On Running distinguishes itself from the crowd thanks to its rich history of helping athletes stay in the moment during all types of runs and consistently achieve better movement. As such, it’s no surprise that so many elite runners swear by the brand.
Though On was only founded back in 2010, the brand has quickly made a name for itself in the running shoe game. What started as an idea between three friends in the Swiss Alps – and an original prototype made out of pieces of a garden hose – has quickly expanded to become one of the most popular shoe brands around.
From supportive and dependable daily trainers to light and fast racing shoes, On truly has something for everyone. And as a lightweight, responsive, and stable running shoe, it’s easy to understand how their Cloudrunner model has become a fast favorite for so many runners out there.
Our comprehensive On Cloudrunner 2 review will take a deeper look at all the latest upgrades and features, providing a holistic view of why this latest iteration stands out as a must-have for runners at any stage of their training journey.
Our Review Process
At Marathon Sports, we have the pleasure and privilege of working with reviewers who don’t just keep up with running shoe trends, they also rely on them in their everyday lives. Our employees are passionate about all the things that make top running shoes rise above the competition, including support, fit, toughness, and stability.
The On Cloudrunner 2 is the latest and greatest edition of On Running’s beloved Cloudrunner, which has been touted for the last few years as being extremely user-friendly for both new and experienced runners. Our review process provides an in-depth exploration of its latest upgrades and features, examines which design elements made the original a fan-favorite, and what users can expect to love about this latest version.
On Cloudrunner 2 Details and Highlights
Our reviewers had a lot of awesome things to say about the Cloudrunner 2, but let’s first take a look at the specs.
- Men’s weighs 290g / 10.2 oz, Women’s weighs 230g / 8.1 oz
- 10mm heel-to-toe drop
- Available up to men’s size 14 and women’s size 11
- Designed for professional distance running and daily training
- Mid-level cushioning and easy step-in
- Uses On’s signature CloudTec® Technology
- Road-stable support with durable heel clip
- Standard lacing and tongue loop
- 100% recycled Swiss-engineered polyester upper
- Price: $149.99
Overview
Since 2010, Swiss company On Running has built a legendary reputation for designing shoes that elevate athletic performance by focusing on the nuances of movement and comfort. In recent years, the brand has exploded in popularity and established itself as a trailblazer in the world of running shoes and lifestyle shoes alike.
On Running continues to push the boundaries of what running shoes can and should achieve. The brand has a keen focus on using proprietary CloudTec® cushioning technology, better known as the “cloud”-like shapes running underneath all On Running models that provide softer landings and help runners conserve energy.
The Cloudrunner 2 exhibits this ongoing commitment, blending cutting-edge technology like the innovative Helion™ superfoam and beloved legacy design ingredients that enhance every detail of the running experience. Style and trendiness are some additional benefits of scoring this shoe, as its polished design tells the world that its wearers are up-to-date on the latest looks.
Diving Into the Features
On Running shoes always offer state-of-the-art features and technology, and the Cloudrunner 2 is no different. The revolutionary shoe boasts a meticulously engineered design to enhance every stride. Our reviewers agreed that this latest model’s upgraded features fueled their runs with greater energy and longevity, enabling them to run longer distances with less fatigue, propelling them toward their fitness goals, and redefining the running experience.
Sustainable Style
Made with 100% recycled Swiss-engineered polyester, the Cloudrunner 2’s upper mesh is not only environmentally responsible but also designed to provide maximum breathability and comfort. It ensures that runners experience a lightweight, flexible fit without compromising durability or performance.
On Running’s shoes are well known for being incredibly tough and long-lasting, so they’ll be in your rotation for quite a while. Choosing the Cloudrunner 2 is more than just a decision to invest in high-performance running shoes; it’s a conscious choice to support sustainable practices.
The recycled polyester mesh also gives the shoe a stylish edge, making it a fashionable choice for the environmentally conscious runner.
Game-Changing Comfort
The Cloudrunner 2 includes Helion™ superfoam, On Running’s newest and most comfortable midsole material to date. The innovative midsole provides the perfect balance between cushioning and dynamic response, making it suitable for a wide variety of running conditions and distances.
The previous Cloudrunner used On’s zero-gravity foam which resulted in a lightweight and stiff shoe with a pretty structured feel on runs. In contrast, the updated Cloudrunner 2 switched to the brand’s Helion™ superfoam, a cushion with a higher energy return that boasts a bouncy and responsive ride.
The combination of Helion™ superfoam and On Running’s hallmark CloudTec® cushioning makes the Cloudrunner 2 versatile for various running distances and styles. Whether you’re training for a marathon, doing a high-intensity interval workout, or enjoying a leisurely jog, the Cloudrunner 2 provides the necessary support and comfort to keep you going. Designed for long-lasting comfort, it’s a shoe made for extended use even beyond running.
Added Stability
As a model, the Cloudrunner is advertised towards runners who need a little bit of extra stability on their runs. However, our reviewers found that the minimal added stability makes the shoe a versatile option for both neutral runners and those in need of some extra support.
The Cloudrunner 2 offers many elements that make it a fantastic option for runners who slightly overpronate. The durable heel clip helps improve the fit and increase the level of support while the wider base offers inherent stability. The minimal stability features offer just a touch of support without feeling too stiff on runs.
While it is technically a stability shoe, our reviewers wouldn’t recommend the Cloudrunner 2 for runners or walkers who need a lot of support. The less prominent stability features are great for some runners, but aren’t supportive enough to fully correct your gait and help with any significant overpronation throughout a run.
Updated Outsole
If there’s one downside our reviewers have heard – and seen with their own eyes – over and over again with On shoes, it’s their often open-channel outsole. This hollow outsole design traps rocks, debris, and twigs just minutes into any run.
