Cloud X 3 stays versatile and firm; Cloud X 4 adds comfort, grip, and lockdown.
You want one shoe for gym days, short runs, and all-day wear. I’ve lived with both the Cloud X 3 and the new Cloud X 4, and the real choice is about feel: the X3 is snappy and stable; the X4 is softer, grippier, and more secure. I tested both in real workouts and daily life. Below I share what I found so you can pick between the on cloud x3 vs x4 with confidence.
On Men’s Cloud X 3…
Fabric: Performance mesh Rubber sole Perforated panels, Reflective accents throughout, Cushioned collar and super-soft insole, Designed for training , Ultra lightweight design HelionTM superfoam injected…
On Men’s Cloud X 4…
From gym workouts to yoga sessions, the versatile Cloud 4 X AD fitness shoe is dynamic — just like you. The bottom unit you loved…
Is On Cloud X 3 Good?
The short answer: yes. The Cloud X 3 is great if you want one training shoe that moves fast and stays stable. It shines in mixed workouts, HIIT, and short runs. It has a firm, lively ride and a close, agile fit. If you hate mushy foam, this is your lane.In my gym circuits, the X3 felt planted on lateral moves and box jumps. I also used it for a 5K after strength work, and it stayed snappy without feeling harsh. Walking around town later, it kept its shape and didn’t get squishy. For “train-first, run-second,” the Cloud X 3 is a steady pick.
On Men’s Cloud X 3 Sneakers, Ivory/Black, 11.5 Medium US
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- CloudTec with Helion foam for a firm, responsive ride
- Speedboard plate for snappy transitions and multi-directional moves
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with secure midfoot hold
- Lightweight build tuned for gym sessions and short runs
- Outsole pods for nimble traction on gym floors and pavement
What I Like
- Stable base for squats, lunges, and lateral drills
- Fast, firm toe-off that feels quick on strides and sprints
- Upper locks down without hot spots
- Handles a bit of everything: HIIT, classes, errands
- Durable feel; foam doesn’t get mushy over time
What Could Be Better
- Cushioning can feel firm on longer runs
- Grip on wet sidewalks is only average
- Fit can be snug for wider feet
My Recommendation
If you train hard and run short, choose the Cloud X 3. It’s a stable, speedy daily trainer for mixed workouts and cross-training, and it’s usually easy to find at a solid price.| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| HIIT and classes | Stable platform and quick transitions |
| Short runs (up to 5–6K) | Firm, responsive ride keeps cadence high |
| All-around training | Light, supportive, and versatile |
Is On Cloud X 4 Good?
Yes, with a caveat: the Cloud X 4 (including the AD variant) leans more toward comfort and grip while keeping gym-ready agility. It works best if you split time between training, casual miles, and long days on your feet. It feels more cushioned and secure than the X3.In my tests, the updated upper hugged the midfoot better on shuttle runs and step-ups. On a rainy morning run, the outsole bit the pavement with more confidence than my X3. Post-workout coffee and errands? The step-in feel was softer. If you want on cloud x3 vs x4 comfort upgrades, the X4 wins.
On Men’s Cloud X 4 AD, Black/Asphalt, 9.5 Medium
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Refined CloudTec with Helion for a softer, more cushioned feel
- Improved upper lockdown and heel hold for multi-direction moves
- Grippier outsole lugs for better wet-surface traction
- Comfort-forward sockliner and tongue for all-day wear
- Versatile design for training, short runs, and casual use
What I Like
- Noticeably better grip on damp roads and tiles
- More forgiving underfoot for longer standing days
- Secure midfoot wrap reduces foot slide in lateral cuts
- Easy step-in comfort; feels great right away
- Looks clean for work-to-gym transitions
What Could Be Better
- Slightly less ground feel than the X3
- Price can be higher as the newer model
- Not as snappy for pure speed intervals
My Recommendation
Pick the Cloud X 4 if you want comfort, grip, and a more secure upper for all-day versatility. It’s the “train, run, live” upgrade in the on cloud x3 vs x4 choice.| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Daily wear + gym | Softer feel and improved traction |
| Short, easy runs | Comfort-first ride with enough snap |
| Wet-weather errands | Outsole holds better on slick surfaces |
on cloud x3 vs x4: Side-by-Side Test
I ran the Cloud X 3 and Cloud X 4 through gym circuits, short runs, and daily wear. Here’s how the on cloud x3 vs x4 head-to-head shook out in real use.Cushioning & Ride: Firm vs Softer Comfort
