Alastair RunningVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
It delivers on its promise of high cushioning, bouncy ride, and good stability, making it enjoyable for endurance.
On
Cloudsurfer Max
Super trainer · Stable Neutral · 292 g · 6 mm drop · MSRP $180
BuildGusset
$104 at On Cyclon$18042% off today
Critic consensus
from 8 reviewsThe On Cloudsurfer Max delivers a stable, smooth-rolling ride wrapped in an attractive and breathable upper. However, it is noticeably firmer than typical max-cushion shoes and lacks the deep plushness many runners expect from high-stack trainers. It best suits runners who prefer firm support and rocker-assisted transitions for daily miles over ultra-soft recovery runs.
Reviewers agree
Firmer underfoot feel than expected for a max-cushion shoe7/8
Smooth rocker-assisted heel-to-toe transitions5/8
High price tag relative to competing daily trainers6/8
Breathable and comfortable engineered mesh upper6/8
Reviewers disagree
Underfoot softness for recovery runs2 vs 4
Responsiveness when picking up the pace4 vs 2
What reviewers use it for
Easy6 of 8
Long run5 of 8
Tempo3 of 8
Race0 of 8 · no tag
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
8 reviews · 8 scores inferredFleet FeetVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
It’s a great option for those who prioritize plush cushioning, stability, and a smooth ride over high-performance speed.
RadDadBodTVVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The reviewer personally enjoys the Cloudsurfer Max, appreciating its comfort and unique firm-yet-propulsive ride.
EasyWatch review
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The On Cloudsurfer Max offers a capable, smooth, and natural-feeling ride that excels at easy paces.
KofuziVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The Cloudsurfer Max is a bit firm, a bit tall, and very much an On design, best suited for runners who prefer a firmer ride in a max-cushioned shoe.
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
While the On Cloudsurfer Max is a good running shoe, it does not live up to the max cushioning expectation set by its marketing.
KofuziVideo · Mar 13, 2026INFERRED
It brings more consistency to the On brand's feel but might disappoint those looking for a truly plush max-cushion experience.
Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The shoe's weight and high price further detract from its value proposition, leading to a disappointment for a daily trainer.
EasyWatch review