On Running cloudultra 3

Learn more about the On Running cloudultra 3 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

On Running cloudultra 3

Price

300

Rating

Exceptional

Popularity

Less Popular

The On Running Cloudultra 3 is a trail-running shoe designed for long-distance comfort and energy return, positioned as a more accessible alternative to the elite-focused Cloudultra Pro within On's lineup.

2 colorways

Colorway: Black/Black

Widths available: normal

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Summary

The On Cloudultra 3 is a trail running shoe designed for long-distance performance, blending speed and accessibility. It features a Helion™ HF hyper foam midsole for maximum energy return and cushioning, an engineered Leno weave upper for durability and breathability, and a redesigned Missiongrip™ outsole for enhanced traction on technical terrains. Positioned within On's lineup, the Cloudultra 3 serves as a versatile option for runners seeking a balance between comfort and performance on extended trail runs, complementing models like the Cloudultra Pro, which is tailored for elite athletes focusing on ultra-distance races.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(29mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(engineered mesh upper)

Weight

295g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3.5mm lugs) - Missiongrip™ rubber

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the On Running cloudultra 3 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 15 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The On Running Cloudultra 3 is praised for its comfort, stability, and smooth ride, making it a solid choice for casual trail running and daily training. However, some reviewers noted potential issues with heel slippage and performance on uneven terrain, suggesting it may require a break-in period for optimal fit..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Normal

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the comfort and support provided by the cushioning, while a significant number also feel that the cushioning may be too firm or inadequate for their needs.

firmness (3)

foam (2)

softness (2)

durability (1)

energy retention (1)

height (1)

responsiveness (1)

smoothness (1)

Pros

"The use of HF foam provides a comfortable running experience."

HF foam

comfort

dynamic

"The Ultra Pro features innovative Helen HF foam which enhances cushioning."

Helen HF foam

cushion

comfort

"The cushion in the Cloud Ultra 3 provides durable support for long distances."

long distance

support

cushioning

"The cushioning setup provides a smooth transition and energy retention for long races."

midsole

smooth transition

impact absorption

"This shoe provides a high 38mm stack height, offering good cushioning for ultra-distance races."

stack height

cushioning

ultra-distance

"The cushioning of the Cloud Ultra is softer than that of the Cloud Venture, enhancing comfort on runs."

cushioning

softness

comfort

"The dual layer midsole provides soft cushioning while ensuring a solid landing."

midsole

cushion

soft

responsive

"The shoe incorporates new materials for better responsiveness."

reactivity

cushion

materials

"The cushioning feels smooth despite expectations of firmness."

cushioning

firmness

ride

"The drop of 6mm feels noticeable and contributes to the overall comfort."

6mm drop

supportive

comfort

"The heel portion of the shoe provides decent cushioning to absorb impact."

impact absorption

cushioning

"The shoe's plastic plate offers a good balance between responsiveness and comfort."

plastic plate

responsiveness

comfort

Cons

"The cushioning may not be soft enough for runners seeking plush comfort."

cushion

support

"The shoe lacks adequate cushioning for some users."

cushioning

softness

ride

"The Cloud Venture is noted to have a firm cushioning that may be too harsh for running on pavement."

cushioning

pavement

"The Ultra 3’s lower stack height could limit cushioning for some runners during longer runs."

stack height

cushion

long distance

"The cushioning system may not provide excessive protection."

minimal

support

"The shoe feels firmer than expected from the top layer."

firm

top layer

midsole

"Users might find the cushioning too soft and less responsive than desired for speed."

soft cushioning

responsiveness

"The cushioning lacks pronounced zones for enhanced comfort."

cushioning zones

comfort

"The foam material is described as firm and not soft, potentially leading to discomfort over longer runs."

firmness

cushion comfort

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that breathability is frequently highlighted as a comfort benefit, while insufficient cushioning and firmness are common concerns among users.

breathability (7)

foams (1)

ride (1)

overall (1)

tongue (1)

padding (1)

protection (1)

cushioning (1)

Pros

"The shoe features a dual density foam for comfort over long distances."

dual density

long distance

comfortable stride

"The breathable upper design allows for efficient drainage of water."

upper design

efficient drainage

lightweight

"The upper material of the Cloud Ultra 3 improves breathability and comfort."

upper material

breathable

comfort

"The breathable upper of the Cloud Ultra Pro ensures comfort during long runs."

upper

race ready

durability

"The shoe features good breathability, allowing moisture to escape"

breathability

moisture

upper

"The upper part of the shoe is designed for durability and breathability, balancing both features effectively."

