The On Running Cloudswift 3 packs a firm ride that might surprise you. Tests show it’s 65% firmer than the Nike Pegasus 40, with a hardness rating of 29.1 HA. This stylish trainer works great for city running and comes with a price tag of $159.95.

Our tests gave the Cloudswift 3 high marks for breathability – a solid 4 out of 5. The shoe tends to run small based on feedback from 165 runners, so you might want to size up. At 10.2 oz (290g) for men’s size 9, it sports a moderate 5mm heel drop. The shoe feels responsive and works best for shorter runs. The Cloudswift 3 AD version cushions your feet on city streets well, but some runners say it needs more protection for long walks and standing. Road running tests show it has some of the lowest friction scores in its class. We put this versatile trainer through its paces in real-life conditions to get the full picture.

First Impressions and Initial Fit

The On Running Cloudswift 3 box gives you more than just new running shoes. These sleek trainers show off clever design touches that highlight the brand’s eye for detail before you even try them on.

Unboxing the On Running Cloudswift 3

A monotone cloudscape graphic inside the box sets up the perfect backdrop for the shoes. This artistic touch shows off the brand’s identity and style right away. Inside, you’ll find an owner’s card with your shoes’ unique ID number that lets you sign up online to stay connected with the brand.

On Running takes the environment seriously with their packaging. The box is made from 100% recycled cardboard with water-based inks only. This green approach lines up with what athletic wear companies’ customers want these days.

The Cloudswift 3 catches your eye no matter which color you pick. The Black/White version really stands out with its bold, modern look that many call one of the best-looking in On Running’s collection. The multi-tonal patterns on the knitted upper make these shoes look great whether you’re running or just hanging out.

True to size or size up?

The sizing story has mixed reviews. A big survey with 165 votes shows the Cloudswift 3 runs slightly small. So some experts say you should go up half a size, especially because of how the bootie and sock-like upper fit.

Yet some reviewers say it fits just right. Fleet Feet’s testers with different foot shapes didn’t have to change sizes. This tells us your foot shape might matter more than any general sizing issues.

People with narrow to standard width feet should feel good in the normal width from heel to toe. But there’s no wide version available, which might be tough for runners who need more room.

How the upper feels on foot

The Cloudswift 3’s upper uses smart 360° engineered knit with special zones that shape themselves to your foot. This one-piece design keeps your foot locked in place so well that it won over skeptics.

The tech-tape mesh feels “incredibly natural and supportive” like a sock. You barely notice the tongue because it blends right into the mesh upper. The heel area’s padding feels extra soft and comfy.

Large fabric “cages” add strength to the soft knitted upper. These do three things: support your midfoot when turning fast, spread out pressure better, and give you a handy spot between the cage and knit to tuck away extra laces.

The heel counter bends more than usual for On shoes but still holds your foot steady. Extra heel padding keeps everything secure, and a pull-tab makes the shoes easy to put on.

The fit runs a bit snug overall. But the stretchy, sock-like upper gives enough to keep medium-width feet comfortable.

The Cloudswift 3’s upper hits a sweet spot: it fits like a glove while staying comfortable and secure. Most runners looking for a responsive city training shoe will love how these feel from day one.

Performance on the Road

The Cloudswift 3 gives serious runners a unique experience that stands out from other shoes in its class. You’ll notice On’s signature CloudTec system right away. The ride feels different from anything else once you start running.

Cushioning and firmness explained

These shoes lean toward the firm side of cushioning. Lab tests show they’re substantially firmer than current standards, with a hardness rating of 29.1 HA. That’s 65% firmer than the popular Nike Pegasus 40. The firmness comes from On’s Dual-Density Helion superfoam that blends rigid and soft elements to create a balanced feel.

The TPU-injected Speedboard sits at the shoe’s core. This technology helps smooth out heel-to-toe transitions while adding stiffness to the overall ride. The Speedboard works with CloudTec pods – those hollow elements you see on the outsole – to create On’s signature cushioning system.

Runners in our tests could feel the pod-like outsole clearly. Many noticed it most under the forefoot, and some said it made them “feel faster”. This direct connection to the ground is exactly what On wanted with the Cloudswift 3’s design.

