On CloudUltra 3 Review | 3rd Time is (mostly) a Charm

My first run in a pair of On running shoes was a total miss, nearly 10 years ago (yikes)! They just didn’t fit my foot shape, and honestly, I wasn’t convinced their quirky “garden hose” sole design was built to last. The Cloudultra 3 feels like the perfect example of how far On has come. The On brand isn’t just still here; it’s thriving, and it has built a reputation for experimenting boldly, keeping what works, and discarding what doesn’t.

The On CloudUltra 3 makes some significant improvements over the 2, which I was eager to test on terrain that would reveal if the updates were worthwhile.

I first took them on one of my favorite local trails, which climbs nearly 1,000 feet in the first mile, featuring rocky steps, loose switchbacks, and a sketchy downhill section. It’s always the trail where I bring new shoes, because it reveals everything quickly.

The big question: could the Cloudultra 3 improve on an already well-regarded trail model? After testing them on long runs, speed days, and technical trail runs, I’d say yes, but there are a few quirks worth noting.

On CloudUltra 3 Overview

The On CloudUltra 3 still isn’t a hyper-aggressive trail shoe, but it stays true to its reputation as a long-haul partner. It still balances cushioning and stability without losing its smooth, easy ride.With a refreshed upper and some updates underfoot, it keeps much of what people liked in the Cloudultra 2 while fine-tuning a few problem areas. Of course, like any update, it introduces its own quirks, most noticeably in the midfoot fit.

But first, let’s talk about the updates.

The midsole is where you’ll feel the biggest change. On added a dual-layer Helion HF hyper foam that feels a little softer without losing the snappy responsiveness. I think it’s a game-changer foam.

It’s considered a plush cushion, but it isn’t too soft, and it protects the foot while still having a high energy return. It’s a bit of a unicorn in how it does it all.The outsole also received a welcome upgrade. On ditched the old square lugs in favor of the popular chevron pattern, which gives the grip a noticeably more secure feel on loose dirt and rocks.

I think it feels more capable on technical trails.

The upper went through a major makeover. Out went the sock-style mini gaiter and in came a well-padded heel cup that feels more supportive.

The quick-dry Leno weave upper, reinforced with TPU overlays, is tough and abrasion-resistant. It’s not like a fabric mesh that snags; this is definitely a rigid material that can take a beating.

The TPU overlays provide a little bit of splash protection around the toes and lower sides. This shoe clearly leans hot-weather ready.

It drains and dries quickly, but the ventilation holes are big enough that fine sand and “moondust” can sneak in. White sock fans, take note, dust and dirt will definitely make their way through.The trade-off with the TPU overlay is a snug midfoot.

On my left foot, I could feel the material pressing near the arch. At first, I worried it might rub, but once I started running, the sensation faded and never caused issues.

After looking into it, it seems I’m not the only one who can feel it. Like others, it wasn’t a bother unless you have a wider midfoot.

Style-wise, I’ll admit I’ve gotten used to the garden house look, and it no longer bothers me. I like the Cloudultra 3; it looks sleek, modern, and clean.

On CloudUltra 3  Fit

Fit has always been a bit of a hit-or-miss with On, but the CloudUltra 33 feels like progress. In my usual size 8, it ran true to size.

The toebox is moderately roomy, with enough space to let my toes splay without ever feeling sloppy. It’s snug enough to stay secure on off-camber trails.The midfoot fit, though, leans snug. For me, it worked, but if you’ve got wider feet, it might be too tight.

One of the experimental things On tried and then ultimately replaced is the FlipRelease lacing system.

The updated lacing (with a gusseted and padded tongue) holds the foot securely without creating excessive tension, and there’s sufficient lace length for a proper heel lock.

I couldn’t use the lace keeper with that setup, but someone with narrower feet might find it handy.

On CloudUltra Feel

With a name like “Cloud,” I’ll admit I was expecting something soft and cotton candy–like underfoot. That’s not what the On CloudUltra 3 delivers, and honestly, I’m okay with that.It has plenty of cushion, but it leans more toward stable than squishy. The updated dual-layer Helion foam feels slightly springy without being overly soft.

With a 6mm drop, there’s also a smooth roll from heel to toe that helps make it efficient on both climbs and runnable sections. While it doesn’t give a high-energy “pop,” it kept my legs and feet feeling fresh on my long runs.

On my climbs, the Cloudultra 3 felt responsive enough to keep me moving, and on descents, it smoothed things out while still retaining grip. I think one of my favorite things about the 3 is how nicely it absorbs impact on downhills.

In fact, at one point on a technical downhill, I got lost in thought and didn’t even think about my shoes or slipping. The 3’s just blended in with my feet. Which really is the goal of a shoe, to be good enough to be forgotten about.

Another one of my favorite updates on the Cloudultra 3 is the lugs. The chevron-style Missiongrip lugs bite better into loose dirt and feel more confident on rocks compared to the previous square design.

They’re not the deepest lugs in the game, but for mixed terrain and long runs, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they performed.

Looking for more running shoe tips?

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