SHOE REVIEW: On Cloudgo

The running brand On continues to impress with their latest release, the Cloudgo. This versatile neutral trainer introduces several exciting updates to On’s classic features. Lightweight, highly cushioned and very responsive, the Cloudgo offers next-level comfort and superior energy return.

Drop: 11 mm
Stack height: 29.5 mm
Weight: 9 oz. (215 grams)/7.5 oz. (185 grams)
Available: Now
Price: CAD $170

RELATED: Meet Cloudgo – the newest member of the On family

The upper

The engineered mesh upper is breathable and buttery soft. Thin support lines wrap around the upper, offering enough structure to maintain the shoe’s shape while remaining flexible enough to move with my foot. These lines combine with the sleek lacing system to create a secure lock-in feel on every stride. The heel collar and tongue have ample padding, comfortably cradling my ankle without feeling bulky or adding weight. This shoe has a plush step-in feel that I appreciated during recovery runs on tired feet. An added bonus? The upper is composed of 85-90 per cent recycled materials, giving you even more reasons to feel good about lacing up the Cloudgo.

The midsole

While the upper is all about soft comfort, the midsole technology put a pep in my step. On’s characteristic CloudTec cushioning system consists of a series of midsole pods, or clouds. These clouds compress and rebound individually and as a unit, offering multidirectional support from landing to take-off. On has tweaked its midsole construction in the Cloudgo, enclosing the pods to create a more stable platform for push off, while maintaining their distinct midsole rocker. This is thanks in part to another classic On feature: the embedded Speedboard, meant to roll you onto your forefoot for smooth transitions. Unlike previous On shoes, the Cloudgo Speedboard is made of a springy and flexible TPU that engages when you land and propels you forward. It runs the entire length of the shoe, and made my stride feel fast and fluid at any pace. An additional layer of On’s responsive Helion superfoam under the insole makes for a cushioned yet bouncy ride.

The outsole

Another key evolution in the Cloudgo is the revamped outsole, featuring what On calls closed outsole channels. Unlike previous On trainers, the lugs aren’t very deep, reducing the likelihood of collecting debris in the tread. The outsole rubber has a minimal look, but still offers excellent traction on wet or dry roads and well-groomed trails. 

The verdict

The On Cloudgo is the complete package: an excellent daily trainer ideal for easy runs, but that also performs very well through changes of pace and up-tempo workouts. I had a lot of fun in this shoe, and appreciate that On continues to evolve with each new model. Beginners and experienced runners alike can turn to the Cloudgo for 5K to half-marathon training.