On Cloudventure Waterproof Review – For Wet Weather Running

-

All opinions are our own and never influenced by brands. If you buy through links, we may earn a commission.

The On Cloudventure Waterproof has been given a big design overhaul, in similar ways to the On Cloudventure (non-waterproof version). For all intents and purposes, the Cloudventure Waterproof is very similar to the Cloudventure, but with extra protection from the elements during wetter/colder months. Read on to find out how it performs on the trails. I hope you enjoy this Cloudventure Waterproof review, if you have any questions after reading, please leave them in the comments below.

Fit & Design

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 2
on cloudventure waterproof review IG pinterest
PIN THE CLOUDVENTURE WATERPROOF

The On Cloudventure Waterproof is every bit as comfortable to wear as the Cloudventure but they also offer more in terms of support and protection from the wet and cold weather. I have been making an extra effort to find large puddles of water and mud (not easy in California!) to run through, as to properly test their ability to keep water out. I can confirm that no water ever soaked through the shoe, and my feet have remained dry on all runs to date. Yes, that’s exactly what you should expect from a shoe being marketed as ‘waterproof’, but sometimes manufactures fail on this test.


RELATED:


The Cloudventure Waterproofs outsole isn’t quite as flexible as that of the Cloudventure, possibly due to the more durable materials being used to make the shoe all-weather-ready. You may also feel like the shoe size comes up slightly larger than expected, but once the laces are firmly secured the shoe locks in place nicely.

On has done an excellent job of making these shoes look really mean and ready for business. I’m loving the all-black look that’s very reminiscent of the first edition of the Cloudventure Waterproof, a shoe that I really enjoyed running in.

Upper

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 12

The mesh material on the upper is completely waterproof and as such not particularly breathable. This does, however, make it a great shoe for keeping your feet warm during colder runs. It’s usually the colder runs where you would want to wear waterproof running shoes anyway because if it’s raining while it’s warm outside, you’re better off having a shoe that drains water well and then dries off quickly. Have a look at my best trail running shoes post to gain deeper insight into which shoes may be best for various scenarios like this.

If you’re looking for the non-waterproof version of this shoe, it’s called the On Cloudventure and definitely worth considering for those much drier late-Spring/Summer trail runs.

There’s a plastic coated toe box that’s strong enough to protect your toes from any accidental toe stubbing, which is very important to have while out on the trails, especially when you’re getting tired toward the end of a run.

The upper has been built to last, with durable materials that will protect and support your feet, whatever weather comes your way.

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 13

More padding has also been added to the new Cloudventure Waterproof to support and secure your heels. This really helps when you’re going to be out on the trails for hours at a time. Comfort is king in any trail running shoes that you plan to run in for a long distance or time. This heel area also locks your feet in-place far better than the first version of the Cloudventure Waterproof, where I had to recommend a specific type of lacing setup, to help people who noticed their heels were not secured.

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 5

The heel cage, as you can see it’s pretty solid and it does offer good support.

Inner

There’s an inner sock that attaches the tongue to the forefoot area, similar to the On Running Cloudventure, On Running CloudsurferOn Running CloudflowOn Running Cloud XOn Running Cloudace and On Running Cloud Edge Moonlight running shoes. This keeps the tongue in place and prevents debris, mud and water from reaching your feet. It also reduces the risk of chafe as there are fewer seams inside.

Tongue & Laces

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 15

The tongue provides great protection when the laces are done up tight, and the laces, also provide a little stretch, therefore allowing your feet to expand and contract as they heat up and cool down during the course of a trail run. It’s a relatively slim and lightweight tongue that also reduces unnecessary weight above the foot.

Outsole and the On Speedboard

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 7

The outsole is one of the most exciting updates for the Cloudventure Waterproof. It now combines multiple grip patterns so you can stay in control as conditions around you change and the improved traction pattern of Zig-zag channels combine with flatter details to prevent slipping on smoother surfaces.

One of my gripes with the previous version of this shoe was that the cloud pods that On was using were the original design found on the first road shoes from the brand. This created two issues for me. 1.) The outsole would collect mud in between the pods, reducing their ability to propel you forward as they should, and the shoe would get heavy as a result of the dirt build-up. 2.) Those pods were heavier and not as durable as the latest technology from On.

Anyway, we don’t need to worry about old designs because On has taken note and really turned this outsole into a high performing winner!

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 16

The most fun part of all On running shoes is the Cloudtech pods that give you that feeling of a cushioned landing, as they compress under your weight and then provide a barefoot take off as your foot leaves the ground and the pods spring back. It’s a really innovative and effective system!

