Every time I test an On shoe, I’m impressed by the classic color schemes and sophisticated design, and I feel the same about the Cloudswift 3. On leans heavily into marketing this shoe for city running, emphasizing the shoe’s cushion and energy return as ideal for hitting the pavement and zig-zagging across sidewalks.
The subtle rocker shape and 3D heel padding provide a smooth landing and natural spring forward that helps the miles go by quickly. And the reimagined upper creates a sock-like fit that feels secure and natural.
The Cloudswift 3 offers a firmer ride, which is noticeably different from the Cloudrunner 2. Curious since that’s a light stability shoe, which is usually going to be firmer.
Plus, the chic design and comfort of the Cloudswift 3 make it a viable option as a running/lifestyle shoe combo.
Who is it Good For?
Who is the On Cloudswift 3 a good fit for? Let’s break it down using a few common categories:
- Wide Feet: The Cloudswift 3 runs narrow and isn’t available in wide..
- Heavier Runners: The shoe offers moderate cushion and a firm ride. Consider the On Cloudmonster as just slightly softer alternatives!
- Long Runs: This shoe is best suited for shorter runs.
- Front of the Pack: We think the Cloudswift is going to appeal more to casual runners.
The Cloudswift 3 is a fashionable trainer that offers a firm and responsive ride. You can rock them in anything from a 5K to a 10K, or sport them running errands or on a brewery tour.
On Cloudswift 3 Overview
The Cloudswift 3 is a solid trainer for shorter runs that can easily double as a lifestyle shoe.
Its classic coloring and design enhancements indicate On is moving the needle in the right direction. Let’s have a look-see at what they changed since the last version of the Cloudswift!
If you’re a fan of the Cloudswift 2, you’ll love the performance boosts and upgrades packed into the Cloudswift 3.
The Cloudswift 3’s upper showcases a more structured design with tech-tape mesh, delivering enhanced support and a touch of added stability. It offers a sock-like fit while providing gentle, secure lockdown. This is a big step up from the Cloudswift 2’s upper which was more malleable and had a looser fit.
On re-imagined the sole of the Cloudswift 3, as the individual tubular cells (Cloudtec) are slightly wider and have less of a gap between them. Not only does this deliver a smoother ride but now you’re less likely to pick up pebbles during your run. Plus the outsole on the Cloudswift 3 has been further enhanced with a more durable rubber compound for better traction on wet and dry surfaces.
The midsole boasts upgraded Cloudtec with a new dual-density Helion Superfoam that promises a more cushioned and responsive ride than its predecessor. Sandwiched between that fancy foam is an updated speedboard to help propel you forward in every stride.
To summarize, the Cloudswift 3 is a solid evolution. Updates galore and a much smoother ride.
On Cloudswift 3 Specs
- Weight: Men 10.2 oz|Women 9 oz
- Heel Drop: 5mm
- Stack Height: 33mm
- Not Available in wide
- Available in 7 different colorways
- Available now on on.com $160
On Cloudswift 3 Fit
The fit is true to size and feels normal overall, though, like many On shoes, it leans slightly narrow. While this works well for me, it may not be the best option for runners with wider feet.
The upper is my favorite part of the fit. The tech-tape mesh provides a sock-like feel that’s incredibly natural and supportive. The tongue is integrated into the mesh upper so seamlessly that you barely notice it’s there. It’s refreshing to see this done well, as the tongue is often an element that shoe companies struggle to get right.
The 3D heel padding is a delight, providing shock absorption and lockdown. But the midfoot and the toe box are quite snug, which is one of the reasons I don’t love this shoe for runs longer than 6-7 miles.
Similar Shoes to On Cloudswift 3
- Adidas Ultraboost — (It’s a favorite among many, maybe not our top pick)
- Hoka Mach — (We think it’s softer in the best way, while still being fast)
- Lululemon Beyond Feel — (Another more casual shoe that an also handle 3-6 milers)
Cloudswift 3 Feel
I have firm feelings about the Cloudswift 3, which makes sense because firm is the most fitting word to describe the feel of this shoe.
Earlier I called out the heel padding of the shoe, which is fantastic but doesn’t jive with the rest of the shoe’s feel. The mid and forefoot are incredibly rigid, to the point where impact is a little jarring. The slight rocker shape of the shoe provides slight forward propulsion, but I didn’t feel much energy return or pop from the midsole.
As it’s marketed for urban running, I stuck solely to concrete while testing the Cloudswift 3. I enjoyed the first few miles of every run in this shoe. But my legs and feet started to fatigue around the hour mark (which isn’t typical for me) so it’s safe to say they didn’t gel well with this shoe.
The Cloudswift 3 is not one I’d recommend as an all-around trainer, but instead, one suited for short, easy efforts up to say 6 to 8 miles. Or you can always rock them in a casual setting.
Who should pass on the On Cloudswift 3?
- Wide-Footed Runners: this is one of the few On shoes that isn’t available in wide. I have narrower feet and didn’t find much extra room in this shoe.
- Heavier runners or those who prefer a lot of cushion in their shoes
- Those looking for a higher volume everyday trainer
- Runners who prefer a lighter shoe
And there you have it! I hope this On Cloudswift 3 review helps you make a decision! I’m not going to love every shoe I run in, but I hope sharing my thoughts helps you find the shoe that’s right for YOU!
Time to run.
[rttf_rating]
Because this isn’t a shoe we’d recommend for everyone as a daily trainer, it dropped our overall score. We love the casual look and some will appreciate the firmer feel, but we’d lean more towards the On Cloudsurfer 2 for a shoe that’s both casual and great for daily runs.
</b>Our Verdict<b>
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