8.8
/10
BEST FOR STYLISH AIRPORT & CITY TRAVEL
8.8
/10
BEST FOR STYLISH AIRPORT & CITY TRAVEL
Last Updated:
Jul 8, 2025
Walk on Air, Explore in Style – On Cloud 5
The Ultimate Shoe for Airport Dashes and City Discovery
Meet Chloe, a marketing consultant with frequent trips between New York and London. She values style and airport efficiency above all else. The On Cloud 5, with its slip-on design and chic look, is practically the official shoe of the business-casual frequent flyer.
Research Methodology
Frequent flyers call On's CloudTec "airport magic," but is the praise justified? To find out, insights from 34 travel communities were reviewed, focusing on TSA line experiences and 18,000-step city days. What travelers consistently report is a trade-off: the shoe's famous comfort pods are brilliant for airport sprints but act as frustrating debris magnets on city streets. This insight shapes its ideal travel use case.
☁️
Lightweight Comfort
9
Signature CloudTec® sole provides a responsive, cushioned ride that users find ideal for all-day city walking.
👟
Speed Lacing
9
No-tie speed laces offer ultimate slip-on ease, a feature consistently praised as a massive plus for airport travel.
🌬️
Breathable Design
9
The engineered mesh upper ensures excellent ventilation, keeping feet cool and comfortable in varied climates.
🎨
Stylish Versatility
9
A sleek, modern aesthetic that users find pairs effortlessly with a wide range of travel outfits.
Perfect For
☁️
Urban Exploring
👟
Airport Days
🎨
Stylish Comfort
✈️
Lightweight Packing
🏙️
Easy On/Off
Quality & Comfort
The On Cloud 5's comfort comes from its unique CloudTec® sole. Users describe the feeling not as deeply plush, but as light and responsive—soft upon landing, then firm for an energetic push-off. This creates an agile feel and reduces foot fatigue over long distances on hard surfaces. The standout feature, universally loved by travelers, is the speed-lacing system. This allows the shoe to be slipped on and off effortlessly, a massive convenience at airport security. The highly breathable mesh upper is another plus, providing excellent airflow that keeps feet comfortable in climates like Southern Europe in summer.
Durability
For its intended use as a lifestyle and light activity shoe, the On Cloud 5 offers good durability. The upper mesh is well-constructed and resists wear from normal use. The Zero-Gravity foam pods are more resilient than they appear. However, a common point of feedback is that the speed laces can stretch out over extended, heavy use, though traditional laces are also included in the box. The most frequently cited issue, a hallmark of the CloudTec design, is the sole's tendency to act as a magnet for pebbles and gravel. This doesn't impact structural integrity but is a well-documented annoyance for users.
Packability
The On Cloud 5 is a champion of packability due to its exceptionally lightweight design. At just over 8oz per shoe, it adds negligible weight to a suitcase or backpack, a major win for carry-on travelers. The upper is flexible and can be compressed, allowing it to be tucked away without consuming much space. Its versatile style also enhances its packing benefits, as it can serve as a walking shoe, a casual evening shoe, and an airport shoe all in one, potentially reducing the need for multiple pairs.
Functionality
Functionally, the On Cloud 5 is engineered for effortless, all-day urban wear. The CloudTec® sole and Speedboard® work in tandem to provide a cushioned yet energetic ride. The speed laces are its key functional advantage for travel, granting unparalleled ease of use. Its breathable upper works well across a range of temperatures. Its primary functional flaw is the outsole design, which impairs its use on any surface with loose gravel or stones and positions it strictly as a pavement shoe.
Value
At $140, the On Cloud 5 sits in the premium sneaker category. Its travel benefits are rooted in its unique combination of lightweight comfort, airport convenience, and a strong, stylish aesthetic. For the frequent flyer or urban explorer who values these specific attributes, traveler sentiment indicates the price is fair. This is an investment in a comfortable and efficient travel experience, where ease and style are the main priorities.
They take up the same amount of space in your pack as a pair of sandals or flip flops. They're also crazy breathable... you can fold down the heel counter and convert them into slippers.
u/Malifice37, r/onebag
Did You Know?
The "Cloud" elements in On's CloudTec® sole are individually engineered to react to your specific gait, compressing horizontally and vertically for soft landings and then locking firm for an explosive take-off.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Ease of Use
9
Style
9
Lightweight
10
Comfort
9
Comfort
9
Lightweight
10
Style
9
Ease of Use
9
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Lightweight CloudTec® cushioning provides a responsive, not-too-plush ride for city walking.
✓
The convenient no-tie speed-lacing system is a massive benefit for airport security efficiency.
✓
Breathable engineered mesh upper keeps feet comfortable in various climates.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
CRITICAL FLAW: The outsole's open channels consistently trap pebbles and debris.
x
Fit is notoriously narrow and can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet, especially with travel-related swelling.
x
Cushioning is responsive and firm, which may disappoint those seeking a plush, soft feel.
x
Speed laces can lose elasticity over time, requiring replacement for a secure fit.
Final Verdict
8.8
Iconic
Lightweight comfort and effortless travel style.
The On Cloud 5 is an iconic choice for modern travelers, celebrated for its featherlight feel, convenient speed-lacing system, and sleek urban style. It's designed for all-day comfort during city exploration and is a particular favorite for navigating airports with ease. Its responsive cushioning and breathable upper keep you moving comfortably.
