On Cloudrunner Shoe Review

On has created several new shoes, and the On Cloudrunner is a great new addition to their lineup. The Cloudrunner has more cushion than many options but still uses the On Cloudtec technology and “Zero Gravity foam.”

On a brand-related note, the brand “On” is “On,” not “On Cloud.” On Cloud is a specific On model but just not all Fords are called Ford Mustang; not all Ons are called On Clouds.

On Cloudrunner Quick Facts:

Heel to Toe Drop: 9 mm

Weight: 8.8 oz

Price: $140

On Cloudrunner Introduction:

On has started adding more cushion to many of their running shoes, and that is where the Cloudrunner comes in. What sets it apart is that it doesn’t “just have cushion” but also has extra support, so if you’re someone who needs a stable shoe, you’ll be happy to know On has been working on it.

On Cloudrunner Fit:

The On Cloudrunner uses plush and premium materials to create a secure fit. The upper is made of engineered mesh and breathes well. I appreciate the extra cushion and padding throughout the entire shoe, including the heel and tongue.

I strongly believe the best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and the On Cloudrunner does just that. It’s one of the most premium shoe uppers that On has ever created. Honestly, it’s surprising it feels more premium than more expensive options.

The mesh breathes well, and I’ve run several runs in the high desert heat with no signs of the shoe not feeling well.

In running shoes, I wear between a size 10-11 wide. I’ve found that size 11 fits the best in most On running shoes, and the On Cloudrunner is no different. If you’re new to On Running, they usually fit shorter and more narrow than other running brands, so I suggest going up a half size from your regular running shoe size.

On Cloudrunner Ride:

In the Cloudrunner, On uses their “zero gravity foam” to cushion the shoe. It results in a lightweight and smooth ride. The midsole is firmer than many other On shoes which use Helion foam.

The Cloudtec cushioning remains similar to the On Cloudrunner. What do I mean by that? On uses individual pods to absorb shock both horizontally and vertically. These pods absorb shock where you land the most. The Speedboard plate (made of thermoplastic polymer) adds more responsiveness to the Cloudrunner, so the ride doesn’t feel mushy. While yes, the Speedboard technically means it’s “plated,” it’s not going to be your race shoe.

Diving more into the Speedboard, it’s actually wider in the On Cloudrunner to provide more stability. The shoe, in general, is wider and offers much more support than most On Running Shoes. Is the On Cloudrunner the most stable of On Running shoes? Right now, I would probably say yes.

Durability and Traction: Most On shoes last for the usually 300-400 miles, and the Cloudrunner is no different. Due to the design of the pods, I’ve found On running shoes do have less traction. Rocks and debris can sometimes get stuck between the pods. Is there anything more annoying than the clink clink clink of a pebble in a shoe? It’s not enough that I worry too much about the traction, and I’ve used them on a few inclement weather days without the worry of sliding around.

I’ve used the On Cloudrunner for a variety of runs, including easy runs, long runs, and a couple of faster runs too. I’ve found the On Cloudrunner shines as an easier run shoe. There is plenty of cushion, and I appreciate the extra support when my feet are getting tired. The Cloudrunner is designed for an easy or daily run trainer with stability, and that’s exactly where it falls in my rotation.

A common question I’ve received is what is the difference between the On Cloudrunner and Cloudflyer?

Think of the On Cloudrunner as the younger sibling of the Cloudflyer. They both are stable options with support, but the Cloudrunner has less cushion. Plus, the Cloudrunner is cheaper. The Cloudflyer is lighter, but the On Cloudrunner is more responsive. The Cloudrunner is also going to be able to handle longer runs.

On Cloudrunner Conclusion:

The On Cloudrunner is a great stable option from On. If you are looking for a high cushion option with stability, the Cloudrunner is definitely a good option. It was a shoe that was missing in On’s lineup. I’m a big fan of the extra cushion and support On has started adding to their running shoe lineup. It gives more people the opportunity to try their shoes!

My Current Shoe Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: On Cloudmonster, On Cloudrunner Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Saucony Triumph 19, Brooks Launch 9

Speed Work: Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Reebok Floatride Energy X

Long Runs: Saucony Freedom 4, Hoka Clifton Edge,  Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3

Trail Running/Hiking: Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL:PDX, North Face Flight VECTIV

Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, Reebok Run fast Pro 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.

Questions for you:

Have you tried the On Cloudmonster?

What is your current favorite running shoe?