On Running embarks on its latest Cloudflow, update with the sleek and streamlined Cloudflow 4. As the latest entrant in the lineage of Cloudflow, it sets out to not only meet but surpass the expectations of the modern runner, bringing a more responsive ride propelled by its signature CloudTec. From the first step, these shoes embrace your feet with a soft and secure hold, blending comfort and performance seamlessly. In this review, we'll delve into the features, improvements, and overall performance of the Cloudflow 4. Let's take a closer look.
The Cloudflow 4 is a testament to On's commitment to innovation. From the first Cloudflow in 2016 to the present, On has refined its designs, addressing both style and functionality. The Cloudflow 4 is a striking example of this dedication, offering a seamless blend of comfort and performance for runners.About the On Cloudflow 4
Specs:
Bid farewell to the retro cloud pods; the Cloudflow 4 introduces the innovative CloudTec Phase™ cushioning. This technology, crafted through extensive testing, ensures a soft and secure fit, perfectly aligning with the natural rolling motion of your foot. The Helion foam enhances the responsiveness and energy return, providing a forward propulsion feel at the end of each stride. The unboxing experience is quite the special experience indeed. Open the box and you are greeted with an inner artwork of a black and white cloudscape which was extremely satisfying given that it matched the colourway of the Cloudflows. The Cloudflow 4 boasts a redesigned upper with soft padding strategically placed in the heel and tongue. The lacing system contributes to flexibility during your runs, allowing for a secure lockdown. The breathable mesh in the toe box enhances airflow, ensuring your feet stay cool even during intense workouts. Termed as the ideal training shoe by On, the Cloudflow 4 is a lightweight and bouncy companion suitable for a range of activities. Whether you're engaged in speed work, 5Ks, marathons, or HIIT sessions, these shoes offer the versatility to match your varied training needs. Their comfort and aesthetics even make them suitable for everyday use or as a commuter shoe. For those familiar with On's sizing, the recommendation to go up ½ a size holds true for the Cloudflow 4. The narrow and snug fit, coupled with a roomy toe box, ensures a comfortable running experience. The new lacing system, featuring durable strings on either side, allows for a secure lockdown while accommodating natural foot movements.
Updates to the Cloudflow 4
Enhanced Design
Versatility Redesigned
Cloudflow 4 Sizing
The On Cloudflow 4 stands as a distinctive gem within the On Running lineup, showcasing several key features that set it apart from its counterparts. At the heart of its uniqueness lies the revolutionary CloudTec Phase™ cushioning, a departure from the traditional cloud pods seen in other models. This cutting-edge technology ensures a responsive and adaptive cushioning system that mirrors the natural motion of the foot, setting the Cloudflow 4 on a pedestal of its own within the On Running family. Unlike some of its siblings, the Cloudflow 4 introduces a redesigned upper with strategic soft padding in the heel and tongue. This refined construction, combined with an advanced lacing system, delivers not only a snug fit but also a level of adaptability that enhances the overall running experience. The incorporation of a breathable mesh in the toe box further differentiates the Cloudflow 4 by prioritizing ventilation, a crucial aspect for comfort during prolonged runs.What Sets the Cloudflow 4 Apart?
The On Cloudflow 4's are soft, without being too plush and comfortable with sufficient space to keep the worries at bay. After tying the laces tightly, using the extra eyelets to ensure sufficient ankle support, there was zero heel slippage and the in-sock is the warm hug your foot deserves. The toe box sits low which means that you could quickly develop some discomfort over longer training runs. Be aware that if your toes naturally flex throughout your running gait, then you could very soon develop either a blister, or a hole in the fabric covering the toe box. Ideally, the On Cloudflow is best suited as a performance trainer-slash-race day flat. It comes to life when air rushes through the well-ventilated rubbery tongue. Additionally, the Zero-gravity EVA foam, Speedboard, and ‘Cloud’ pods are pushed to their max in unison. Resulting in a responsiveness similar to that of a track shoe, but with the comfort of a slipper. Pros: Cons: While other On Running models may excel in specific areas, the Cloudflow 4 emerges as a holistic package, blending innovation, comfort, and adaptability. Its unique combination of features positions it as a standout choice for runners seeking a versatile and high-performance shoe, marking a new chapter in On Running's ongoing legacy of pushing the boundaries of running shoe technology. So whether you're looking for an everyday training shoe, something to take you to the gym, or out on longer runs, the Cloudflow 4 is one of the most versatile training companions available.Are the On Cloudflows any good?
Pros and Cons
What are the Cloudflow 4's Best for?
Yes, the in-sock mechanism coupled with the insole provide ample support for even the most oddly shaped feet. Whether you are flat-footed, have high arches, or anything in between the carefully designed in-sock of the On Cloudflow has you covered (and supported). Plantar fasciitis is a fairly common running injury, with symptoms of pain around the heel or the arch of the foot. It is caused by straining the small fibres that connect your heel to your toes, or plantar fascia. So are On Cloudflow 4 running shoes good for plantar fasciitis? Given the attention to detail of the inner of the Cloudflow 4, one would believe that this would a great shoe to help repair the inflamed tissue asymptomatic of plantar fasciitis. However, the shoe does not perform well when a heelstrike is required, due in part to the midsole being less responsive at slow pace. Therefore, the shoe leaves the plantar fascia vulnerable to the same stresses that likely caused the inflammation to begin with. With this in mind, the Cloudflow 4 is not ideal for the sensitive heels that plantar fasciitis afflicts.On Cloudflow running shoes for flat feet
On Cloudflow running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Overall, the On Cloudflow 4's are great tempo shoes that could be used for middle distance races, as well as, the occasional paced parkrun. Although the midsole could be more responsive at lower speeds, they always feel fast, comfortable and well-ventilated irrespective of the surface they are subjected to. The laces definitely require a double-knot, and the toe box can feel shallow depending on your gait, but these qualities shouldn’t scare anyone away from this shoe if you are looking into them for the purpose for which they were designed: a run at pace. These lightweight shoes really bring the A-game with cushion and ventilation too. So if you want a good tempo, speed, or racer shoe with great traction, look no further than the Cloudflows. Up Next On Running Review: the World's Lightest Trainers >>On Cloudflow 4 Verdict
