Comfortable miles, limited technical grip
Image: official product image from on.com
Is the On Cloudultra 3 good for ultrarunning?
Mostly. The On Cloudultra 3 is a comfortable, stable option for ultrarunning on gravel, packed dirt and easier trails, with cushioning suited to long training days. Its 3 mm lugs can be limiting on steep, technical ground, and the ride has limited bounce, so it is better for comfort-led mixed-surface ultras than fast technical racing.
Key facts
| Category | Trail shoes |
|---|---|
| Release | Announced 19 June 2025; on sale 3 July 2025 |
| Price | $190 / £170 |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Long training runs, gravel and road-to-trail routes, and runners seeking a comfortable, stable shoe for mixed surfaces rather than technical-trail racing. |
| Consensus score | 8.2 out of 10 |
What is the Cloudultra 3?
Released in July 2025, the On Cloudultra 3 is a neutral, cushioned trail shoe designed for long training days and mixed surfaces. It uses dual-density Helion HF foam, a Leno woven mesh upper and a Missiongrip outsole with 3 mm lugs. Men’s shoes weigh about 286-295 g each, with a listed 6 mm drop; testers at RunRepeat measured 5.4 mm. Stack is about 32 mm at the heel and 26-27 mm at the forefoot. At $190 / £170, it sits at a premium price.
How does it perform on ultras?
Across reviews, its cushioning, stable platform, secure heel and breathable upper support steady long mileage, hiking and gravel or road-to-trail routes. The rocker and protective feel suit comfort-focused runners more than those seeking a lively racing shoe; RunRepeat notes limited bounce and energy return. Grip verdicts are mixed: some reviewers report confidence on loose or rocky ground and slippery dirt, while others say the 3 mm lugs lack bite on steep or technical trails. Its relatively high weight is another consideration for long races.
Who should buy the Cloudultra 3?
The On Cloudultra 3 suits runners who prioritise comfort and stability for long training runs, hiking, gravel and easier trails. Its roomy toe box, secure heel and breathable upper add to its appeal for mixed-surface use, including road-to-trail routes. It is less compelling for technical-trail racers who need deeper-lug grip or a lively, responsive ride. The narrow midfoot may not suit everyone, and the premium $190 / £170 price is worth weighing against its relatively high weight.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Comfortable, protective cushioning for long days
- Stable and predictable ride
- Breathable upper and secure heel
- Versatile on gravel, packed dirt, pavement and easier trails
- Good build quality and durability
Weaknesses
- Shallow lugs can limit grip on steep or technical terrain
- Narrow midfoot may not suit all runners
- Relatively heavy
- Limited bounce and energy return
- Premium price
Frequently asked questions
How does the On Cloudultra 3 fit?
Reviews describe a roomy toe box and secure heel, but note that the midfoot is narrow and may not suit every runner. The available review data does not establish whether to size up or down, so try your usual size if possible and check the fit around the midfoot.
Is the On Cloudultra 3 durable?
Reviewers generally describe the shoe as well made and durable. It has a Leno woven mesh upper and a Missiongrip outsole with 3 mm lugs, though the review data does not give a specific lifespan or mileage figure. Grip can be limited on steep or technical trails.
How does the Cloudultra 3 compare with the Cloudultra 2?
The available review data does not provide a direct Cloudultra 2 comparison, so it cannot establish which is better. The Cloudultra 3 is a cushioned, stable option for mixed surfaces, but its 3 mm lugs may be less suited to steep technical trails than shoes with stronger grip.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 8.2 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
