REVIEW: On Cloudstratus

The On Cloudstratus is cushion without compromise. The Couldstratus is one of On’s highest-cushioned shoes, yet it still delivers on a responsive ride. The Cloustratus features several key updates, including an improved heel hold, added rubber grip for superior traction and recycled materials to create a more sustainable shoe. 

Available: Aug. 5
Price: $220 CAD
Weight: 303 g (M), 246 g (W)
Drop: 8 mm

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The upper

One of the biggest changes to the Cloudstratus is the pared-down heel counter. The previous version had built-up motion control at the back of the shoe, but with this version, it has been cut in half – a welcome change that makes the shoe lighter without changing the ride. 

Other welcome additions are the wider forefoot and largely recycled materials that make up the upper. On first wear, I thought the shoe might be a little too wide for me, but the star-shaped lacing system (meaning the laces don’t run horizontally across the forefoot) is a nice innovation from On that produces a really locked-down feel. 

Overall, this is a really comfortable upper that can accommodate a wide range of foot shapes. 

The midsole

The Cloudstratus midsole is firm, yet highly cushioned (the highest-ever from the company), which is an atypical mix. The Helion superfoam, coupled with a polypropylene (high-quality plastic) speedboard, makes for a smooth and sturdy ride. This midsole touches on an underserved section of training shoes – a well-cushioned shoe that doesn’t feel soft. However, if you prefer a plusher ride, you may find the Cloudstratus a little firm. 

The outsole

When it comes to the outsole, the Cloudstratus has had a traction update. The outsole now actually has less rubber (the heaviest part of a shoe), but it’s placed strategically to get the most grip for the least amount of weight. I ran in the shoes in both wet and dry conditions, and they held the road nicely. 

Final thoughts

Overall, this is a really well-cushioned trainer and a firm ride, that’s also lightweight. If you’re new to On, this shoe could have a similar place in your training lineup as a Saucony Triumph or a Nike Vomero. It’s a shoe for an easy run or recovery day, when you want your kilometres to feel comfortable and you need your body to recover, not get further beaten up. Ideally used on the road, for training for any race from the 5K to the marathon, this would be the perfect shoe to purchase alongside a speed trainer like the On Cloudflash or Cloudboom.

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