1. Technical Specifications
In recent years, Swiss brand On Running has made impressive strides in the super shoe segment. If the original Cloudboom Strike laid the foundation for their transition to PEBA-based foams, the Cloudboom Strike 2 (v2) proves that On can go toe-to-toe with giants like Nike, Saucony, and ASICS on the half and full marathon circuit.
Here is how the Cloudboom Strike 2 stacks up against the v1:
- Weight: My US Men’s 8 weighs a staggering 191g (215g for a US 10). On managed to shed about 10g compared to the v1 (201g for a US 8), which is a significant weight reduction.
- Stack Height: Maxes out at the legal limit of 39.5mm in the heel and 34.5mm in the forefoot. The v1 featured 39.5mm in the heel and 36.3mm in the forefoot.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: Increased from the v1’s 3.2mm to a more balanced 5mm, which takes noticeable pressure off the Achilles.
- Midsole Foam: Features the new Helion™ HF PEBA, which is 15% lighter and significantly softer than the firmer foam found in the v1.
- Cushioning Geometry: Shifted from traditional hollow CloudTec tubes to the flexible, grooved CloudTec Sphere™ pods in the forefoot.
- Carbon Plate: Equipped with a flexible, spoon-shaped Speedboard® rather than the stiff, flat plate of the predecessor.
- Sockliner: A thick PEBA foam sockliner sits directly above the carbon plate, outperforming the standard PEBA insole of the v1.
- Upper: Features the ultra-breathable Leno Weave mesh (with a laceless LightSpray option also available).
- MSRP: On listened to feedback, dropping the price from $280 to $250.
2. Road Feel and Performance
Right out of the box, the weight was the first shock—or lack thereof. At 191g, it feels like nothing on the feet, yet it maintains that signature Swiss-engineered structural integrity.
The initial step-in feel is plush, thanks to that thick PEBA sockliner sitting atop the carbon plate. Unlike some race shoes that feel harsh or aggressive underfoot, the Strike 2 is surprisingly smooth. The vibrant “Hulk” colorway adds to the high-tech, futuristic aesthetic.
After 80km of testing—including tempo runs, marathon-pace long runs, and casual strolls—the difference from the v1 is night and day. The new Helion HF foam absorbs impact brilliantly and provides a snappy, energetic return, completely eliminating the stiff, brick-like feel of the original.
3. Fit and Lockdown
Standing 1m65 and 57kg with a 25.5cm foot, I found my standard US Men’s 8 (41 EU) to be a perfect fit. There’s about a thumb’s width of space in the toe box, providing plenty of room to prevent black toenails on descents or long efforts.
Unlike the snug, aggressive fit of the Nike Vaporfly or ASICS Metaspeed, the Cloudboom Strike 2 feels more accommodating. The slight flare in the toe box makes this a friendlier option for runners with wider forefeet.
As for lockdown, the Leno Weave mesh creates a slight ripple when tightened on my narrower feet, but the pillow-padded tongue ensures there’s no lace bite or irritation. The cupped heel collar holds the ankle securely, fixing the heel slippage issues seen in the v1.
4. Cushion: Helion HF PEBA
The chemical upgrade to the Helion™ HF PEBA is the star of the show. While the v1 was criticized for being too firm, the v2 is undeniably softer while retaining a springy, resilient bounce. When I strike the ground, the foam compresses and immediately rebounds, effectively absorbing impact and sparing my legs during high-mileage efforts.
The standout feature is the architecture: placing the thick PEBA sockliner directly above the carbon Speedboard. This provides a layer of protective plushness before the energy return kicks in, making the shoe significantly more comfortable for the later stages of a marathon.
5. Stability
Super shoes with a 39.5mm stack height are often unstable, especially in corners. The Cloudboom Strike 2 handles this well for three reasons:
- Wide Base: The forefoot platform is flared outward, creating a stable foundation.
- CloudTec Sphere™: Unlike hollow tubes that can collapse unevenly, these grooved, circular pods distribute forces both vertically and horizontally.
- 5mm Drop: The increased drop reduces stress on the Achilles and calves, keeping me centered even as my form breaks down in the final miles.
6. Ride and Rocker
The spoon-shaped Speedboard works in harmony with the aggressive rocker geometry, rolling the foot forward naturally. The transition from midfoot to toe-off is seamless.
Crucially, this design helps when you’re fatigued. The CloudTec Sphere pods in the forefoot act as a launchpad, allowing for a flexible toe-off that doesn’t require excessive calf strength to initiate, saving your legs for the finish line.
7. Upper and Outsole
The Leno Weave mesh is essentially a high-performance screen door—incredibly breathable and perfect for hot, humid climates. Strategic heat-pressed overlays prevent the upper from stretching out over time. The gusseted tongue and padded collar provide a secure, locked-in feel.
The outsole rubber is thin but strategically placed, covering high-wear areas in the forefoot and heel. It’s grippy on wet asphalt and feels durable enough to last 500–600km.
8. Walking and Styling
Thanks to the 5mm drop and wide base, these are surprisingly comfortable for walking. They don’t feel awkward or unstable during recovery walks.
- Height Boost: The nearly 40mm stack height gives a natural 4cm height boost, offering a sleek, tall profile.
- Styling: Pair them with technical shorts and a tank for an athletic look, or match them with jogger pants for a modern, futuristic streetwear aesthetic.
9. Who is this for?
Runners under 60kg (like me):
- Fast Pace (3:45–4:45/km): Peak performance. The lower body weight still generates enough compression to activate the foam without bottoming out.
- Moderate Pace (5:00–6:00/km): Great for marathon-pace long runs.
- Recovery Pace (6:30+/km): The carbon plate makes them feel a bit stiff; not the best choice for pure recovery days.
Runners over 60kg (65kg–80kg+):
- Fast Pace: Outstanding. Your weight will compress the foam and pods more deeply, unlocking maximum energy return.
- Moderate/Slow Pace: The wide base provides excellent stability for long runs, protecting joints from fatigue.
10. Verdict and Value
This shoe is not for you if:
- You want that deep, “sink-into-it” mushy softness of the Alphafly v3.
- You are a heavy heel striker who prefers a high 8-10mm drop.
- You need a dedicated easy-day trainer.
Value for Money (P/P): While the price drop to $250 is appreciated, it’s still a high investment. At full price, the value proposition is average. However, I highly recommend waiting for 40-50% off sales. Once discounted, the Cloudboom Strike 2 becomes a “P/P monster”—top-tier PEBA, a carbon plate, and 600km of durability for the price of a standard daily trainer.
11. Final Rating
On has finally nailed the super shoe formula. It’s smoother, softer, and more stable than the v1.
- Design & Aesthetics: 9.2/10
- Cushion & Energy Return: 9.3/10
- Racing Performance: 9.4/10
- Versatility: 8.5/10
- P/P at Full Price: 6.0/10
- P/P at 40-50% Off: 9.5/10
- Overall Rating: 8.8/10
