On Cloudboom Max

In the past I've struggled with the fit of On running shoes because I generally need a wide. The fit of the Cloudboom Max is easily one of On’s best yet. Many of their shoes run narrow, but the Cloudboom Max offers more space through the toe box.

The upper is built from a supportive engineered mesh that feels durable but slightly warm in high temperatures. Running in the Mojave Desert, I definitely noticed the lack of breathability, though the structure does provide a secure midfoot feel when the pace picks up. This is nitpicky and not many people will need an upper as breathable as I do, but the upper is thicker than I generally prefer. I do believe On could cut some serious weight from the shoe, if they made a lighter upper (it would probably also beef up the price). 

The gusseted tongue is thin and stays in place, and the sawtooth-style laces actually hold without coming undone. It’s designed with a race-inspired fit but offers enough forgiveness for daily wear. The sizing feels consistent; still, if you prefer a roomier toe box, consider going up half a size. I wear a womens size 11 and that feels good in the Cloudboom Max. 

The Cloudboom Max uses two layers of On’s Helion HF foam: a soft, springy PEBA layer on top and a denser TPEE layer underneath for structure. Sandwiched between them is a glass-fiber nylon Speedboard that gives the shoe a quick, snappy ride without the harshness of a full carbon plate.

The rocker shape helps guide your stride naturally. At 40 mm in the heel, it’s within racing limits (barely), but the design makes it feel lower and more stable than you’d expect from the numbers.

At first, I thought I’d use it only for key workouts or PR attempts, but it’s proven more versatile than that. I’ve reached for it on tempo days, long runs, and marathon-pace efforts, and it consistently feels good around the 8–9-minute pace range. It’s not the shoe for all-out intervals, but for sustained efforts, it performs beautifully. Even though it weighs 10 oz, it doesn’t feel heavy or awkward on the run.

I've been really happy running 8-9 minute pace in it and it has felt so smooth. 

On added a full rubber outsole, which slightly increases weight but boosts durability. The central decoupling groove gives smoother transitions, and the textured pods grip well even on slick pavement.

I’ve used it in rain and on light gravel, and it held steady every time. I’d estimate it’ll last about 300 miles...well above the lifespan of most plated shoes. It’s not made for trail use, but it can handle mild off-road sections without issue.

If you've ever used an On running shoe, you know they are susceptible to collecting rocks and the Cloudboom Max is no exception. Expect to collect some rocks through the grooves and don't be surprised if you hear a clink clink clink. 

The On Cloudboom Max delivers what it promises: a plated, high-performance trainer built for most marathoners...not just elites. I can't think of another carbon plated shoe designed for those running 8-9 minute pace. 

Yes, the price is steep, and it’s slightly heavier than pure racing models, but the payoff is versatility. If you’re searching for a shoe that can handle everything from long runs to race day, the Cloudboom Max deserves a spot in your lineup. It’s easily one of the most enjoyable shoes I’ve run in this year.

Who Should Buy the On Cloudboom Max

• You’re training for your first marathon and want a stable plated shoe
• You prefer one shoe that handles easy runs, tempo workouts, and races
• You like a responsive feel but dislike overly stiff carbon plates

Who Should Skip the On Cloudboom Max

• You’re an elite runner looking for an elite racing flat
• You need a more affordable daily trainer
• You run in an area with a lot of rocks (LOL)