Our verdict

The On Cloudsurfer 2 delivers a comfort-driven, durability-rich ride with premium materials, and we enjoyed its versatility for both running and casual wear. However, in our experience, it lacks the responsiveness we expect from a high-priced daily trainer. While we think loyal On fans will enjoy its familiar feel and smooth ride, we believe there are better-performing, more budget-friendly options available.

Pros

  • Still lightweight!
  • Premium-quality materials
  • Better than predecessor at long runs
  • Great for daily wear or gym workouts
  • Durable outsole
  • Enhanced rockered shape
  • Nice reflective elements
  • Enhanced rockered shape
  • Nice reflective elements

Cons

  • Price tag exceeds performance value
  • Not for faster paces
  • Lacks a gusseted tongue
  • Firm foam doesn't feel like clouds at all

Audience verdict

89
Great!
  • Top 29% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

The On Cloudsurfer 2 is a solid daily trainer for:

  • Casual runners willing to spend a bit more for a unique design and premium-feeling materials.
  • Those who value comfort and long-lasting materials over snappy responsiveness in their daily miles.
  • Anyone after a stylish, all-purpose shoe that blends weekend runs with everyday wear.

On Cloudsurfer 2

Who should NOT buy

We think the On Cloudsurfer 2 is too expensive for its performance. Despite its premium look and upgraded materials, it lacks the springy, energetic ride some runners expect in this price range. For a better price-to-performance ratio, we recommend the ASICS Novablast 5 or the Adidas Adizero EVO SL—especially the latter, which impressed us with its Lightstrike Pro midsole.

We’re also convinced that runners chasing a cloud-like experience won’t get it here despite the shoe's name. From our evaluation, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 is a better pick for a high-stack option, while the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 fits the bill for those wanting something closer to the ground.

On Cloudsurfer 2 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

We tested the Cloudsurfer 2 and discovered a stack height of 37.5 mm—even though On claims just 32 mm in this area.

This difference makes it a more distance-ready choice. It's a perfect example of why measuring all shoes under the same lab-controlled conditions is essential—especially when brands might exclude parts like the insole, which we believe happened in this case.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Heel stack
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 37.5 mm
Average 34.3 mm
Compared to 422 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

On lists 23 mm in the forefoot, but we measured 27.1 mm—more in line with modern high-stack trainers and a clear jump from the earlier version, which reached just 21.6 mm.

Also, it's worth noting that this shoe replaces the Cloudsurfer 7. Instead of continuing to version 8, On hit the reset button and kicked off the new cycle with version 2 rather than starting from version 1.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Forefoot stack
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 27.1 mm
Average 25.7 mm
Compared to 422 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

We also noticed a mismatch in the drop numbers—though nothing alarming. On lists 8 mm, but we measured a real heel-to-toe drop of 10.4 mm. That’s still a common setup for daily trainers, making it beginner-friendly and great for heel strikers.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Drop
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 10.4 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 422 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.2 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We tested the EVA-based Helion foam and recorded a softness of 25.5 HA, which matches the firm-leaning trend we’ve seen in most of their running shoes.

It’s worth noting that the unique CloudTec Phase setup brings more compression with each stride, making it feel somewhat softer than expected despite the number. Still, despite the name, don’t expect a cloud-like ride—because that’s not what the Cloudsurfer 2 delivers.

On Cloudsurfer 2 CloudTec Phase

CloudTec Phase is On’s midsole design that features a computer-optimised sequence of collapsible pods, replacing the older setup seen in models like the Cloudmonster 2 where the pods didn’t encourage forward motion that much.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Midsole softness
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 25.5 HA
Average 20.8 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.9 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

When we placed the Cloudsurfer 2 in the freezer, we measured an 18% drop in softness. It’s not extreme, but for a shoe that already leans firm, it’s certainly noticeable.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Midsole softness in cold (%)
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 18%
Average 25%
Compared to 347 running shoes
Number of shoes
1%
Midsole softness in cold
63%

Insole thickness

The insole of the Cloudsurfer 2 measures 4.5 mm in thickness.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Insole thickness
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 4.5 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 418 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

We discovered that the Cloudsurfer 2 features a modest heel curvature—nothing extreme, but enough to assist rearfoot strikers.

