When it comes to cushioned running shoes, “soft” doesn’t always mean “stable,” but the On Cloudsurfer Max is challenging that assumption. Bringing together plush comfort, long-distance readiness, and a natural ride, we decided to put this new silhouette to the test for the latest episode of our series “Run Don’t Walk”. 

If you aren’t familiar with the On Cloudsurfer Max, we’re pleased to say that it lives up to the name. Maximum cushioning is the clear focus of this shoe, offering a 37mm stack height. However, unlike many max stack shoes, it doesn’t sacrifice stability or ground feel and still feels as comfy as running on clouds. After some varied wear testing, it became clear to us that alongside the superior cushioning, the shoe also offered a surprisingly natural feel which was perfect for long-runs and relaxed sessions.

Much of this comes down to On’s dual-layer CloudTec Phase, a unique midsole system that compresses like a wave, allowing each pod to collapse sequentially in a way that feels almost rhythmic and which you can see more closely in our review video. 

This is then paired with On’s Helion superfoam, which is soft enough to absorb impact on tired legs, but firm enough to avoid that overly mushy sensation that some max-stack shoes fall into. As a result, the Cloudsurfer Max delivers a fluid, consistent ride perfect for sessions where structure matters more than speed and lives up to its name as one of the best cushioned running shoes.

Unlike On’s racier options, there’s no plate in the midsole here. While that means there’s less snap in the sole for high-speed efforts, the trade-off is a smoother, more organic feel. Runners who prefer a midfoot or forefoot strike will especially benefit from the way the rocker geometry gently rolls you forward without forcing your stride. It’s a design that favours rhythm over propulsion and for many, that’s exactly what a daily trainer should do.

The outsole combines lightweight grip pads with Continental rubber in key areas. Even in damp conditions, it delivers confident traction, something that can’t be said for every shoe in this category. Durability-wise, after putting this shoe through 50km of runs the Cloudsurfer Max seems to hold up well for high mileage. It’s a dependable option for consistent training blocks and would also be a great option for recovery runs.

From a fit perspective, the Cloudsurfer Max lands right where you'd expect from a modern performance shoe. It’s true-to-size, with a breathable mesh upper that offers plenty of ventilation and a snug-but-not-restrictive lockdown. On has clearly paid attention to comfort details here, from the flat knit tongue to the reengineered eyestays, everything is built to keep the foot secure without hot spots. It’s the kind of shoe you forget you’re wearing, which is often the best compliment a long-run trainer can get.

While it may not suit every runner, particularly those looking for a racing shoe or aggressive tempo option, the Cloudsurfer Max earns its place in the rotation by knowing what it’s meant to be: a comfort-first, long-haul trainer that doesn’t sacrifice form for foam. This is a running shoe for those looking for ease and comfort over speed and explosiveness. 

After putting it to the test, we would give the On Cloudsurfer Max an 8 out of 10. It’s a strong contender for runners seeking long-distance comfort, consistent pacing, and premium materials in one stylish, well-executed package. Living up the On brand, the Swiss engineering and innovation is truly on display with this release. Balancing comfort and performance effortlessly, this shoe is definitely worth checking out.