Having the right pair can make all the difference for casual or high-performance runs.
But with so many options, deciding which pair to invest in can be overwhelming.
Enter the Nike Pegasus and On Cloud runners – two of the most popular choices among athletes and fitness lovers.
In this article, we will compare the running shoes from these two brands and help you decide which to pick for your next outdoor session.
A Quick Overview of the On-Cloud and Nike Pegasus Shoes
The Nike Pegasus and the On-Cloud running shoes offer exceptional performance for their price tag.
Both series are quite beloved song athletes for a good reason.
Despite originating from two different brands, these shoes have certain similarities due to having performance-focused construction.
The Pegasus shoes from Nike have been in the market since 1983 and have gone through 40 iterations. Currently, the Pegasus 40 is the latest model that boasts the newest innovations from Nike.
Not to mention, the Pegasus 38 and 39 have been long standing favorites due to their affordability and performance versatility.
Meanwhile, On Cloud is a relatively new player in the running shoe market.
The ON(actual name of the brand) is a Swiss company established in 2010 and has been making comfortable running shoes ever since. They quickly gained popularity due to their signature sole construction(CloudTec technology), which consists of hollow pods.
The Cloud runners are designed as neutral shoes to support a natural running stride with a keen focus on plush cushioning and comfort.
Some of the most notable On Cloud running shoes are Cloud 5, Cloud X 3, Cloudstartus 3, etc.
Feature Comparison between Nike Pegasus and On Cloud Runners
With a focus on delivering the best running experience, each brand implemented its proprietary technologies and innovations into its shoes, which also translates to noticeably different feature sets between these runners.
Let’s see a side-by-side technical comparison between the Nike Pegasus and On-Cloud running shoes to get a better understanding.
| Attributes | Nike Pegasus Runners | On-Running Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size |
| Commonly used upper material | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh, some models have TPU overlays |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
| Midsole | React foam, Zoom Air units | CloudTec technology, made from Zero-Gravity or Helion foam |
| Cushioning | Responsive | Plush |
| Stack height | Moderate | Lower |
| Offset | 8-10mm | 4-8mm |
| Outsole | Durable rubber | Segmented rubber |
| Break in period | 1 or 2 short runs | Minimal |
| Best for | Everyday running, tempo runs, long runs, daily training | Everyday running, recovery runs, long runs, some models for speedwork |
| Price range | $80-150 | $120-200 |
Fundamental Differences between On Cloud and Nike Pegasus Shoes
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, both brands have the right shoes.
The only question is: which brand’s shoes are suitable for your specific needs?
After using several On Cloud and Pegasus shoes, I have noticed a few major and minor variances between them that I have thoroughly explained in this comparison.
So, go through the below-listed differences between On Cloud and Nike Pegasus shoes to determine your perfect fit.
1. Product Offering
Both On Cloud and Nike Pegasus runners cater to different preferences and running styles with their unique focus on the market and product offerings.
Starting with the ON-Cloud, these shoes focus on comfort and offer soft landing and responsive rebound. They also target the running crowd who prefer plush cushioning for easy or recovery runs.
The exact primary characteristics can be found throughout the entire product stack of the On-running brand.
| On Cloud Running Shoes | Traits |
|---|---|
| Cloud 5, Cloud X | All-rounder running shoes, the perfect choice for everyday runs and casual wear |
| Cloudswift, Cloudflow | Lightweight and responsive running shoes, suitable for tempo runs and high-performance workouts |
| Cloudstratus | Comfort-focused runners with maximum cushioning, ideal for high-mileage runs |
| Cloudrunner | Supportive and stable runners with mild overpronation support |
| Cloudtrail | Trail running shoes with excellent grip and protection |
| Cloudmonster | Ultra-cushioned runners for maximum comfort and shock absorption |
On the other hand, the Pegasus series focuses on performance above all.
Hence, Nike offers a wider variety of Pegasus models to cater to different high-performance activities and outdoor running needs.
| Nike Pegasus Runners | Traits |
|---|---|
| Pegasus 39 and 40 | The latest vanilla Pegasus shoes offer smooth rides for any running style |
| Pegasus Trail | Trail running shoes with added grip and durability |
| Pegasus Turbo | Lightweight runners for fast-paced sessions |
| Pegasus FlyEase | Comfortable runners with easy slip-on design |
| Air Zoom Pegasus | Responsive running shoes with Air Zoom units in the forefoot |
| React Pegasus Trail | Trail running shoes focused on good energy return |
| Pegasus Shield | Water-resistant running shoe with decent responsiveness |
Nike also keeps these shoes affordable to appeal to every athletic crowd.