On Cloudsurfer 2 side

However, its early-stage rocker kicks in surprisingly soon and rises noticeably high, creating a forward-rolling effect. Paired with the CloudTec Phase geometry, this setup makes transitions feel smoother than on previous models.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Rocker

Size and fit

Size

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Width / Fit

On has been somewhat inconsistent over the years with its fit—while models like the Cloudmonster Hyper felt spacious, others, including the Cloudsurfer 2, come with a tighter, more tapered design.

After the liquid solidified in our refrigerator, we measured 93.6 mm in width. That’s just a touch narrower than the average running shoe.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Width / Fit
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 93.6 mm
Average 95.3 mm
Compared to 177 running shoes
Number of shoes
88.5 mm
Width / Fit
102.4 mm

Toebox width

We took a second measurement in the big toe area to assess the toebox width. At 73.5 mm, it delivers an average fit that should work for most runners, though toe-splay lovers might check the Altra Torin 8.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Toebox width
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 73.5 mm
Average 73.5 mm
Compared to 177 running shoes
Number of shoes
66.7 mm
Toebox width
83.3 mm

Toebox height

Vertical clearance measures a solid 28.0 mm, striking a good balance between giving the toes room to move upward and maintaining a secure, lockdown fit. Going too shallow or overly spacious here typically leads to some kind of discomfort.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Toebox height
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 28.0 mm
Average 27.3 mm
Compared to 176 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.4 mm
Toebox height
34.1 mm

Traction / Grip

Traction test

New

We found that the 0.39 result in our SATRA TM144 grip test may not seem impressive at first glance, but it still delivers a rain-ready ride for daily miles. On dry pavement, especially during slow-paced runs, it remained surefooted and consistent.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 0.39
Average 0.46
Compared to 216 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.11
Forefoot traction
0.83

Outsole design

New

The outsole of the Cloudsurfer 2 features really good rubber coverage segmented into multiple pods. It uses three distinct colours to highlight different zones: black, white, and neon yellow. 

Each pod is arranged in a diamond-textured layout with visible cutouts, while a central groove runs longitudinally through the midfoot, promoting flexibility and reducing overall weight.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Outsole design

Stability

Lateral stability test

The On Cloudsurfer 2 is built for neutral runners, and we don’t think it’s a solid pick for those needing extra support. There’s no wide landing platform, firm heel counter, or raised midsole walls. Still, it feels stable enough for non-pronators.

Torsional rigidity

One of the metrics that keeps rising in our lab tests is torsional rigidity. Many brands are pushing ultra-stiff, maximalist midsoles, so we’re glad the Cloudsurfer 2 stays moderately flexible with a 3/5 score. That makes it great for walking, jogging, and relaxed runs.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 3
Average 3.4
Compared to 401 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter lands right in the middle too—neither ultra-soft nor overly stiff—with a 3/5 score in our test. It’s comfortable enough for daily use, especially thanks to the generous, pillow-like padding surrounding the heel area.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 385 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

The On Cloudsurfer 2 keeps its footprint under control with a 113.6 mm forefoot width—something we really appreciate.

It delivers a balanced ride that feels nimble and versatile, avoiding the bulky-underfoot sensation found in many high-stack running shoes, and offers a classic ride like the Nike Pegasus 41.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Midsole width - forefoot
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 113.6 mm
Average 114.2 mm
Compared to 423 running shoes
Number of shoes
102.2 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel sticks to the same slimmed-down approach, measuring 88.8 mm at its widest point. That’s slightly narrower than average, but for neutral runners who land on their heels, we think it still offers enough stability.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Midsole width - heel
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 88.8 mm
Average 90.6 mm
Compared to 423 running shoes
Number of shoes
70.8 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

New

We liked the result in the torsional rigidity test, but for everyday use, longitudinal stiffness matters even more. At just 11.5N, the Cloudsurfer 2 ticked this box too!

