The On Cloudswift 3 is an exciting update to previous versions. Now, if only On would get on board with labeling their shoes. Yes, adding a number to the end of shoes can be “annoying,” but it makes it so much easier.
Anyway, On has been a big player recently in the running industry. What is the name of the brand? Is it On? On Cloud? Cloud? On Running? No, the brand is just called On. That’s it.
They have a unique look, and you’ll see them on anyone from runners to gym goers to even travelers. Even in the last year, they have completely transformed their shoes to be softer and more comfortable. New models like On Cloudgo and Cloudmonster are two of the most popular shoes in the industry.
The On Cloudswift is one of the original On models. It has improved throughout the years but remains true. It features Cloudtech cushioning, and midsole technology and uses On’s Helion superfoam. It also remains one of the most popular models for traveling or for hanging out.
On Cloudswift 3 Quick Facts:
Weight: 8.9 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 5 mm
Weight 8.9 oz
Price: $160
On Cloudswift 3 Fit:
The On Cloudswift 3 uses a one-piece upper that provides a locked-down fit. On calls this their ‘engineered-mesh sock’, designed to hug your foot but stay breathable.
The engineered knit upper is somewhat traditional of On and feels true to size. On was running fairly narrow for a while, but it now seems more true to size. Yay for wider feet because On also offers wide shoes now.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet; for the most part, the On Cloudswift 3 does just that. I don’t have any hot spots, and it feels comfortable. I find the most recent versions of On running shoes the most comfortable yet. There isn’t a heck of a lot to say, but they fit well and breathe well with no hot spots. What more do you need in a running shoe upper?
Typically, I wear between a woman’s size 10-11 wide in running shoes. In the On Cloudswift 3, I’ve found the size 11 to fit well with no issues.
On Cloudswift 3 Ride:
The On Cloudswift has always been one of On’s more minimal offerings. The first two versions were so minimal you could feel the ground pods. That doesn’t sound ideal for running, but it’s a great option if you are someone who thrives on a lightweight shoes (A heck of a lot better than the Nike Free). It’s also become a good option for those who want something comfortable to travel in.
The On Cloudswift 3 remains true to On roots. It features On’s signature technology:
- CloudTec Cushioning Technology: These are the little “pods” or “clouds” you see at the bottom of the shoe. They are what give On their unique appearance.
- TPU Injected Speedboard: Between the CloudTec Technology and Helion Superfoam, this thermoplastic polymer plate flexes as you land and provides a fast transition from heel to toe.
- On’s Signature Helion Superfoam: With a blend of soft and firm, this foam provides cushion and the signature feeling of On shoes.
Durability and Traction: On shoes usually have good durability, and the On Cloudswift 3 is no different. I expect it to live anywhere from 300-400 miles.
With many On shoes, including the Cloudswift they tend to pick up rocks easily and there is nothing more annoying than the clank clank clank of a rock. I don’t run in inclement weather or anything other than a smooth road or treadmill just because of this.
With the extra Helion Superfoam, the On Cloudswift 3 is softer and more cushioned than previous versions. Honestly, I found the first two versions great for walking around but too firm for running anything more than a couple of miles. My feet hurt after a mile or two!
I didn’t know where the On Cloudswift 3 would fall in my rotation. It’s still too firm and lacks cushioning for long recovery runs. I found it great for daily runs or something; I might want to pick up the pace. It has really evolved this version to a shoe I want to run daily runs in. It’s a shoe I grab if I want a medium-paced daily run. With the extra cushion, it’s the first On Cloudswift version that doesn’t hurt my feet if I run more than a mile or two.
What has changed in the On Cloudswift 3 versus Cloudswift 2?
It’s essential to note, the On Cloudswift has always been one of the more “minimal” options from On. This isn’t it if you are looking for a high-cushioned shoe. If want a more maximal shoe, consider the Cloudmonster or Cloudgo.
On has added more Helion cushioning in the midsole by redesigning the upper to be wider. In previous versions of the On Cloudswift, I could feel the pods under my feet which were never comfortable for me. Also noted in the differences in the updated Cloudswift is $10 more expensive.
On Cloudswift 3 Conclusion:
I am a huge fan of the On Cloudswif,t 3, and they are trending in the right direction for this shoe. I do hope they continue to make it softer.
Who should buy the On Cloudswift 3? If you are looking for a shorter run or daily run shoe. Plus, the On Cloudswift 3 is a great traveling or lounging around shoe.
Who should not buy the On Cloudswift 3? If you are looking for a shoe with more cushion or that you can run easy and long distance. I don’t think it’s a shoe I would take more than 10 miles.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: On Cloudswift 3, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, 361 Degrees Centauri, ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: Hoka Solimar, Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: Brooks Caldera 6, Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 Hoka Rocket X 2 ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
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 Cloudswift 3?
What is your favorite running shoe?