2. Design Language
From a distance, you would never mistake an On Cloud shoe for any other brand. But the same can not be said for the Nike Pegasus footwear.
The latter looks like any other high-performance running shoes, with a more expressive and dynamic design.
Most of these shoes have bold, contrasting colorways and prominent branding.
Nike also incorporates current trends into their athletic wear to reflect a sporty and contemporary aesthetic.
Some of the Pegasus shoes, like the Pegasus 40 and Turbo, have poppy color gradients and bold silhouettes, creating a sense of speed and performance.
Not to mention, Nike has a dedicated section called “Design Your Own” on their website, where you can customize each upper portion to your liking.
Such a feature is sorely missing for the On-Cloud runners.
However, the On-Cloud shoes have the most unique sole design in the running shoe market.
These runners feature hollow pods in the outsole as a prominent design element, showcasing the brand’s iconic CloudTec technology.
Cloud shoes also embrace a more modern, minimalist design with clean lines and muted colorways.
Almost all the variants boast a pastel color tone and a no-nonsense look.
Compared to Nike, the On Cloud runners have minimal branding and overlays. As a result, you can style these kicks with any outfit.
3. Upper Construction
Despite both sides being in the running shoe category, the Pegasus footwear differs quite a lot compared to the On-Cloud runners, especially in the upper construction.
From upper material technology to tongue construction, each brand takes a unique approach to stand out from the crowd.
Upper Material
The Cloud shoes predominantly feature an engineered upper mesh with seamless construction.
Some models, like the Cloud 5, boast antimicrobial mesh with taped reinforcements for extra durability and support.
This refined upper mesh is highly breathable, almost too breathable for cold weather.
Regardless, it’s a comfortable material that provides a secure fit for everyday tasks.
The Pegasus runners utilize various upper materials depending on the model and specific needs.
For example, the Pegasus 40 features an engineered mesh, while the Pegasus Turbo 2 utilizes a Flyknit upper.
Some models also have a Flyweave upper for protection and breathability.
Tongue
Both running shoes offer a gusseted tongue construction, which remains in place during high-movement activities.
However, the Cloud runners have a slightly longer tongue profile than the Pegasus kicks.
As a result, it provides more midfoot support and comfort. But these shoes might not be suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed midfoot fit and breathability.
The Cloud fits also have thicker tongue padding than Nike’s offerings.
That being said, both series have varying tongue padding depending on the model.
4. Midsole and Comfort
Regarding running shoes, midsole technology and comfort are the key features that determine your user experience.
The CloudTec is On-Cloud’s hallmark midsole feature that is present in all of their shoes.
The midsole of these runners has individual cloud pods made from the brand’s proprietary Helion or Zero-Gravity foam. These hollow pods compress and rebound to provide a bouncy and pillowy ride.
Hence, these shoes are more suitable for athletes seeking comfortable rides without sacrificing performance.
Since every single On-Cloud shoe boasts this feature, there is less variety in the cushioning aspect of these runners.
However, the extra-lightweight Zero Gravity foam of the Cloud 5 provides a better step-in feel for walking or standing all day than the responsive Helion foam of the Cloudswift runners.
Meanwhile, the newer Pegasus shoe utilizes Nike’s in-house React foam for the cushioning.
Some high-performance models, like the Pegasus 40 and FlyEase, feature localized Air Zoom units for an extra bouncy feel. This provides a diverse cushioning to cater to different running styles.
Furthermore, these React foams provide a balanced mix of plushness and responsiveness, making the Pegasus runners ideal for everyday workouts and high-performance runs.
Nike’s midsole material is also more durable than On-Cloud’s CloudTec.
5. Outsole and Durability
Durability is another important concern for choosing a running shoe that can endure technical activities.
Fortunately, the Nike Pegasus shoes excel quite well in this regard.
All the Pegasus runners feature an abrasion-resistant rubber outsole that can withstand wear and tear on pavements. Nike also incorporated waffle-patterned flex grooves for an extra layer of traction.
