REASONS TO BUY
Smooth ride
Improved outsole
Good looks
REASONS TO AVOID
Firmer than the previous version
Less engaging
On Cloudsurfer 2 Review
An update that significantly improved the stability of this shoe, but lost the cushioning that made the last version great
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
By Nathaniel Bailey ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ May 21, 2025
RELATED: The Best Running Shoes for Men
Our Verdict
The On Cloudsurfer 2 looks extremely similar to the previous version. But it doesn't feel similar, which is disappointing. In an effort to improve on the poor stability of the last model, On gave this version a wider platform and what feels like a firmer formulation of the Helion midsole foam. It's more stable, for sure, but it's also a lot less cushioned and smooth. It feels better for walking than running, when the pods in the forefoot get crushed and provide more ground feel than expected. Overall, this shoe looks great, and might be a good option for runners who want an aesthetically appealing running shoe for travel, but it isn't one we recommend for daily running, especially once you consider the price tag.
Compare to Similar Products
 This Product
On Cloudsurfer 2 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  Best Overall | Best for Uptempo Training |  Best Under $100 | ||
| Price | $160.00 at REI Compare at 2 sellers | $139.95 at Amazon Compare at 2 sellers | Check Price at REI Compare at 2 sellers | $135 List $134.95 at Amazon | $120 List $84.88 at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | A firmer and less engaging ride makes for a disappointing update | A versatile and comfortable option we think most runners will love | A nearly perfect blend of performance and comfort makes this shoe one of the best we’ve tested | A daily trainer that blends comfort and versatility at a reasonable price | Plush cushioning and a bit of pace in a budget shoe |
| Rating Categories | On Cloudsurfer 2 | Asics Novablast 5 | Adidas Adizero Evo SL | Puma Velocity Nitro 3 | New Balance FuelCel... |
| Cushioning (35.0%) | |||||
| Upper Comfort (25.0%) | |||||
| Stability (20.0%) | |||||
| Responsiveness (10.0%) | |||||
| Weight (5.0%) | |||||
| Traction (5.0%) | |||||
| Specifications | On Cloudsurfer 2 | Asics Novablast 5 | Adidas Adizero Evo SL | Puma Velocity Nitro 3 | New Balance FuelCel... |
| Sizes Available | 7-14 US, regular | 6-15 US, regular & wide | 6.5-16 US, regular | 7 - 14 US, regular | 7-18 US, regular & wide |
| Style | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer |
| Best Use | Relaxed running | Relaxed running, versatile for variable paces | Versatile for variable paces | Relaxed running, versatile for variable paces | Relaxed running |
| Measured Heel Stack Height | 38 mm | 41 mm | 39 mm | 38 mm | 38 mm |
| Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm | 5 mm | 9 mm | 11 mm | 7 mm |
| Plate Type | None | None | None | None | Full-length plastic |
| Rocker Angle | 20.0 deg | 25.0 deg | 23.5 deg | 18.0 deg | 19.0 deg |
| Rocker Apex Location | 64.8% | 56.0% | 52.0% | 66.7% | 68.3% |
| Measured Weight | 9.84 oz | 9.50 oz | 8.73 oz | 10.07 oz | 10.52 oz |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered jacquard mesh | Engineered mesh | Engineered knit | Engineered mesh |
| Midsole | Helion | FF Blast Max | Lightstrike Pro | Profoam | FuelCell |
| Outsole | Rubber | AHAR LO | Continental rubber | PumaGrip | Rubber |
| Heel Tab Type | None | Finger loop | None | None | None |
Our Analysis and Test Results
The new Cloudsurfer 2 feels very different than the original, with a firmer midsole that's better for walkers than runners.
The Cloudsurfer 2 has a lower drop and a more stable platform than the original version.
Cushioning
The last version of the Cloudsurfer supposedly used the same Helion midsole foam, but it sure doesn't feel like it. In this iteration, the 38 mm of midsole at the heel with a 10 mm drop feels significantly firmer. That, combined with a wider platform, makes the shoe feel better while standing and walking. But once you start to run, the cloud-esque rolling sensation of the previous version is gone, replaced by a smooth transitioning yet firm shoe.