Energy return and ride feel

The shoe’s energy return numbers are modest: 51.9% in the heel and 57.2% in the forefoot. These figures fall short of what you’d expect at this price point, where 60% or higher would be ideal.

Runners describe the ride as rolling forward smoothly. The substantial heel bevel and midline groove create a rocking chair effect. This helps you move through your stride efficiently. The Speedboard’s stiffness adds to this fluid motion but reduces flexibility.

The CloudTec midsole showed an unexpected effect. Some runners found their cadence actually slowed down when they got tired, instead of helping them move forward. This happened most often when running form deteriorated during longer runs.

How it handles short vs. long runs

Short distances are where the Cloudswift 3 shines. The forefoot has just 79 SA of cushioning compared to 113 SA in the heel. That’s not enough padding for longer runs. Many reviewers agreed, with one saying, “I felt every step of my run and not in a good way”.

The shoe excels in quick, short runs at moderate to faster paces. Its firm platform responds well during sessions under 6-8 miles. Forefoot strikers get the most benefit from the shoe’s design. Most runners start feeling uncomfortable around the hour mark.

The Cloudswift 3 works best for tempo work and fitness runs rather than long steady efforts. You’ll get the most out of it during 3-5 mile runs, before the firmness becomes an issue.

Urban running vs. treadmill use

On designed the Cloudswift 3 for city streets and concrete surfaces. The outsole grip worked better than expected on dry asphalt and cement.

Lab tests revealed some concerning results. The shoe scored among the lowest in friction tests with a SATRA TM144 result of just 0.25. Urban runners should be careful – these shoes might be risky on wet or slick surfaces.

Treadmill running tells a different story. The controlled surface eliminates grip problems. Many testers preferred indoor tempo runs to outdoor sessions on hard surfaces. The controlled indoor temperature also means you won’t have to worry about how the Helion foam reacts to weather changes.

Cold weather poses another challenge. The Cloudswift 3 becomes 25.7% firmer and 77.2% stiffer in cold conditions. That’s much worse than the average running shoe’s 45.6% change. Winter runners might struggle with these shoes since they’re nowhere near as flexible in the cold.

Durability After 500 Miles

The On Running Cloudswift 3 reveals its true colors after 500 miles of testing. My extensive use of these shoes has brought both their strengths and weaknesses to light.

Outsole wear and tear

The On Cloudswift 3 comes with a surprisingly thin 2.9 mm outsole, and much of the foam remains exposed. The company chose this design to cut down weight since other parts of the shoe add bulk. On tackled potential durability risks by using a non-abrasive rubber compound. The standard version measures 85.3 HC, while the Cloudswift 3 AD reaches up to 89 HC.

The outsole proved tough on city streets during our tests. The rubber outsole managed to keep good grip even in wet conditions without any slipping. The exposed midsole still needs extra care, especially when you run on hot surfaces or rocky paths.

Upper material breakdown

Different versions of the upper tell different stories about durability. The regular Cloudswift 3 stood up well to wear and passed lab tests with minimal toebox damage. The AD version didn’t fare as well – it fell apart during similar testing.

Most shoes break down near the pinky toe area. The synthetic upper starts peeling away after normal use. This seems odd for such an expensive shoe and hints at possible manufacturing differences between batches.

Midsole compression and bounce loss

The dual-density Helion superfoam starts off bouncy but loses its spring over time. The CloudTec midsole wears down especially near the toes, which reduces the shoe’s energy return.

Your weight affects how fast this happens. Lighter runners might not notice much change in bounce, while heavier runners put more stress on the foam and see faster wear.

How the CloudTec holds up over time

The CloudTec design – those small tubes that hit the ground – shows mixed results for durability. These tubes work great at first by absorbing impact and pushing runners forward, but they become less effective with use.

The shoe has improved from older On models with its redesigned outsole pods and center channel that collect much less debris. You won’t spend time picking rocks from your shoes anymore – something regular Cloudswift 3 users will love.

Your running surface plays a big role in how long the CloudTec lasts. City runners who stick to sidewalks and asphalt see better results than trail runners. This makes sense since On markets it as a city running shoe, so adjust your expectations based on where you plan to run.

