If you’re someone who spends long hours on your feet, whether it’s for work or just tackling daily errands, you know the struggle of finding shoes that offer comfort without sacrificing style. Fear not, I’m here to help compare two popular contenders in the world of comfortable footwear: Allbirds vs On Cloud shoes.
These are two popular brands renowned for their ability to keep your feet feeling good all day long.
Of course, comfort isn’t the only consideration when choosing the perfect pair of shoes. We’ll also delve into durability, because let’s face it, we want shoes that can withstand the test of time. And we’d be lying if we said style didn’t play a role too, right?
Buckle up and get ready for an in-depth comparison that will help you make an informed decision about which brand, Allbirds or On Cloud, will be your ultimate companion on those marathon days of standing. Let’s find the perfect pair that checks all the boxes for comfort, durability, style, and value.
Your feet deserve nothing but the best!
Allbirds Vs On Cloud Key Differences
Allbirds and On Cloud to me are very different brands with very different marketing and technology.
Allbird started with a focus on being eco-friendly, promoting great manufacturing working conditions and feeling good to run, walk, or stand around. Meanwhile, On Cloud started with a focus on technology geared towards triathletes, but then they suddenly took over running and mainstream marketing with their look.
What you’ll find with both brands is they don’t want to be Nike. They don’t want neon greens or to be the shoe for everyone. Each knows who they are and absolutely wants to stay in their lane.
All Birds
- Signature use of merino wool
- Soft insoles
- Eco-friendly
- Clean simple look
- Flared heel for stability
On Cloud
- Cloud pod technology offers more support for the arch
- Higher level of technology in the materials for activity
- More trendy aesthetic, but still no neon color schemes
One of the reasons that On Cloud is great for walking or standing all day is the design of the shoe provides more stability to the foot for leg alignment. That’s going to prevent a lot of aches and pains from knees or ankles falling inward.
Allbirds initially started out calling their shoes “running shoes”, but I’ve noticed have transitioned more to every day and active shoes. I would 100% agree they aren’t great for running. But could be a good option for those days on your feet if you like the style.
On Cloud vs Allbirds Model Comparison
Usually with running shoes, I can quickly group shoes by neutral, stability, max cushion and even carbon fiber. Walking and standing shoes are a bit different. So instead, we’re going to go with a look at the everyday shoe, the power walking shoe and one for wet conditions.
Everyday Shoes
馃憠Allbird Tree Flyers
For those in search of a comfortable everyday sneaker, the Allbird Tree Flyers are a fantastic choice. Crafted from the same breathable and sustainable eucalyptus tree fiber upper as the Tree Dasher, these shoes provide a lightweight and airy feel.
The fit is roomier compared to the Tree Dasher, offering more space for your toes to breathe and wiggle. The Tree Flyers boast a cushioned insole that molds to your foot’s shape, delivering a custom-like feel with every step.
In terms of fashion, the Allbird Tree Flyers excel with their clean and casual aesthetic. The simple yet sophisticated design makes them suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to relaxed work environments.
The Tree Flyers are a go-to choice for individuals seeking comfort, versatility, and a timeless look.
- 8.5 mm heel drop
- 9.4 oz women鈥檚 and men鈥檚
- Available in ten neutral colors for women and men
馃憠On Cloud X3 Shift
If you’re standing all day long you might want to consider wearing compression socks, along with finding great shoes.
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
Long Walk Or Active Shoes
馃憠Allbird Tree Dasher
The Allbird Tree Dasher is a game-changer for those seeking a lightweight and comfortable active shoe. Designed with the environment in mind, these sneakers feature a breathable upper made from eucalyptus tree fibers, allowing your feet to stay cool and dry even during intense workouts.
The fit of the Tree Dasher is snug yet flexible, providing ample support without sacrificing freedom of movement. The shoe’s cushioned insole, combined with the responsive sole, offers a cushioned and responsive feel with each stride. It’s not a plush feeling, but you absolutely know it’s a cushioned shoe and the flared heel is designed to provide more stability.
When it comes to fashion, the Allbird Tree Dasher strikes a perfect balance between sporty and stylish.The sleek design and minimal branding make them a versatile option for everyday wear.
