I’ve been testing On running shoes for more than a decade—across mountain trails, city streets, and long race days—so every recommendation here is based on actual wear and experience.
This roundup will help you figure out which On Cloud running shoe is best for each specific type of running (road and trail), and it will help you assemble your entire shoe rotation made up of just On Cloud shoes.
Alastair Dixon
Each recommendation below includes:
- My Youtube review. Subscribe to my channel here.
- A quick summary of what makes it special
- Price, and the key specifications you need to know about
Feel free to drop a comment if you’re unsure which On is best for you—I’m always up for talking running shoes.
Best Overall On Running Shoe: On Cloudsurfer 2
Price: $160 / £150 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 9oz (254g), 9mm drop
The Cloudsurfer 2 is a daily trainer built for runners who want a smooth, stable ride with plenty of cushioning underfoot. CloudTec Phase midsole foam delivers soft landings and balanced support that feels comfortable over easy miles or uptempo days. Ideal for runners with a neutral stride who want versatile cushioning without excess bulk.
Best On Running Shoes for Daily Training: On Cloudmonster Hyper
Price: $220 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width (with roomy toe box), 9.1oz (258g), 6mm drop
The Cloudmonster Hyper is a high-cushion trainer designed for runners who want plush comfort and responsive energy return in one package. Its PEBAX midsole feels lively without sacrificing stability, making it a solid choice for daily training and long runs at any pace. Best for runners who value soft impact protection but still enjoy a snappy toe-off.
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Best On Running Shoes for Speed Work: On Cloudmonster 2
Price: $180 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, wide width (size down 0.5), 10.2oz (289g), 6mm drop
The Cloudmonster 2 is built for runners who like a cushioned yet stable shoe for speed work and faster training days. The broad platform and structured upper create a secure feel at higher paces, while the midsole provides a smooth, energetic transition. A great option for tempo sessions or intervals when you need dependable support.
Best On Running Stability Shoes: On Cloudrunner 2
Price: $150 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 10.5oz (298g), 10mm drop
The Cloudrunner 2 is a stability trainer engineered for runners who need extra support over longer distances. The Helion Superfoam midsole offers firm cushioning that helps control overpronation, while the wide base keeps your stride steady. Ideal for recovery runs or daily training when you want a protective, reliable feel.
Best On Shoes for Racing: On Cloudboom Strike
Price: $280 at On.com
Alastair Dixon
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 7.1 oz (201g), 4mm drop
The Cloudboom Strike is a lightweight, cushioned marathon racer built for runners who want a fast, bouncy ride. A thick, removable Bounceboard layer of Helion HF foam sits right on top of the carbon Speedboard, giving each stride a springy, protected sensation that stands out from more rigid race shoes. It’s a solid option if you’re chasing marathon PRs or long tempo efforts and want a carbon-plated shoe that blends comfort with responsiveness. Just expect to spend a little time dialing in the fit and letting the heel counter soften up before race day.
Best On Running Shoes for Everyday Wear: On Cloud 6
Price: $150 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 9.4oz (267g), 8mm drop
The Cloud 6 is an everyday trainer built for lifestyle and walking who appreciate lightweight comfort and easy versatility. The refined CloudTec cushioning softens impact on roads and sidewalks, while the updated upper offers a secure, flexible fit. A solid pick for casual daily wear, or travel when you want a simple, comfortable shoe that’s easy to slip on, and ready for anything.
Best On Running Shoes for Wide Feet: On Cloudeclipse
Price: $180 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, wider fit, 9.8oz (278g), 6mm drop
The Cloudeclipse is a max-cushion trainer built for runners who need extra room and stable support during long miles. The wide forefoot and plush CloudTec Phase cushioning create a comfortable fit that reduces pressure on your feet. A great pick for easy runs or recovery days when comfort takes priority.
Best On All-Mountain Trail Shoes: On Cloudvista 2
Price: $150 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 10.2oz (289g), 6mm drop
The Cloudvista 2 is a trail shoe designed for runners who tackle a mix of smooth and technical terrain. The MissionGrip outsole delivers dependable traction, while the cushioned midsole absorbs impact on descents. Ideal for trail runners who want a responsive feel without compromising grip or stability.
Best On Running Shoes for Ultra Running: On Cloudultra 2
Price: $180 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 10.2oz (289g), 6mm drop
The Cloudultra 2 is a long-distance trail shoe engineered for ultra runners who need durable comfort and a secure fit. Dual-layer Helion foam provides consistent cushioning over hours of running, while the roomy upper helps accommodate swelling feet. A reliable choice for technical trails and all-day adventures.
Alastair Dixon
Best On Running Shoes for Road-to-Trail: On Cloudsurfer Trail
Price: $160 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 9.5oz (269g), 7mm drop
The Cloudsurfer Trail is a hybrid running shoe made for runners who transition between roads and light trails. The CloudTec Phase midsole cushions each step, and the grippy outsole adapts to varied surfaces. Perfect for mixed-terrain runs when you don’t want to own two pairs of shoes (road and trail).
Best On Running Shoes for Trail Racing: On Cloudventure Peak 3
Price: $160 at On.com
Key Specs: True to size, narrow width, 8.6oz (244g), 4mm drop
The Cloudventure Peak 3 is a trail racing shoe built for runners who want lightweight precision on technical courses. Its minimalist design keeps weight down, and the sticky MissionGrip outsole provides secure traction on loose surfaces. Best for trail runners who prefer a nimble, connected feel at race pace.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right On Shoe
When selecting your On Cloud shoe, consider the distance, terrain, and fit that best suit your running style.
Shoes like the Cloudsurfer 2 are versatile enough for both easy runs and longer distances, while models like the Cloudboom Echo 3 are more specialized for high speed race days.
If you’re after a hybrid option, the Cloudsurfer Trail performs well across both road and light trail.
Looking for more insights, or still not sure which On running shoes are going to be best for you? Drop me a comment below and I’ll get back to you with my recommendation.
