On Cloudsurfer Trail

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78%
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On Cloudsurfer

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On Cloudsurfer Trail: Review

β€œA versatile shoe for mixed terrain running.”

Overview


The On Cloudsurfer Trail is a trail running shoe designed to bridge the gap between road and trail running. This shoe is known for its versatility and comfort across various terrains.

Key Features:

  • CloudTec Phase Technology: Provides a smooth ride and energy return with each step.
  • Helion Midsole: Offers durable and soft cushioning for a comfortable run.
  • Missiongrip Outsole: Ensures grip and durability on different surfaces.

The On Cloudsurfer Trail is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and versatility for mixed terrain running. Its CloudTec Phase technology offers a smooth ride, making it suitable for both road and trail use.

With an average review score of 78%, it's in the lowest rated 30% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the On Cloudsurfer Trail


The On Cloudsurfer Trail is a versatile shoe that performs well on roads and non-technical trails. It offers a comfortable and cushioned ride, making it suitable for runners who enjoy a mix of road and trail running. The shoe's CloudTec Phase technology provides a smooth transition from heel to toe, although some reviewers found the energy return to be less impressive compared to other models. The Helion midsole offers a durable and soft cushioning, but the shoe's weight is considered heavy for a road-to-trail shoe. The Missiongrip outsole provides adequate traction on moderate trails, but it may not be the best choice for technical terrains. Overall, the On Cloudsurfer Trail is a solid option for those who run primarily on roads with occasional smooth trails. It is a good choice for runners seeking a comfortable and versatile shoe for mixed terrain running.

On Cloudsurfer Trail: Base model


The On Cloudsurfer Trail is a special version of the On Cloudsurfer. While the original Cloudsurfer is designed primarily for road running, the Trail version incorporates features for mixed terrain use. The Cloudsurfer Trail includes a more rugged Missiongrip outsole and a breathable mesh upper, making it suitable for both road and trail running. The shoe maintains the CloudTec Phase technology for a smooth ride, while offering enhanced durability and grip for off-road adventures.

Comparable Shoes


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The Altra Lone Peak 8 is a zero-drop trail shoe that offers a more natural ride compared to the On Cloudsurfer Trail. It is designed for technical terrains, providing better grip and protection. The Lone Peak 8 is ideal for runners who prefer a minimalist design and a strong connection to the trail.

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The Salomon Ultra Glide 2 is a moderate drop trail shoe that offers a balanced ride for road-to-trail transitions. It provides better grip and stability on technical terrains compared to the On Cloudsurfer Trail. The Ultra Glide 2 is a great option for runners seeking a versatile shoe with enhanced performance on challenging trails.

10 On Cloudsurfer Trail Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Comfortable and cushioned ride.
Versatile for road-to-trail running.
Breathable mesh upper.
Removable insole for customization.
Reflective elements for visibility.

5 Cons

Heavy for a road-to-trail shoe.
Not suitable for technical terrains.
Inconsistent fit in the midfoot area.
High drop not ideal for forefoot strikers.
Pricier than similar models.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the On Cloudsurfer Trail is designed with a breathable mesh material, providing good ventilation for long runs. It features a semi-gusseted tongue, which helps keep debris out while maintaining a comfortable fit. The shoe also includes reflective elements for enhanced visibility during low-light conditions. The upper's design accommodates a wide range of foot shapes, making it suitable for runners with wider feet.

Midsole

The midsole of the On Cloudsurfer Trail is equipped with Helion foam, offering a balance of softness and durability. This foam is complemented by the CloudTec Phase technology, which enhances the shoe's cushioning and provides a smooth ride. The midsole's design is aimed at delivering a comfortable experience for both road and trail running, although it lacks a rock plate for added protection on technical terrains.

Outsole

The Missiongrip outsole of the On Cloudsurfer Trail is designed to provide traction on various surfaces. It features a combination of squared and L-shaped lugs, which offer decent grip on moderate trails. However, the shallow lug depth may not be sufficient for more technical or muddy terrains. The outsole's durability is enhanced by the use of a robust rubber compound, making it suitable for road-to-trail transitions.

Size/fit

The On Cloudsurfer Trail offers a true-to-size fit with a medium toe box, accommodating a variety of foot shapes. The shoe's design includes a wider forefoot, providing comfort for runners with broader feet. However, some users may find the fit inconsistent, particularly in the midfoot area. The shoe's overall fit is comparable to other models in the On lineup, such as the Cloudmonster 2.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the On Cloudsurfer Trail, thanks to its cushioned midsole and breathable upper. The shoe provides a smooth ride on both roads and trails, making it a suitable choice for long-distance runs. However, some users have reported hot spots on the heels during steep descents, which may affect comfort on technical trails. Overall, the shoe is comfortable for everyday running and casual wear.

Cushioning

The On Cloudsurfer Trail offers medium cushioning, making it suitable for a variety of running surfaces. The Helion midsole provides a soft and responsive feel, while the CloudTec Phase technology enhances the shoe's cushioning capabilities. This combination ensures a comfortable ride, although the lack of a rock plate may limit its use on more technical terrains.

Breathability

The On Cloudsurfer Trail features a breathable mesh upper with numerous ventilation holes, ensuring effective airflow during runs. This design makes the shoe suitable for year-round use, particularly in mild climates. While the breathability is not top-notch, it is adequate for most running conditions, providing comfort and ventilation for long-distance runs.

