Ever finish a tough CrossFit WOD and wonder if your shoes helped or hurt your workout? It’s a common feeling! When you’re jumping, lifting, and running all in one session, your feet take a beating. Finding shoes that handle all that action is a real challenge, especially when you like the look and feel of On Cloud shoes.
Many CrossFitters love the lightweight feel of On Clouds, but are they tough enough for box jumps and heavy deadlifts? That’s the big question. You want cushion for running, but stability for lifting. This can make choosing the right On Cloud for CrossFit feel like a guessing game.
Don’t worry! We’re breaking down exactly which On Cloud models work best for the varied demands of CrossFit. Keep reading to discover how to match the right On Cloud to your WODs, ensuring you get the support you need without sacrificing that signature Cloud comfort.
Top On Cloud Shoes For Crossfit Recommendations
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents, Lightweight design, Cushioned collar and perforated tongue, Removable insole, Patented CloudTec sole, Designed for everyday wear
- Round toe
- Upper Same Cloud 6 look, now more functional than ever. The new mesh upper has improved durability and breathability, with a stronger abrasion resistance to take on daily wear.
- Midsole / outsole The midsole is 50% bio-attributed, reducing the bottom unit’s CO2 footprint by 20%. An updated outsole features connected rubber pods for better traction, grip and durability.
- Speedboard The Speedboard is engineered for optimal all-day performance, torsional support and stability – stable landings, soft toe-offs.
- Rubber sole
- Cushioned collar and removable insole, Reflective accents, Lightweight and breathable design , Colorblock design, Designed for running
- Round toe
- Fabric: Performance mesh
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents, Lightweight design, Cushioned collar and perforated tongue, Removable insole, Patented CloudTec sole, Designed for everyday wear, Signature speed-lacing system
- Lightweight and breathable
- Signature speed-lacing with elastic laces
- Updated Speedboard
- Zero-Gravity foam
- Round toe
- Rubber sole
- Perforated panels, Reflective accents throughout, Cushioned collar and super-soft insole, Designed for training , Ultra lightweight design
- Round toe
- Never been bigger
- Redefining forward motion
- In the comfort zone
- A sustainable step
- Born from running. Made for everything. The Cloud X 4 is the versatile training shoe for fitness lovers. Now with a new Speedboard design for better forefoot flexibility, as well a softer and more cushioned feel underfoot.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Cloud Shoes for CrossFit
CrossFit demands a lot from your footwear. You need shoes that handle heavy lifts, quick sprints, and agile movements. On Cloud shoes are famous for comfort, but can they handle the intensity of a WOD (Workout of the Day)? This guide helps you decide.
1. Key Features to Look For in CrossFit-Ready Cloud Shoes
Not all On Cloud models fit the demands of CrossFit equally. Look closely at these features:
- **Stable Midsole:** For lifting (like squats or deadlifts), you need a firm, flat base. Too much soft cushioning makes you unstable. Look for models that balance CloudTec® cushioning with a solid foundation.
- **Lateral Support:** CrossFit involves side-to-side movements (like lunges or agility drills). The shoe must hug your foot securely so it doesn’t slide inside.
- **Durable Upper Material:** The fabric on top needs to resist abrasion from rope climbs or burpees. A strong upper prevents quick wear and tear.
- **Heel-to-Toe Drop:** A lower drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) usually offers better ground feel for lifting.
2. Important Materials That Matter
The materials determine how the shoe performs and how long it lasts.
Outsole (Bottom Grip): Look for high-abrasion rubber. This rubber grips the gym floor well during explosive movements. Some On models use special grip patterns for better traction.
Midsole (Cushioning): On is famous for its CloudTec® pods. For CrossFit, you want these pods to be supportive, not overly squishy. Some newer On designs use denser foam blends that work better under heavy loads.
Upper Fabric: Engineered mesh is common. Ensure the mesh is tightly woven. Thin, highly breathable mesh might feel great for running but tears easily during box jumps or rope climbs.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Shoe Quality for WODs
The quality of the shoe directly impacts your performance and safety in the gym.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- **Reinforced Toe Cap:** This small rubber piece protects the front of your shoe when you kick off during burpees or push-ups.
- **Internal Support Cage:** A hidden structure inside the shoe locks your midfoot down, which is crucial when you lift heavy weights.
- **Flat, Wide Base:** A wider base under the forefoot prevents your ankle from rolling during lateral movements.
Factors That Reduce Quality (or Make Them Unsuitable for CrossFit):
- **Excessive Rocker Shape:** Shoes designed purely for smooth forward running (like some On running models) have a highly curved sole. This rocker shape is unstable when you need a flat platform for lifting.
- **Very Soft, Deep Cushioning:** While comfortable for walking, deep, soft foam compresses too much under a heavy barbell, robbing you of power and stability.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How do On Cloud shoes feel during a typical CrossFit session?
Running/Cardio: This is where On shoes shine. They feel light and springy during short runs or double-unders. The cushioning absorbs impact well.
Lifting (Squats, Deadlifts): A dedicated CrossFit shoe often wins here. If you choose an On model that is too cushioned, you will feel wobbly during heavy sets. Use a flatter On model for lighter lifting days.
Agility and Jumping (Box Jumps, Burpees): The shoe should feel responsive. If the shoe is too heavy or too soft, it slows down your reaction time. Look for a good balance between cushion and ground feedback.
Verdict: On Cloud shoes are excellent for the cardio portions of CrossFit. However, for serious weightlifting days, you might need a shoe with a firmer base, or you must select a specific, flatter On model designed for stability.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About On Cloud Shoes for CrossFit
Q: Are On Cloud shoes good for heavy deadlifts?
A: Not usually. Heavy deadlifts require a very flat, firm sole for maximum power transfer. Most On models have cushioning that compresses, making them less ideal for your heaviest sets.
Q: Can I wear On Clouds for rope climbs?
A: Some On models have uppers that might shred quickly on the rope. Check for models with reinforced rubber or tougher fabric on the sides of the shoe.
Q: Which On model is best for mixed WODs?
A: Look for models that market themselves as “all-around trainers” or “stability running shoes,” as these tend to have a more balanced platform than their dedicated long-distance runners.
Q: Do On shoes fit true to size?
A: Generally, yes, On shoes fit true to size. However, if you plan to wear thick athletic socks for CrossFit, you might consider going up a half size for comfort.
Q: Are On Cloud shoes durable enough for daily CrossFit training?
A: They are durable for running, but the lightweight uppers can wear out faster than dedicated CrossFit shoes when subjected to constant abrasion from burpees and box jumps.
Q: What is the main difference between an On running shoe and a CrossFit shoe?
A: CrossFit shoes prioritize a flat, stable base and lateral support. Running shoes prioritize forward motion and soft cushioning.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for quality On shoes suitable for the gym?
A: Good, versatile On models usually cost between $140 and $180 USD.
Q: Will the CloudTec pods wear out quickly in the gym?
A: The foam pods can show wear faster than a solid rubber outsole, especially if you drag your feet during movements like wall balls.
Q: Are On shoes breathable for long, intense WODs?
A: Yes, most On models feature excellent engineered mesh, making them very breathable, which helps keep your feet cool during tough workouts.
Q: Should I buy separate shoes for running days and lifting days if I use On?
A: If you lift very heavy, yes. Use a flatter On model for mixed days, and consider a dedicated lifting shoe for your heaviest squat/deadlift sessions.