Cloudrunner vs Cloudsurfer Shoes

Running shoes can make a big difference in how fun and comfortable your runs are. Today, we’re going to look at two popular shoes: Cloudrunner and Cloudsurfer.

Both are made by a company called On Running, but they’re different in many ways. Let’s find out which one might be better for you!

Cloudrunner vs Cloudsurfer Shoes

Cloudrunner and Cloudsurfer shoes is their purpose. Cloudrunner shoes are designed for everyday running with more cushioning and stability, while Cloudsurfer shoes are built for speed with a lighter design and more responsive feel.

Both offer On’s signature CloudTec technology but serve different running styles.

Feature	Cloudrunner	Cloudsurfer
Purpose	Daily running	Speed running
Weight	Heavier	Lighter
Cushioning	More	Less
Stability	High	Medium
Best for	Beginners, longer distances	Fast runners, shorter distances
Sole	Thicker	Thinner
Price	Usually lower	Usually higher
Durability	Very good	Good

In summary: Cloudrunner shoes are better for beginners and people who run a lot. They feel softer and help keep your feet stable. Cloudsurfer shoes are better when you want to run fast.

They’re lighter and help you feel the ground more. Both are good shoes, but they’re made for different kinds of running.

What Makes These Shoes Special?

Both Cloudrunner and Cloudsurfer shoes have special cushions on the bottom called “clouds.” These clouds help make your steps feel bouncy and soft. But each shoe is made for different types of runners and different needs.

Who Are These Shoes For?

Cloudrunner shoes are great for everyday runners who want lots of support and comfort. They’re good for people who run on sidewalks, roads, or in parks.

Cloudsurfer shoes are made for runners who like to go fast. They’re lighter and help you feel quick on your feet.

Comfort: How Do They Feel on Your Feet?

Cloudrunner Comfort

When you put on Cloudrunner shoes, your feet feel like they’re getting a hug. The inside is soft and has extra padding around your ankle. This makes them very comfy for long runs.

The shoe bends where your foot bends, so it moves with you. Many people say they forget they’re wearing shoes because Cloudrunners feel so natural.

Cloudsurfer Comfort

Cloudsurfer shoes feel different. They’re still comfortable but in a more energetic way. They have less padding than Cloudrunners but give you more spring in your step.

The Cloudsurfer might feel a bit firmer at first. Some runners need a few days to get used to them, but then they love how responsive they feel.

Cushioning: How Soft Are They?

Cushioning is what helps protect your feet when they hit the ground.

Cloudrunner Cushioning

Cloudrunner has thick cushioning that feels like walking on soft sand but with better support. The clouds on the bottom compress when you step down and then spring back up.

This makes Cloudrunners great for people whose feet get sore easily or who run on hard surfaces like concrete.

Cloudsurfer Cushioning

Cloudsurfer has medium cushioning. It’s not as soft as Cloudrunner but offers more feedback from the ground. This means you can feel the surface more, which helps with balance and speed.

The clouds on Cloudsurfers are designed to push you forward with each step, like little trampolines for your feet.

Shoe Fit: How Well Do They Match Your Feet?

Having shoes that fit right is super important. Shoes that are too big or too small can hurt your feet.

Cloudrunner Fit

Cloudrunners have a wider toe box, which means more room for your toes to spread out. This is good if your feet are wider or if you want extra space.

The middle part hugs your foot snugly to keep it from sliding around. The heel cup is deep and holds your heel in place.

Cloudsurfer Fit

Cloudsurfers have a more snug fit all around. They’re like a second skin for your foot. The toe box is a bit narrower than the Cloudrunner’s.

This tighter fit helps with quick movements and sharp turns. If you have wider feet, you might want to try a half-size larger in Cloudsurfers.

Stability: How Well Do They Support Your Feet?

Stability helps keep your ankles from rolling inward or outward too much when you run.

Cloudrunner Stability

Cloudrunners are champions of stability. They have a wider base and special support features on the inner side of the shoe. This helps guide your foot to land properly with each step.

If your ankles tend to roll inward (called overpronation) or if you want extra steadiness, Cloudrunners are a great choice.

Cloudsurfer Stability

Cloudsurfers offer moderate stability. They’re designed more for speed than support, so they have less correction for foot rolling.

However, they still provide enough stability for most runners with normal foot movement. The lower profile helps you feel more connected to the ground.

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

It’s important to know how long your shoes will last before you need new ones.

Cloudrunner Durability

Cloudrunners are built tough. The rubber on high-wear areas is thicker, and the upper material resists tears and stretching. Many runners report their Cloudrunners lasting 300-500 miles of running.

The cloud pods on the bottom are made from sturdy rubber that doesn’t wear down quickly, even if you drag your feet a little.

Cloudsurfer Durability

Cloudsurfers may not last quite as long as Cloudrunners because they use lighter materials. The average pair lasts about 250-400 miles for most runners.

