Truthfully, I’ve never been a sneaker freak, but that officially changed this past year. After clocking what feels like a million miles during my marathon training over the last six months, I can’t help but notice how much my runs differ depending on which running shoes I wear.
I discovered the On Cloudsurfer Next shoes a few months ago and haven’t looked back. From Italy to New Jersey, China to California, and Texas to New York, I’ve been running around the world (literally) in these sneakers and I have some serious thoughts about them.
Below, I cover everything you need to know about these running shoes, from why I decided to try them, what I like about them, what to consider and much more.
Why I tried the On Cloudsurfer Next Sneakers
Prior to discovering the Cloudsurfer Next running shoes, I’d been training in one of the older versions of the Cloud shoes. While these shoes are definitely comfy and were durable enough for some of my runs, I don’t think they had enough support to withstand longer runs for marathon training. After I realized the On Cloud shoes weren’t cutting it, I purchased the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14. I ran in these a handful of times — and loved them for my training exercises — but still felt that the cushion was a little too firm for my liking on longer runs. Once I started to run in the Cloudsurfer Next shoes, though, I felt like I’d finally reached a happy medium in terms of comfortability, support and durability.
Because I liked running in my regular On Cloud sneakers for the most part, I was excited to test out a newer, more specialized pair of shoes that were designed specifically for running.
What I like about the On Cloudsurfer Next Sneakers
The name of this brand truly couldn’t be more spot-on — I feel like all On shoes really do feel like you’re walking on clouds. The Cloudsurfer Next running shoes are no different. Despite the fact that they are so lightweight and bouncy, these shoes still manage to provide the perfect amount of support and cushioning on my feet.
These running shoes feature something called a CloudTec Phase midsole, which collapses in sequence as your feet hit the ground. This creates a smooth roll-through from heel to toe. The bouncy Helion superfoam helps boost you forward with each step, too.
After testing these for months, I haven’t noticed any sort of soreness or foot strain. I love that they have a slightly mesh, breathable top-half that doesn’t make my feet feel sweaty post-run. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors, and feel really easy to put on and take off.
What to consider
They're not super slim
Like most high-performance running shoes that have added cushion at the bottom, I wouldn’t necessarily consider these “slim and sleek” shoes. They are certainly a bit bulkier than my everyday athleisure shoes, but less bulky than other running shoe picks that I've purchased from major brands in the past.
For an everyday, walking-around shoe, I personally prefer something with less cushion at the bottom. That said, I do wear these walking around my neighborhood all the time — they've become my go-to's. Either way, they do a great job of boosting my running performance with every mile I trek in them.
They're not trail runners
Another thing to consider is the terrain you’ll be running on. If you’re running on the treadmill, a track, or on a paved or flat dirt road in the park, the Cloudsurfer Next shoes work well for that. However, if you’re doing some off-roading and running on a trail or through the woods, you should opt for the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 running shoes. This pair has more grip and a plush cushioning for a more comfortable feel during rougher terrain.
Who are the On Cloudsurfer Next Sneakers best for?
The On Cloudsurfer Next running shoes are best suited for runners who want a lightweight, cushioned ride without sacrificing support. They’re ideal for everyday runs on pavement, treadmills, or flat trails, and work especially well for beginner to intermediate runners looking for comfort over long distances. They’re also a good option for marathon training, too.
“The potential benefits of using a super cushioned shoe like the Cloudsurfer Next for marathon training include decreasing chance of injury during the training period, especially for athletes like myself who enjoy taking their training runs outside on the road,” explains Dr. Danielle Edwards, a New York-based podiatrist. “I like that the Cloudsurfer has a firmer cushioning that can provide both comfort and stability.”
If you’re training for a race or logging several miles each week, these shoes strike a great balance between softness and responsiveness. “Midsole technology is very important in reducing joint impact, especially in marathon training and endurance athletes,” explains Dr. Edwards. “As the duration of our runs increase, our foot strike tends to change and this technology can help stabilize our feet.”
All in all, these shoes are great for anyone who wants a smooth, comfortable, and stable run, whether you’re training for a marathon or just running to clear your head.
More editor-approved sneakers to shop
These slip-ons were well-loved by one Shop TODAY writer who says they make you feel like you're "walking on air." They're great for different types of terrain she says, having worn them while walking on cobblestone, sand and paved roads.
The mesh material they're crafted with help them remain breathable and dry quickly, should they get wet.
"These are a fantastic travel shoe!" says former Shop TODAY page, Lauren Alexander. "I couldn't get over how lightweight they were. I wore them everywhere — to the gym, on errands, etc. — and never had an issue. I didn't even have to break them in! It's so convenient to just throw them on and go."
Commerce editor and producer, Julie Ricevuto, recently tried the On Cloudsurfer 2 Running Shoe and claims she was thoroughly impressed. "I'm extremely picky when it comes to running sneakers," she explains. "These have a durable feel to them without being bulky and they feel cushioned enough to be springy without lacking support — I'm impressed!"
After trying out the On Cloudmonsters, writer Emma Stessman says she appreciated the level of cushioning within them: "In fact, as soon as I put them on, I had to take a few leaping strides around the office to really get a feel for their bounciness — and I quickly discovered that the cushioning had a really good amount of rebound. I continued to appreciate that during my runs in these shoes, as it felt like I was expending less energy to get further with each step."
More into hiking to trail running? Ricevuto swears by this pair, which also comes in a waterproof version and features a better sole for improved grip while on the go.
The shoe made for every type of runner, the brand's new Cloudboom Max features a glass fiber-infused speedboard to enhance efficiency and a cushioned heel to ensure landings and push-offs are comfortable.
Meet the expert
- Dr. Danielle Edwards is a board-certified podiatrist who practices at Paragon Podiatry in Manhattan and East Setauket, NY. She believes in a whole-body approach to medicine and is always dedicated to solving patient concerns.
Why trust Shop TODAY?
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products and sales out there across retailers. We use our own personal experiences with products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
Daley Quinn is a freelance writer for Shop TODAY, covering all things beauty, fashion and wellness.