While the fit is known to be narrow and the unique sole can trap pebbles, the vast majority of user feedback confirms its status as a top-tier shoe for lightweight, stylish travel. If a convenient, comfortable, and chic shoe is what you need for your urban adventures, the Cloud 5 is a proven performer.
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Compare Alternatives
On Cloud 5
$140
Speed-Lacing System
CloudTec® Cushioning
Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper
SHOP NOW
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Airport & City Icon
On Cloud 5
The Ultimate Shoe for Airport Dashes and City Discovery
8.8
SCORE
Lightweight comfort and effortless travel style.
Last Updated:
Jul 8, 2025
Meet Chloe, a marketing consultant with frequent trips between New York and London. She values style and airport efficiency above all else. The On Cloud 5, with its slip-on design and chic look, is practically the official shoe of the business-casual frequent flyer.
Research Methodology
Frequent flyers call On's CloudTec "airport magic," but is the praise justified? To find out, insights from 34 travel communities were reviewed, focusing on TSA line experiences and 18,000-step city days. What travelers consistently report is a trade-off: the shoe's famous comfort pods are brilliant for airport sprints but act as frustrating debris magnets on city streets. This insight shapes its ideal travel use case.
✓
Strengths
Lightweight CloudTec® cushioning provides a responsive, not-too-plush ride for city walking.
The convenient no-tie speed-lacing system is a massive benefit for airport security efficiency.
Breathable engineered mesh upper keeps feet comfortable in various climates.
Sleek, modern aesthetic offers excellent style versatility for a travel wardrobe.
X
Consider
CRITICAL FLAW: The outsole's open channels consistently trap pebbles and debris.
Fit is notoriously narrow and can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet, especially with travel-related swelling.
Cushioning is responsive and firm, which may disappoint those seeking a plush, soft feel.
Speed laces can lose elasticity over time, requiring replacement for a secure fit.
View Current Price
Compare
☁️
Comfort
9
🪶
Lightweight
10
🎨
Style
9
👟
Ease of Use
9
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
☁️
Urban Exploring
👟
Airport Days
🎨
Stylish Comfort
✈️
Lightweight Packing
🏙️
Easy On/Off
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The On Cloud 5's comfort comes from its unique CloudTec® sole. Users describe the feeling not as deeply plush, but as light and responsive—soft upon landing, then firm for an energetic push-off. This creates an agile feel and reduces foot fatigue over long distances on hard surfaces. The standout feature, universally loved by travelers, is the speed-lacing system. This allows the shoe to be slipped on and off effortlessly, a massive convenience at airport security. The highly breathable mesh upper is another plus, providing excellent airflow that keeps feet comfortable in climates like Southern Europe in summer.
Durability
For its intended use as a lifestyle and light activity shoe, the On Cloud 5 offers good durability. The upper mesh is well-constructed and resists wear from normal use. The Zero-Gravity foam pods are more resilient than they appear. However, a common point of feedback is that the speed laces can stretch out over extended, heavy use, though traditional laces are also included in the box. The most frequently cited issue, a hallmark of the CloudTec design, is the sole's tendency to act as a magnet for pebbles and gravel. This doesn't impact structural integrity but is a well-documented annoyance for users.
Packability
The On Cloud 5 is a champion of packability due to its exceptionally lightweight design. At just over 8oz per shoe, it adds negligible weight to a suitcase or backpack, a major win for carry-on travelers. The upper is flexible and can be compressed, allowing it to be tucked away without consuming much space. Its versatile style also enhances its packing benefits, as it can serve as a walking shoe, a casual evening shoe, and an airport shoe all in one, potentially reducing the need for multiple pairs.
Functionality
Functionally, the On Cloud 5 is engineered for effortless, all-day urban wear. The CloudTec® sole and Speedboard® work in tandem to provide a cushioned yet energetic ride. The speed laces are its key functional advantage for travel, granting unparalleled ease of use. Its breathable upper works well across a range of temperatures. Its primary functional flaw is the outsole design, which impairs its use on any surface with loose gravel or stones and positions it strictly as a pavement shoe.
Value
At $140, the On Cloud 5 sits in the premium sneaker category. Its travel benefits are rooted in its unique combination of lightweight comfort, airport convenience, and a strong, stylish aesthetic. For the frequent flyer or urban explorer who values these specific attributes, traveler sentiment indicates the price is fair. This is an investment in a comfortable and efficient travel experience, where ease and style are the main priorities.
They take up the same amount of space in your pack as a pair of sandals or flip flops. They're also crazy breathable... you can fold down the heel counter and convert them into slippers.
u/Malifice37, r/onebag
You Might Also Like
Iconic
Lightweight comfort and effortless travel style.
8.8
The On Cloud 5 is an iconic choice for modern travelers, celebrated for its featherlight feel, convenient speed-lacing system, and sleek urban style. It's designed for all-day comfort during city exploration and is a particular favorite for navigating airports with ease. Its responsive cushioning and breathable upper keep you moving comfortably.
While the fit is known to be narrow and the unique sole can trap pebbles, the vast majority of user feedback confirms its status as a top-tier shoe for lightweight, stylish travel. If a convenient, comfortable, and chic shoe is what you need for your urban adventures, the Cloud 5 is a proven performer.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited