On’s Cloudsurfer line has always been the brand’s smooth-rolling daily trainer, and now it’s back with a big new sibling: the On Cloudsurfer Max, which officially replaces the Cloudeclipse. Think of it as the “big foam energy” version—more cushion underfoot but still keeping that signature On ride.
The Helion superfoam here feels softer than the Cloudeclipse right out of the box, though let’s be honest, it still sits on the firmer side of the max-cushion spectrum. The good news? Like a new pair of jeans, it breaks in nicely, softening over time.
For neutral runners logging easy to steady miles, the Cloudsurfer Max nails the balance between comfort and performance. It’s the kind of shoe that makes long-distance runs feel less like a grind and more like… well, surfing on clouds (but clouds with just enough firmness to keep you moving forward).
Contents
- Design & Upper
- Midsole & Cushioning
- Performance on the Run
- Weight, Stack Height, and Drop
- Outsole & Traction
- Comfort & Fit
- Durability & Value
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the On Cloudsurfer Max
- Final Verdict: On Cloudsurfer Max
Design & Upper
The On Cloudsurfer Max comes wrapped in an engineered mesh upper that’s soft, breathable, and just stretchy enough to feel custom-fit. That stretch isn’t just for comfort; it makes slipping the shoe on a breeze once you’ve adjusted the laces. Honestly, it’s one of On’s secret weapons: even their lace-up models feel like slip-ons once you break them in, which is part of why so many runners swear by them.
The toe box gives you enough room to wiggle without going full “wide-fit.” Thanks to the forgiving stretch, it can still accommodate slightly wider feet, while narrow-footed runners can simply tighten the laces—thankfully, On’s laces are among the best in the biz, firm yet easy to adjust.
The knitted tongue is a win too, offering better comfort and lock-in than the Cloudeclipse. It’s gusseted, so the midfoot stays secure, and debris is kept where it belongs—outside your shoe. A well-padded heel counter seals the deal, holding your heel snugly in place with zero slippage.
And let’s be real: the Cloudsurfer Max also looks better than both the Cloudsurfer 2 and the Cloudeclipse. It’s the kind of upgrade that feels good on the run and looks sharp when you’re grabbing coffee afterward.
Midsole & Cushioning
The On Cloudsurfer Max leans into comfort with a double layer of CloudTec Phase that delivers a soft, smooth, and almost quiet ride. (Keyword: almost because some runners have reported a little squeak when the midsole gets wet. Think of it as your shoes whispering, “Yes, I’m damp, thanks for noticing.”)
Underfoot, the Helion superfoam sits on the firmer side, though noticeably softer than the Cloudeclipse. The good news is it loosens up after a few runs, giving you that sweet spot between cushioning and stability. And unlike some of On’s “fashionably versatile” shoes, the Cloudsurfer Max feels unapologetically built for running.
That firmer midsole gives you a stable, protective feel on long-distance runs, making it an excellent choice for easy to steady pacing. But don’t mistake it for a one-speed wonder; it has a surprising bit of pop when you pick things up, even showing off at faster paces. Still, if you’re after something lighter and nimbler, the On Cloudsurfer 2 has it beat, weighing in an ounce (31 grams) less.
The rocker bottom sole is the final touch, smoothing out heel-to-toe transitions and making every stride feel more efficient, like your run’s been given cruise control, but with just enough responsiveness to keep things fun.
Performance on the Run
The On Cloudsurfer Max doesn’t pretend to be a racer; it’s built for long-distance comfort, and it shines most on easy to steady runs. At moderate paces, though, it comes alive with excellent responsiveness and energy return, giving you that “ah, this is why I bought these” moment.
For a neutral max-cushion shoe, the stability is impressive. The Helion superfoam has just enough firmness to feel protective, keeping your stride steady even as the miles stack up. Add in the 6 mm drop, and you get a nice middle ground that helps distribute pressure evenly across your foot, reducing strain during long outings.
Now, is it the most versatile daily trainer in On’s lineup? Not quite—that crown still leans toward the lighter, nimbler Cloudsurfer 2. But if you’re after a reliable, comfortable cruiser that can handle long hauls without complaint, the Cloudsurfer Max is like that steady friend who always shows up on time (even if they’re not the life of the party).
