On Running vs Clove: A Head-to-Head Comparison
On Running vs Clove: When it comes to running shoes, two brands have been making waves in the industry: On Running and Clove.
In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll delve into the design, features, and performance of On Running and Clove, pitting them against each other to see which brand comes out on top.
On Running vs Clove: A Quick Overview

On Running:
- Known for their innovative CloudTec cushioning technology
- Offers a range of shoes for different running styles and preferences
- Focuses on providing a soft, yet responsive ride
- Popular among runners who prioritize comfort and performance
Clove:
- Founded on the principles of comfort, support, and style
- Features a unique lacing system for a secure, customizable fit
- Offers a variety of shoes with different levels of cushioning and support
- Popular among runners who value versatility and durability
Design and Build: A Side-by-Side Comparison of On Running and Clove

- Upper:
- Lightweight and breathable mesh materials for optimal ventilation
- Seamless construction reduces irritation and hotspots
- Strategically placed overlays provide support and stability
- Midsole:
- Unique CloudTec cushioning system provides a soft, yet responsive ride
- Individual cloud-like pods absorb shock and distribute pressure evenly
- Provides excellent cushioning on impact, reducing the risk of injury
- Outsole:
- Durable and grippy rubber compound for excellent traction
- Strategically placed lugs provide traction and stability on various surfaces
- Flex grooves allow for a smooth heel-to-toe transition
Clove:
- Upper:
- Breathable mesh materials for optimal ventilation
- Soft, padded tongue and collar for added comfort
- Lightweight and flexible materials for a comfortable fit
- Midsole:
- Soft, yet supportive EVA foam cushioning absorbs shock and provides a smooth ride
- Provides excellent cushioning on impact, reducing the risk of fatigue
- Supports a natural running stride and promotes a smooth transition
- Outsole:
- Durable and grippy rubber compound for excellent traction
- Strategically placed lugs provide traction and stability on various surfaces
- Flex grooves allow for a smooth heel-toe transition
Cushioning and Comfort: Which Brand Provides the Smoothest Ride?

On Running:
- Cushioning:
- Unique CloudTec cushioning system provides a soft, yet responsive ride
- Individual cloud-like pods absorb shock and distribute pressure evenly
- Provides excellent cushioning on impact, reducing the risk of injury
- Comfort:
- Lightweight and breathable upper materials for a comfortable fit
- Seamless construction reduces irritation and hotspots
- Generous toe box and comfortable heel collar for a snug fit
Clove:
- Cushioning:
- Soft, yet supportive midsole provides a comfortable ride
- EVA foam cushioning absorbs shock and provides a smooth transition
- Provides excellent cushioning on impact, reducing the risk of fatigue
- Comfort:
- Breathable upper materials and a comfortable, secure fit
- Soft, padded tongue and collar for added comfort
- Generous toe box and comfortable heel collar for a snug fit
Sole Searching: A Deep Dive into On Running and Clove’s Outsole Durability

On Running’s Outsole Durability
- Rubber compound: On Running’s outsole features a unique rubber compound that provides excellent grip and traction on various surfaces.
- Segmented design: The outsole is divided into segments, which allows for more flexibility and adaptability on different terrain.
- Deep grooves: The outsole features deep grooves that provide excellent grip and traction, even on wet or slippery surfaces.
- Durable materials: On Running uses high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of regular running.
Clove’s Outsole Durability
- Unique tread pattern: Clove’s outsole features a unique tread pattern that provides excellent grip and traction on various surfaces.
- Durable rubber: Clove uses a durable rubber compound that is designed to withstand the rigors of regular running.
- Flex grooves: The outsole features flex grooves that allow for flexibility and adaptability on different terrain.
- Traction lugs: The outsole features traction lugs that provide excellent grip and traction, even on wet or slippery surfaces.
Comparison of Outsole Durability
- Traction: On Running’s outsole provides slightly better traction on wet or slippery surfaces, thanks to its deep grooves and segmented design.
- Durability: Clove’s outsole is slightly more durable, thanks to its unique tread pattern and durable rubber compound.
- Flexibility: On Running’s outsole is more flexible, thanks to its segmented design and flex grooves.
Weight and Responsiveness: How Do On Running and Clove Stack Up?

