On Cloudrunner 2

Runner's World (UK) praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a stylish, comfortable daily trainer that delivers a smooth, protective ride ideal for easy and recovery miles. The reviewer is broadly positive and enthusiastic about On’s evolution and the shoe’s roomy, plush upper (made from recycled polyester), durable outsole, and subtle mild-stability features that help some runners without feeling intrusive. Criticisms are measured: the fit is on the wide side and may not suit narrow feet, laces and lockdown can feel insecure unless tied high, and the midsole lacks snappy responsiveness for faster sessions or serious overpronators who need firmer support. Unique insights include comparisons to other On models (Cloudstratus/Cloudflyer/Cloudsurfer), an observed “taller” feel relative to stack height, and practical weight/stack specs—overall a balanced, favorable recommendation for cruisy daily mileage rather than speed work.

RunRepeat praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a meaningful, well-executed upgrade that preserves the original’s sturdy DNA while improving weight, flexibility, and forefoot cushioning. The review’s tone is largely positive and measured: the tester applauds the switch to Helion foam, improved shock absorption (126 SA forefoot, 98 SA heel), solid energy return (57.1%), reliable traction (0.45 COF), and thoughtful stability features—especially a supportive heel counter—while noting the ride remains on the firmer side and the outsole rubber could be more durable. Lab-driven details (precise stack heights, drop measured at 8.5 mm, weight at 275 g, mesh ventilation, torsional and bend tests) give the recommendation credibility; comparisons to ASICS Gel Kayano 30, Hoka Arahi 7, and Saucony Triumph 22 clarify who should choose alternatives. Overall, it’s positioned as an excellent daily trainer for runners seeking mild support and durability-minded design, though not for those wanting plush, ultra-light cushioning.

Running Shoes Guru’s Jeremy Yoder assesses the On Cloudrunner 2 as a well-made, plushly cushioned shoe that excels for walking and slower-paced, long-distance miles but leaves him conflicted. He praises build quality, durable outsole, attractive uppers, lighter weight versus the prior model, and solid midfoot/forefoot transitions, yet repeatedly flags an overly roomy upper, a soft heel midsole that collapsed for him (causing Achilles discomfort), limited heel support, and uninspiring colorways. Notable specifics: Helion foam and refined CloudTec reduce debris-catching, 39/29 mm stack with a 10 mm drop, and a recommended half-size down for fit. The tone is measured and balanced—appreciative of materials and durability but cautious about fit and heel support—leading him to strongly advise trying them on before buying.

David Marquez assesses the On Cloudrunner 2 as a data-driven, stability-focused trainer that favors heel security and comfort but sacrifices energy return. The reviewers note the Cloudrunner 2’s stiff heel clip and mild rearfoot sidewalls provide solid lateral stability and a snug, true-to-size fit, and they praise its lighter weight and cushioning compared with the Nike Structure 26. However, the shoe delivers notably poor energy return (category score 1.4), making it less lively for faster workouts despite decent marathon and 5K/10K scores. The team’s transparent, instrumented testing and multi-size, real-world mileage give the findings credibility, and recent methodology updates added fit-specific bench tests—useful details for shoppers weighing stability and comfort against responsiveness.

Doctors of Running praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a thoughtfully engineered mild-stability daily trainer that hits a “just right” balance between cushioning and structure. Matt and David highlight a roomy, comfortable engineered-mesh upper and solid rearfoot security from a heel clip, internal/external counters, and gentle sole flaring—making it especially appealing for runners who need mild guidance or extra volume. They note the Helion/CloudTec midsole delivers a firmer, protective ride that suits short-to-moderate runs, walking, and long periods on feet, but criticize its limited rebound and somewhat too-flexible forefoot, which can feel fatiguing on faster or longer efforts. Unique strengths are its stability focused in the heel and accommodating fit for swelling; key suggestions are a slightly softer or more responsive midsole or a stiffer forefoot to improve toe-off. Overall, it’s recommended for those wanting a stable, wider daily trainer rather than a lively long-distance racer.

RunToTheFinish's Jeff Ruane assesses the On Cloudrunner 2 as a classy, mildly supportive daily trainer that wins on comfort, fit, and everyday usability but falls short for faster efforts. He praises the shoe’s clean design, breathable recycled upper, Helio Superfoam cushioning, roomy toe box, and subtle stability delivered via a wider base, reworked Cloudtech pods, and dual heel counters—making it a great option for wide feet, heavier runners, and recovery or long easy runs (the reviewer logged ~60 miles including an 18-miler). Criticisms focus on its lack of responsiveness and “pop” at marathon or tempo paces, so it’s not ideal for speedwork. The tone is warm and genuinely positive—enthusiastic about everyday comfort and sustainability—while reasonably measured about limitations, recommending the Cloudrunner 2 chiefly as a reliable, stylish mild-stability trainer rather than an all-purpose performance shoe.

Believe in the Run praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as an attractive, well-cushioned light-stability trainer that’s comfortable for daily runs, gym work, and casual wear. The writers—Robbe Reddinger, Jarrett Weisberg, and Ryan Haines—highlight the plush engineered mesh upper (especially the improved wide fit), Helion superfoam ride, subtle heel clip, and cleaner outsole design that avoids trapped stones. Tone is mostly positive and appreciative, calling it perhaps On’s best wide offering and a strong value at $150, while noting it leans toward lifestyle appeal as much as performance. Criticisms are practical: inconsistent lockdown for some foot shapes, a tendency to run about half-size long, and the white colorway soils easily; a slippery feel with certain performance socks was also reported. Overall, the review is upbeat but measured—enthusiastic about comfort, style, and stability while candid about fit variability and maintenance.

WearTesters praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a substantial evolution: more comfortable, noticeably premium in materials, and much better for short runs than the original. Arune and Drew highlight a true-to-size fit with roomy comfort, a sleek, fashionable upper, and a bouncy Helion “superfoam” midsole that transforms the ride—making the shoe a great vacation or lifestyle pick that can double for easy runs. Criticisms are measured: it still lacks the sustained “pop” of top daily trainers, can cause leg fatigue after longer runs, and the outsole can still trap the occasional stone; the laces also tend to come untied. Overall the tone is positive but measured—enthusiastic about design and comfort improvements while cautious about recommending it as a runner’s one-and-only shoe.