Our verdict
The sixth-generation Cloudsurfer—the only shoe in On’s running line that has retained the brand’s original ‘cloud pods’—is a real heavyweight on paper but is surprisingly a springy speedster on foot. Though it’s been spot-on in its lockdown, upper comfort, and durability, its very firm midsole has hampered its ability to appeal to a wider array of runners.
Pros
- Protective ride
- Incredibly durable cloud pods
- Smooth and snappy
- Good road feel
- Smooth and snappy
- Performance lockdown
- Great for speedwork
- Versatile for other agility workouts
Cons
- Too firm underfoot
- The Cloudsurfer 6 isnt cloudlike
Who should buy the Cloudsurfer 6
The Cloudsurfer 6 trainer-slash-racer is what you’re after if you:
- Like the firm ride On running shoes have to offer.
- Need a shoe that balances a nice ground feel with good joint protection.
- Want a fast runner for your speedwork sessions.
Who should not buy it
The Cloudsurfer 6 isn’t for you if you want squishy midsoles in your speedy trainers; you may want to look at the cushy Hoka Mach 5 instead. For a lightweight On runner, check out the Cloudgo or the Cloudflow 3.0.
The Cloudsurfer 6 isn’t cloudlike
The Cloudsurfer 6’s multi-layered midsole features a double layer of Zero-Gravity foam with a Speedboard (On’s version of a carbon plate) in between. One shoe expert particularly liked how this combination of materials translated to “comfortable landings and snappy toe-offs.”
Reviewers noted that while these shoes already “feel quite cushioned compared to some of the other, harder On shoes,” they are still “definitely at the firmer end of the scale” and can get “a bit taxing on the legs.”
On Cloudsurfer 6
The Cloudsurfer 6’s Rebound Rubber cloud pods—which compress and decompress with every step—help in shock reduction while retaining a good feeling of ground contact. They also give a bit of extra kick when they release and bounce back.
or the punchy response of something like the.
Tight and narrow inside
According to reviewers, the shoe’s midsole and outsole were successful in creating an energetic, smooth, and lightning-fast ride that’s also protective of their joints.
While pegging it as one of the most exciting and lively On runners he has tried in recent years, one veteran runner clarified that the Cloudsurfer 6 still doesn’t come close to the springy ride of the Endorphin Speed 2 The Cloudsurfer 6 is fast, but not that fast Nike Streakfly.
An upper that’s just right
Testers thought that the sixth-gen Cloudsurfer’s overall upper comfort was good. However, its stiff mesh material, stiff heel collar, and reinforced toe box gave it a fit that “doesn’t exactly feel plush and luxurious.”
Need a shoe that balances a nice ground feel with good joint protection:
- “Upper’s foot feel tend to be spot on, they disappear quite nicely”
- “You don’t really notice it’s there even as it holds the foot in place”
- “Does everything you really want from an upper.”
Worry-free tongue
The biggest update in this iteration of the On Cloudsurfer is the unique construction of its tongue. A majority of reviewers appreciated this new wrap-around design that reduces any unwanted pressure, provides a snug lockdown, and limits irritation and hotspots.
Don’t let the weight stop you
Tight and narrow inside competition-ready trainer, some runners noted that the Cloudsurfer did indeed live up to its intended purpose—with one even calling it his “secret weapon come race day.”
However, most users see its 335-gram weight as a disadvantage during races, and are content using it for their progression runs and intervals. One added that its snug fit and lockdown make it “an ideal trainer for quick agility work such as HIIT or CrossFit.”
Tight and narrow inside
Reviewers report that while the Cloudsurfer 6 does loosen up over time, it generally runs a little small and there isn’t plenty of space above the toes. The shoe also has a narrow midfoot and heel counter, which is great for lockdown, but unpleasant for those with wider feet. Moving a half-size up is recommended.