One of the best upgrades to the Cloudrunner 2 is the update and changes to this outsole. The new design is more filled-in with the shoe’s cushion, reducing the chance of uncomfortable rocks and debris getting trapped in your shoe.
The outsole also has more dependable and durable rubber grips to it, making it a great choice for any weather conditions. Marathon Sports reviewers found that rain or shine, the Cloudrunner 2 held up on roads and dirt paths with reliable traction.
Fit and Comfort: Taking the Cloudrunner 2 for a Road Test
Finding the correct fit is the key to a productive and worry-free run, and On Running designed the Cloudrunner 2 with calibration in mind. Equipped with an exceptionally durable heel clip, Cloudrunner 2 has a reinforced and stable fit.
According to reviewers, the Cloudrunner 2 often runs half a size large, so it’s recommended that runners size up. Sizing up allows you to take full advantage of the shoe’s CloudTec® cushioning, and, of course, prevent blisters.
What immediately stood out when putting on the Cloudrunner 2 was the plush mesh upper. Right from the jump, the Cloudrunner 2 fit comfortably around the foot and offered plenty of padding from the moment our reviewers stepped into it.
But we don’t truly know how the Cloudrunner 2 feels without getting in a few good runs with them. Our reviewers put the Cloudrunner 2 to the test on a variety of different runs. From the pavement to dirt roads, speed workouts to long runs and beyond, our reviewers put in the miles to understand how the Cloudrunner 2 performs in any condition.
Overall, the shoe felt lightweight and comfortable enough for daily training runs. The slight rocker shape and high-energy return made the shoe feel smooth and natural throughout every stride.
While some runners may like this shoe as a daily driver and longer run shoe, the Cloudrunner 2 did feel a bit too stiff for some reviewers who prefer a softer, more cushioned landing. But for shorter training runs or occasional tempo runs, many of our reviewers could easily see the Cloudrunner 2 becoming a go-to.
Overall, the Cloudrunner 2 is highly suitable for runners of all fitness levels. Whether you’re a novice runner or a professional marathoner, the Cloudrunner 2 promises to elevate your running experience, helping you stay focused in the moment and achieve a holistically better movement. However, runners who prefer to clock miles on a very technical topography may want to explore other options.
Pros and Cons
Unfortunately, no shoe is ever totally perfect, and our reviewers always provide a transparent perspective on what to expect with any purchase. The Cloudrunner 2 is an all-around excellent choice for all runners, but there are a few key factors, both positive and negative, to take into consideration.
Pros
- Unmatched sleek, aesthetic design
- Minimal stability features make this a versatile shoe that could work for any runner
- Suitable for new and elite runners
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Bouncy and energetic impact
- Industry-leading durability
Cons
- Higher price point
- Somewhat inconsistent sizing
- Difficult to keep clean
- Doesn’t offer enough support for severe overpronators
It’s important to note that despite these few drawbacks found by reviewers, the Cloudrunner 2 is still a top choice for athletes seeking a high-performance running shoe.
Who is the On Cloudrunner 2 Built For?
Thanks to its versatility, the Cloudrunner 2 is the ideal shoe for all types of runners. The Cloudrunner 2 is adaptable enough to meet the requirements and demands of beginners and experienced athletes. Long-distance runners will appreciate the shoe’s energy-returning capabilities, as it helps reduce fatigue and discomfort over extended distances. Recreational and newer runners will love its slight guidance and support.
The Cloudrunner 2 is also a great choice for a variety of terrains, including wet pavement and packed dirt roads, as the refined traction pattern provides the right amount of grip without sacrificing comfort. Reviewers even claimed they found themselves wearing the Cloudrunner 2 all day, before and after their runs. Whether you’re going for new personal bests on the track, conquering trails, or just seeking some all-day comfort, the Cloudrunner 2 is a reliable companion for every step you take.
In addition to its functional superiority, the Cloudrunner 2 shows off a sleek, aesthetic appeal that combines modern style with athletic practicality. Its streamlined silhouette and attractive color options not only elevate running performance but also keep style at the forefront of training.
How On Cloudrunner 2 Stacks Up
When assessing the On Cloudrunner 2 against other new and popular running shoe models, it becomes evident why it stands out as the cream of the crop among a diverse range of runners.
Our reviewers found that the Cloudrunner 2 is pretty comparable to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 in terms of cushion and overall feel. Both shoes have a relatively high drop (12mm for the Adrenaline, 10mm for the Cloudrunner), along with a more stiff and responsive feel to the cushioning. However, with Brooks’s GuideRail® technology, the Adrenaline 23 does offer more support for overpronation than the Cloudrunner 2.
For another stiffer-feeling shoe with more built-in support and a lower drop, you might want to try out the Hoka Arahi 7. This stable shoe offers a balanced cushion with a plush yet responsive feeling not far off from On’s Helion™ cushioning.
For runners who want some stability without sacrificing softness, it’s worth trying out the GT-2000 12 from Asics or 860 v14 from New Balance.
Find the On Cloudrunner 2 at Marathon Sports
Marathon Sports keeps a finger on the pulse of the latest trends and technological advances in running shoes, and our store locations are well-stocked with cutting-edge options from all of your favorite brands, including On Running. Whether you’re in the market for an upgraded running shoe, exploring new athletic gear, or stocking up on the best nutrition to fuel your miles, you can find everything you need at your local Marathon Sports store or online.
Visit us at one of our various locations throughout New England to find your Right Fit™ with guidance from our expert staff. Experience why Marathon Sports is the premier destination for runners seeking excellence in gear and service. We support you every step of your running journey.
