On Cloud Eclipse First Run Review: A Max Cushion Shoe With Real Versatility

Introduction

The On Cloud Eclipse arrives as a max cushion trainer that pulls together the best ideas from On’s recent lineup, combining the Cloudsurfer’s midsole technology with the Cloudmonster’s speedboard in one package. After a first uptempo 10k run, the initial impression is a shoe that feels more versatile and more likable than the Cloudmonster it sits above.

What Is the On Cloud Eclipse?

This is a max cushion shoe that merges elements of the Cloudmonster and the Cloudsurfer. It uses a 6mm drop, the same as the Cloudmonster, but weighs slightly more and is priced above it. The midsole features a double hit of the CloudTec Phase technology from the Cloudsurfer, combined with a softer version of On’s Helion foam. A repositioned speedboard sits above the outsole and further back in the shoe to add stability, while a rejigged outsole with dedicated rubber zones aims for better durability and grip on wet pavement.

Fit and Upper

The test pair was a UK size 8, the same as the Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer, and the fit was solid from the first run. The forefoot opens up a little more than the Cloudmonster, which wider-footed runners will likely appreciate. The midfoot narrows as expected and the hold feels generally good, though the skinny tongue means the laces need to be cinched a bit tighter for proper lockdown. No heel slippage or rubbing was experienced on the first run.

Ride and Performance

The ride is definitely softer than the Cloudmonster, but not as plush as the Cloudsurfer. The softer Helion foam creates a nice bounce without feeling like you’re sinking into the shoe. The speedboard levels things out and provides control and stability, making for an energetic and lively ride that keeps things controlled at quicker paces.

At slower paces, the speedboard’s presence becomes more noticeable, which raises some questions about its positioning. The outsole grip was fine on dry pavement and over some wet muddy leaves, with no issues taking corners. Despite the weight being slightly heavier than the Cloudmonster, the shoe doesn’t run as heavy as it looks, which is a real positive for versatility.

How It Compares to Other Max Cushion Shoes

Against the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25, the Eclipse feels more lively, whereas that shoe is built more for easy recovery runs. The Eclipse sits closer in character to shoes like the Saucony Triumph 21, which offer some versatility as daily trainers. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 has a much softer midsole and is more about comfortable easy runs. If you found the Cloudmonster a touch too firm but still want that controlled, stable feel with enough bounce, the Eclipse is likely a better match.

Buying Advice

If you like the Cloudsurfer’s softer CloudTec Phase feel but wished for the speedboard the Cloudsurfer lacked, the Eclipse combines both. It is a pricey max cushion shoe, as On shoes generally are, and cheaper options exist. But as a max cushion offering from On, it feels like a notably nicer and more memorable shoe than the Cloudmonster.

Conclusion

The On Cloud Eclipse is an encouraging first impression of a max cushion shoe with more to offer than its predecessor: softer, livelier, more versatile, and surprisingly light on the run. It’s worth considering if you want a well-rounded max cushion trainer, and further long-term testing will confirm whether the speedboard positioning holds up over more miles.