On Cloudspark

The upper of the On Cloudspark is designed with premium materials, offering a roomy fit that accommodates a wide forefoot. The shoe features cleverly-designed ventilation strips that enhance breathability, particularly through the medial sides. However, the toebox ventilation could be improved. The upper's dual-layer construction provides decent durability, though it may not meet the expectations for a premium shoe. Reflective elements are also included, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions.

The midsole of the On Cloudspark incorporates CloudTec technology, featuring multiple pods to lighten the shoe and enhance foam compression. The primary foam is quite firm, which may not appeal to everyone, but it does provide excellent stability. The shoe also includes a secondary, even firmer foam, making it suitable for those who prefer a very solid feel underfoot. The Speedboard technology (a nylon-blend plate) adds flexibility and stability.

The outsole of the On Cloudspark combines rubberized foam with hard rubber, featuring a prominent central groove that shows the Speedboard plate. This design enhances flexibility but may sacrifice some grip due to the harder rubber formulation. The outsole's durability is decent but not exceptional, with a thickness of 4 mm to compensate for the slightly lower durability.

The On Cloudspark offers a wide forefoot design, making it suitable for those with a broader foot. The shoe's fit is generally accommodating, with a standard width at the big toe area. The gusseted tongue provides a secure fit, and the removable insole allows for custom orthotic inserts. However, the shoe's narrower midsole width may not be ideal for those seeking a wider fit.

Comfort is a mixed bag with the On Cloudspark. The shoe features a thicker tongue for improved instep comfort and a flexible heel counter. However, the firm midsole may not provide the plush feel some runners prefer. The removable insole adds a layer of customization, allowing runners to use their own orthotic inserts if needed.

The On Cloudspark offers substantial cushioning, particularly in the heel, with a stack height of 34 mm. The forefoot stack height is 26 mm, providing a balanced feel for daily running. The shoe's 8 mm drop is slightly higher than On's typical design, catering to heel strikers. However, the firm midsole may not provide the soft cushioning some runners prefer.

The On Cloudspark features ventilation strips that enhance breathability, particularly through the medial sides. However, the toebox ventilation could be improved. The upper's dual-layer construction maintains overall structure while providing decent ventilation. Despite these efforts, the shoe's breathability is rated as average.

Stability is a strong point for the On Cloudspark. The firm midsole and substantial reinforcement from the heel to the forefoot contribute to stable landings. The shoe's torsional rigidity also enhances stability, though it may reduce comfort at slower paces. The narrower midsole width is typical for neutral running shoes but may not provide the wide base some stability shoes offer.

Durability is a concern for the On Cloudspark, particularly in the heel padding, which scored low in tests. The toebox durability is decent, thanks to the dual-layer upper, but not exceptional for a premium shoe. The outsole's hardness and thickness provide some compensation for durability, but overall, the shoe may not meet the high expectations for longevity.

The grip of the On Cloudspark is somewhat compromised by the harder rubber formulation of the outsole. While the central groove and rubberized foam enhance flexibility, they may not provide the best traction on all surfaces. The shoe's grip is adequate for daily running but may not excel in more demanding conditions.

Flexibility is balanced in the On Cloudspark, with the Speedboard technology adding a degree of flexibility to the midsole. However, the shoe's overall stiffness, particularly in colder conditions, may not appeal to those seeking a highly flexible shoe. The torsional rigidity enhances stability but reduces comfort at slower paces.

Yes, the On Cloudspark is designed for daily running. Its stability and premium materials make it a reliable choice for everyday training.

The On Cloudspark offers decent breathability, particularly through the medial sides. However, the toebox ventilation could be improved.

The durability of the On Cloudspark is a mixed bag. While the toebox offers decent durability, the heel padding scored low in tests, raising concerns about its longevity.

Yes, the On Cloudspark features a removable insole, allowing you to use custom orthotic inserts if needed.

Yes, the On Cloudspark is suitable for heel strikers. It offers substantial cushioning in the heel, making it a good choice for those with a heel strike running style.