The CloudTec Phase pods have been redesigned. The new version of the Cloudsurfer feels like a step in the wrong direction.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
After about 20 miles, I found that the shoe felt pretty dead with a lot of ground feel — not great for a shoe that is marketed as providing excellent cushioning. Overall, the updates to this model are disappointing. It may be marketed as a premium cushioning shoe, but it doesn't really run like one. Part of the difference from the previous version might also be the change in drop. Our lab measured a higher 12 mm drop in the previous version, which, when paired with the CloudTec Phase pods, created a very smooth sensation as you rolled through the shoe. The rocker was also very apparent, and started earlier in the shoe in the previous model.
Lab measurements validated the difference in feeling. This shoe is signficantly changed from the previous version.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upper Comfort
Unfortunately, the changes to this shoe didn't stop with the midsole. The top-tier, premium upper features and design of the last model are gone, replaced with a stiff and surprisingly rougher material choice. The tongue is now wider, and though it's still padded, it doesn't seem to fit well when the shoe is laced up snugly.
I didn't notice the downgrade in materials initially, but after a few runs, I noticed that I was experiencing a little chafing on the tops of my feet in these shoes, particularly around the edges of the tongue and along the medial edge of the sockliner (which is oddly sharp and poorly fit). Similarly, the foam padding that is along the heel collar is very clearly made of poor quality. After only a few runs, it no longer had any give and was worn down where my Achilles tendon pushed against it.
At least the upper is still pretty breathable. But it isn't nearly as comfortable as it was.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Stability
On did correct our big complaint with the previous version: stability. No longer does it feel like you're going to roll an ankle just standing in the shoe. Actually, this shoe feels pretty great for standing and walking. And in terms of lateral stability on the run, it's pretty decent. This shoe doesn't provide much by way of support, particularly as the CloudTec Phase pods begin to compress and wear down. It's not a shoe I'd recommend for runners seeking support.
The wider midfoot and forefoot do provide more stability than the last version.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Responsiveness
The Helion midsole foam of this version does feel a little more bouncy than that of the previous version. When combined with the firmer ride, it is slightly more responsive. The Cloudsurfer 2 isn't an uptempo trainer, although it feels pretty good down to about marathon pace. This isn't a shoe you'll want for big workouts, as the smooth transitions start to disappear and the ride becomes harsh as you squeeze past threshold effort.
This shoe isn't an option for uptempo performance.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Weight
The Cloudsurfer 2 weighs in at 9.84 ounces in a US Men's 10.5. That's about mid-pack, and what I would expect for a daily trainer. It's also over half an ounce heavier than the previous version, likely due to the heavier and lower-quality upper materials. The weight here doesn't feel bad, but the increase in weight over the previous version is disappointing.
It's disappointing to see this shoe gain weight, especially after we thought the low weight was one of the standout features of the last version.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
The outsole on the Cloudsurfer 2 is improved, providing increased coverage and better bite on wet surfaces. Overall, I expect this to also provide increased durability, although it would not be my first choice for logging lots of mileage given how quickly the midsole seemed to lose its energy.
There is significantly more outsole coverage in this model than in the previous version.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Should You Buy the On Cloudsurfer 2?
Unfortunately, I don't think there are many runners that the Cloudsurfer 2 makes sense for. There are over 10 other daily trainers in our lineup that are either the same price or cheaper and score significantly better. It's not a bad shoe, but it also isn't a good one either. Unless you love the aesthetics of the shoe and plan to use it for lots of walking as well, this is not a shoe that we recommend to the majority of runners.
What Other Running Shoes Should You Consider?
Assuming you're looking for a comfortable and well-cushioned daily trainer, the Asics Novablast 5 is the obvious choice. It has premium cushioning, an excellent upper, and a fun ride. It's also $20 cheaper. Similarly, a shoe like the Saucony Ride 18 would be a cheaper and better alternative, providing genuinely pleasant cushioning and excellent durability along with a much better upper. If you're looking for premium comfort and cushioning, the Mizuno Neo Vista provides incredible cushioning, an excellent upper, and a very smooth yet fun ride.
—Nathaniel Bailey
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