Shoe Review: On Cloudflyer

⚠️ The On Cloudflyer 4 has been released!
The bestselling On Cloudflyer has been updated. We carry a full range of sizes and colorways in the new On Cloudflyer 4.
The On Cloudflyer provides reliable support and comfortable cushioning that holds up mile after mile.
The latest edition of the Cloudflyer employs large, stable CloudTec elements, while Helion foam makes the shoe light and energetic. A generous midfoot, a comfortable toe box and different zones of mesh make for an accommodating fit.
With a plush step-in feel and sleek, minimalist design, the On Cloudflyer is capable of handling just about every pace you can throw at it. Fleet Feet reviewers put some miles on the On Cloudflyer to see how it fits and how it performs. Here’s what they thought.
Tech Specs | On Cloudflyer |
Weight | 7.4 oz (W), 9.8 oz (M) |
Drop | 7 mm |
Category | Stability |
Use | Everyday training |
Surface | Road, track |
Helion Foam Helps You Fly

The On Cloudflyer offers consistent support and premium cushioning. It’s powered with Helion foam, finely tuned Cloud elements and On’s signature Speedboard.
Helion foam is a lightweight cushioning that gives you solid impact protection without feeling cumbersome. The foam feels protective when you land but firm when you take off—there’s no mushy feeling.
“I have not worn Ons before, so I was impressed by the quick, reactive nature of the soles, and felt very supported during the ride,” says one reviewer.
The foam is shaped into the CloudTec elements that are a staple of On shoes, but the elements beneath the Cloudflyer are designed for better support. There are fewer individual elements underneath the Cloudflyer than in a speed-focused shoe like the On Cloudflow, and each element is wider. The wider elements create a stable transition that’s as good for new runners as it is for marathon veterans.
Reviewers like the soft, stable feeling created by the expanded Cloud elements.
“I loved feeling each pod collapse and pop back up as I took each step,” one reviewer says.
The Cloudflyer also features On’s signature Speedboard. The Speedboard is designed to support the natural rolling motion of your foot by loading with energy when you land and releasing it when you take off.
The Speedboard gives the Cloudflyer a snappier feel and enhances the responsive ride created by the Helion foam.
“While these shoes feel supportive and structured, they’re still lightweight enough to pick up the pace,” says one reviewer.
Zoned Mesh Upper Creates Comfortable Fit

Like all On running shoes, the Cloudflyer sports a sleek, minimalist design and quality construction with On’s signature CloudTec midsole.
A zoned mesh upper creates different characteristics across the top of the shoe, and an accommodating toe box meets a secure midfoot and heel.
“I am a big fan of the spacious toe box,” says one reviewer.
Designers covered the Cloudflyer in a cushioned engineered mesh upper that’s comfortable and flexible.
Plus, different zones of mesh across the upper enhance flexibility further along with an open-patterned mesh on the toe box to vent heat. A tighter weave wraps the midfoot for added structure.
Even though the mesh changes from the forefoot to the midfoot, the inside of the shoe is soft and smooth. A cushy internal bootie lines the inside of the shoe, which adds a little bit of plushness throughout.
A padded tongue sewed into the bootie helps keep debris out and adds a cushioned feel. From the moment you step in, the Cloudflyer feels built for comfort.
“The tongue is plush and padded, and the heel collar tapers out ever so slightly to avoid any rubbing,” one reviewer says.
The heel of the Cloudflyer offers supportive structure and a solid design.
An external heel counter wraps around the back of the shoe to create a rigid heel cup, and it blends cleanly into the overall design of the shoe—the heel counter creates a clean line with the two-tone midsole.
“The heel structure is stiff enough to provide support without being constricting,” says one reviewer.
Using a rigid heel counter helps create a locked-in fit. An extra lace hole at the top of the shoe lets you use marathon lacing (also called heel-lock lacing) if you have a narrow heel or experience any slipping.
“Despite having a thin heel, the heel tab is supportive and snug but not too restrictive,” one reviewer says.
The Cloudflyer has an accommodating fit from heel to toe, which makes it comfortable for longer runs.
Reviewers say the midfoot has plenty of width, and the tight mesh weave provides good structure to really lock down the laces. Like the midfoot, the toe box is also roomy. There’s enough space to let your feet relax naturally, and the looser mesh pattern stretches to conform to the unique shape of your foot.
The Bottom Line
The updated On Cloudflyer is a well-rounded performer that gives you versatility for your training.
“They’re light, responsive, and look good with every step,” says one reviewer.
Helion foam provides a lightweight ride that protects you from the pavement, and a dynamic mesh upper offers stretch in the toe box and support in the midfoot.
On’s unique CloudTec technology underfoot creates a stable transition and gives the shoe a supportive feel.
“These shoes are perfect for those seeking support mixed with speed. I would recommend these shoes for easy runs and long runs. The fact that they’re so firm and light also make them a great option for the gym,” one reviewer says.
Whether you’re a new runner progressing quickly through training or you’re an experienced racer with a PR on the line, the On Cloudflyer is a capable and versatile trainer partner.