upper

durability

comfort

"The shoe breathes well due to its open toe box design."

breathability

toe box

comfort

"The material offers good breathability, which is essential for long runs."

breathability

comfort

"The Trail Surfer shoe offers a bouncy and smooth ride for long runs."

bouncy

smooth

long run

"The Cloud Ultra 3E provides excellent comfort during runs."

comfort

feel

running

"The Cloud Ultra 3 features a cushioned tongue that enhances comfort."

cushion

texture

material

"The soft interior padding of the shoe contributes to overall comfort."

padding

soft

comfort

"The firm toe bumper provides protection for the toes during long runs."

toe bumper

protection

long runs

Cons

"The upper may not provide enough cushioning for some users' preferences."

upper

heel

cushion

"The firmness of the Cloud Surfer's Cloud Tech can affect the overall comfort during longer runs."

comfort

firmness

stability

"The shoes may not be suitable for runners who prefer a softer ride."

softness

ride

comfort

"Some runners may find the bounciness of the shoes distracting."

bounciness

comfort

"There may be too much structure in the shoe for those who prefer a minimalist feel."

support

minimalist

"The weight of the shoe could be a concern for speed-focused runners."

lightweight

speed

"The transition from heel to toe may feel stiff for some users."

heel-toe

stiffness

"The heel counter lacks sufficient padding, which can affect comfort during long runs."

heel support

padding

"The ankle collar may be too high for some and might cause discomfort."

ankle discomfort

high collar

fit

durability

The pros and cons indicate that while the shoe has been tested for reliability and has a durable upper, there are concerns about the foam wearing down quickly and its performance in rugged conditions.

material (2)

testing (1)

weather resistance (1)

build (1)

foam lifespan (1)

daily use (1)

Pros

"The Ultra Pro has seen extensive prototyping and testing for reliability."

prototyping

reliability

long testing

"The durable upper of the Cloud Ultra 3 dries quickly and holds up against tough terrain."

durable upper

technical terrain

quick drying

"The shoe has a high-quality construction which reflects Swiss engineering."

construction

quality

design

Cons

"The foam may wear down faster than expected with consistent use."

foam

wear

durability

"The shoe may not perform well as a daily trainer compared to other models."

daily trainer

performance

durability

"Durability may be in question in rugged conditions."

durability

rugs

upper

"There is some uncertainty about the materials used in the shoe's construction, which could affect durability in the long term."

construction

durability

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: Average

The pros indicate that the shoe is designed for long-distance running and offers comfort and efficiency, while the cons highlight concerns about its performance on certain terrains and its weight, with both aspects being significant in user feedback.

long-distance (2)

efficiency (1)

smoothness (1)

snappiness (1)

stability (1)

firmness (1)

versatility (1)

mixed terrain (1)

Pros

"The Ultra Pro is specifically designed for efficiency and comfort on long races."

long races

performance

efficiency

"The shoe allows for a smooth roll through thanks to its thoughtful design."

smooth roll

design

dynamic performance

"The addition of PEBA foam enhances performance and support on trails."

PEBA foam

support

snappy

stability

"The Cloud Ultra Pro offers an effective design for long-distance running on trails."

trail

efficiency

super shoe

"The shoe is designed for long-distance running, suitable for slower-paced runs."

training

endurance

distance running

"The Cloud Ultra 3 is well-suited for daily training and offers a stable ride."

daily training

stable ride

planted feel

"The shoe is noted to be firmer than previous models, providing better performance for trail running."

performance

firmness

trail

"The Cloud Ultra is a versatile shoe, suitable for both trail and pavement running."

versatile

door-to-trail

performance

"The Cloud Ultra is suitable for mixed terrain, allowing for smooth transitions between surfaces."

mixed terrain

performance

pavement

"The shoe offers a great stack-to-weight ratio, making it feel dynamic yet comfortable."

dynamic

comfortable

stack

weight

Cons

"The shoe's performance might not meet expectations for those seeking a plush ride."

performance

ride

firmness

"The Cloud Ultra does not perform well in slushy conditions."

winter

snow

"The shoe may not be suitable for everyone, especially on technical terrain."

technical

adaptability

"There is uncertainty about the foam composition and how it affects performance."

foam

performance

dual layers

"The shoe's weight could be a concern for some."

heavier

compared to Pro

"Initial impressions suggest the shoe transmits ground feedback too strongly, causing discomfort on uneven surfaces."

ground feel

discomfort

fit
True to size: Runs small
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The most common feedback indicates that the shoe has a comfortable fit and good breathability, but many users also find it narrow and potentially unsuitable for various foot types.

