Quick Verdict:
If you want the softer, smoother option for walking or standing all day, choose Cloudrunner 2. If you need a firmer, more structured shoe for stronger control, choose Cloudflyer 5. Both have a 10 mm drop and come in wide.
Hi, I’m James McCormack, a foot and ankle specialist with 10+ years of experience advising patients on footwear. Below, I compare cushioning, stability, fit, and the medical considerations (e.g., Achilles, posterior tibial tendon, metatarsalgia) so you can choose confidently.
Reviewed & wear-tested; advice is educational, not a substitute for medical care.
Skip ahead: Quick picks · Decision table · Specs & cushioning · Stability features · Fit & upper · Use cases · Compare next · FAQs · Conclusion
Quick picks
- Best for flat feet / mild overpronation: Cloudrunner 2 — steadier base with smoother transitions.
- Softest, all-day comfort for walking/standing: Cloudrunner 2 — more forgiving underfoot.
- Firmer “orthopaedic” feel for stronger control: Cloudflyer 5 — rigid platform and defined rearfoot control.
Decision table (at a glance)
| Criterion | Cloudrunner 2 | Cloudflyer 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Cushion feel | Softer, smoother | Firmer, more rigid |
| Stack & drop | 39/29 mm · 10 mm | 31/21 mm · 10 mm |
| Stability feel | Gentle guidance; broader medial pods | Structured base; rigid pods + heel clip |
| Rocker vs flex | Moderate rocker; smoother roll | Less flex; transitions feel clunkier |
| Toe-box / fit | True to size; medium forefoot | True to size; medium; firmer heel counter |
| Best for | Walking/standing, light runs, comfort | Stronger control for more severe overpronation |
Check the Best Prices on Amazon Below:
Watch: Cloudrunner 2 vs Cloudflyer 5 (Comfort, Stability & Fit)
I filmed a short side-by-side to show how each shoe actually feels on foot. In two minutes you’ll see cushion softness, heel lockdown, forefoot flex/rocker, and who I recommend each model for if you walk, stand all day, or do light runs. If you prefer video to text, start here.
1) Specs & cushioning (how they feel and why it matters)
Cloudrunner 2:
Rearfoot: 39 mm | Forefoot: 29 mm | Heel drop: 10 mm
The higher stack with 10 mm drop reduces calf–Achilles load during gait, which may help if you’re sensitive with Achilles tendinitis. The extra forefoot cushioning can also reduce pressure for metatarsalgia or Morton’s neuroma, making long walks and standing more comfortable.
Cloudflyer 5:
Rearfoot: 31 mm | Forefoot: 21 mm | Heel drop: 10 mm
Same drop, but less overall stack. Dual-density Helion (firmer under heel, softer forefoot) aims for control, but the net ride is firmer and more rigid, which can place more pressure through the toes on long days if you’re forefoot-sensitive.
Key difference: Cloudrunner 2 feels softer and more forgiving; Cloudflyer 5 feels firmer and more “orthopaedic.”
2) Stability features (what controls motion)
Shared tech: both use On’s CloudTec pods to manage loading and provide guidance; both have some sole flare for contact and midfoot support.
Cloudrunner 2: broader, denser medial pods to limit excessive inward roll; steady, smooth transitions. Helpful for posterior tibial tendinopathy and peroneal tendinopathy by giving a stable base without feeling harsh.
Cloudflyer 5: rigid pods and a distinct heel clip increase rearfoot control. The trade-off is comfort over long hours: it’s stable but can feel clunky.
Key difference: Cloudrunner 2 = smoother guidance; Cloudflyer 5 = stronger structure and rearfoot control.
Check the Best Prices on Amazon Below:
3) Fit & upper (comfort and lockdown)
Cloudrunner 2: engineered mesh; true to size; slightly snug midfoot with a broader forefoot; padded tongue; moderately stiff heel counter. Supportive without over-restricting movement.
Cloudflyer 5: engineered mesh with more tongue padding; firmer heel counter for added rearfoot control; true to size. Both models come in standard and wide options.
Key difference: Cloudflyer 5 locks the heel more firmly; Cloudrunner 2 feels more balanced and comfortable over time.
4) Use cases (what each is best for)
- Cloudrunner 2: walking, standing all day, and light runs when you want comfort with mild-moderate guidance. A neutral alternative is the ON Cloud 6
- Cloudflyer 5: when you want a firmer, more structured platform for stronger control (severe overpronation) and can tolerate a stiffer feel.
Compare next
Asics Gel-Kayano 32 vs Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 · Asics Stability Shoes · Altra Paradigm – A Zero Drop Stability Shoe
FAQs
Is Cloudrunner 2 or Cloudflyer 5 better for flat feet and all-day standing?
Cloudrunner 2 is generally better—it’s softer with smoother transitions. Cloudflyer 5 is firmer and more structured if you need stronger control.
Which is softer for walking—Cloudrunner 2 or Cloudflyer 5?
Cloudrunner 2. Cloudflyer 5 feels firmer and more rigid underfoot.
Conclusion: which On Cloud shoe is right for you?
Choose Cloudrunner 2 if you:
- Want softer cushioning and smoother transitions for walking or standing all day.
- Need moderate stability for issues like posterior tibial or peroneal tendon pain.
- Prefer a comfortable, flexible feel for everyday use and light runs.
Choose Cloudflyer 5 if you:
- Prefer a firmer, more “orthopaedic” platform for stronger control.
- Have more severe overpronation and prioritise rearfoot stability.
- Are okay with a stiffer, less flexible ride.
Information is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.