Comfort and Versatility in Daily Use

The On Running Cloudswift 3 proves itself as more than just a running shoe. Let’s see how this versatile companion handles everyday activities.

Is it good for walking and errands?

The Cloudswift 3 makes an excellent walking shoe thanks to its stylish looks and rockered design. People take these shoes everywhere – from grocery stores to brewery tours. The firm cushioning might feel limiting on long runs, but it becomes a real advantage when walking and standing. Soft, squishy midsoles often lead to tired feet during extended static activities.

You’ll notice how the rockered shape helps you roll forward smoothly and walk without effort. The wider platform under your feet adds stability when standing still.

How it performs in the gym

Gym lovers will find plenty to like about the Cloudswift 3’s versatility. The firm platform and secure fit work great for HIIT workouts. One reviewer shared, “They gave me plenty of energy when I was doing burpees and held my foot in when I was doing side to side movement”.

The shoe’s low stack height gives you stability during cross-training. The rounded heel profile makes these shoes less suitable for serious weightlifting, though light training feels comfortable enough.

Breathability and all-day wear

The Cloudswift 3 scored 4 out of 5 in lab tests for breathability, making it great for all-day wear. Light shines right through the ventilation holes in the toe box. Your feet stay cool even on hot days, which means you can wear these shoes for hours.

The stretchy upper adapts as your feet swell throughout the day – a vital feature for lasting comfort. The heel’s pull-tab makes these shoes quick to slip on and off.

On Running Cloudswift 3 AD vs. standard version

The Cloudswift 3 AD (All Day) version targets casual wear as your “technologically advanced stroll partner”. This version focuses on walking around town instead of running.

The AD weighs more at 11.15 oz/316g (about 12% above average) and features a different cushioning setup. Both models use dual-density Helion superfoam, but the AD version puts more emphasis on absorbing shocks from city streets.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Buy This Shoe

The On Running Cloudswift 3 might be right for you, but that depends on your running style and what you need from a shoe. Our testing revealed which runners will love this shoe and who should look at other options.

Best for casual runners and commuters

The Cloudswift 3 works best for city runners who want their shoes to look good and perform well. It’s perfect for people who run 3-5 miles a few times a week rather than hardcore daily runners. You’ll love this shoe if you:

• Do tempo workouts and fitness runs where you need quick response over soft cushioning
• Live in the city and run on concrete while wanting to look stylish
• Need a shoe that works for morning runs and looks good at the office

The On Cloudswift 3 AD model is built for working professionals who need comfort all day long. Its cushioning setup makes it great for people who spend hours on their feet but don’t focus on pure running performance.

Not ideal for wide feet or long-distance runners

The On Cloudswift 3 has some clear drawbacks. Runners with wide feet won’t find it comfortable because it runs narrow and doesn’t come in wide sizes. The thin forefoot cushioning (79 SA versus 113 SA in the heel) can make runs over 6-8 miles uncomfortable for many users.

Cold weather is another issue. The shoe gets much stiffer in cold conditions – 77.2% more rigid. This is a big deal as it means that most running shoes only get about 45.6% stiffer in similar weather.

Comparing to Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer

The Cloudswift 3 fills a specific role in On’s lineup. The Cloudmonster gives you more cushioning to protect against impact, which helps on recovery runs and longer distances. The Cloudsurfer offers a more traditional running experience that works well at any distance.

The Cloudswift 3 is one of On’s firmer, more responsive shoes. It trades some comfort to give you better ground feel and urban agility. If you like On’s unique look but need more cushioning, the Cloudmonster would be a better choice, especially as you run more miles.

The On Cloudswift 3 is perfect for runners who want responsive feel, good looks, and versatility in their activities. Just keep in mind its limits with high mileage and tough weather conditions.

Summing all up

The On Running Cloudswift 3 has proven itself as a unique performer in the running shoe market after 500 miles of intense testing. Without doubt, this good-looking trainer works best in urban settings where short runs and style matter most. Many city runners love its responsive firm ride for distances under 6 miles—which tests show is 65% harder than the Nike Pegasus 40.