The tradeoff is that you get a lighter, faster shoe. The clouds on the bottom are designed differently to give more spring but might wear down faster if you run a lot on rough surfaces.

Durability Comparison Table

Feature	Cloudrunner	Cloudsurfer
Average Lifespan	300-500 miles	250-400 miles
Upper Material Strength	Very Durable	Moderately Durable
Sole Wear Resistance	High	Medium
Best Surfaces	All surfaces	Smooth surfaces

Breathability: Do Your Feet Stay Cool?

Nobody likes sweaty, hot feet when running. Let’s see how these shoes keep your feet cool.

Cloudrunner Breathability

Cloudrunners have mesh panels on the top and sides that let air flow in and out. Your feet can breathe pretty well, but the extra padding does make them a bit warmer than some other running shoes.

In hot weather, your feet might get warm in Cloudrunners, but most people find them comfortable in normal temperatures.

Cloudsurfer Breathability

Cloudsurfers win the breathability contest! They use a lighter, more open mesh that allows excellent airflow. This makes them great for summer runs or for people whose feet tend to get hot easily.

The thinner upper material helps heat escape faster, keeping your feet cooler during long runs.

Quality: How Well Are They Made?

The quality of your running shoes affects how they perform and how long they last.

Cloudrunner Quality

On Running is known for good quality, and Cloudrunners show this clearly. The stitching is neat and strong, and different materials are joined together well. The colors don’t fade much, even after many washes.

The laces stay tied, and the insoles don’t slide around inside the shoe. These small details make a big difference over time.

Cloudsurfer Quality

Cloudsurfers also show excellent craftsmanship. The lightweight materials are carefully selected to be both light and strong. The cloud pods are perfectly shaped and evenly spaced for the best running experience.

Some runners mention that the thinner materials can show wear sooner than Cloudrunners, but they’re still very well-made shoes.

Style: How Do They Look?

Let’s be honest—we all want shoes that look good too!

Cloudrunner Style

Cloudrunners have a chunkier, more substantial look. They come in several color combinations, from simple black and white to brighter options with colorful details.

The cloud pods on the bottom are a cool design feature that makes people ask, “What kind of shoes are those?” Many runners like how Cloudrunners look good with jeans as well as running clothes.

Cloudsurfer Style

Cloudsurfers have a sleeker, more race-ready appearance. They look fast even when standing still! The colors tend to be a bit bolder, with more contrasting patterns.

If you want running shoes that stand out and look speedy, Cloudsurfers might be your style choice.

Size Options: Will They Fit You?

Finding the right size is super important for comfortable running.

Cloudrunner Sizes

Cloudrunners come in many sizes for both men and women. Men’s shoes usually range from size 7 to 14, and women’s from size 5 to 11. They also come in half sizes to help you get the perfect fit.

Some runners say Cloudrunners run a bit small, so you might want to try a half-size larger than your normal shoe size.

Cloudsurfer Sizes

Cloudsurfers offer similar size ranges as Cloudrunners. However, because they have a narrower fit, some people with wider feet need to go up a full size for comfort.

Both shoes come in medium width, but Cloudrunners tend to feel wider overall.

Materials: What Are They Made Of?

The materials used in running shoes affect how they feel, last, and perform.

Cloudrunner Materials

Cloudrunners use sturdy materials that stand up to lots of running. The upper part combines engineered mesh with reinforced areas around the toe and heel. This gives a good balance of flexibility and support.

The cloud pods on the bottom are made from a special rubber compound that provides bounce while resisting wear and tear. The insoles contain memory foam that shapes to your foot over time.

Cloudsurfer Materials

Cloudsurfers use lighter, more responsive materials throughout. The upper mesh is thinner and more stretchy, moving perfectly with your foot as you run.

The cloud pods use a slightly different rubber formula that’s designed for better energy return, helping push you forward with each step. This makes them feel springier but might not last as long.

Weight: How Heavy Are They?

Shoe weight can make a big difference in how tired your legs get during long runs.

Cloudrunner Weight

Cloudrunners aren’t the lightest running shoes around. A typical men’s size 9 weighs about 10.4 ounces (295 grams). The extra weight comes from the additional cushioning and support features.

Many runners don’t mind the extra ounces because of the comfort and support they provide. If you’re running for fitness rather than racing, the weight probably won’t bother you.

Cloudsurfer Weight

Cloudsurfers are notably lighter, with a men’s size 9 weighing approximately 8.8 ounces (250 grams). That difference of 1.6 ounces might not sound like much, but you can feel it when you’re running fast or going long distances.

The lighter weight helps reduce leg fatigue and makes it easier to pick up the pace when you want to.

Weight Comparison Table

Shoe	Men’s Size 9 Weight	Women’s Size 7 Weight
Cloudrunner	10.4 oz (295g)	8.7 oz (247g)
Cloudsurfer	8.8 oz (250g)	7.4 oz (210g)

Flexibility: How Well Do They Bend?

