R
unning shoes often behave differently depending on whether you’re walking or running in them. Some feel unbalanced when you’re stationary due to their pronounced rocker, causing a slight rocking motion. But when running, they help make your stride more efficient. Others may feel stiff at lower speeds but transform into mini thrusters once you start running.
You’ve probably guessed by now that, when talking about the On Cloudsurfer Next, I wanted to highlight a third type of running shoe: one that behaves the same at both low and high speeds, but with an enhanced performance as you pick up the pace. It’s like they put on a red mini cape with an “S” (for Supershoes, of course!) and take off. The Cloudsurfer Next strikes an impressive balance of protection and lightness, which you feel whether walking or running. In short, comfort, stability, and performance come together, making them perfect for long walks and intense runs alike.
Versatile, always
The Cloudsurfer Next stands out for its versatility. It is not simply a running or walking shoe; it is designed to excel in both activities. Whether walking or running, it offers the same comfort and performance, transitioning smoothly from sidewalks to the street. The sensations they convey are the same both during walking, where they are comfortable and flexible, and during running, where they offer stable and very protective support.
Stability and balance
Unlike many shoes with significant midsoles, the Cloudsurfer Next does not give the feeling of being unstable. In fact, its profile is contained, as is the stack. The Helion midsole does not stand out in either thickness or bulk. Yet once worn and while running, the real feeling is that they are very protective, as if there is more material than meets the eye. Then, thanks to On CloudTec Phase technology-which is also its most recognizable signature, i.e., the through-holes in the midsole-what is saved in weight (since they use less foam) is recovered in elasticity and responsiveness to loads. That is, in a word: in cushioning. In fact, in two: cushioning and protection.
This is why, while giving the impression of being almost maximal shoes despite not having the appearance of that kind of shoes, they offer a high level of stability without being bulky or heavy. This balance thus allows you to tackle both long walks and intense runs while keeping your foot stable and well protected. In short: even without a particularly high stack, the feeling is that of running on a cushion, without the bulk typical of shoes with much more midsole, both in thickness and in footprint.
Swiss Minimalism
One cannot fail to mention the minimalist and modern design of the Cloudsurfer Next, which makes it suitable for much more extensive use than just training. As long as you don’t use them too much and thus accelerate their wear and tear, which is not so easy because the temptation to wear them well beyond training is very strong. On has now accustomed us to understated colors, very clean designs and strategic details. The Cloudsurfer Next confirms this style, which among other things makes it an extremely versatile shoe even when going from the street to the office or casual evening. Special mention for the polygonal and non-curved design of the collar, which at first glance would seem unnatural and instead is perfect.
On the road
You also have to run with them, though, don’t you? If you reread what has been written so far, however, you will find that the story of how they are on the road has already been told: they are the elaborate version of the basic version, already perfect for everyday use. And the great thing is that they are two versions in one: quiet and comfortable when stationary and responsive, light and protective at high speeds, thanks in part to the low drop (6 mm) and weight: only 273 grams.
There is another detail that is striking, however: when we talk about protection, we usually refer to specific points of support. In the case of the Cloudsurfer Next this is evenly distributed throughout the sole, also making it an ideal shoe for both forefoot (like me) and heel runners.
Info and availability
The On Cloudsurfer Next is available in the best sports stores and On On’s site at 160 euros.