All the same, longer runs expose this firmness as a weakness. The forefoot doesn’t offer enough protection for extended mileage, with just 79 SA cushioning compared to 113 SA in the heel. On top of that, cold weather makes the shoe much stiffer, which creates problems for winter running.

Durability results tell a mixed story. The outsole performs well on city surfaces, but CloudTec pods compress over time, especially when you have heavier runners. The upper’s breathability remains impressive throughout use, earning 4 out of 5 in breathability tests.

The sort of thing I love about the Cloudswift 3 is how well it performs beyond running. That firm platform limiting long-distance comfort actually helps stability during gym workouts and daily wear. These shoes blend naturally from morning runs to office settings, which appeals to casual runners who value both style and function.

The Cloudswift 3 works better as a specialized tool than an all-purpose trainer. Short-distance urban runners will find plenty to love, even with the premium $159.95 price tag. Serious mileage runners or those needing soft cushioning should check out On’s Cloudmonster instead. The Cloudswift 3 shines exactly where it should—right where performance meets urban style—but runners need to know its limits before buying.

Here are some FAQs about On Running Cloudswift 3:

Is Cloudswift 3 good for running?

The on running cloudswift 3 is specifically designed as a performance running shoe with responsive cushioning. Many runners find the on running cloudswift 3 women’s model particularly good for tempo runs and daily training. The on running cloudswift 3 ad highlights its engineered mesh upper and CloudTec cushioning system for optimal running comfort.

What is the difference between Cloudswift 3 and Ultraboost?

While both are premium running shoes, the on running cloudswift 3 features On’s distinctive CloudTec pods rather than Ultraboost’s full-length Boost foam. The on running cloudswift 3 grey colorway showcases its sleek design that differs from Ultraboost’s bulkier silhouette. The on running cloudswift 3 ad women’s emphasizes its lightweight construction compared to Ultraboost’s more maximalist cushioning.

What is the difference between Cloudswift and Cloudflow?

The on running cloudswift 3 offers more cushioning and support than the lighter, more flexible Cloudflow model. The on running cloudswift 3 women’s version provides greater stability for longer runs compared to the Cloudflow’s racing-oriented design. While both appear in the on running cloudswift 3 ad campaigns, they serve different running needs and preferences.

Is Cloudswift good for running women’s?

Yes, the on running cloudswift 3 women’s model receives positive reviews from female runners for its comfortable fit and responsive ride. The on running cloudswift 3 ad women’s highlights features like the women-specific last and supportive midsole. Many women find the on running cloudswift 3 grey and other color options both stylish and functional for regular running.

Is Cloudswift 3 good for plantar fasciitis?

The on running cloudswift 3 provides decent arch support that may help some runners with plantar fasciitis. However, the on running cloudswift 3 women’s or men’s versions aren’t specifically designed as medical footwear for this condition. The on running cloudswift 3 ad doesn’t market it as a solution for foot pain, though its cushioning may offer relief for mild cases.

Is Cloudswift 3 waterproof?

No, the on running cloudswift 3 features breathable mesh uppers rather than waterproof materials. The on running cloudswift 3 grey and other color options use engineered mesh that allows air flow but isn’t water-resistant. The on running cloudswift 3 ad women’s highlights its ventilation properties rather than wet weather protection.

Are Cloudswift shoes comfortable?

Most wearers find the on running cloudswift 3 exceptionally comfortable for both running and casual wear. The on running cloudswift 3 women’s model receives praise for its plush tongue and heel collar that enhance comfort. The on running cloudswift 3 ad emphasizes its “running on clouds” sensation from the unique cushioning system.

How do Cloudswift 3 fit?

The on running cloudswift 3 generally fits true to size with a medium-width toe box. The on running cloudswift 3 women’s version may feel slightly narrower than standard women’s shoes. The on running cloudswift 3 ad recommends ordering your usual size, though runners with wide feet might need to size up.

Do On Cloudswift stretch?

The on running cloudswift 3 upper features some natural give but doesn’t significantly stretch over time. The on running cloudswift 3 women’s engineered mesh adapts to foot shape without losing structure. The on running cloudswift 3 grey maintains its form well, as shown in long-term wear tests featured in product reviews.