The Cloudsurfer is one of On’s most popular running shoes, and it has long been a favorite of mine. Then came the On Cloud X and suddenly a contender for the Cloudsurfer was born.
If you’ve already read my reviews of the On Clousurfer and the On Cloud X, then you already know that they are two of my favorite On running shoes for the roads.
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I also highly rated the Limited Edition On Cloud Edge Moonlight, a shoe that’s very similar to the Cloud X, but with a cool twist. Make sure you check that review out if you haven’t heard about the Moonlight yet.
Both shoes ranked very highly on my list of Best On Running Shoes list, but how do they stack up against each other, and more importantly, which one should you buy? Read on to find out.
| On Cloudsurfer | On Cloud X | |
 |  | |
| Running Surface | Road | Road |
| Fit and Design | Neutral – It had a very comfortable and cushioned road feel. | Neutral – Also a very comfortable shoe that’s very breathable. |
| Weight | 330g (US M 8.5) – Relatively heavy when compared with the Cloud X, if you prefer a more minimal ride, go with the Cloud X. | 218g (US M 8.5) |
| Lacing System | Standard lacing system | Standard lacing system |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm |
| Outsole | Uses the signature CloudTec pod system, albeit an update version. This is heavier than the Cloud X’s outsole but provides a much springier ride. | The Cloud X uses the CloudTec® system made from On’s Zero-Gravity EVA Foam. This foam helps keep the weight down on both shoes |
| Running Feel | The Cloudsurfer is going to keep your feet feeling comfortable for all types of road running, from speedwork to long distance runs, due to their cushioned midsole and springy pods on the outsole. | The Cloud X takes the win for me when it comes to overall running comfort due to its lighter weight. It’s not as cushioned as the Cloudsurfer but the reduced weight is a preference for me over comfort underfoot. The flexible, stretchy and breathable upper mesh combined with the traditional laces all for a very comfortable experience. |
| Original Review Post | On Cloudsurfer Review | On Cloud X Review |
| Price | $149.99 / £135 | $139.99 / £130 |
In Summary
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s going to keep your feet feeling comfortable for all types of road running, from speedwork to long distance runs, the On Cloudsurfer shoes are an excellent choice.
On the other hand, if you enjoy mixing up your training with running on the roads, non-technical trails, crossfit, or even just hitting the gym, then I would recommend buying the On Cloud X. They will hold their own for all workouts. They are also a lighter shoe which makes them good for wearing casually, all day long.
Whichever shoes you choose, I can almost guarantee that you’ll notice some ‘personal best splits’ when you start running in them. The speedboard in both shoes is extremely good at propelling you forward!
If you ask me which ones I prefer, I’d say Cloud X, but only because I love super lightweight running shoes. If comfort was of a higher priority for me, then I’d say the Cloudsurfer.
The On Cloud X have been ranked #1 in my ON Running Shoes: Best On Shoes Reviewed post while the On Cloudsurfer reached #2. Both are excellent running shoes, and whichever one you choose to buy, will be a good decision.
On Cloudsurfer – $149.99 / £135 On Cloud X – $139.99 / £130
Let me know which you prefer in the comments below, whether you’ve used them or not. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Still not sure which On Running Shoes to buy?
Visit our Best On Running Shoes Guide for an ordered list of the top ON shoes for road and trail running. It has been designed to make your buying decisions easier.
I generally only run 2-3 miles 3 or so times a week. I have On Clouds and Cloudflyers but am looking to get another pair. Would you recommend the X or the Flows or the Surfers? I’m not looking to break any records. I just run to stay active. Also do you think $119 for the old model of the waterproof cloudventures is a good deal?
Hi David,
I would personally go for the Cloud X but the Cloudsurfer is also very good.
With regards to the $119 Cloudventure Waterproof, it’s a very good deal but the latest version is definitely a better shoe!
Hope this helps a bit?
Alastair
Thanks for the insight. I actually went for the brand new Cloudswifts!! I’m a sucker for new models! I also bought a second pair of Clouds for my daily wear. I may have an ON problem! Have a nice weekend.
David
Haha it’s a real problem!! 🙂
let me know what you think of the Cloudswifts! I’m hoping to get hold of a pair to review soon!
I got my Cloudswifts but have not been able to run in them due to the poor weather here in Connecticut. I can definitely feel a difference when walking around in them. I’m excited to hit the road with them.
Just started running last month. Bought pair of Brooks Ghost 11s and wanted a 2nd pair and got hooked up with the Cloud X’s. I really like them a lot. Different feel( not to mention the drop difference -I think 11mm vs 6mm but a solid shoe. Will be running 1st 5 miles with the X’s Sunday. Even at 210ish lbs, the Cloud X’s make you want to go fast.
Hey Matt,
It’s such a great shoe, isn’t it! I have been running in On’s latest shoe this week, the Cloudswift. I think it’s one of their best road shoes to date. So comfortable, light and responsive – https://www.trailandkale.com/go/on-cloudswift/ check it out.
-Alastair
Hey! I have a pair now and been for a run in them. They are excellent! Probably my favorite road shoes from On now.