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Benefits
Trade-Offs
Makes all-day wear and easy runs feel effortless and less tiring.
Softer heel midsole can collapse during long runs, causing Achilles irritation or soreness.
Spacious toe box reduces hot spots and swelling on long runs or all-day wear.
Thin laces and roomy upper can let shoes loosen, forcing mid-run reties or adjustment stops.
Medial walls and heel clip guide heel strikers without feeling intrusive on runs.
Feels firmer than expected; legs tire sooner on tempo or long marathon-pace efforts.
CloudTec and Helion foam deliver protective cushioning with smooth toe-off for recovery miles.
Recycled mesh and vegan build offer eco cred and feel-good social stories.
Benefits
Makes all-day wear and easy runs feel effortless and less tiring.
Spacious toe box reduces hot spots and swelling on long runs or all-day wear.
Medial walls and heel clip guide heel strikers without feeling intrusive on runs.
CloudTec and Helion foam deliver protective cushioning with smooth toe-off for recovery miles.
Recycled mesh and vegan build offer eco cred and feel-good social stories.
Trade-Offs
Softer heel midsole can collapse during long runs, causing Achilles irritation or soreness.
Thin laces and roomy upper can let shoes loosen, forcing mid-run reties or adjustment stops.
Feels firmer than expected; legs tire sooner on tempo or long marathon-pace efforts.
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Publications
8 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
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.
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.
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.
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.
YouTube
8 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Road Runner SportsMat B from Road Runner Sports praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a versatile, lightly stable daily trainer—notably lighter-than-expected, wider in the toe box, and softer-riding than the Cloudsurfer Next—while acknowledging its firmer overall On feel, outsole longevity questions, and that stability elements are subtle unless needed.
Fleet FeetBrandon from Fleet Feet finds the On Cloudrunner 2 a well-built, mildly enthusiastic pick—praising its 100% recycled engineered mesh upper, secure TPU heel lock, roomy fit options, and smoother CloudTec geometry—while noting the ride is noticeably firm, less plush than some competitors, and better suited for walking, gym use, or runners who prefer a firmer, stable daily trainer.
Road Runner SportsMat B from Road Runner Sports praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a versatile, lightly stable daily trainer—notably lighter-than-expected, wider in the toe box, and softer-riding than the Cloudsurfer Next—while acknowledging its firmer overall On feel, outsole longevity questions, and that stability elements are subtle unless needed.
Fleet FeetBrandon from Fleet Feet finds the On Cloudrunner 2 a well-built, mildly enthusiastic pick—praising its 100% recycled engineered mesh upper, secure TPU heel lock, roomy fit options, and smoother CloudTec geometry—while noting the ride is noticeably firm, less plush than some competitors, and better suited for walking, gym use, or runners who prefer a firmer, stable daily trainer.
Road Runner SportsMat B from Road Runner Sports praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a versatile, lightly stable daily trainer—notably lighter-than-expected, wider in the toe box, and softer-riding than the Cloudsurfer Next—while acknowledging its firmer overall On feel, outsole longevity questions, and that stability elements are subtle unless needed.
Fleet FeetBrandon from Fleet Feet finds the On Cloudrunner 2 a well-built, mildly enthusiastic pick—praising its 100% recycled engineered mesh upper, secure TPU heel lock, roomy fit options, and smoother CloudTec geometry—while noting the ride is noticeably firm, less plush than some competitors, and better suited for walking, gym use, or runners who prefer a firmer, stable daily trainer.
Road Runner SportsMat B from Road Runner Sports praises the On Cloudrunner 2 as a versatile, lightly stable daily trainer—notably lighter-than-expected, wider in the toe box, and softer-riding than the Cloudsurfer Next—while acknowledging its firmer overall On feel, outsole longevity questions, and that stability elements are subtle unless needed.
Fleet FeetBrandon from Fleet Feet finds the On Cloudrunner 2 a well-built, mildly enthusiastic pick—praising its 100% recycled engineered mesh upper, secure TPU heel lock, roomy fit options, and smoother CloudTec geometry—while noting the ride is noticeably firm, less plush than some competitors, and better suited for walking, gym use, or runners who prefer a firmer, stable daily trainer.
Social
7 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Xavier JimenezXavier Jimenez shares his thoughts on the On Cloudrunner 2 after an 8-mile easy run: he’s impressed by plush cushioning, stable yet balanced feel, and responsive underfoot, though he notes slight heel slip and a too-flexible forefoot. Overall he recommends the Cloudrunner 2 as a comfortable, reliable easy- or recovery-day shoe to add to your rotation — strong cushioning and stability make it a win for many runners despite minor fit/forefoot tradeoffs.
