Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
ASICS Gel Venture 8
Best Budget PickOn Cloud 5
Best for TravelPrice
$45-$60
$140-$160
Summary
At around $50, the ASICS Gel Venture 8 punches well above its price for serious daily walkers. One Reddit user reports walking 5–10K steps six days a week for a full year on a single pair.
On Cloud shoes are the top pick for travelers who need all-day comfort without sacrificing style. CNET specifically calls them out for extended trips where you'll be on your feet for hours, and Reddit walking communities back this up.
Pros
- Extremely affordable at ~$50
- Durable hard sole holds up to 5-10K steps six days a week
- Lasts approximately one year of heavy daily use
- ASICS brand widely respected across walking and running communities
- Stylish enough to wear casually while still being functional for long walks
- Cushioned midsole provides comfort during extended walking
- Dual-purpose: works for both walking and light running
- Frequently recommended in travel-specific walking shoe discussions
Cons
- Less cushioning than premium options like Hoka or Brooks
- Hard sole may not suit walkers who prefer plush underfoot feel
- Fewer style options compared to mainstream brands
- Premium price for what some consider a lifestyle shoe
- Less cushioning than maximalist options like Hoka for very long distances
- Fit runs narrow for some users
Our take
This is the shoe you recommend to someone who thinks they can't afford good walking shoes. Fifty bucks, hard sole, lasts a year of heavy use — it's a no-brainer budget pick.
On Clouds are what you wear when you need a shoe that looks good at dinner but won't destroy your feet after 15,000 steps. The travel community loves them for exactly this reason.
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