Weight Comparison
- On Running: On Running shoes are known for their lightweight design, with most models weighing between 8-10 oz (225-280g) for men’s sizes and 6-8 oz (170-225g) for women’s sizes.
- Clove: Clove shoes are also designed to be lightweight, with most models weighing between 9-11 oz (255-310g) for men’s sizes and 7-9 oz (200-255g) for women’s sizes.
Responsiveness Comparison
- On Running: On Running shoes feature a responsive midsole that provides a snappy and responsive ride. The CloudTec technology absorbs shock and provides a smooth transition from heel to toe.
- Clove: Clove shoes feature a responsive midsole that provides a fast and springy ride. The CloveCore technology is designed to provide a responsive and adaptive ride, with a focus on energy return and propulsion.
Key Features
- On Running:
- Lightweight and breathable upper materials
- CloudTec technology for shock absorption and responsiveness
- Segmented outsole for flexibility and traction
- Clove:
- Lightweight and breathable upper materials
- CloveCore technology for energy return and propulsion
- Unique tread pattern for traction and durability
Comparison of Weight and Responsiveness
When comparing the weight and responsiveness of On Running and Clove, it’s clear that both brands prioritize lightweight and responsive designs. However, there are some key differences:
- Weight: On Running shoes are generally lighter than Clove shoes, making them a great option for runners who prioritize speed and efficiency.
- Responsiveness: Both brands provide a responsive ride, but On Running’s CloudTec technology is designed to provide a more adaptive and shock-absorbing ride, while Clove’s CloveCore technology is designed to provide a more energetic and propulsive ride.
Breathability and Ventilation: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry on the Run
On Running’s Breathability and Ventilation
- Upper Materials: On Running’s upper materials are designed to provide excellent breathability and ventilation. The lightweight and seamless construction allows for maximum airflow and moisture transfer.
- Mesh Panels: On Running’s shoes feature strategically placed mesh panels that provide additional ventilation and breathability.
- Air Channels: The shoes feature air channels that allow hot air to escape and fresh air to enter, keeping your feet cool and dry.
Clove’s Breathability and Ventilation
- Upper Materials: Clove’s upper materials are designed to provide excellent breathability and ventilation. The lightweight and breathable materials allow for maximum airflow and moisture transfer.
- Ventilation Zones: Clove’s shoes feature strategically placed ventilation zones that provide additional airflow and breathability.
- Moisture-Wicking Linings: The shoes feature moisture-wicking linings that help to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Comparison of Breathability and Ventilation
- Upper Materials: On Running’s upper materials are slightly more breathable and lightweight than Clove’s.
- Ventilation Systems: Clove’s ventilation zones are more extensive and strategically placed than On Running’s mesh panels.
- Moisture Management: Both brands feature moisture-wicking linings, but On Running’s air channels provide additional airflow and moisture transfer.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between On Running and Clove will depend on your individual running style and preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight and breathable upper, On Running may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a more extensive ventilation system, Clove may be the better choice.
Support and Stability: Which Brand Offers More for Runners?
On Running’s Support and Stability
- CloudTec Technology: On Running’s CloudTec technology provides superior support and stability through its unique cushioning system.
- Segmented Outsole: The segmented outsole provides additional support and stability through its adaptive and flexible design.
- Heel Counter: The heel counter provides additional support and stability through its sturdy and comfortable design.
Clove’s Support and Stability
- CloveCore Technology: Clove’s CloveCore technology provides superior support and stability through its unique midsole design.
- Dual-Density Midsole: The dual-density midsole provides additional support and stability through its adaptive and responsive design.
- Stability Bridge: The stability bridge provides additional support and stability through its sturdy and comfortable design.
Comparison of Support and Stability
- Cushioning System: On Running’s CloudTec technology provides a more adaptive and responsive cushioning system, while Clove’s CloveCore technology provides a more supportive and stable midsole design.
- Outsole Design: On Running’s segmented outsole provides a more flexible and adaptive design, while Clove’s outsole provides a more supportive and stable design.
