If you’re eyeing a long-distance all-mountain trail running shoe from On, your two best options right now are the Cloudultra Pro and the Cloudultra 3.
They share the same Helion™ HF foam, s rocker geometry, and Missiongrip™ outsole DNA but after testing both shoes extensively, I can tell you they deliver very different trail experiences.
The Cloudultra 3 feels smooth and protective for long days out, while the Cloudultra Pro brings race-day focus, improved stability, and a bouncier, more responsive ride but it’ll also cost you $70 more. There are also different fit considerations to take into account.
Here’s how they compare and which one you should pick depending on how you like to run trails.
Key specifications
| Feature | Cloudultra Pro | Cloudultra 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $260 at On.com | $190 at On.com |
| Weight (US M9) | 9.5oz (269g) | 10.1oz (286g) |
| Drop / Stack | 6mm (38mm heel / 32mm forefoot) | 6mm (est. 36mm heel / 30mm forefoot) |
| Upper | Leno weave (TPEE/TPU blend), zoned support | Leno weave mesh, gusseted tongue, TPU overlays |
| Midsole | Dual-layer Helion™ HF + Nylon Speedboard (15% GF) | Dual-layer Helion™ HF + engineered Speedboard |
| Outsole | Missiongrip™, 3.5mm redesigned lugs | Missiongrip™, updated FEA-informed lug geometry |
| Best for | Ultra-distance racing and technical long runs | Long mountain runs and training efforts |
Sizing and fit
Both shoes fit true to size, but:
- Cloudultra Pro has a wider midfoot, more secure, dialed-in fit with better lockdown and slightly more arch support. It’s race-ready, and softer underfoot.
- Cloudultra 3 has a narrower midfoot with a firm TPU overlay on the medial (inside) edge, that can dig into the arch on some foot shapes. It's also slightly higher around the heel collars.
Both uppers are breathable and dry quickly, but the Cloudultra Pro is more refined, with zoned reinforcement that adds structure without the medial pressure points found on the 3.
Ride and performance
This is where the two really start to feel different.
Ride feel and responsiveness
- Cloudultra Pro is lighter, faster, and more responsive. The higher stack gives this one a more cushioned ride, and the 15% glass fiber-reinforced Speedboard® adds a snappier feel underfoot. The rocker geometry feels smoother and more efficient. It propels you forward much better, especially noticeable on long climbs and flatter runnable sections.
- Cloudultra 3 has a nice smooth ride too, but it’s less engaging and lacks the same sense of flow or pop. It’s well-cushioned and protective, but the ride feels more relaxed, a little firmer, and less dynamic at higher speeds.
Both shoes feel stable for high-stack trail shoes, but the Pro handles faster paces and cornering better.
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Technical terrain and traction
Both handle technical terrain very well, thanks to a responsive foam and relatively stable platforms.
Both feel very capable when it comes to traction control, thanks to the Missiongrip rubber compound, and both feature the new chevron lug pattern.
They also both feature 3mm deep lugs, which is the area that both could be improved, if traction on mud or loose dirt is a priority for you.
Wet rock is still a weak point for both, but that’s just the nature of the Missiongrip rubber compound.
Which is better for you?
| If you want… | Go for… |
|---|---|
| A faster, lighter shoe for race day or hard training efforts | Cloudultra Pro |
| A smooth ride at slower paces with solid protection | Cloudultra 3 |
| Maximum breathability (although both are extremely breathable) and smart zoned foot hold | Cloudultra Pro |
| A softer and more forgiving ride | Cloudultra Pro |
| The most responsive trail shoe On has ever made | Cloudultra Pro |
| Better value for long training miles | Cloudultra 3 |
| A better fit for narrow or low-volume feet | Cloudultra Pro |
| A better match for medium-width runners who dislike stiff overlays | Cloudultra Pro |
Alastair Dixon
My verdict
The On Cloudultra Pro is the shoe many of us have been waiting for from On. It's lightweight, stable, breathable, and finally built for racing long distances in the mountains.
If you’re heading to a big trail race, tackling steep ultramarathon courses, or just want a faster trail shoe that doesn’t sacrifice protection, this is the one to get.
The Cloudultra 3, on the other hand, is a well refined all-mountain daily trainer. The ride is well balanced, the grip has improved over v2, and for most runners, it’ll handle back-to-back long runs with ease, especially if you’re not chasing race splits.
That said, the midfoot fit quirks and heavier build hold it back slightly at this price point, and there are better all-mountain trail running shoes, for sure.
If you want On’s best trail shoe right now and are willing to spend more for it, go with the Cloudultra Pro, it's a much better trail runner overall.
If you’re happy logging long miles and want to save $70, the Cloudultra 3 still delivers.
If you have a specific need, and still not sure which one is best for you, just ask me for more help and I'd be happy to nudge you in the right direction! Oh and if you haven't already, go subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more reviews and comparisons like this one. -Alastair
