If you’re looking for a max-cushioned running shoe to soak up long, slow miles or handle those recovery days when your legs need a break, you’ve probably come across the On Cloudsurfer Max and the Nike Vomero 18.
I’ve been running in both pairs for several weeks now, testing them on relaxed long runs, easy recovery days, and full days on my feet, and they each bring something different to the table.
Here’s how they compare, and which one might be better for the way you run.
Key specifications
| Feature | Cloudsurfer Max | Nike Vomero 18 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $180 | $155 |
| Weight (US M9) | 10.3oz (292g) | 10.9oz (309g) |
| Drop / Stack | 6mm (37mm heel / 31mm forefoot) | 10mm (46mm heel / 36mm forefoot) |
| Upper | New engineered mesh with knit collar | Soft engineered mesh, plush tongue/collar |
| Midsole | CloudTec Phase + Helion™ foam | ZoomX (top) + ReactX (base) |
| Outsole | Rubber pods, grooved midsole | Rubber + exposed foam sections |
| Extras | Rocker geometry, roomy fit | Rocker geometry, reflective hits |
Sizing and fit
Both shoes fit true to size in my experience, with slightly roomy toe boxes—surprisingly roomy in the Vomero given Nike’s history of snug fits.
The Cloudsurfer Max feels more accommodating overall and might be better suited if you have slightly wider feet or prefer more wiggle room.
The Vomero 18’s upper is more plush and padded around the ankle, which makes it cozy for long walks and slow runs, but also warmer; something I noticed more during hot summer runs here in Florida.
Performance comparison
Cushioning and ride feel
Both shoes sit right in the max-cushion category, but they go about it a little differently.
- Cloudsurfer Max feels a bit firmer out of the box and needs a couple of runs to break in. Once it softens, it offers a thick, protective underfoot platform that feels very consistent.
- Vomero 18 is soft from day one, with a super plush ride thanks to the ZoomX and ReactX combo. It’s pillowy but still manages to feel stable which is something a lot of soft shoes don’t get right.
For recovery runs or easy cruises, both feel forgiving, but I find the Vomero a touch more comfortable for long days on my feet.
Stability and geometry
- The Cloudsurfer Max has a wide base and predictable rocker, which helps smooth out transitions at slow paces. It’s not a shoe you’ll want to push the pace in as it’s designed to take things slow and steady.
- The Vomero 18 also uses a rocker design, but with a higher drop (10mm), which does encourage a more heel-first landing. Personally, I prefer a lower drop and tend to land more mid-to-forefoot, so I had to adjust my stride slightly with the Vomero but heels strikers will instantly love this ride.
Both shoes are stable enough for tired legs, but the Vomero feels slightly more nimble underfoot despite being heavier on paper.
Alastair Dixon
Versatility
- The Vomero 18 is better suited for walking and casual wear (as well as running) thanks to its plush upper and soft step-in feel.
- The Cloudsurfer Max leans more toward long runs and high-mileage recovery efforts. It feels less lively overall, but more focused on durability and impact absorption.
Breathability and heat
This is one area where both shoes fall a bit short.
If you’re training in hot and humid weather (like I am), both uppers run warm, especially on longer efforts.
- The Vomero’s thick tongue and dense mesh upper trap heat.
- The Cloudsurfer Max’s new mesh upper is softer and more secure than before, but less breathable than previous On shoes I’ve tested.
Outsole and grip
Traction has been solid on both, with reliable grip on pavement and light debris.
Just note:
- The Cloudsurfer Max can trap small stones in its outsole center groove if you hit gravel.
- The Vomero 18 has more exposed foam sections, so long-term durability might be a concern if you run on rougher surfaces.
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Which is better for you?
Here’s how I’d break it down depending on your running style and priorities:
| If you want… | Go for… |
|---|---|
| A super plush, soft ride from the first run | Vomero 18 |
| A slightly lower drop and smoother forefoot feel | Cloudsurfer Max |
| Maximum impact protection for long recovery runs | Cloudsurfer Max |
| A daily shoe that doubles as a walking/lifestyle pick | Vomero 18 |
| Roomier upper for medium-to-wide feet | Cloudsurfer Max |
| Slightly better breathability (marginally) | Vomero 18 |
| Best overall value for price | Vomero 18 |
In-depth reviews of each shoe
On Cloudsurfer Max
Nike Vomero 18
Alastair Dixon
Video coming soon..
My verdict
These are both strong max-cushion daily trainers built for easy miles, recovery runs, and comfort-first runners.
Personally, if I’m heading out for a long run where I want pure protection and don’t care about pace, I’ll grab the Cloudsurfer Max. It’s stable, absorbs shock well, and just feels super reliable on tired legs, even if it takes a couple runs to break in.
But if I want a shoe that feels ready to wear all day, is soft straight out of the box, and transitions well from walk to run, I’m reaching for the Vomero 18. It’s become a bit of a go-to when I just want to forget about my form and cruise.
You can’t really go wrong with either though, just choose based on what your feet (and your training) are asking for right now.