lightweight (2)

length (2)

versatility (1)

space (1)

construction (1)

breathability (1)

general fit (1)

adjustability (1)

Pros

"The shoe accommodates a range of trail types and distances effectively."

variety

trail types

multipurpose

"The overall structure of the shoe combines support with lightweight design for enhanced performance."

lightweight

supportive

performance

"The upper design of the Ultra Pro is lightweight, making it ideal for long runs."

lightweight

design

fit

"The forefoot has a roomy fit which is beneficial for long trail runs."

fit

forefoot

roomy

"The Cloud Ultra features a fully gusseted tongue which enhances fit and comfort."

gusseted tongue

fit

comfort

"The Cloud Ultra offers excellent breathability, making it suitable for various conditions."

breathability

trail

protection

"The Cloud Ultra has a nice fit and feel, making it comfortable for prolonged use."

fit

comfort

"The Cloud Ultra accommodates foot swelling with a clever lace adjustment feature."

foot swelling

adjustable

fit

"The fit of the shoe is almost perfect, providing a snug feel without being cramped."

fit

snug

comfort

"The shoe has ample room in the toe box for comfort during runs."

spacious

comfort

"The shoe has a wide, foot-shaped upper that is ideal for ultra marathons."

wide

foot-shaped

ultra

fit

"The heel collar design offers a snug fit and does not cause irritation during long runs."

heel collar

fit

comfort

snug

Cons

"The shoe might be too narrow through the midfoot for some runners."

narrow fit

stability

comfort

"The upper material may feel restrictive for some users due to its design."

upper

booty fit

design

"The fit may not be suitable for all foot types due to its stability emphasis."

fit

stability

foot types

"The diverse design aspects like the intelligent design upper may not provide a perfect fit for all foot types."

fit

design

foot strike

"The Cloud Ultra fits short, necessitating a half size increase for many runners."

sizing

fit issue

"The shoe might require sizing adjustments for long runs."

sizing

toe space

"The Cloud Ultra has a narrow fit which may not be suitable for runners with wide feet."

narrow

fit issue

"The Cloud Venture's semi-gusseted tongue may not provide as secure a fit as a fully gusseted one."

tongue

fit

"The fit may feel different due to the shoe's construction and material."

breathable

toe visibility

"The heel counter is not deep enough for optimal heel lock, leading to potential slippage."

heel slippage

fit issues

"The laces can slip or require readjustment during runs, particularly under tension."

lace slipping

readjustment

"The shoe's upper could be too spacious for runners with narrow feet."

narrow fit

upper volume

stability
Stability level: Average

The main points to note are that the shoe is praised for its stability and comfort, but some users feel that its stability can limit freedom of movement and may not suit all runners.

plate (2)

ground feel (2)

support (2)

hugging (1)

adaptability (1)

height (1)

tech (1)

design (1)

Pros

"The shoe offers a stable platform while hugging the foot comfortably."

stable platform

foot hug

comfort

"The design includes a pronged plate for better terrain adaptability."

pronged plate

terrain adaptability

versatile performance

"The stack height is optimally designed for trail performance with a focus on stability."

stack height

narrow midfoot

stability

"The Cloud Ultra Trail shoe is designed for stability and propulsion."

nylon plate

pop

stability

"The shoe includes a nylon composite plate designed for optimal foot movement during runs."

nylon composite plate

stability

foot movement

"The Trail Surfer features a firmer yet stable Cloud Tech for a better ride."

cloud tech

firmer

stable

"The Cloud Ultra Trail shoe has a design that supports stability without compromising speed."

stability

propulsion

centered

"The updated speedboard provides controlled flexibility during runs."

speedboard

prong system

control

foot flexion

"The Ultra 3 is a trim version of the Ultra Pro, providing a more stable ride with a lower stack height."

Ultra 3

stability

trim version

"The shoe has solid stability in the forefoot without being restrictive."

stability

support

forefoot

"The shoe features a lower drop than the previous model, which can aid in stability."

stability

control

drop

"The shoe offers good support under the heel, ideal for heel strikers."

heel support

stability

heel strikers

"The Cloudultra 3 provides a solid feel during climbs, which enhances stability."

climbing

stability

solid feel

"The shoe maintains a controllable ride even on uneven terrain."

control

uneven terrain

switchbacks

"The shoe allows for an adequate ground feel, making it comfortable for daily runs."

ground feel

daily runs

stability

"It provides stability and control despite its high stack height."

stability

control

high stack

Cons

"The Cloud Ultra Trail's stability can compromise freedom of movement."