Road Trail RunSally Reiley highlights the On Cloudrunner 2’s shift to a softer Helion super foam, recycled polyester upper, and revised outsole that avoids trapping stones—calling out improved on-run comfort and sustainability while noting the removal of the speedboard. Overall, she enjoys running in them and recommends them for everyday miles; she frames the shoes positively but signals a forthcoming multi-tester review and discloses the samples were provided by On.
Xavier JimenezXavier Jimenez shares his thoughts on the On Cloudrunner 2 after an 8-mile easy run: he’s impressed by plush cushioning, stable yet balanced feel, and responsive underfoot, though he notes slight heel slip and a too-flexible forefoot. Overall he recommends the Cloudrunner 2 as a comfortable, reliable easy- or recovery-day shoe to add to your rotation — strong cushioning and stability make it a win for many runners despite minor fit/forefoot tradeoffs.
Road Trail RunSally Reiley highlights the On Cloudrunner 2’s shift to a softer Helion super foam, recycled polyester upper, and revised outsole that avoids trapping stones—calling out improved on-run comfort and sustainability while noting the removal of the speedboard. Overall, she enjoys running in them and recommends them for everyday miles; she frames the shoes positively but signals a forthcoming multi-tester review and discloses the samples were provided by On.
Xavier JimenezXavier Jimenez shares his thoughts on the On Cloudrunner 2 after an 8-mile easy run: he’s impressed by plush cushioning, stable yet balanced feel, and responsive underfoot, though he notes slight heel slip and a too-flexible forefoot. Overall he recommends the Cloudrunner 2 as a comfortable, reliable easy- or recovery-day shoe to add to your rotation — strong cushioning and stability make it a win for many runners despite minor fit/forefoot tradeoffs.
Road Trail RunSally Reiley highlights the On Cloudrunner 2’s shift to a softer Helion super foam, recycled polyester upper, and revised outsole that avoids trapping stones—calling out improved on-run comfort and sustainability while noting the removal of the speedboard. Overall, she enjoys running in them and recommends them for everyday miles; she frames the shoes positively but signals a forthcoming multi-tester review and discloses the samples were provided by On.
Xavier JimenezXavier Jimenez shares his thoughts on the On Cloudrunner 2 after an 8-mile easy run: he’s impressed by plush cushioning, stable yet balanced feel, and responsive underfoot, though he notes slight heel slip and a too-flexible forefoot. Overall he recommends the Cloudrunner 2 as a comfortable, reliable easy- or recovery-day shoe to add to your rotation — strong cushioning and stability make it a win for many runners despite minor fit/forefoot tradeoffs.
Road Trail RunSally Reiley highlights the On Cloudrunner 2’s shift to a softer Helion super foam, recycled polyester upper, and revised outsole that avoids trapping stones—calling out improved on-run comfort and sustainability while noting the removal of the speedboard. Overall, she enjoys running in them and recommends them for everyday miles; she frames the shoes positively but signals a forthcoming multi-tester review and discloses the samples were provided by On.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit discussion around the On Cloudrunner 2 is mixed but leans cautiously positive: many users praise its comfort, wide toe box, and stability for walking and short runs, noting reduced knee impact and good fit for wider, flatter feet. Criticisms focus on inconsistent sizing (some report running small or short), durability concerns (sole squeaks, stones getting stuck), and that it can feel firm or less supportive for serious runners. Some longtime On users lament newer models and availability as the CR2 is discontinued; new shoppers are advised to try sizing and consider personal gait before buying.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Helion superfoam + CloudTecDesigned for firmer, energy‑returning cushion
- •Subtle rearfoot stabilityDesigned to guide heel strikers gently
- •Roomy recycled upperAdvertised to use 100% recycled mesh
- •Lightweight constructionDesigned to reduce weight for all‑day wear
- •Versatile daily‑trainer usabilityPromoted as suitable for easy daily miles
- •Redesigned outsole to reduce debrisDesigned to prevent stone trapping in wells
Considerations
- •Firm, less responsive rideFeels firm; limited responsiveness at speed
- •Inconsistent sizing and fitReports vary; try before buying
- •Unreliable lockdownThin laces and roomy upper loosen
- •Outsole durability concernsReports of wear, squeaks, and debris
- •Heel midsole may compressCan collapse and irritate the Achilles
- •Not ideal for long fast runsSuited to easy miles, not tempo
Real-world feedback for this model is still limited, so treat early impressions as provisional—but experts and testers agree this is On’s bid for a lighter, eco-conscious mild‑stability daily trainer. Building on the brand’s Swiss engineering pedigree, it swaps to Helion superfoam (EVA + OBC blend) and refined full-length CloudTec for a protective, firmer ride, adds a 100% recycled engineered mesh upper, and tightens the geometry with a pronounced heel clip and medial sidewalls for subtle guidance. It’s aimed at runners who want roomy comfort for easy miles, long days on their feet, or mild overpronation help—not tempo warriors. Compared with the original, expect less bulk, better forefoot flexibility, and improved stone‑resistant tread; read on to judge cushioning, support, fit, weight, outsole wear and the shoe’s true responsiveness before committing. Consider this your on‑ramp to whether the Cloudrunner 2 suits your rotation.
Weight
At roughly 9.7 oz (Men’s US9) the Cloudrunner 2 punches above its class: noticeably lighter than the original and light enough for all‑day wear, commuting, and shorter runs. That low mass helps reduce fatigue on easy miles and matches the shoe’s daily‑trainer vibe, though weight savings don’t translate into extra snap—expect effortless feels rather than racing speed. It’s a tidy compromise: light build, stable behavior, and practical everyday usability.
Outsole traction and durability
The redesigned rubber tread with filled Speedboard wells aims to stop stones from getting stuck and improves grip, and lab tests show decent COF, but observers still flag outsole longevity issues and occasional debris or squeaks over time. Practical takeaway: good initial traction and cleaner geometry versus the prior model, but plan for possible wear at higher mileage—great for road miles and wet days if you opt for the waterproof variant.
Midsole and cushioning
Think of the Cloudrunner 2 as protective rather than pillowy: the Helion superfoam (EVA + OBC blend) lifts you with a firmer, energy-returning profile and full-length CloudTec elements that smooth impact. Lab numbers (126 SA forefoot / 98 SA heel) back its daily‑trainer intent, yet reviewers report a notably firmer ride than plush rivals, so expect durability and protection over marshmallow softness—solid for recovery miles but not for seekers of springy tempo responses. Overall: confident cushion, limited pop for faster efforts.
Upper construction and fit
On upgraded the upper to a stretchy, Swiss‑engineered recycled mesh that’s breathable and roomy—ideal if you need toe box real estate—paired with a plush gusseted tongue and lace loop for convenience. Fit varies by foot shape: some testers find it true-to-size, others call it half-size long or loose unless laced tight, so try before you buy; the vegan, recycled build scores sustainability points while delivering a mostly comfortable, everyday fit.
Stability and support
The CR2 delivers gentle guidance, using medial sidewalls and a stiff heel clip to nudge rearfoot strikers toward neutral without feeling preachy; that makes it a smart pick for runners wanting mild correction. Experts praise rearfoot security in tests, though a soft heel midsole can sometimes feel like it collapses on long runs, risking achilles irritation for some. In short: dependable, subtle stability that favors comfort and control over aggressive correction.
Conclusion
Early impressions are cautiously confident: the midsole offers a protective, workmanlike ride rather than marshmallowy spring, so expect reliable daily cushioning and controlled transitions. The Helion/CloudTec combo gives firm-yet-protective cushioning, while the shoe’s geometry and heel clip deliver subtle rearfoot guidance that helps without bossing your gait. The roomy recycled upper scores on comfort and sustainability as breathable, roomy fit, but thin laces and variable lockdown mean you may need to tweak fit mid-run — think roomy, not locked‑in. At roughly 9.7 oz it feels surprisingly light for its class, which pairs well with improved forefoot flex for smooth toe-offs and clean, everyday versatility. The redesigned tread improves grip, though outsole wear concerns linger in long-term use. Not built for tempo or racers; it’s a solid pick for recovery miles, commuting runs, and wider feet who want a stable, eco-friendly daily shoe — a dependable, stylish daily companion that earns a cautious thumbs-up.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Cushioning
4/5
Responsiveness
2/5
Durability
3/5
Traction
4/5
Fit Consistency
3/5
Value
Price to Quality Ratio
4/5
Price Accessibility
3/5
Warranty Support
TBD
Design
Aesthetic Appeal
4/5
Ergonomic Fit
4/5
Upper Craftsmanship
4/5
Health
Breathability
4/5
Arch Support
3/5
Injury Risk Mitigation
4/5
Hypoallergenic Materials
TBD
Safety
Reflective Visibility
TBD
Slip Resistance
4/5
Foot Protection
4/5
Stability Control
4/5
Sustainability
Recycled Materials Use
5/5
Product Longevity
3/5
Packaging Sustainability
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Ease of Use
4/5
Adjustability
4/5
Customization Options
2/5
Feature Richness
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
5 Questions