On cloudventure review outsole

The new On Cloudventure Waterproof takes that system one step further by combining On’s Zero Gravity cloud elements with a grip overlay that adds trail-level toughness to the unmistakable sensation of running on clouds. This means you can own the downhill.

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 17

If you haven’t tried “Running On Clouds” before, I recommend you do! I think you’re going to love it!

Drop & Weight

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 4

There’s a drop of 6mm from heel to toe which seems a popular number with On shoes. It feels like a happy medium for runners who like a minimal drop and others who prefer a much larger one. I’m a fan of keeping the drop as low as possible as it helps to improve my running form due to the more natural footfall.

Weighing in at 340g (US M 8.5) the Cloudventure is pretty lightweight, especially considering all the waterproof materials used. It is, however, 45g heavier than the non-waterproof Cloudventure, that’s a 15% difference. If you’re after the lightest trail running shoes from On though, check out our review of the Cloudventure Peak for racing fast:

The On Cloudventure Waterproof has a neutral running footbed which will suit most runners.

Toe Box

On Cloudventure Waterproof review 2019 Trail Kale trail running web wm 14

The toe box is a medium width with plenty of room for toe wiggle and foot expansion during a run.

On Cloudventure Waterproof best on running shoes web
On Cloudventure Waterproof
Comfort
8.9
Design & Function
9
Durability
9
Flexibility
7.5
Performance
8.6
Pros
Outsole is a huge improvement on the previous model
Cushioned midsole makes this shoe comfortable to run even on roads
Very comfortable and keeps feet warm
Waterproof
Love the design and the 2 color options
Great all-rounder
Cons
A little expensive
Could be more flexible in the outsole
8.6
Overall Score

On Cloudventure Waterproof Review Summary

The On Cloudventure Waterproof is a very durable trail running shoe that can take on all-terrains while keeping your feet fully protected from any bad weather that may come your way.

It feels very comfortable during long runs and provides great midsole protection for when you’re required to run on roads, either during a race or on your way to the trailhead.

It’s a trail running shoe that has a great all-round capability. Much like the On Cloudventure it has good performance on ascents and descents, is lightweight, supportive, and offers good protection from gnarly trails and bad weather; two things you can’t control while in the mountains.

The On Cloudventure Waterproof is On’s only waterproof trail running shoe and it’s a great choice for anyone looking to push toward more challenging trails during bad weather days.

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, each with links to our respective On Shoe reviews. Designed to make your buying decisions simpler.

Alastair
Alastairhttps://www.trailandkale.com
As the founder of Trail & Kale, and seasoned marathoner & ultrarunner, Alastair loves bringing our readers independent running shoe reviews and gear insights to help you run your best. Learn more about Trail & Kale here.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

The Latest

The 6 Best Greens Powder Supplements...

This Best Greens Powder Supplements guide will help you find the best superfood powder to boost your immune system & wellness this year.

Stio Second Light Windshell Review: A...

Helen's review of the Stio Second Light windshell; a jacket well suited to runners needing to keep wind and rain at bay, and packs down super small when not being worn.

New Shoe Reviews
Fresh drops from our reviewers

On Cloudmonster Hyper Review: The MONSTER IS...

Breaking down the On Cloudmonster Hyper; the good, the bad, and the comfortable. An in-depth review by Trail & Kale's On expert.

Altra Torin 7 Review: A Cushioned Foot...

Helen shares her thoughts on the Altra Torin 7, a zero drop daily trainer offering a spacious toe box, secure fit for running easy miles.

Arc’teryx Sylan Review: $200, But Worth It,...

Alastair shares his detailed insights into this trail running shoe that blends innovation and durability for technical trails; find out if it's worth the hefty $200 price tag.
Trail & Kale Running Co logo Email Newsletter

Don't Drop Behind
Subscribe to stay up to date!

'Best Of' Guides
Top performing gear

The Best Running Shoes [2024]

The best running shoes rated and shortlisted, and advice to ensure you buy the most comfortable, high-performing shoes that work for YOU.

The Best Trail Running Shoes [2024]

The best trail running shoes this year ranked & reviewed + top advice so you buy the most comfortable, high-performing shoes for you

Best On Running Shoes of 2024...

Welcome to the ULTIMATE On Running shoes buyer's guide, complete with reviews + rankings of the best On running shoes available | YES, I've reviewed them all!

Best HOKA Running Shoes of 2024...

ULTIMATE HOKA Running shoes buyer's guide, complete with reviews + rankings of the best HOKA running shoes. YES, I've reviewed them all!

Best Brooks Running Shoes of 2024...

Welcome to the ULTIMATE Brooks Running shoes buyer's guide, complete with reviews + rankings of the best Brooks shoes | YES, I've reviewed them all!

Training Plans
5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultramarathons