Is the On Running Cloudsurfer 2 Your Next Daily Driver? A Sundried.com Review!

Alright, fellow runners, let's talk about the latest offering from On Running that's been turning heads: the Cloudsurfer 2. We've put this neutral daily trainer through its paces here at Sundried, and we're ready to give you the lowdown on whether it deserves a spot in your rotation.

First Impressions: A Slick Operator with a Subtle Shift

The Cloudsurfer 2 arrives with that signature On aesthetic - it's undeniably stylish and looks just as good grabbing a coffee as it does pounding the pavement. But don't let its good looks fool you; this isn't just a pretty face. On has made some deliberate changes since the original Cloudsurfer (yes, the numbering might be a bit confusing, but think of this as a proper reboot!), aiming for a more balanced, firmer ride and improved durability.

Gone are the days of the "mushy" or "bottoming out" feel some experienced with its predecessor. This iteration feels more controlled, offering a nice balance of underfoot protection and ground feel - perfect if you like to feel a bit more connected to the road. The updated engineered mesh upper is a real winner too, providing excellent breathability and a secure, comfortable fit.

Under the Bonnet: What Makes it Tick?

On has gone all out with their proprietary CloudTec Phase technology and Helion Superfoam in the midsole. They've even skipped the traditional Speedboard, relying on advanced computer-optimized geometry to fine-tune the shoe's mechanics. This isn't just marketing fluff; it means they've meticulously designed how the CloudTec pods collapse to give you smoother transitions and better grip.

Here's a quick glance at the tech specs:

Out on the Road: The Sundried Verdict

The Good Bits: Smooth Sailing and Secure Steps

When you slip on the Cloudsurfer 2, you immediately notice the "true to size" fit. The midfoot is secure, and there's a decent amount of volume in the forefoot, which is a blessing for those longer runs when your feet start to swell. The smooth rocker geometry encourages a natural forward roll, making easy-paced runs feel, well, easy! We found it really shines at slower to moderate paces, offering a responsive yet controlled experience.

Durability also gets a big thumbs up. On has "beefed up" the rubber coverage on the outsole, and it really shows. We tackled wet roads, sandy paths, and even a bit of muddy trail, and the grip was consistently above average. Plus, the recessed CloudTec pods are a welcome improvement, drastically reducing those annoying pebbles getting stuck!

And let's not forget the aesthetics. This shoe is a looker! It effortlessly transitions from your morning run to casual wear, making it a fantastic option if you like your running shoes to pull double duty.

Where it Could Improve: A Firm Stand and a Fickle Tongue

Now, for the nitty-gritty. Despite On's "Soft Wins" marketing, the Cloudsurfer 2 is decidedly on the firmer side. If you're coming from a plush, marshmallowy trainer, this might be a bit of a shock. It's not a deal-breaker for everyone - some runners will appreciate the more connected, controlled feel - but it's definitely a point of discussion. For longer runs (think beyond 10 miles), some of our testers found the firmness became a bit fatiguing, lacking that sustained softness and energetic bounce.

The tongue also proved to be a bit of a bugbear for some. It's thick, stiff, and non-gusseted, which can lead to it not laying perfectly flat and potentially causing pressure points. A minor niggle, perhaps, but noticeable enough to mention.

And then there's the price. At £160, it's a premium shoe. While it offers good quality and durability, some might feel that other options on the market offer a more cushioned or energetic ride for the same, or even less, money. And yes, those pesky pebbles can still find their way into the outsole channels, even with the recessed pods.

Cloudsurfer 2 vs. The Competition: A Unique Position

So, how does it stack up? Compared to its predecessor, the Cloudsurfer 2 is a significant step forward in terms of responsiveness and stability. However, the original's plushness (which some adored) has been traded for a firmer, more consistent ride.

Against competitors like the Hoka Clifton, the Cloudsurfer 2 offers a firmer, lighter, and more agile ride, whereas the Clifton goes for maximum cushioning. It's also less bouncy than an Asics Novablast, and firmer than a Brooks Ghost Max. This puts the Cloudsurfer 2 in a rather unique spot. It's not the softest, bounciest, or most maximally cushioned shoe out there. Instead, it offers a "controlled performance" - a balanced, stable, and consistent experience that prioritises ground feel over extreme plushness.

Who is the Cloudsurfer 2 For?

This is a fantastic option for neutral runners who:

• Prefer a firmer, more connected ride over ultra-plush cushioning.
• Are looking for a versatile daily trainer for easy to moderate-paced runs, recovery runs, and short to mid-distances (up to around 10 miles).
• Value a stylish shoe that can seamlessly transition from running to casual wear.
• Prioritise durability and a secure fit.

However, if you're a fan of super soft, bouncy shoes for long distances, or you're on a tighter budget, you might want to explore other options.

The Sundried Summary

The On Cloudsurfer 2 is a well-crafted daily trainer that delivers a smooth, controlled, and balanced ride. It's a thoughtful evolution that addresses past criticisms while retaining On's signature style. While it might not be the squishiest or bounciest shoe on the market, it carves out its own niche for runners who appreciate a firmer, more connected feel and a shoe that looks just as good off the track as it does on it.

So, if you're in the market for a reliable, stylish workhorse for your daily miles and you appreciate a more grounded feel, the Cloudsurfer 2 could very well be your next go-to shoe. Happy running!