- Heel Counter: On Running’s heel counter provides a more comfortable and supportive design, while Clove’s heel counter provides a more sturdy and stable design.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between On Running and Clove will depend on your individual running style and preferences. If you prioritize a more adaptive and responsive cushioning system, On Running may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a more supportive and stable midsole design, Clove may be the better choice.
Pricing and Value: Is On Running or Clove the Better Investment for Runners?
On Running Pricing
- Cloud Series: $130 – $160
- Cloud X Series: $160 – $180
- Cloudflow Series: $180 – $200
Clove Pricing
- Clove One Series: $120 – $150
- Clove Two Series: $150 – $180
- Clove Three Series: $180 – $200
Value Comparison
- Quality and Performance: Both On Running and Clove offer high-quality shoes with excellent performance features. However, On Running’s shoes tend to be more expensive than Clove’s.
- Durability: Both brands offer durable shoes, but On Running’s shoes tend to last longer and provide better value in the long run.
- Innovation: On Running is known for its innovative technology and features, which may justify the higher price point. Clove, on the other hand, offers more traditional running shoe features at a lower price point.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between On Running and Clove depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a high-quality shoe with innovative features and are willing to invest in a premium product, On Running may be the better choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a high-quality shoe with excellent performance features, Clove may be the better value.
The Verdict: On Running vs Clove – Which Brand Comes Out on Top for Runners?
On Running:
- Pros:
- Unique cushioning system provides a soft, yet responsive ride
- Lightweight and breathable upper materials for a comfortable fit
- Wide range of models to suit different running styles and preferences
- Excellent traction and grip on various surfaces
- Cons:
- Higher price point compared to Clove
- Some runners find the cushioning too soft, affecting performance
- Limited availability of certain models and sizes
Clove:
- Pros:
- Affordable price point without sacrificing performance
- Soft, yet supportive midsole provides a comfortable ride
- Breathable upper materials and a comfortable, secure fit
- Wide range of models and color options to choose from
- Cons:
- May not provide the same level of cushioning as On Running
- Some runners find the upper materials too thin and lacking support
- Limited availability of certain models and sizes
The Verdict:
On Running takes the top spot for runners who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in a premium product. The unique cushioning system and lightweight materials make it an excellent choice for serious runners. However, Clove is an excellent option for runners on a budget who still want a comfortable and supportive ride.
FAQs
Q: Which brand is better for beginners?
A: Clove is a great option for beginners, as it provides a comfortable and supportive ride at an affordable price point.
Q: Which brand is better for long-distance running?
A: On Running is a great option for long-distance running, as its CloudTec cushioning system provides excellent shock absorption and support.
Q: Are On Running shoes more expensive than Clove?
A: Yes, On Running shoes tend to be more expensive than Clove shoes, due to their premium materials and innovative technology.
Q: Do On Running shoes come in wide sizes?
A: Yes, On Running offers wide sizes in select models, but availability may vary depending on the specific style and size.
Q: Can I wear Clove shoes for trail running?
A: While Clove shoes are designed for road running, they can be worn for trail running, but may not provide the same level of traction and support as a dedicated trail running shoe.
Q: How do I clean my On Running shoes?
A: On Running recommends cleaning their shoes with a soft brush and mild soap, and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the materials.
Q: Can I return or exchange my Clove shoes if they don’t fit?
A: Yes, Clove offers a return and exchange policy, allowing you to return or exchange your shoes if they don’t fit or meet your expectations.
Q: Are On Running shoes suitable for runners with high arches?
A: Yes, On Running shoes are designed to accommodate runners with high arches, and their CloudTec cushioning system provides excellent support and shock absorption.
Q: Can I wear Clove shoes for walking or casual wear?
A: Yes, Clove shoes are designed for running, but can also be worn for walking or casual wear, thanks to their comfortable and breathable design.

Mia Smith is the founder of Shoe Storyteller, a blog that celebrates the art and stories behind shoes. With a passion for fashion and a flair for storytelling, Mia brings a unique perspective to the world of footwear.