Additionally, the Tree Dasher incorporates reflective details, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions for added safety.
- 7 mm heel drop
- 10.3 oz women鈥檚 and men鈥檚
- Available in 13 neutral colors for women and men
馃憠On Cloudmonster 3
Not only do I like running in these, but my husband has a pair now and thinks they feel great for walks. Which he is forced to do when I drag him to running events. :)
Technically at 35mm we no longer consider this a聽max cushioned running shoe. And that鈥檚 where the confusion comes in for some runners, this really falls in the聽moderate cushioned category聽now and thus is right on in terms of not being too soft or plush.
The Cloudmonster 3 also retains the rocker shape and propulsive Speedboard to help keep you rolling forward. Neither of these feels as dramatic as you鈥檇 find in a race day carbon plated shoe, but they nonetheless聽keep the shoe feeling responsive rather than flat.
The additional layer of Cloudtec foam adds just a little more weight as compared to previous Cloudmonsters, but the extra 5mm of cushioning seems to be worth it. And at the general easy run pace or even marathon pace, the slight change in weight is unlikely to be noticed.
- Weight: 10.8 oz Men鈥檚, 8.5 oz Women鈥檚
- Stack Height: 35 mm
- Heel Drop: 6 mm
- Available in 10 Colors
- Available in regular and wide widths
- Available聽on.com聽for $190
- Read our聽full review of the Cloudmonster 3 here聽>>
All Weather Shoes
馃憠Allbird Wool Runner Mizzles
When winter weather strikes, the Allbird Wool Runner Mizzles step up to the plate with their weather-resistant features. These sneakers are designed to tackle wet and cold conditions, featuring a water-repellent merino wool upper that keeps your feet warm and dry.
The fit of the Wool Runner Mizzles is snug and cozy, providing a secure feel without compromising on comfort. The shoes are lined with a soft and insulating material, creating a toasty environment for your feet.
In terms of fashion, the Allbird Wool Runner Mizzles effortlessly blend style and functionality.
The Mizzles have a unique charm that sets them apart, making them a fashionable choice for those who want to stand out in wintry conditions. With their ability to keep you comfortable and protected from the elements, the Wool Runner Mizzles are a reliable and fashionable option for colder climates.
- 6 mm heel drop (From what I can find)
- 9.9 oz for women’s
馃憠Cloud 5 Waterproof
It’s not unusual for us to take 20,000 steps on vacation, beyond my daily run! Which means I want something to look good and feel good for all the miles.
Not only is this a super popular model, but they actually have it in a ton of styles! Want terry or urban or plain, you’ve got options!
When it comes to fit, the Cloud 5 is engineered to provide a precise and secure feel. The shoe features a supportive upper that embraces your foot, offering a glove-like fit without compromising on flexibility. This ensures that your feet stay comfortably snug during various activities, from running and training to everyday wear.
Additionally, the Cloud 5 incorporates a speed-lacing system that allows for quick and easy adjustments, letting you find the perfect fit in a flash.
- Wide variety of colors and styles (unusual for waterproof!)
- Moderate cushion
- 8 mm heel drop
- 6.8 oz for women’s (super light!!)
Drawbacks to Allbirds Running Shoes
As noted, every runner has a preference, so there are just a couple of things from my experience. In general, I just don’t see Allbirds as running shoes, I think they’re great walking or all day shoes.
- Not the plushest shoe if you’re looking for a lot of cushion.
- Not meant to be for run/walk or much running period.
Drawbacks to On Running Shoes
As noted, everyone has a preference, so there are just a couple of things from my experience.
- Most On Cloud shoes run narrow, and the toebox is not wide (they have started created specific wide models!)
- Rocks stuck in between the pods make them not ideal on trails or gravel running.
- They are expensive, but also very durable.
All right, there you have it! A breakdown that gives you a better comparison of Allbirds vs On Cloud shoes for walking or standing all day. Hopefully this helps you make a decision about what’s going to be the better fit for your needs!
Looking for more shoe information?
- Best HOKA Walking Shoes
- Best Skechers Shoes for Walking or Standing All Day
- Best Wide Foot Shoes for Walking or Running
- How to Dry Your Athletic Shoes? (NOT THE DRYER!!)
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