The marathon shoe arena is crowded with bouncy super foams and aggressive carbon plates, but ON’s Cloudboom Strike takes a different approach. Instead of chasing max energy return, it blends Swiss-engineered precision with a balanced ride that feels both propulsive and controlled. Designed for race day but tempting enough for speed sessions, this shoe targets runners who crave a mix of cushioning and responsiveness without the “trampoline effect.” In this ON Cloudboom Strike review, we dissect a marathon shoe designed for runners who value precision over hype. Does its blend of Swiss-engineered stability and carbon propulsion justify the $280 price tag? Let’s dig in.
Key specifications:
Brand: On
Model: Cloudboom Strike
Weight: 8.5 oz (241g) for US 9 model
Heel: 39.5 mm
Toe: 35.5 mm
Heel drop: 4 mm
Carbon plate: Yes
Price of ON Cloudboom Strike
Price: $280 USD
Release date: September 1, 2024
Upper Review: Snug, Secure, and Breathable
The Cloudboom Strike’s upper is all business. A single-layer engineered mesh wraps the foot like a second skin—thin, almost translucent, and dotted with laser-cut perforations for airflow. It’s surprisingly durable, avoiding the fragile feel of some race-day uppers. The gusseted tongue stays put without bulk, and ON’s signature “wing” eyelets create a lockdown that hugs the midfoot.
Around the heel, a rigid external counter and plush internal padding strike a rare balance: secure enough to prevent slippage during sharp turns, yet soft enough to avoid blistering. Runners with wider feet might find the toe box snug, but the mesh stretches subtly over time. One gripe? The laces are slick and prone to loosening—swap them for elastic Lock Laces if you’re picky.
Midsole Review: Where CloudTec Meets Carbon
ON’s Helion Hyper foam takes center stage here. Unlike the marshmallow-soft midsoles dominating the market, this one feels firmer at first touch but softens intelligently under load. The redesigned CloudTec Phase pods compress vertically to cushion impact, then snap back to propel you forward. Paired with a full-length carbon Speedboard, the result is a ride that’s more “controlled pop” than “wild rebound.”
The rocker geometry is subtle but effective. During testing, marathoners praised how the shoe transitions smoothly from heel to toe, reducing calf strain over long miles. The removable insole adds a touch of customization, though most testers kept it in for a plush underfoot feel. Warning: The high stack demands some ankle stability. New runners or heel strikers might need a break-in period to adapt.
Outsole Review: Grip That Sticks (Mostly)
ON ditched the traditional rubber slab for a strategic approach. Exposed Helion Hyper foam forms the bulk of the outsole, with carbon rubber pads glued to high-wear zones. The result? A grippy, flexible tread that claws into pavement, even on damp roads. While not as rugged as a daily trainer’s outsole, it held up through 100+ miles in testing with minimal wear. The CloudTec pods double as traction points, flexing naturally with your stride. However, gravel or muddy paths are a no-go—this is a road warrior through and through.
Who Should Buy This Shoe?
- Marathoners and Half-Marathoners: The cushioning lasts for 26.2 miles without fading.
- Neutral Runners Seeking Precision: If you dislike overly bouncy shoes, this offers a stable, connected ride.
- Speedwork Enthusiasts: Perfect for tempo runs or intervals when you want to practice race-day feel.
Who Should Skip It?
- Overpronators: Zero stability features here.
- Daily Trainers: The price and specialized design scream “special occasions only.
Verdict
The ON Cloudboom Strike isn’t here to revolutionize racing shoes—it’s here to refine them. It trades gimmicks for a polished, reliable ride that shines over long distances. While the firm-ish midsole won’t please everyone, it’s a stealthy pick for runners who value control as much as speed. Add the breathable upper and durable outsole, and you’ve got a shoe that’s ready to tackle PRs without coddling your feet.
Just don’t expect it to double as a daily trainer. This is a specialist, and it’s priced like one (though if you’re curious about a softer, more versatile ON option, check out my Cloudsurfer 2 review for a shoe that’s built for everyday miles). If you’re hunting for a marathon shoe that feels like an extension of your stride rather than a rocket strapped to your feet, the Cloudboom Strike deserves a spot on your shortlist.