Weight, Stack Height, and Drop
- Weight: 262g/9.2oz (women), 292g/10.2oz (men)
- Stack height: 37/31 mm
- Drop: 6 mm
Outsole & Traction
On covered most of the outsole in rubber, so grip on roads feels reassuringly dependable even in the rain, as long as you’re not sprinting down a steep hill like you’re auditioning for a cheese-rolling contest. Wet pavement? No problem. Slick sidewalks? Still good. Just don’t expect mountain-goat levels of grip on sharp inclines.
Durability is classic On: you can expect around 300 miles before wear becomes noticeable. But here’s the sneaky strength—On’s outsole rubber keeps holding traction even when it starts showing scuffs. In other words, the Cloudsurfer Max might look a little worn before it actually feels worn out.
Comfort & Fit
Step-in comfort is immediately noticeable, thanks to the engineered mesh upper and a knitted tongue that hugs your foot without feeling clingy. The cushioning underneath leans firm, but it’s noticeably softer than the Cloudeclipse, and like a good pair of jeans, it breaks in and feels better the more miles you log.
The toe box gives you just enough wiggle room, though wide-footed runners may find it more “cozy apartment” than “open-floor plan.” What stands out here is purpose: unlike many On shoes that flirt with lifestyle crossover, the Cloudsurfer Max feels unapologetically built for running. Lace it up and it practically tells you, “No coffee runs—let’s hit the road.” The Cloudmonster 2 is a better shoe for walking.
Durability & Value
You can expect at least 300 miles before the midsole starts to pack out, and some runners have even squeezed 450 miles out of their On shoes before the cushioning gave up. That’s a respectable lifespan for a daily trainer in this category.
At $180, the same price as the Cloudmonster 2, it sits squarely in the “premium” range. On shoes aren’t cheap, but they do feel like they’ve been engineered with care. The materials are high-quality, the build is solid, and let’s be honest: the Cloud pods still turn heads. If you’re going to drop that kind of cash, at least you’re buying something that runs well and looks sharp on a casual coffee stop (even if the On Cloudsurfer Max insists it was built for running, not latte runs).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Plush step-in feel with a breathable mesh upper and knitted tongue
- Cushioning is firmer but breaks in nicely—more forgiving than the Cloudeclipse
- Reliable grip on roads, even in light rain
- Outsole rubber holds traction well, even when worn
- Purpose-built for running (less “fashion sneaker” crossover than other On models)
- Premium build and sleek Cloud design that stands out
Cons
- $180 price tag is on the steep side for a daily trainer
- Toe box is comfortable but not wide-foot friendly
- Cushioning may feel too firm for runners who love a pillowy ride
- Lifespan is solid but not spectacular (expect ~300–450 miles)
- Not as versatile off-road or on steep, slick terrain
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the On Cloudsurfer Max
Who Should Buy
- Runners looking for a daily trainer that feels smooth and reliable on roads
- Neutral runners who like a firmer, more stable ride (softer than the Cloudeclipse, but not marshmallow soft)
- Fans of On who want a shoe that’s designed specifically for running, not lifestyle crossover
- Anyone who appreciates premium build quality and wants a shoe that looks as good as it runs
Who Shouldn’t Buy
- Wide-footed runners who need extra toe box space
- Cushion lovers who want max-plush (the Cloudmonster 2 or NB 1080v13 may be better)
- Bargain hunters—the $180 price tag is firmly “premium territory”
Final Verdict: On Cloudsurfer Max
The On Cloudsurfer Max is a premium daily trainer that feels purpose-built for the road. With a plush step-in, firm-yet-forgiving cushioning, and reliable grip that doesn’t quit, it delivers a stable and smooth ride mile after mile. It may not be the softest option out there, but that’s also its strength; it balances comfort with control.
Yes, the $180 price tag stings a little, but you’re paying for premium materials, a sleek design that still turns heads, and an outsole that grips even when worn. It’s not the shoe for wide feet or bargain seekers, but for neutral runners who like a firmer daily trainer with style points to spare, the Cloudsurfer Max is a strong contender. Think of it as the “serious runner’s On shoe”—ready for the miles, not just the coffee shop.
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