On the other hand, the On Cloud runners have strategically placed rubber units on the rearfoot and forefoot cloud pods, leaving the midfoot area completely exposed.
As a result, the midsole becomes prone to wear and tear after running on rougher terrain.
After using several On Cloud and Pegasus shoes for my everyday running, the Nike shoes lasted much longer than most of my Cloud shoes.
Another complaint many On Cloud users have reported is the small rocks getting wedged inside the outsole break.
Nonetheless, the rubber outsole segments on these Cloud runners have flex patterns to improve traction, even on wet surfaces.
6. Fit and Sizing
Both brands offer true-to-size fitting and half-sizes to accommodate various foot shapes. However, there are some exceptions for the Nike runners.
For example, the Pegasus 39 runs slightly small in length and width.
If you have wider feet, I’d recommend going a half size up or choosing the Extra Wide option from Nike’s website.
The On Cloud shoe doesn’t offer any wide or extra-wide option, but they have a wider build than the Pegasus shoes, especially in the midfoot area.
And that’s not all!
Toe Box
The Cloud running shoes have a standard profile toe box with enough room for toe wiggling. And the extremely comfortable and flexible mesh upper offers a more relaxed fit, which is also good for casual wear.
Most Clouds have reinforced overlays to enhance the toe box structure and protection.
In the meantime, most of the Pegasus shoes have a slightly narrower toe cap than the On Clouds.
However, they also have a slightly higher profile to provide a roomier feel.
Neither shoe has any risk of bunions or blistering as their upper material is very comfortable.
Collar and Heel Cup
All the running shoes from both brands have medium-height collars with adequate padding.
The only differences are the sock-like feel & softer heel collar of the On-Cloud shoes and the better ankle support in the Pegasus shoes.
Both series also feature built-in heel counters to reduce foot slippage during fast-paced running or technical strides.
But the Pegasus shoes have a slightly narrower heel cup than the ON runners.
Lacing
Every Pegasus model has a traditional lace-up system, with additional eyelets for a complete heel lockdown fit.
Meanwhile, the On Cloud running shoes take things to the next level with three different lacing styles.
- Standard lacing: This can be found in Cloudeclipse, Cloudmonster, etc.
- Speed lacing: This can be found in Cloud 5, Cloudaway, etc.
- Star lacing: This can be found in Cloudflyer 4, Cloud X 3, etc.
Size Charts
It is obvious that the two different brands would use different sizing profiles for their footwear.
So, you need to get familiar with each brand’s sizing chart and can’t rely on one brand’s measurement for another.
On Cloud Running Shoe Size Chart
| US Sizes (Men's) | US Sizes (Women's) | European Sizes | UK Sizes | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8.5 | 40 | 6.5 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 9 | 40.5 | 7 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 41 | 7.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 10 | 42 | 8 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 42.5 | 8.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 11 | 43 | 9 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 44 | 9.5 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 12 | 44.5 | 10 | 28.5 |
| 11 | - | 45 | 10.5 | 29 |
| 11.5 | - | 45.5 | 11 | 29.5 |
| 12 | - | 46 | 11.5 | 30 |
| 12.5 | - | 47 | 12 | 30.5 |
| 13 | - | 47.5 | 12.5 | 31 |
| 14 | - | 48.5 | 13.5 | 32 |
| 15 | - | 49.5 | 14.5 | 33 |
Nike Pegasus Shoe Size Chart
| US Men's | US Women's | European Sizes | UK Sizes | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5.5 | 39.5 | 6 | 24.5 |
| 7.5 | 6 | 40 | 6.5 | 25 |
| 8 | 6.5 | 40.5 | 7 | 25.5 |
| 8.5 | 7 | 41 | 7.5 | 26 |
| 9 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 8 | 26.5 |
| 9.5 | 8 | 42 | 8.5 | 27 |
| 10 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 9 | 27.5 |
| 10.5 | 9 | 43 | 9.5 | 28 |
| 11 | 9.5 | 43.5 | 10 | 28.5 |
| 11.5 | 10 | 44 | 10.5 | 29 |
| 12 | 10.5 | 44.5 | 11 | 29.5 |
| 13 | 11 | 45 | 11.5 | 30 |
| 14 | 12 | 46 | 12 | 30.5 |
| 15 | 13 | 47 | 12.5 | 31 |
| 16 | 14 | 48 | 13 | 31.5 |
7. Weight Distribution
Most On Cloud runners weigh much less than their Nike Pegasus counterparts, often by a margin of 1 to 1.5 ounces.