On Cloudsurfer 2 Flexibility / Stiffness
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 11.5N
Average 14.9N
Compared to 224 running shoes
Number of shoes
4.0N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
28.5N

Weight

The added stack height over the Cloudsurfer 7 brings a slight bump in weight, from 8.4 oz (237g) to 9.0 oz (254g). While that’s not ideal, the trade-off feels fair, and it still fits the lightweight daily trainer category.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Weight
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 9.0 oz (254g)
Average 9.3 oz (265g)
Compared to 423 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.6 oz (159g)
Weight
12.6 oz (357g)

Breathability

We began our breathability test on the Cloudsurfer 2 with some hope, especially after seeing the ventilation holes scattered across the toebox. After all, the Cloudsurfer 7 earned a 3/5, and we were expecting an upgrade.

But in the end, the result didn’t change. Once again, we measured a 3/5 during our lab evaluation—neither bad nor exciting. This kind of airflow is generally fine for year-round use, though it may feel a bit warm on those hot summer days.

It's clear that the upper had us fooled. It looks extremely airy at first glance, and we thought it would score better. However, we dug deeper to figure out what really happened.

On Cloudsurfer 2 microscope

Using our digital microscope, we examined the upper and saw oversized, oval-shaped holes that looked super promising—but these were just the outer layer. Beneath that sits another, tighter mesh that prevents most of the air from coming through.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Mesh

That inner layer isn’t there for no reason. We know that it boosts durability while adding a plush-and-cosy feel around the foot.

In fact, the padding is top-notch, and the overall material quality still lives up to the premium reputation of On’s lineup.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 352 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Thanks to the dual-layer mesh, durability performed above average and earned a solid 3/5 in our test. That's definitely a respectable score for such a comfort-oriented upper.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 3
Average 2.6
Compared to 286 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel padding scored a nice 4, which—compared to our lab average—is on par with a 3 in the toebox.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 281 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole durability

The Cloudsurfer 2 lost just 0.6 mm of rubber. That's an impressive result that clearly outperforms its predecessor and confirms it features durable materials.

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 0.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 264 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Indeed, with a thick 3.0 mm layer and great results in our Dremel test, we’re confident runners won’t have to worry about premature wear here.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Outsole thickness
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 3.0 mm
Average 3.3 mm
Compared to 419 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.1 mm

Misc

Price

Anyone considering the On Cloudsurfer 2 needs to accept its premium price tag—it’s clearly more expensive than most daily trainers out there. While the build quality is solid and comfort is top-tier, it doesn’t offer performance advantages over cheaper shoes. Still, this is classic On pricing... and no surprise to us!

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 $160
Compared to 423 running shoes
Number of shoes
£45
Price
£270

Reflective elements

We really like how On handles reflective details. While some brands skip them entirely or toss in random patches, On integrates them into the logo. 

Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 Yes

Tongue padding

The On Cloudsurfer 2 sports a unique lacing system with flat, soft laces threading through reinforced eyelets built into the upper. Two stitched webbing loops replace a pair of traditional eyelets. This design helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, though it sacrifices the extra eyelet needed for a runner’s knot and brings up some durability concerns.

On Cloudsurfer 2 tongue design

On went all-in on step-in comfort with the tongue, showing that this shoe works not just for running but also for day-to-day wear. We measured a thick 10.6 mm of plush-and-puffy foam stuffed into the tongue using digital callipers—definitely on the upper end, even for a daily trainer.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Tongue padding
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 10.6 mm
Average 5.9 mm
Compared to 420 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

When a daily trainer comes with a premium price tag, you expect a gusseted tongue for better lockdown and zero shifting. Unfortunately, that feature is missing here, and that’s a big letdown.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 None

Heel tab

As with most On running shoes, there’s no finger-loop heel tab—just a clean design.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Heel tab
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 None

Removable insole

Removing the insole is super quick, and swapping in your favourite one is no hassle at all.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Removable insole
Test results
Cloudsurfer 2 Yes