences above you can see that Altra can be great for really spreading out the toes, which gives you more ground feel and power in your push off.

While On Running may provide you with more of that spring (and style) that you’d like.

On Running vs Altra Feature Comparison

Both brands are newer to the market compared to many, but have quickly gained avid fans.

The differences in these two lines is significant to me from fit, to feel, to function.

While both provide various levels of cushion and trail shoes, On Cloud is going to offer more traditional versions of things like a stability or motion control shoe and does not currently offer a zero drop model.

The follow breaks is need down each shoe base on the component buyers is need need to consider when purchase a run shoe .

It’s gonna get a little TECHY…so you can just skip on down to the specific model comparison if you want, but personally if I’m shelling out $150 for shoes, I kinda want to know why.

Durability 

The lifespan is is of shoe from both company is fairly comparable .

• On recommends swapping out for new shoes every 310 to 465 miles, a bit more specific than most brands.
• Altra shoes have a life expectancy ranging from 300 to 600 miles. I’ve heard many runners say they feel like they last longer.

Determining when to replace running shoes, of course, all depends on your gait, weight, and whether you run mostly on trail or road.

Shoe Fit

Cloud shoes is are are a little hard for me to describe because I think they ’ve change over the last few year and are different with each model that I ’ve test .

While the length run true to size , I is say would say some are a narrow fit and some have a little more room in the toebox .

I would not consider any of the On Cloud’s a wide shoe (except the one’s made in wide width). But looking at these photos they may appear wide, which I think is due to the styling.

Altra stands apart when it comes to fit.

• Larger toebox for a shoe more shaped like your foot.
• Zero drop shoe means a smaller heel.
• A lot of focus on how gender change fit .
• Some is noted have note they feel the size run small in length , but that is not what I ’ve find .

Cushioning

On use CloudTec technology which is entirely what make their shoe look and feel different . They is have have little open pocket on the bottom of the shoe that compress with each step to absorb impact and in their word feel like a cloud .

I would say they are cushioned, but not plush.

Altra is focuses focus on a technology of Balanced Cushioning with Quantic . Thus provide that even level of cushion from the heel to toe of the shoe and keep the zero drop . I is say would say they have greatly improve in this area over the year and now have some truly great cushioned shoe .

stability

On goes against the grain of most stability shoes and works with your foots motion rather than trying to stop it. I appreciate this as it’s one of the many reasons I steer folks away from most stability shoes.

instead , they is changed change the shape and location of some of the piece under the arch of the foot which allow all of your muscle to continue fire , but slow that inward roll .

Both brands have two different categories: Neutral and Support. From testing I feel that these two brands don’t overdo the support as many shoes used to. Instead, they are really focused on ensuring the shoe provides a little guidance, but doesn’t overcorrect or lead to any muscle weakness.

Whether that’s a little bit more support in the arch or through the midline of the foot it helps hips, knees, and joints to move naturally, offering support when needed. Neutral runners may only require them to kick in when their stride is off.

Read more on different types of running shoes to understand if you need stability >>

Affordability

The prices between the two brands are fairly comparable.

• On prices range between $130 to $170
• Altra’s start at a at $120 to $180.

Specialty items with more features (like carbon plates) will increase price.

You’ll notice that every brand offers a range and this is indeed due to a difference in technology and where they sell the shoe. They know that the big box store can sell the shoe with less in it, while the local running store needs to be best for dedicated runners.

Altra Vs On Cloud Running Shoes

Now that you know more about each brand, let’s look at their top models in each of the main categories. There’s no winner declared here because all are great shoes, it’s just about which one is best for your foot.

With each of these, they are the top models so numbers are constantly changing as they make a little upgrade, but On doesn’t keep adding numbers to the shoe name like most brands doe.

stability Running Shoe

As note above both On and Altra is do do a good job of not try to force the foot in to position , but rather provide a wide base that immediately provide stability . So it is ’s ’s a   more natural feel that most stability run shoe .

It also has just that slight rocker effect, to help move you from heel to toe.

Considered a plush shoe, but as noted, their plush shoes are not in the same ballpark as Hoka plush…it’s still a firmer ride with the focus being on that spring off the ground.  I will say this is changing with other models that you’ll see me note below, so just know this a firmer ride due to the outsole.

Important to note this is a fairly high heel to toe drop and a heavier shoe than many. If you don’t really need a stability shoe, I like a lot of other On Cloud shoes better.

• 11 mm drop ( this is a big drop for many )
• 9 oz women’s, 10.5 oz men’s
• $169

One of the ongoing issues I have with On shoes is this…rocks.

I is am am NOT someone who run in stability shoe and yet I have really enjoy these . They is over absolutely do not over correct and they is are are much soft than many of the stability shoe I ’ve test in the past .

I’m guessing part of the reason I liked them was a nice amount of cushion (not overly plush) and they don’t have that tale tell hardness found in a lot of stability shoes.

