The On Cloudswift is a brand new shoe from On Running. For those not familiar with On Running, it was created in 2010 and based in Switzerland. It’s lightweight but well cushioned. On Running uses “cloud elements” which help and cushion each runner.
The On Cloudswift running shoe uses a slightly different material called Helion Foam. Compared to other models from On, the Helion Foam provides more energy return as well as durability. Helion Foam is extremely light but provides a big energy return. As a brand, On Running is light yet responsive. Helion Foam is also more durable to temperature changes and On Running claims it to be a “superfoam”.
The On Cloudswift has a slightly different shape to the Cloud Elements. The Cloud Elements are more diagonal than horizontal. You probably don’t notice much of a difference.
Fit:
On Running shoes are narrow. This has typically been a problem for me, and I find myself more comfortable in a men’s shoe (because they don’t make wides). I’m usually between a women’s 10-11 wide. This is the first On shoe that a woman 10.5 fits well, and I wouldn’t need to go into a wide. It has the most comfortable fit of any On shoe I’ve run in. The Cloudswift feels great and has a secure fit in the heel area.
The On Cloudswift also has an engineered mesh upper with a wide, roomy, toebox. The breathable upper is great for the summer when your feet tend to sweat more.
The white elephant in the room is how stylish the brand looks. It’s a great option for someone who wants a “stylish running shoe” for walking around and living day to day life. Do I think you need a stylish shoe for running? No. But if you want a shoe with a lot of cushion that doesn’t “look” like a running shoe, this is one for you.
Ride:
The brand, On, is light by nature. The cushioning system uses empty pods, “cloud elements” that compress where you need them. Obviously, a hollow pod doesn’t weigh a lot. The On Cloudswift has minimum rubber which can also weight a shoe down. You’re able to use the shoe for road running or trail running. Keep in mind, rocks will get caught in the shoe if you run on trails.
The downside is the less rubber, the less durability. Even with the lack of rubber, I’ve found it to grip the ground well enough to run on rainy days.
Even though there is plenty of cushioning, the On Cloudswift is still light and responsive. Both the firm plastic and speed board, allow for a smooth and responsive transition. For me, it’s best as a workout shoe. I prefer it for shorter intervals.
I appreciate the versatility of the shoe, and if I needed a shoe in a pinch, I wouldn’t be afraid to take it on an hour run (there are plenty of racing flats I would not).
Summary:
In all, I like the On Cloudswift. For me, it’s a great workout shoe. If you have a wider foot, it’s one of the first options from On Running I would recommend.
Current Rotation:
Easy Runs/Daily Runs: Hoka Mach 2, Brooks Glycerin 17, New Balance 1080v9
Long Runs/Tempo Runs: Hoka Cavu 2
Workouts: Nike Fly, On Cloudswift, Nike LT Streak LT 4
Races: Nike Fly
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Questions for you:
Have you tried On?
Do you like white shoes?
I might have to give these a try! Newtons and Ons are the two brands that I haven’t tried that I’ve been considering. Thanks for another great review.
Let me know if you! I think On/Newton are fairly similar as far as ride and feel. I do think On is growing in the industry while Newton is not.
Sadly, I can probably only choose one of those to try out. I have too many shoes as it is haha.
Have not tried these shoes yet. Hearing good things about Topos. Wondering if they are on your list to review? A friend of mine is an ambassador for them and keeps pushing me to try one of their trail shoes.
Is it Steve? I actually do have a post about a Topo shoe coming out soon. It’s a road shoe though!
Cool. I have been looking at the Terraventure 2, which is one of their trail shoes. None of the running stores around here have them, so have to get directly from Topos I guess.