Both shoes are responsive. The X3 feels firmer and faster; the X4 adds cushion and smoothness.| Aspect | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall feel | Firm, snappy | Softer, smoother |
| Energy return | Quick pop | Gentle rebound |
| Long-wear comfort | Good, but firm | Better for all day |
| Impact on short runs | Fast and nimble | Easy and cushy |
Fit & Lockdown: Agility vs Security
The on cloud x3 vs x4 differ in upper feel. The X3 is agile; the X4 holds tighter.| Aspect | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Midfoot hold | Secure | More secure |
| Heel lockdown | Good | Improved |
| Toe box | Snug-medium | Medium, a touch plusher |
| Lateral stability | Strong | Very strong |
Traction & Outsole: Dry vs Wet Confidence
I tested on rubber floors and wet sidewalks. Here the on cloud x3 vs x4 gap showed.| Surface | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Gym floors | Reliable grip | Excellent grip |
| Dry pavement | Very good | Very good |
| Wet pavement | Average | Above average |
| Tile/indoors | Good | Better bite |
Stability & Gym Performance: Plant and Push
Both hold up under strength work. The on cloud x3 vs x4 difference is in ground feel.| Move | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Squats/lunges | Very stable | Stable, slightly softer |
| Box jumps | Snappy landings | Softer landings |
| Lateral cuts | Strong hold | Stronger hold |
| Speed drills | Quick turnover | Smooth turnover |
Weight & Agility: Light on Your Feet
On-foot, both feel light. The on cloud x3 vs x4 difference is subtle.| Metric | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Perceived weight | Very light | Light |
| Agility | Excellent | Excellent |
| Tempo feel | Faster | Smoother |
| Fatigue over time | Low | Very low |
Durability & Materials: Built to Last
After weeks of wear, the on cloud x3 vs x4 both held up well.| Area | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper wear | Minimal | Minimal |
| Outsole wear | Moderate | Less moderate |
| Foam resilience | Holds firm | Keeps cushion |
| Stitch/overlays | Secure | Refined and secure |
Value for Money: Price vs Versatility
Your choice in the on cloud x3 vs x4 comes down to what you value most.| Factor | Cloud X 3 | Cloud X 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price | Often lower | Newer, often higher |
| Performance per dollar | Excellent for training | Great for all-day + training |
| Longevity | Strong | Strong |
| Versatility | Gym-first | Gym + daily wear |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Pick Cloud X 3 if you want a firm, fast training shoe for HIIT, classes, and short runs. It’s stable, agile, and often the better deal. It suits narrow-to-regular feet and athletes who prefer ground feel.Choose Cloud X 4 if you want comfort, grip, and a tighter lockdown for all-day wear plus training. It’s the softer, smoother option. In the on cloud x3 vs x4 debate, choose X3 for snap and value, X4 for comfort and traction.
FAQs Of on cloud x3 vs x4
What is the biggest difference in the on cloud x3 vs x4?
The X3 is firmer and snappier. The X4 adds cushioning, grip, and a more secure upper. Pick X3 for gym-first snap, X4 for comfort and daily wear.Which is better for short runs in the on cloud x3 vs x4?
Both work. The Cloud X 3 feels faster; the Cloud X 4 feels smoother and softer. If you prefer a quick, firm ride, go X3. If you want gentle cushion, go X4.How do they fit compared in the on cloud x3 vs x4?
Both run true for most. The Cloud X 4 has a more secure midfoot and heel. The X3 feels a bit roomier in the forefoot but slightly firmer overall.Is the Cloud X 4 worth upgrading from the X 3?
If you want better wet traction, more comfort, and tighter lockdown, yes. If you love the X3’s firm snap and value, you can stay put.Which offers better value in the on cloud x3 vs x4?
Cloud X 3 often costs less and excels for training value. Cloud X 4 justifies the price if you’ll use the extra comfort and grip every day.
Rubel Miah is the Senior Editor at MyStyleGrid.com, where he brings a sharp editorial eye and an unshakable love for fashion to everything he does. A true style addict, Rubel lives and breathes trends, from streetwear to high fashion, and has a knack for turning inspiration into impactful stories. With years of experience in fashion journalism and digital media, he curates content that empowers readers to express themselves through style. When he’s not editing features or forecasting the next big thing, you’ll find him hunting down vintage pieces or capturing street style moments around the city.