stability

movement

plate

"The 'sloppy' stability provided may not meet the needs of all types of runners."

stability

stackHeight

traditional

"There may be stability issues for runners who need a higher stack height for support."

stability

support

design changes

"The shoe's structure is minimal, which could affect stability for some runners."

minimalism

stability

"The shoe exhibits significant heel movement, which can compromise stability."

stability

movement

"The high stack height may not work well for everyone, particularly on technical trails."

high stack

technical terrain

stability

grip

The main points to note are that the shoe's grip is praised for its enhanced traction on various surfaces, but it is also criticized for being unreliable in certain conditions and not performing well on slippery or muddy terrains.

traction (3)

reliability (1)

weather (1)

mud (1)

aggressiveness (1)

lug size (1)

lugs (1)

Pros

"The Ultra Pro features a new rubber compound for enhanced grip."

rubber compound

wet conditions

gripped performance

"The new FE8 designed Mission Grip rubber significantly improves traction on various surfaces."

traction

surface

Mission Grip

control

"The shoe's outsole features an improved grip pattern for exceptional traction on various terrains."

Mission Grip

lug pattern

traction

"With updated Mission grip rubber, the shoe offers excellent grip in wet conditions."

Mission grip

wet conditions

grip

"The outsole design offers good grip on various terrains, aiding performance."

grip

outsole

traction

"The design of the outsole has been improved for better traction on compact terrain."

outsole

traction

compact terrain

"The outsole design provides competent grip and traction for varied terrain."

outsole

traction

grip

varied terrain

Cons

"The shoe's grip in certain conditions may not be reliable."

grip

traction

wet conditions

"The traction may not be sufficient on extremely slippery surfaces."

grip

traction

slippery surfaces

"The outsole has a relatively shallow lug depth, which may limit traction."

lug depth

traction

"The grip design is better for compact terrain but may not perform well in more challenging conditions."

compact

limitation

"The Ultra Pro may not provide optimal performance in extremely wet conditions as indicated by its grip description."

wet

dry

grip performance

"The shoes may not provide enough grip in very muddy conditions due to the lug design."

muddy conditions

breathability

"The Cloud Ultra has a less aggressive outsole, making it unsuitable for tougher trails."

trail

traction

"The outsole lugs are small and there aren't many, which may affect grip on technical terrain."

grip

traction

"The outsole has somewhat skimpy lugs that may affect traction."

traction

outsole

lugs

other

The main concerns about the shoe are its high price and weight, which were mentioned frequently in the feedback.

weight (2)

cost (2)

feedback (1)

style (1)

drainage (1)

versatility (1)

aesthetics (1)

heaviness (1)

Pros

"The shoes have received enthusiastic feedback from testers."

enthusiasm

variety

quality

"The On Cloud Ultra 3 has a lighter weight compared to its predecessor."

lightweight

price

performance

"The shoe has a visually appealing aesthetic, making it suitable for casual wear."

aesthetic

casual wear

"The shoe's drainage and ventilation capabilities have been noted, allowing for quick drying."

ventilation

water resistance

"The overall aesthetic and functionality make it a versatile shoe for different activities."

multi-use

casual

"The shoe is visually appealing and makes a strong impression upon first use."

visual

aesthetics

premium

Cons

"The shoe is significantly more expensive than other trail shoe options."

price

value

expensive

"The price point might be high for casual runners who do not require advanced features."

price

casual runners

"The weight of the shoe could deter speed-focused runners."

weight

speed

midsole

"The pricing and availability might be a concern for budget-conscious runners."

price

availability

"The shoes are a bit overpriced compared to competitors."

expensive

value

"The weight may not appeal to everyone, especially for longer runs."

lightweight

heaviness

"There's a noticeable weight difference between the left and right shoe."

weight consistency

production issue

"The shoe’s design may not cater to all preferences, particularly aesthetic ones."

design

color

"The shoe lacks waterproof features, which could affect performances in wet conditions."

water resistance

wet conditions

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Model Updates

The On Running Cloudultra 3 introduces a single-layer Helion™ HF hyper foam midsole for enhanced energy return and cushioning over long distances, and a redesigned Missiongrip™ outsole with optimized lug patterns to improve traction and prevent debris collection. Additionally, the upper now features an engineered Leno weave construction, offering increased durability, breathability, and quick-drying properties.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the On Running cloudultra 3 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (15)

4.8/5

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On Running cloudultra 3

On Running cloudultra 3

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the On Running cloudultra 3 is right for you?

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Need help picking the right size?

Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.8/5

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