Stability

The On Cloudsurfer Trail is a neutral running shoe with some stability features, such as enhanced sidewalls and midfoot guidance. However, it may not provide enough support for runners who require substantial stability. The shoe's design is aimed at offering a natural and less cumbersome ride, making it suitable for neutral runners seeking a versatile option for mixed terrain running.

Durability

The durability of the On Cloudsurfer Trail is enhanced by its multi-layered upper and robust Missiongrip outsole. The shoe is designed to withstand road-to-trail transitions, making it a reliable choice for runners who frequently switch between surfaces. However, the shoe's durability may be compromised on more technical terrains, where the lack of a rock plate and shallow lugs could lead to increased wear.

Grip

The On Cloudsurfer Trail's Missiongrip outsole provides decent traction on moderate trails and road surfaces. The combination of squared and L-shaped lugs offers adequate grip for mixed terrain running, although the shallow lug depth may not be sufficient for technical or muddy trails. The shoe's grip is suitable for runners who primarily run on roads with occasional smooth trails.

Flex

The On Cloudsurfer Trail offers a flexible design, allowing for a comfortable and natural ride. The shoe's flexibility is enhanced by the CloudTec Phase technology, which provides a smooth transition from heel to toe. While the shoe's flexibility is reduced compared to its road counterpart, it still maintains a comfortable ride for mixed terrain running. The trade-off for flexibility is the inclusion of the durable Missiongrip outsole, which enhances the shoe's overall performance.

Who should buy the On Cloudsurfer Trail?


The On Cloudsurfer Trail is ideal for runners who enjoy a mix of road and trail running. It is suitable for those who prioritize comfort and versatility in their running shoes. The shoe's medium cushioning and breathable upper make it a great choice for long-distance runs. Runners who appreciate a smooth ride and energy return will find value in the CloudTec Phase technology. Additionally, those who prefer a shoe with a medium toe box and a true-to-size fit will appreciate the design of the On Cloudsurfer Trail.

Who should not buy the On Cloudsurfer Trail?


The On Cloudsurfer Trail may not be the best choice for avid trail runners who frequently tackle technical terrains. Its shallow lugs and lack of a rock plate may not provide enough protection and grip for challenging trails. Runners who require substantial stability or prefer a lower drop may find the shoe's design less suitable. Those seeking a zero-drop design might consider the Altra Lone Peak 8, while the Salomon Ultra Glide 2 offers a moderate drop for road-to-trail transitions. Additionally, runners who prefer a lighter shoe for technical trails may want to explore other options.

On Cloudsurfer Trail: What's it good for?


The On Cloudsurfer Trail is well-suited for road-to-trail running, offering a comfortable and cushioned ride for mixed terrain. It is a great choice for trail beginners or those who enjoy moderate trails and occasional road use. The shoe's design makes it suitable for heel strikers and runners who appreciate a smooth transition from road to trail. Its versatility allows for use in various running conditions, making it a reliable option for everyday running and casual wear.

5 On Cloudsurfer Trail FAQs


What type of terrain is the On Cloudsurfer Trail best suited for?

The On Cloudsurfer Trail is best suited for moderate trails and road-to-trail transitions. It offers a comfortable ride on smooth trails and roads, but may not provide enough grip for technical terrains.

Is the On Cloudsurfer Trail suitable for heel strikers?

Yes, the On Cloudsurfer Trail is suitable for heel strikers. Its design includes a cushioned heel and a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it a good choice for runners with a heel strike pattern.

Does the On Cloudsurfer Trail have a removable insole?

Yes, the On Cloudsurfer Trail features a removable insole, allowing runners to customize the fit with their own orthotics or insoles if needed.

How does the On Cloudsurfer Trail perform in terms of breathability?

The On Cloudsurfer Trail offers decent breathability with its mesh upper and ventilation holes. It is suitable for year-round use, providing comfort and ventilation for long-distance runs.

What is the weight of the On Cloudsurfer Trail?

The On Cloudsurfer Trail weighs 272 g (9.6 oz) for men and 235 g (8.3 oz) for women, making it a lightweight option for a trail shoe.

On Cloudsurfer Trail alternatives

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Released
Apr 2024
Dec 2021Aug 2017Jan 2020
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Weight
Weight
M: 272 g
W: 235 g
326 g
269 g
360 g
340 g
M: 312 g
W: 269 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
34 mm
25 mm
22 mm
19 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
7 mm
6 mm
12 mm
10 mm
10 mm
Heel
Heel
41 mm
31 mm
32 mm
29 mm
Brand
Brand
On
New BalanceSalomonPUMAadidasadidas
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Maximalist
Maximalist
Maximalist
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Breathable
Breathable
Techs
Techs
adidas Ultraboostadidas Ultraboost
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellent
0

On Cloudsurfer Trail: what the experts say (2 reviews)

On Cloudsurfer Trail: 1 Expert video review

On Cloudsurfer Trail characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandOn (+45)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeHeel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeMaximalist (+428)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesOrthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)Rocker (+177)
MaterialsMesh (+942)Reflective (+181)
ColorwaysAloe / Mineral, Black, Black / Heather, Brown, Eclipse / Black, Flame / Dustrose, Fossil / Ivory, Frost / Lima, Hunter / Ice, Iron / Lima
Specificationsvs Average
Model
Trail
Released
Apr 2024
Measurements
Weight
M: 272 g
W: 235 g
Heel to toe drop
7 mm
Heel
41 mm
Forefoot
34 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%