The On Cloudsurfer Max is On’s newest foray into the max-cushioned daily trainer category. It replaces the On Cloudeclipse in their lineup and is positioned above the Cloudsurfer 2. The Cloudsurfer Max is designed for runners who want generous cushioning, a smooth ride, and a comfortable platform for long and easy runs. It brings together On’s CloudTec® Phase technology and Helion™ superfoam, aiming to balance cushioning with a stable rocker geometry.
Design
1. Upper Materials & Construction: The Cloudsurfer Max uses an engineered mesh upper that is breathable, somewhat stretchy, and well-ventilated. It features a flatter knit collar and a gusseted tongue to improve lockdown and reduce slippage. The eyelets and lace setup are designed for a secure fit, though some runners mention that the tongue and overlays can bite slightly in places.
2. Midsole & Cushioning Elements: The midsole combines CloudTec® Phase pods with Helion™ superfoam. The “double layer” of cushioning means that there are two stages of cushioning pods that compress sequentially upon landing to soften impact; the Helion™ foam gives structural support and cushioning. The rocker design helps smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
3. Outsole: Rubber is placed in high-wear zones to provide grip and durability. The outsole includes a midline groove and cut-out channels for flexibility and lighter weight. There is full rubber coverage in many areas, improving traction, especially on wet/dry road surfaces.
4. Weight / Stack / Drop: It has a heel stack height of around 36 mm, a forefoot of around 30 mm, giving a 6 mm drop. It’s heavier than its less cushioned siblings: the men’s version is ~10.2 oz / 292-g (size US 9), while other trainers from On are lighter.
Fit and Comfort
1. Fit: Generally true to size. Midfoot lockdown is praised: the gusseted tongue and padded heel counter help secure the foot. The forefoot has a decent width, though some runners with wider forefeet say it could be roomier.
2. Comfort: From the first few steps, the shoe gives a comfortable, plant-cushioned feel. There is a break-in period: the cushioning may feel firmer initially, then softens and becomes more forgiving after a few runs. The upper is breathable and soft; padding around the heel and tongue adds to comfort.
3. Potential Fit Issues: Some testers noted that the tongue overlays or some parts on the forefoot may press slightly if laced tightly; others found the shoe heavy, which can affect perception of comfort on easy, slow runs.
Performance
1. Ride Feel: The shoe delivers a “smooth, shock-absorbing” ride especially for long, easy runs and recovery runs. The rocker design and sequential CloudTec® Phase cushioning pods help reduce impact and improve transition. It doesn’t have a carbon plate: performance comes from foam and geometry rather than speed-focused tech.
2. Responsiveness & Speed: While not designed as a speed trainer, it does respond decently at moderate paces. However, compared to lighter max-cushioned options, it lacks spring or bounce when pushing harder. For fast intervals or tempo runs, runners might prefer something else.
3. Stability / Roll-over: The 6 mm drop plus the firmish-midsole structure gives a stable ride. Runners report that despite the cushioning, the shoe does not feel “mushy” or overly unstable. The midsole rocker helps maintain smooth gait transitions over road surfaces.
Durability
1. Outsole Wear: The rubber in high-impact zones shows good durability. Reviewers note that the outsole retains traction even after noticeable wear. The rubber pods protect key areas from abrasion.
2. Midsole Lifespan: The cushioning remains serviceable for long mileage; runs of 500km estimates or more are mentioned as reasonable expectations before seeing performance decline. Though some testers felt cushioning softened, the ride remained consistent.
3. Upper Durability & Build Quality: The engineered mesh is of high quality, with breathability and support. Some overlays may press, but the general build (heel cup, collar padding, lockers) holds up well. No major durability concerns beyond typical wear and tear were reported.
Conclusion
Strength:
- A highly cushioned daily trainer is great for long, easy, and steady runs. Smooth transitions, solid grip, premium upper comfort, stable platform despite max cushioning, and good durability on roads.
Trade-off:
- It’s not the softest or lightest max-cushion shoe; it’s less suited for tempo runs or those wanting a very plush ride out of the box. The price is premium, and weight could be a limiting factor for some runners.
Best Suited For:
- Runners who do high weekly mileage, especially long, easy runs or recovery runs on roads.
- Neutral runners who prefer cushioning and ride smoothness over speed or responsiveness.
- Those who like a premium build, good lockdown, and aren’t overly concerned about the highest level of softness or ultra-light weight.
- Not ideal for speed workouts, tempo races, or those who want maximum bounce or soft plush feel immediately.
The On Cloudsurfer Max is a solid pick for runners wanting a dependable daily trainer that can soak up plenty of miles with comfort and smoothness. If you’re chasing comfort for long runs or walking + jog combinations, this shoe delivers a premium experience. If your priority is speed, racing, or ultra-soft cush on every step, there are alternatives that may better match those needs. But for what it is built to do, the Cloudsurfer Max mostly succeeds.