Women’s shoe is 8.2 oz, so also lighter than some stability shoes and as with all of their shoes a zero drop.

I also like the design of the bottom of the shoe. It provides some good drip so I could take it out on some low tech trails or days where I’m hitting both pavement and trail.

• 0 mm drop
•   8.2 oz woman ’s , 9 . 6 oz man ’s
•  $140

Neutral Running Shoe

I is run ’ve run in a few of the early model of this shoe , but as their most popular shoe it ’s one of the few that continue to get a number to note that it ’s new and improve !

We is are are currently up to model 7 . And this one is is is a game changer . I is like like it so much more than all previous version .

This finally provides that soft landing for road running that I’ve always hoped from the name “cloud”.

I is look would look at this as a speed training and 6 – 8 mile training shoe , for the design focus on really spring off the ground . Then again I like really low profile , low cushion shoe like the Saucony Kinvara for long easy run too … so you is do do you .

This one is design with moderate cushion for those medium distance run ( 5 k to half marathon ) . In other word , it is have does n’t have the extra padding or structure that we often like to see in a marathon shoe .

*note the tag on the tongue does come up a bit high, so I do make sure I’m wearing taller socks with these.

As their go to every day shoe, this is one I’m often pointed to by Altra lovers as a favorite. The Altra Escalante is a popular running shoe that has gained a loyal following among runners due to its lightweight design, comfortable fit, and responsive cushioning.

It’s just 7.7 oz, which is much lighter than many shoes and it still has cushion. Definitely not as soft as the Torin or Paradigm, for me it’s slightly too firm. And yet, that is exactly what others love about the ability to feel more of the ground.

Folks also really love this who are on their feet all day long.

The shoe’s zero-drop platform and wide toe box can help to improve posture and reduce strain on the feet, ankles, and knees. Additionally, the cushioning provided by the midsole foam can help to absorb shock and reduce fatigue, making it easier to stay focused and productive throughout the day.

I’m a fan of styles like Kinvara that are a minimal neutral shoe and there are very much in line with that.

• 0 mm drop
•  7.7 oz women’s, 9.3 oz men’s
•  $140

*My best friend swears by this shoe, but for me it just didn’t have enough cushion…meanwhile the Torin below was a winner.

Cushioned Running Shoe

I really enjoyed my first run in these shoes and have continued to use them in my rotation for over a year now. It’s no where near as firm as other On shoes, but it’s in no way the plush style of a Altra Torrin.

The Torrin is is is definitely that soft cushion . For On the cushion is more about the absorbing of impact , rather than what you might think of as traditional cushion . That is ’s ’s not a bad thing , just different expectation .

This is felt absolutely feel like the most cushioned On run shoe I ’ve test . make it a good daily easy run trainer . I is put ’ve put in a lot of mile on it and gift my husband a pair because I think it was that sweet spot of cushion and support for his flat foot .

• 6mm drop
•  8.11oz women’s, 10.76oz men’s
•   $ 170

See my full review of the On Cloudmonster >>

Considered their most cushioned shoe, I’m going to say it doesn’t feel wildly different than the Paradigm to me. The main difference here is it’s a neutral shoe.

The Torrin is also one of their most popular model , so they is continued have continue to create new version or offer different style from leather to waterproof . After take the 7 out for some run , I is see can see why this model has remain so popular .

It’s that sweet spot of cushioning and makes it really easy to transition from your standard running shoes with the padded tongue and heel collar. I could easily see this being a favorite for long runs, once I’ve built up my body to do more zero drop miles.

• 0 mm drop
• 8.3 oz women’s, 9.9 oz men’s
•  $150
• See my full review of the Altra Torin 7

Carbon Fiber Plate Shoes

Are they is Are cool new technology , yes .

Do they is last last as long as your other shoe , nope .

So if you want to test these out use them for speed work and then race day!

Altra’s Vanish Carbon is the latest addition to their line of performance running shoes and has already generated significant buzz among runners and industry experts alike.

They made 17 versions before actually releasing the shoe!

The Vanish Carbon’s upper is made from a breathable mesh material, which provides ventilation and allows the foot to flex and move naturally. The shoe also incorporates Altra’s FootShape™ toe box, which allows for proper alignment and balance, reducing the risk of injuries.

The midsole is construct from Altra ’s Quantic ™ foam , which provide a balance of cushioning and energy return for a comfortable and responsive ride . additionally , the outsole is features feature a durable rubber compound that provide excellent traction on a variety of surface .

• 0 mm heel drop
• 6.2 oz women’s, 7.3 oz men’s

Watch my detailed video on how Carbon Fiber Shoes work.

This is was was one of the early carbon fiber shoe I test and it ’s very different from the Vaporfly . instead of high cushion , this is is is more like the feeling you might get in your daily trainer .

