On Running's New Lineup: Cloud Eclipse, Cloudsurfer, and Cloud Venture Peak Compared

Introduction

On Running’s lineup keeps evolving, and the latest additions show the brand is no longer just iterating on its classic CloudTec formula. The Cloud Eclipse, Cloudsurfer, and Cloud Venture Peak each take a different direction: one targets structured max cushion, one goes all-in on soft foam without a speedboard, and one is a fast, aggressive trail shoe. Here is how they differ and who each one is for.

Cloud Eclipse: Structured Max Cushion

The Cloud Eclipse is On’s answer to the max cushion trend, but with a twist. Instead of the squishy ride many competitors offer, On engineered the new CloudTec Phase technology using finite element analysis to deliver structured cushioning: you get the softness underfoot without giving up an efficient heel-to-toe transition.

It is not a full-length traditional speedboard. A shorter element sits under the bottom in a truss-like system, helping you get from heel into midfoot while keeping the step-in feel noticeably softer than firmer On models. Priced at $160 and arriving in June, it sits alongside the Cloudmonster as a max-cushion option, though the two target different runners: the Cloudmonster suits a more aggressive style with a stronger toe-off, while the Eclipse is the softer, more everyday pick. There is also a sustainability story here, with a 95 percent recycled upper and dope-dye coloring that uses far less water.

If you loved the cushioning of the Cloudmonster but want something a bit gentler for recovery days and slower runs, the Eclipse is a strong match.

Cloudsurfer: Pure Foam, No Speedboard

The Cloudsurfer looks similar at a glance but takes the simplification one step further: it is the first shoe in the line with no speedboard at all. The CloudTec Phase design, again shaped by finite element analysis, uses computer-generated cloud elements sitting directly in Helion foam, which On positions as both responsive and durable with great cushioning.

The ride is a little softer and the cushioning sits slightly higher than the Cloudgo, with a more premium collar. If you already like the Cloudgo, the Cloudsurfer is an easy recommendation. It costs $160 and was available from March.

Cloud Venture Peak: Trail Speed Over Stability

The Cloud Venture Peak is the wildcard of the trio: an update with the evolution focused on the midsole. The cloud elements have moved out of the forefoot and now sit only in the heel, while the outsole gets aggressive multi-directional lugs for grip on rough terrain. A split speedboard underneath, designed like a goat’s hoof, keeps the shoe flexible and agile for traversing gnarly ground.

It looks fast and it is fast, but that speed comes with a trade-off. The heel and midfoot are noticeably narrow, and On is direct about it: if stability is your priority, this is not your shoe. Look instead at the standard Cloudventure or the Cloudultra. This one is for confident trail runners who spend most of their time on the forefoot and want to move quickly over technical ground.

The White Upper Question

Yes, the Cloud Venture Peak ships in a white upper, which raises eyebrows for a trail shoe. On’s reasoning is twofold: white stands out on the shelf, and the blank canvas invites you to make the shoe your own. And practically speaking, dirt is part of the deal. If you are worried about a white trail shoe getting dirty, it is probably not the shoe for you anyway.

The Cloud Venture Peak launched in spring 2023, so expect to see it tearing up trails.

Which One Should You Buy?

All three shoes share On’s design language, so it mostly comes down to feel and terrain. Choose the Cloud Eclipse if you want structured max cushion for everyday and recovery runs at $160. Choose the Cloudsurfer if you like a softer, more premium-feeling daily trainer with no speedboard, also at $160. And if technical, fast trail running is your thing and you do not need a stable platform, the Cloud Venture Peak is the one that will turn heads.

Conclusion

This group shows On pushing in three directions at once: structured cushion, pure foam, and aggressive trail speed. The Eclipse and Cloudsurfer cover the daily trainer spectrum nicely, while the Venture Peak is a confident, opinionated trail shoe for runners who value agility over stability. Pick based on your run type, and each of the three has a clear case.