On Cloudsurfer Trail 2 Review

The On Cloudsurfer Trail 2 builds on what made the original so enjoyable; a light, cushioned ride that handles smooth trails and mixed surfaces with ease but makes a few subtle but welcome updates.

There’s a bit more grip due to a better lug pattern, a more dialled-in fit (especially for voluminous feet), and a firmer midsole that helps dial in stability without killing the overall comfort.

If the first version earned a spot as one of your go-to road-to-trail shoes, this second iteration refines the formula without overcomplicating it. It’s still not the shoe for gnarly mountain missions but for flowing park paths, fire roads, and light gravel, it provides a really enjoyable ride.

Key specifications

• Price: $170 from On.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)
• Weight: 9.9 oz (281g) for a size US(M)9 - was 9.5oz
• Drop / Stack height: 8mm drop, with a high stack for max cushioning - was 7mm
• Upper: Breathable, abrasion-resistant mesh with padded heel and tongue; wider lacing system for improved lockdown and fit
• Midsole: CloudTec Phase® with Helion™ superfoam — firmer than v1, a bit more stable, still absorbs shock well
• Outsole: Missiongrip™ rubber with updated chevron lug pattern for improved traction
• Extra features: Elastic lace stow loop, Rear finger pull for easy on/off, TPU toe bumper for durability and light protection

Sizing and fit

Still true to size with a medium fit, but the wider lacing structure makes it more forgiving for higher-volume feet without compromising lockdown for average-width runners.

The collars and heel counter feel super comfortable right out of the box, it's one of those shoes that just feels easy to wear from the first step, for the most part...

If you have a high flex at the toes, you may notice that the upper feels a little stiff, where the bottom of the tongue meets the vamp.

This does soften up very quickly though, so stick with them if you experience the same when taking them for a test walk or run.

Performance review

If you ran in the first Cloudsurfer Trail, the ride here will feel familiar, but slightly more refined, and that's in part due to the reduced rocker geometry, making them more predictable when you step off the roads and onto light trails.