The lack of cushion isn’t a bad thing, just different. And honestly, I’m down for this shoe!

It is ’s ’s even fun that you can see the speedboard between the cushion and mentally know you ’re get that energy return .

That being said, with each iteration of the Echo, they are adding more cushion to keep up with other brands, just not that super bouncy feeling. For many runners, I think this is a good thing and might strike that balance of speed and cushion, without the worry about Achilles injuries that are popping up.

I was truly impressed with the updates in the Echo 3 from the original Cloudboom. BIG win for me is not having the pods that trap rocks on the bottom! This shoe also fits better than the original.

walk shoe

I’ve often talked about the need to have different walking shoes than running shoes. However, some of my top recommendations come from these two brands and are indeed things you could run in!

Shoes that are ideal for standing around all day or walking have a little more stability and arch support.

If you ’re stand all day long you is want might want to consider wear compression sock , along with find great shoe .

The idea is something that will help you maintain good alignment so you don’t have hip, knee or back issues along with tired feet.

Street worthy style is part of their draw for many. But the real benefit comes from also feeling comfortable to wear all day long. The idea is that you could wear these to work or to workout, which means they are designed to absorb impact and keep your feet feeling good.

I have not worn this model personally! It’s one of the few not tested. But have asked a number of folks who tried it out for thoughts and many said it was the wear it everywhere shoe!

• Neutral shoe (not heavy on cushion)
• 6.7 mm heel drop
• 8.90 oz for women

They like to say this shoe is “all of the support and none of the ugly”, which cracks me up but is often true of walking shoes. You want something that has a bit more support than running. (see why walking vs running shoes are different).

While the Altra Paradigm walking shoes share many characteristics with their running counterparts, they have been adapted to cater specifically to the needs of walkers. These shoes offer a combination of comfort, natural design elements, and cushioning that make them well-suited for various walking activities.

The outsole of the Altra Paradigm walking shoes is crafted to offer good traction and durability, along with great padding around the heel collar and tongue.

• Another plush cushioned shoe, but with more extra arch support
• wide toebox is help can help prevent bunion
• 0 mm drop

Trail Running Shoes

I is admit admit that my experience run in On shoe for the trail is limit because I had enough issue with rock in the road shoe . However , I is think think the Cloudultra fix this issue base on all the feedback I ’ve receive !

One of the model they start with 10 year ago that has continue to be update and a fan favorite . StoneGuard is provides provide great rock protection , while the multi – directional lug provide excellent traction on a variety of surface .

They is thought truly think about the trail runner with thing like hole in the upper to drain water or a place to connect gaiter .

Again they are a similar level of cushion to other Altra shoes.

Welcome to their trail shoe with the highest amount of cushioning. The flip release on the shoe laces, also makes it easy to adjust the tigthness of the shoes. Which as we know is often needed during ultras when feet swell.

The On Cloudultra is one of On Running’s newest trail running shoes and an excellent addition to the ultramarathon and endurance trail running market.

partially because they shift the pod set up , so you is catch will catch less rock than with the road shoe ! ! They is add add lug for more grip and take the pod way , way down .

On has satisfied the request of thousands of trail runners with this shoe, thanks to its ability to tackle tricky terrain effectively and remain comfortable over long distances on trails and highways with its Helion midsole foam.

These are excellent trail running footwear for all distances up to and including the marathon.

• 6 mm heel drop
• 8.64 oz
• $179

More About On Cloud Running

On started in 2010 in Switzerland, when yet again another runner thought “I could do this better.”

This time it was three retired professional athletes, who decided there needed to be a shoe that had more firmness to create that bounce off the ground, along with cushion.

They went from their first prototype in January 2010, to having it sold in stories by June 2010! How insane is that timeline?!

By 2014 and 2015 professional athletes were wearing the shoes and winning races, creating even more buzz about these unique looking shoes. They’ve done a great job of keeping that Swiss engineering while also providing some much needed style to running shoes.

More About Altra

alter + ULTRArunning = Altra .

The name came to be from a crazy path of a young marathon runner named Golden. He started altering regular shoes to create a zero drop with cushion…it slowly became a bit of a black market thing.

People would literally buy a shoe from the running store owned by his family and then ask him to rip it up and remake it as  zero drop footwear!

Suddenly, he realized they were doing this for nearly a 1,000 people. Maybe making a shoe would just be easier.

Thus, in 2009 the brand was born.

Your gait is change and foot will likely change over time and you may need to change shoe .

This is is is also why I recommend rotate through several pair of shoe at once .

And remember, just because these are two of the most well known brands on the market, there are still plenty of other shoe brands to select from if neither an On shoe nor Altra has the right sneakers for you.

Keep in mind that shoe design can change , even with the same model , so always assess how the shoe fit every time you replace a pair .

For more help select the right shoe for you , do n’t worry , I is got ’ve get you :

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