Shoe flexibility affects how naturally your foot can move through each step.

Cloudrunner Flexibility

Cloudrunners have moderate flexibility. They bend at the ball of the foot where your toes bend, but they’re stiffer than some running shoes. This helps provide support but might feel a bit rigid to some runners.

The stiffness is partly due to a support plate inside the shoe that helps guide your foot movement. Many people who need extra support appreciate this feature.

Cloudsurfer Flexibility

Cloudsurfers are more flexible throughout the shoe. They bend easily at the toe and also have some twist flexibility. This helps your foot move more naturally and adapt to different surfaces as you run.

The increased flexibility also helps with toe-off, the part of your stride where your foot pushes off the ground, making your running more efficient.

Water Resistance: What Happens When It Rains?

Nobody likes wet feet when running, so let’s see how these shoes handle moisture.

Cloudrunner Water Resistance

Cloudrunners aren’t waterproof, but they do shed light rain pretty well. The upper material has a water-resistant coating that makes small droplets bead up and roll off.

However, in heavy rain or puddles, water will eventually soak through. The good news is that Cloudrunners drain and dry fairly quickly once they do get wet.

Cloudsurfer Water Resistance

Cloudsurfers offer less water resistance than Cloudrunners. The lighter, more breathable mesh allows water to enter more easily. This means your feet might get wet faster in rainy conditions.

The upside is that they dry very quickly thanks to the excellent air circulation. Some runners actually prefer this in warm weather, as the evaporating water helps cool their feet.

Sole Design: What’s Special About the Bottom?

The sole is one of the most important parts of any running shoe.

Cloudrunner Sole

The Cloudrunner sole features larger cloud pods arranged in a pattern that supports your whole foot. The pods compress differently depending on how your foot strikes the ground, giving personalized cushioning.

There’s also a special plate in the middle that helps connect the forefoot and heel, providing a smooth transition as you roll through your step. The outsole has good grip on most surfaces, even wet sidewalks.

Cloudsurfer Sole

The Cloudsurfer sole uses a different arrangement of cloud pods that focuses more on forward propulsion. The pods are positioned to compress and then spring back quickly, helping push you forward.

The central channel between the pods is wider, which helps the shoe adapt to your specific running style. The grip is excellent on roads and tracks but might slip a bit on loose dirt or gravel.

Price Range: What Will They Cost You?

Running shoes can be a big investment, so it’s good to know what to expect price-wise.

Shoe Model	Regular Price Range	Sale Price Range	Best For
Cloudrunner	$140-$160	$110-$130	Everyday runs, support
Cloudsurfer	$160-$180	$130-$150	Speed training, races

Both shoes are premium products and priced accordingly. They cost more than basic running shoes but offer specialized features and technology. Many runners feel the extra cost is worth it for the comfort and performance benefits.

User Reviews and Ratings

Here’s what real runners say about these shoes:

Cloudrunner User Reviews

Rating	User Comments
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“My feet used to hurt after long runs, but not anymore. Cloudrunners feel like running on pillows!” – Sam T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	“Great support and comfort. A bit heavy but worth it for my bad knees.” – Jamie R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I’ve tried many shoes for my flat feet, and these are the best by far. No more pain!” – Alex W.
⭐⭐⭐☆☆	“Good shoes but run small. Had to return for a bigger size.” – Taylor K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“These shoes fixed my shin splints! Can’t recommend them enough.” – Jordan M.

Average Rating: 4.4/5 stars

Cloudsurfer User Reviews

Rating	User Comments
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“So light and fast! I cut 30 seconds off my mile time.” – Casey P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	“Great responsive feel. Not enough cushion for marathon distance.” – Riley B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“Perfect balance of cushion and speed. My new favorite shoes!” – Morgan L.
⭐⭐⭐☆☆	“Too narrow for my wide feet. Had to return them.” – Avery S.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“These shoes make me feel like I’m flying. Worth every penny!” – Quinn G.

Average Rating: 4.2/5 stars

Conclusion

After looking at all these features, you might be wondering which shoe you should choose. Here’s a simple way to decide:

Choose Cloudrunner if:

• You want maximum comfort and cushioning
• You need extra support for your feet
• You run longer distances
• You have wider feet
• Durability is very important to you

Choose Cloudsurfer if:

• You want a lighter, faster-feeling shoe
• You’re working on improving your speed
• You prefer a responsive feel over soft cushioning
• You run in warm weather and need breathability
• You have narrow to medium-width feet

Both shoes are excellent choices from a top running shoe brand. The best shoe for you depends on your personal running style, foot shape, and what feels most comfortable when you run.

Remember that even the best shoe needs to be replaced after about 300-500 miles of running to keep your feet happy and prevent injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions