Shoe Review: On Cloudgo

Whether you’re a beginner runner or an experienced marathoner, you can level up your training in the new On Cloudgo. The On Cloudgo offers plush cushioning and comfortable support for all types of runners.

Made with On’s signature CloudTec cushioning, a snappy Speedboard and lightweight materials, the On Cloudgo is built with comfort and dependability in mind.

Fleet Feet reviewers tested the On Cloudgo to get a feel for how it feels and performs. They loved the instantly comfortable fit and smooth ride. Here’s what you can expect from On’s latest running shoe.

If you’ve worn On running shoes before, you’re likely familiar with their distinct series of pods, called clouds, underfoot. On’s signature CloudTec cushioning system offers multidirectional support so you can run comfortably no matter how you land. That’s why runners with all types of gait patterns can benefit from CloudTec cushioning.

The clouds in the On Cloudgo are smaller than in other high-cushioned On shoes, like the On Cloudmonster and On Cloudstratus. The smaller clouds create a more responsive ride, and also ensure no road debris gets stuck inside the sole.

“On has done it again! They’ve created a cushioned, springy running shoe with a smooth ride. It almost feels like this shoe has a slight rocker shape because of the way my feet easily rolled through each step,” Caroline says.

Sandwiched inside the midsole is a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) Speedboard, another key piece of On’s footwear technology. When the Cloud elements compress during landings, the Speedboard engages and propels you forward.

But the On Cloudgo isn’t just made to propel you forward. Thanks to a midsole made with Helion superfoam, On’s proprietary midsole technology, the On Cloudgo provides plush cushioning that absorbs impact with each stride. Helion superfoam combines both rigid and flexible elements into the same foam compound, making for a soft yet responsive ride.

“The On Cloudgo is definitely a Goldilocks shoe. The cushioning is soft without being squishy and protective while still being reasonably responsive. The shoes are light enough to not weigh down my feet at all, but feel substantial in the sense of stability and durability,” Alex says.

A durable rubber outsole provides sturdy and reliable traction and grip that can hold up to slick roads.

“The outsole of the On Cloudgo isn’t as luggy as On shoes typically are, but it definitely has a good, grippy sole,” Nate says.

Like other On shoes, the Cloudgo is versatile enough for any type of run or workout. You can wear it on the run, to the gym or for a long day on your feet.

The On Cloudgo features an engineered polyester mesh upper that wraps comfortably around your foot, holding you securely in place. The best part? It’s made with an estimated 85 to 90 percent recycled materials, making it easier on the environment.

A roomy forefoot offers enough room for your toes to wiggle around, while a snug midfoot and heel keep your feet in place. A plush tongue and padded heel collar ensure all-around comfort, and textured laces are long enough to lace up any way you please.

“The Cloudgo has a soft, welcoming step-in feel. I particularly like the padded heel collar. It feels like it melts around my heel and ankle to provide comfort right off the bat,” Kate says.

“The upper, tongue, and heel collar are all plush without feeling overly warm or thick,” Alex says.

Reflective logos shine on the forefoot and along the medial side of the shoe for added visibility. The upper is also designed with bold lines that wrap their way around the foot, matching the design of the brand’s first-ever sports bras.

In recent months, On has been designing shoes with more and more cushioning than ever before. After the much-anticipated release of the On Cloudmonster came the On Cloudrunner, a soft yet stable running shoe offering moderate support.

The On Cloudgo is the neutral counterpart to the On Cloudrunner, offering the same level of cushion and comfort with a more flexible ride. While the On Cloudrunner is made with lightweight Zero-gravity foam, the Cloudgo features a plush bed of Helion foam.

“Next to the On Cloudmonster, the Cloudgo is the softest On running shoe I’ve tried. The step-in feel is great and the shoes just rolled happily along,” Nate says.

The On Cloudgo is a great choice for beginners and experienced runners alike because it can work for just about any run. It’s cushioned and comfortable with enough responsiveness to pick up the pace.

“If you like a solid trainer that maximizes cushion, comfort and the ability to cruise mile after mile then you need to try the On Cloudgo. It’s comparable to the Brooks Glycerin and the New Balance 880 – a knockout daily trainer that’s good for all runners,” Nate says.