Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 104, March 2018 | Page 39

On Cloud
Category: Lightweight Neutral Cushioning (Active Shoe)
Key features: CloudTec sole, Speedboard plate, 3D Air Mesh upper, cushioned sockliner,
speed-lace system (additional traditional laces included)
Wear-testing notes: When you add the CloudTec technology of this shoe to its lightweight construction
and flexible midfoot, you get an impressive package, and the roomy toe-box just enhances the comfort and
enjoyment of running in them. However, it’s the full-length Speedboard plate insert that is particularly noticeable in
ensuring the great ‘springiness’ of the shoe. That really helps with toe-off and makes the shoe feel really fast.
This latest generation of the Cloud, while the first to reach South Africa, offers an even smoother ride than earlier
versions, thanks to some structural reshaping of the cloud elements, including increased grip pads on the outsole,
and an updated central channel between the clouds. What hasn’t changed is the awesome step-in comfort of the
shoe, and the V-molded heel adds to this secure comfort. Furthermore, the upper features 3D air mesh that ensures
breathability, and the shoe also has a non-slip lining that holds the foot securely, plus reflective flashes increase
visibility in low-light conditions.
Weight: 230g (Men’s US 8.5) & 185g (Women’s US 7)
Recommended Retail Price: R2399 (Men) & R2399 (Women)
Heel Drop: 6mm
In Store Date: Since late 2017
Colours: Black/White (Men) & Black/White (Women). Also available in All Black model (men’s available, and women’s to be released in June).
On Cloud X
Category: Lightweight Neutral Cushioning
Key features: CloudTec sole, Speedboard plate, performance upper, dual-density
sockliner, seamless tongue
Wear-testing notes: The Cloud X offers great versatility for runners, but unlike other shoes marketed
as “cross-over models,” there are no compromises when it comes to running in them. The Cloud X was developed
from the Cloud, and offers a bit more cushioning and durability, and an even snappier performance that makes the
shoe great for tempo speedwork or track workouts. This shoe is “running remixed.”
Underfoot, the Cloud X offers more CloudTec elements with additional forefoot rubber for better traction as well
as more outer side support for under-pronating feet. Furthermore, the angled rearfoot CloudTec elements have
smaller open channels for a bit more lateral movement to increase cushioning, and a slight narrowing of the centre
decoupling line, to help prevent stones from getting jammed in there.
Some changes see the bungie speed-lacing system replaced by conventional lacing, and the finer gauge mesh
upper is noticeably comfortable, secure and cool, with the one-piece saddle design of the upper and heel-cup
really holding the foot securely. This is the ideal 10km, 21km and gym/cross-trainer shoe.
Weight: 229g (Men’s US 8.5) & 189g (Women’s US 7)
Heel Drop: 6mm
Colours: Neon Grey (Men) & Red/Flash (Women)
Recommended Retail Price: R2680 (Men) & R2680 (Women)
In Store Date: Since late 2017
On Cloudsurfer
Category: Stable Neutral Performance
Key features: CloudTec sole, Speedboard plate, knitted upper, dual-

density sockliner, low-profile tongue
Wear-testing notes: While many On models are lightweight and can be considered racing/training
hybrids, the Cloudsurfer is more akin to a conventional neutral cushioned trainer. The midsole is soft, even though
being slightly built up for added support. It is thus a bit heavier and more built up than the other On shoes, and the
rebound rubber ensures a cushioned landing for longer training runs. This model also features the Speedboard, so
still feels fast, but just a wee bit less racy than the others.
The thin but durable knitted one-layer mesh upper offers breathable support and comfort, wrapping the foot
securely to prevent slippage. Other notable features are a thinly padded, perforated tongue to save on weight, a
protective toe-cap, and reflective inserts for low-light conditions. Testers found that the Cloudsurfer offers width in
the toe-box and runners with wider feet enjoy the comfort.
Weight: 275g (Men’s US 8.5) & 240g (Women’s US 7)
Heel Drop: 7mm
Colours: Malibu/Denim (Men) & Ink/Jade (Women)
Recommended Retail Price: R2899 (Men) & R2899 (Women)
In Store Date: Since late 2017
39