Best On Cloud Trail Running Shoes In 2025

Welcome to my roundup of the best On Cloud trail running shoes. I’ve been reviewing On Cloud shoes for many years, from their very first iterations to their latest innovations. This roundup focuses on my top picks for different types of trail running — no ranked order, just the best for different needs.

So whether you’re hitting technical terrain, running ultras, mixing road and trail, or racing hard, I’ve got you covered with this list BUT if you have any questions still, please reach out in the comments below.

⚡️ Some related running shoe roundups:

• Best On Running Shoes [ROAD]
• The Best Trail Running Shoes [ALL BRANDS & CATEGORIES]

Best for all-mountain trail running

On Cloudvista 2

The On Cloudvista 2 is my top pick for all-mountain trail running. It’s an upgrade from the original, and fits true to size with a medium width. Read my full review.

💡 Price: $150 at On.com / Drop: 6mm / Midsole: Helion superfoam / Outsole: Missiongrip rubber / Weight: 10.2 oz (US men’s 9)

What I love:

• Improved midfoot support prevents toe slamming on steep downhills.
• Missiongrip outsole gives excellent traction and control on technical terrain.
• Responsive feel thanks to the speed board, great for flats and climbing.

What’s not so good:

• Might feel too firm for runners used to cushioned shoes.
• Heel lock could be better but easily fixed with the runner’s loop lacing method.

Best for ultra running and hiking

On Cloudultra 2

Next up, the On Cloudultra 2 is perfect for ultra running and long hikes. It’s a premium shoe at $180, offering top-notch comfort for long distances. Read my full review.

💡 Price: $180 at On.com / Drop: 6mm / Midsole: Dual-layer CloudTec pods with Helion superfoam / Outsole: Missiongrip rubber / Weight: 10.2 oz (US men’s 9)

What I love:

• Extra cushioning makes it ideal for ultra distances and extended hikes.
• Breathable upper regulates temperature during long runs.
• Great for versatile terrain, from rocky trails to smooth paths.

What’s not so good:

• The flip-release system for fit adjustment feels a bit gimmicky.
• Could use a snugger heel fit for better security on steep climbs.

Best for road-to-trail running

On Cloudsurfer Trail

If you need a shoe that transitions seamlessly between road and trail, the On Cloudsurfer Trail is your best bet. Priced at $160, it’s perfect for mixed terrain running. Read my full review.

💡 Price: $160 at On.com / Drop: 7mm / Midsole: CloudTec Phase technology / Outsole: Missiongrip rubber / Weight: 9.5 oz (US men’s 9)

What I love:

• CloudTec Phase midsole offers great cushioning and energy return.
• Lightweight feel with a snappy, bouncy ride.
• Great for combining road and light trail running.

What’s not so good:

• Shallow lugs aren’t suited for highly technical or muddy trails.
• The high stack height might feel unstable on rougher terrain.

Best for trail racing

On Cloudventure Peak 3

For trail racing, the On Cloudventure Peak 3 is the lightest and most minimal shoe in On’s trail lineup. It’s designed for speed on technical terrain, with some key upgrades in this latest version. Read my full review.

💡 Price: $160 at On.com / Drop: 4mm / Midsole: Helion foam with a split Speedboard / Outsole: MissionGrip rubber / Weight: 8.6 oz (US men’s 9)

What I love:

• Lightweight, breathable upper makes it feel like you’re not wearing shoes.
• Aggressive lugs provide excellent grip on steep trails.
• Minimal cushioning gives a responsive, fast ride for trail racing.

What’s not so good:

• The narrow outsole reduces stability on soft, uneven terrain.
• Very firm ride.
• Laces are too long and need to be double-knotted to stay secure.

Now it’s your turn! What’s your favorite On Cloud trail running shoe? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and Newsletter for more roundups and reviews like this. If you’re still unsure which shoe is right for you, let me know in the comments, and I’ll help you find the perfect match.

Thanks for reading! See you on the trails! -Alastair