So, if you’re looking for a lightweight fit for everyday running sessions, look for the On Cloud kicks.
Furthermore, these shoes have a more evenly distributed weight for a balanced performance.
Whether you prefer a midfoot or forefoot striking running style, the Cloud runners will provide a natural gait cycle.
The Pegasus shoes, on the other hand, focus their weight on the rearfoot area to promote heelstrike running styles.
Hence, these Nike runners are more suitable for fast and tempo runs.
8. Running and Daily Training Performance
For the most part, the On Cloud shoes provide a noticeably different running and daily training experience than the Pegasus.
Most On Cloud shoes primarily focus on comfort rather than high performance. So, you can expect a well-cushioned and pillowy fit that can be worn for day-to-day runs.
To be fair, the cloud pods of these shoes provide much better shock absorption than many other high-performance running shoes in the market.
The compression and rebound of these hollow pods offer a responsive and propulsive feel, which is great for high-mileage runs.
Some performance-focused Cloud shoes also feature Speedboard technology for enhanced energy return in indoor workouts. Its slightly wider platform also increases the overall stability of these shoes, making them suitable for box jumping or weight lifting.
However, these shoes aren’t designed for technical running and workout sessions.
For that, you can consider the Nike shoes.
The React foam and the Air Zoom units of the Pegasus runners provide a better short-running experience. It’s also a better material for gaining speed.
Not to mention, the rockered build of the Nike shoes allows a smoother transition.
The only aspects where the Pegasus shoes fall behind the On Cloud runners are comfort and stability.
Other than those, Nike’s running shoes are a better choice for indoor and outdoor exercises.
9. Price and Value Proposition
In a similar category, the On Cloud shoes can cost up to $50-70 more than the Nike Pegasus.
Nike has maintained a special focus on keeping their shoes more affordable for the masses without sacrificing their build quality.
My Pegasus shoes have also managed to last longer while offering a better running experience regardless of the track.
So, from a performance perspective, the Nike shoes offer a better value proposition than the On Cloud models.
However, it can change depending on your preferences and needs, as the On Cloud shoes are better options for comfort and stability.
Benefits and Drawbacks of the On Cloud and Nike Pegasus Runners
Apart from the above-mentioned dissimilarities, each brand also offers distinct advantages and disadvantages with its running shoes, which can greatly impact your purchase decision.
The following pros and cons of the On Cloud and Nike Pegasus runners should cover those aspects.
On Cloud Runners
- »Unique sole design.
- »Maximal cushioning for long-running sessions and recovery runs.
- »More lightweight.
- »Supportive and comfortable construction.
- »More stability options than the competitor
- »Less optimal for technical running.
- »More expensive.
- »Less durability.
Nike Pegasus Shoes
- »More affordable.
- »Offers a wider variety for different running preferences.
- »More durable.
- »Responsive midsole for technical activities.
- »Less stylistic approach.
- »Slightly heavier.
- »Less stability for overpronators.
On a side note, check out the differences between On Cloud and Ultraboost shoes.
On Cloud Vs Nike Pegasus: Which Running Series is Better for You?
If you want an affordable and well-rounded running shoe that also excels in daily training sessions, the Nike Pegasus models are preferable to the On Cloud shoes. Nike’s shoes not only cost much less, but they also last longer and offer better overall performance.
That being said, the On Cloud shoes are a better choice if you want the most comfortable running shoe with mild support for overpronation.
Ultimately, both shoes can serve you well for a balanced running experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Nike Pegasus worth it?
Yes. Nike Pegasus shoes, especially the latest Pegasus 40, are definitely worth their price. These are well-balanced shoes suitable for any running style or distance.
Why are On Cloud shoes so popular?
The On-Cloud is one of the fastest-growing athletic shoe brands in the US. It has become quite popular among fitness fanatics due to the comfort and quality of the Cloud shoes.
Are On Cloud shoes good for running?
For paved roads, the On Cloud running shoes can provide a comfortable and responsive ride for any distance. But these shoes aren’t suitable for rougher terrain.
