Search
shop

Review: On Running Cloudflow

After several months of training, Chris Hovenden reviews another model from the popular On Running range. How did the new Cloudflow perform?
Last updated -

Full Review: On Cloudflow £130 – www.on-running.com

After months of training runs and having clocked a significant number of kms/miles, here is Chris Hovenden’s review of the On Cloudflow.

Having first featured the shoe on the site last December, how did they perform out on the roads?


It appears that On’s suite of running shoes is ever growing; the Swiss company now even has a sneaker offering. That leads to several questions, including: who/what is the Cloudflow designed for? How does it differ to other On offerings? Why choose On against the competition?

The Swiss company has made a huge impact in the running market in what feels like a surprisingly short period – it seems that not only do you see the distinctive ‘cloud’ soles at races but even clock them in the gym or being worn as casual kicks.  

If you’re simply a fan of the On ‘look’, the Cloudflow will appeal since they have the same familiar style common to many shoes in the On range. Having said that, even compared to some of the shoes that at first glance they may appear similar to, there are noticeable differences. For example, I am fan of both the Cloud and the Cloud X (for a variety of reasons, although they have their limitations). However, even simply out of the box the Cloudflow both look and feel far more robust, which is reflected in the additional weight of 247g compared to 231g of the Cloud X for a size 9.

On Cloudflow

As their tag-line suggests the On Cloudflow are designed for both training and racing, with On suggesting they are genuine all-rounders that are ‘best for’ “Fast racing; 10km; half-marathon; marathon; tempo running; long run interval sessions.”

To help the On Cloudflow try to live up to the lofty expectations, On says the Cloudflow’s sole of 18 ‘clouds’ and “Helion™ superfoam combine with the re-engineered Speedboard™ to turn impact into acceleration.”

The heel is noticeably more substantial that the Cloud X, but this is not necessarily a bad thing, and I found the heel to feel supportive and comfortable without being restrictive. The cushioned heel paired with the Helion™  superfoam was appreciated on longer runs, especially when I felt more fatigued.

The toe box is relatively square and wide (rather than the narrow style lasts popular for racier shoes), which along with only a minor lip on the edge of sole, meant that for someone cursed with wide feet the On Cloudflow did not cause any significant numbness or pinching.

On Cloudflow

Also, when turning sharply or descending my foot felt secure (i.e. there was no noticeable movement within the shoe) which seems to offer credence to On’s statement that strategic taping on the upper and lace placement ‘offer sure-footed freedom and support for high-speed goals.’

After multiple months of running circa three times a week, the On Cloudflow are holding up well – significantly better than my older Cloud X. The neutral shoe with a 6mm heel to toe drop has offered sufficient support, comfort, and performance for regular long training runs and short-sharp interval sessions – in short, an appealing versatile option, that I am fan of and shall continue wearing.

However, personally, although certainly not heavy and clearly still a race and fast training shoe option, the On Cloudflow lack the excitement that can be provided by a lighter more responsive shoe.  

Available in six colourways (three each for men and women), I expect you can find a style that appeals – the on-test shoes are the more reserved black/asphalt.

www.on-running.com

Written by
Chris Hovenden
Discover more
TRI247 podcast p/b Challenge Family episode 2
Go behind the scenes at Challenge Roth with the latest episode of the TRI247 podcast
Cadomotus Chronos triathlon cycling shoes
The triathlon cycling shoe that promises a 10-watt saving: Cadomotus Chronos Aero triathlon cycling shoes review
Challenge Family Roth
Five things you need to know about the Challenge Roth bike course
Challenge St. Pölten 2024 - image credit Jose Luis Hourcade / Challenge Family
Expert swim coach on the three most common swim mistakes age group triathletes make (and how to fix them!)
TRI-FIT VANGUARD tri suit review
The entry-level tri suit with a serious amount of performance for the price point – TRI-FIT VANGUARD review
latest News
Gwen Jorgensen reflective World Triathlon Cup Vina del Mer 2023
‘Unbreakable’ Gwen Jorgensen ‘bruised’ after bike crash but vows to bounce back
IRONMAN CEO Scott DeRue Women For Tri 2024
IRONMAN announce new age-group qualification system for Kona and 70.3 Worlds
IRONMAN World Championship 2019 / Kona 2019
IRONMAN’s new age-group system for Kona – all the big questions answered
Frederic Funk finish line Challenge Samarkand 2023 photo credit Challenge Family
Challenge Roth 2025: German star goes into the unknown in iconic triathlon showdown
Challenge Barcelona 2023 - Photo Credit: Jose Luis Hourcade
‘It’s going to be an absolute firecracker’ says Cam Wurf after booking IRONMAN World Champs spot
triathlon on your terms
Never miss out with our triathlon alerts & digest. Get a dose of adventure & inspiration with Boundless.
The 247 Group

The home of endurance sports

Share to...