Lorraine Kelly
On’s latest On Cloudsurfer arrives with CloudTec Phase®—the boffins at On Labs ran the numbers, then ran them again, using computer-optimised modelling to study how structures and materials actually hit the human body in motion.
The result is a midsole that behaves less like foam and more like choreography: Helion™ elements collapse “like dominos” and interlock for a rolling transition that feels suspiciously like cheating, only legal.
A quick rewind: over a decade ago, On married performance and comfort and gave runners the sensation of “running on clouds.”
Now the brand’s CloudTec Phase® pushes that idea further—levelling up the Swiss trickery with a smoother stride and proper energy return throughout the foot’s roll.
Translation: fewer clunky steps, more rhythm, and the sort of ride that quietly nudges your splits south.
What’s new underfoot
- CloudTec Phase® midsole: Newly shaped Helion™ super-foam elements collapse in sequence to deliver that “domino” roll and cleaner toe-off.
- 13 “clouds” in the sole: They compress and adapt to your foot strike for a custom-fit sensation mid-run.
- Locked-in platform: A supportive midfoot cage, a secure heel counter to help keep pronation in check, and lacing that spreads pressure so hotspots don’t gatecrash your long run.
Sustainability that actually moves the needle
On has gone beyond box-ticking. The upper uses dope-dyeing, saving 95% of water versus conventional methods. Ditching a Speedboard® in the Phase® midsole trims weight and waste, and the upper is made from 100% recycled materials. That’s not spin; that’s sensible.
Road manners (and everything else)
Call it a daily trainer with a party trick. The On Cloudsurfer is happy at easy effort, steadies the ship at tempo, and doesn’t sulk if you wear it for the school run. Runners, walkers, and athleisure die-hards get the same deal: a versatile shoe that looks sharp and feels sharper.
Technology pipeline
This Cloudsurfer is the first model built with CloudTec Phase®—others will follow—while CloudTec® remains a staple in On’s lineup. In short: new engine, same Swiss reliability.
Price and availability
The Cloudsurfer is available at £150 via on.com and selected retail partners worldwide.
The Finisher
Think of the On Cloudsurfer as the city’s friendliest flat-white: smooth, dependable, and somehow perkier than it has any right to be. The midsole’s domino trick isn’t a gimmick; it’s the reason you’ll hit stride sooner and hang onto it longer.
If your training week is a grab-bag of easy miles, steady efforts, and making it to Tuesday intact, this is a proper workhorse—with Swiss manners.
