Best On Cloud Running Shoes for Fall 2023 Marathon Training

On is a controversial running shoe brand. Some love 'em, some hate 'em, few are indifferent. From the cloud-pod midsole to the suburban mom virality, there's lots of ammo for those on both sides of the aisle. Here at Supwell, we are big fans of the On brand. Their shoes have a different feel than anything else on the market, with the CloudTec midsole and Speedboard providing a planted yet responsive ride. Recent models have switched up the formula, adding new foam formulations and experimenting with the implementation of the Speedboard. Here are the best On running shoes for fall 2023.

1. Cloudstratus 3 ($180): The Best On Daily Trainer

The On Cloudstratus 3 is the latest iteration of On's workhorse trainer. The Cloudstratus is the versatile and durable shoe in the lineup, providing equal parts comfort, stability and agility. It uses the traditional Pebax plastic Speedboard with a double row of CloudTec pods underneath. The midsole foam is made from Helion, which is an EVA-based compound that's responsive and cushioned. At slow paces, the pods compress and create a platform for smooth landings, while at faster paces the impact of the snappy Speedboard and forefoot rocker can be felt assisting with toe-off. At 10.5 ounces, it's not the lightest weight daily trainer, but it does have some added elements, like a plastic heel clip, that make it suitable for runners who need stability.

2. On Cloudgo ($150): Best On Shoe for Speedwork

The On Cloudgo is an everyday running shoe with a firm, snappy feel. It has a lower stack and lighter weight (8.9 oz for US mens 9) than the Cloudstratus and Cloudmonster, making it the best choice for uptempo runs. While it's not as snappy as the Adidas Takumi Sen or as bouncy as the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, it has a controlled ride that's both comfortable and nimble. If you don't want to run in a plated shoe—or you want to save that bouncy sensation for race day—the Cloudgo is a good option for tempo runs and interval training that will let you push the pace while still protecting your legs with a good amount of cushioning. If you want a faster, carbon-plated ride for your workouts, you could also consider the Cloudboom Echo 3, which we cover below.

3. On Cloudsurfer ($160): Best On Shoe for Recovery Running

The On Cloudsurfer is the latest addition to the brand's training range, offering comfort and an updated take on CloudTec. Instead of using On's traditional pod layout, it has a new design for the clouds called CloudTec Phase, which was developed using algorithmic modeling which identified the pattern that would offer the best impact absorption and energy return. They also removed the Speedboard and reworked the Helion foam to provide a softer underfoot feel than the foam in the Cloudstratus and Cloudmonster. The result is a comfortable and cushioned shoe that's great for relaxed running. In the throes of marathon training, the Cloudsurfer is a great pick for that easy day shoe you'll pul for the day after a tough workout.

4. On Cloudmonster ($170): Best On Shoe for Long Runs

The Cloudmonster is On's max cushioned cruiser. It has a 30mm stack of On's Helion foam CloudTec pods, which is the right amount of cushioning for long efforts. Not as high as other max cushioned shoes, it has a nice blend of comfort and responsiveness for longer miles. The CloudTec pods have a squish-and-release sensation that absorbs impact, while the plastic Speedboard adds some pop and rigidity. If you're looking for a shoe that can handle two hour long runs with a smooth, fun ride, the Cloudmonster is a great choice. For long runs with sections of race pace, look to the Cloudboom Echo 3 

5. On Cloudboom Echo 3 ($290): Best On Shoe for Race Day

The Cloudboom Echo 3 is the marathon racing super shoe in the On range. The third iteration here is completely redesigned with a new midsole foam and minimized CloudTec pods. The major change is the inclusion for the first time of a PEBA midsole, which On calls its Helion HF (hyperfoam).  Unique to On, this formulation of PEBA is made in part with corn, which follows On's aspiration to be more sustainable. On the run, the Cloudboom Echo 3 is firm and responsive, a great shoe for efficient sub 3 hour marathons looking for a fast PR. For runners looking to finish the race in comfort and not worried about time, the Cloudmonster or Cloudstratus are good choices. Faster runners who prefer a underfoot softer, more cushioned feel on race day may want to consider other top super shoes like the Nike Vaporfly or Saucony Endorphin Pro 3. The Cloudboom Echo 3 is a great choice, but those others have more stack underfoot for runners who anticipate that they'll be looking for comfort in the later stages of the race.