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As runners, we’re always on the hunt for the perfect daily trainer – a shoe that can handle our high mileage while keeping our feet comfortable and supported. Two popular options that fit this bill are the On Cloudeclipse and the New Balance 1080v13. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
The Contenders
Here’s a quick overview of the key specs and features of each shoe:
Spec/Feature | On Cloudeclipse | New Balance 1080v13 |
---|---|---|
Midsole Technology | CloudTec “domino” cloud elements | Fresh Foam X compound |
Stack Heights | 36mm heel, 28mm forefoot | 38mm heel, 32mm forefoot |
Weight (Men’s Size 9) | 10.2 oz (289g) | 10.9 oz (309g) |
Upper | Engineered mesh, minimal overlays | Engineered mesh, strategic overlays |
Extra Cushioning | – | Full-length Fresh Foam X insole, Ortholite sockliner |
On Cloudeclipse
The On Cloudeclipse is a relative newcomer to the world of highly-cushioned daily trainers. It builds upon On’s signature CloudTec midsole technology first introduced in the Cloudswift. This unique design features a series of “cloud” elements that compress and expand to provide responsive cushioning.
The Cloudeclipse takes this concept to new heights with an exaggerated stack height and an innovative “domino” layout of the cloud elements. This allows for a smooth, rolling transition from heel strike to toe-off.
Key Cloudeclipse Features
- CloudTec midsole with “domino” cloud element layout
- Exaggerated stack heights (36mm heel, 28mm forefoot)
- Wider platform for added stability
- Engineered mesh upper with minimal overlays
New Balance 1080v13
On the other hand, the New Balance 1080v13 is a long-standing favorite in the brand’s lineup of premium cushioned trainers. For 2023, it received a significant update while still maintaining its core identity.
The 1080v13 features New Balance’s Fresh Foam X midsole compound, which is designed to strike a balance between responsiveness and plush cushioning. It also has a full-length Fresh Foam X insole for added step-in comfort.
Key 1080v13 Features
- Fresh Foam X midsole and insole for cushioning
- Substantial stack heights (38mm heel, 32mm forefoot)
- Engineered mesh upper with strategic overlays
- Ortholite sockliner for added cushioning
The Ride
So, how do these two plush daily trainers actually feel on the roads and trails? Let’s break it down into different aspects of the ride.
Cushioning
Aspect | On Cloudeclipse | New Balance 1080v13 |
---|---|---|
Feel Underfoot | Bouncy, responsive, trampoline-like | Pillowy soft, enveloping |
Transition | Smooth, rolling heel-to-toe | Traditional heel-toe feel |
Step-in Comfort | Standard insole | Full-length Fresh Foam X insole |
When it comes to pure cushioning, both shoes deliver in spades. The Cloudeclipse’s unique CloudTec setup provides a distinctly bouncy, responsive feel underfoot. The cloud elements compress and expand with each stride, creating a trampoline-like sensation.
The 1080v13, on the other hand, offers a more traditional, but no less luxurious, cushioning experience. The Fresh Foam X midsole has a pillowy softness that envelops your foot in comfort, mile after mile.
Stability
Aspect | On Cloudeclipse | New Balance 1080v13 |
---|---|---|
Platform | Wider, more grounded | Curved geometry |
Midsole Compound | Firmer CloudTec elements | Softer Fresh Foam X |
Best For | Higher arches, overpronators | Neutral arches, underpronators |
While neither shoe is designed as a dedicated stability trainer, the Cloudeclipse has a slight edge in this department. Its wider platform and the way the cloud elements are arranged provide a more grounded, stable ride – especially for those with higher arches or who overpronate.
The 1080v13 isn’t unstable by any means, but its more curved geometry and softer midsole compound may allow for a bit more lateral movement, particularly for those with flatter feet or neutral arches.
Responsiveness
Aspect | On Cloudeclipse | New Balance 1080v13 |
---|---|---|
Midsole Feel | Bouncy, responsive | Energetic, responsive |
Ride Character | Planted, grounded | Versatile for various paces |
Best For | Easy/recovery runs | Uptempo workouts, faster paces |
Here, the tables turn in favor of the 1080v13. While the Cloudeclipse’s CloudTec setup is undeniably bouncy, the 1080v13’s Fresh Foam X compound has a slightly more energetic, responsive feel to it.
This makes the 1080v13 a better option for those who like to pick up the pace on occasion or incorporate faster workouts into their training. The Cloudeclipse, while still relatively responsive for its category, has a more planted, grounded feel that’s better suited to easy and recovery runs.
Durability
When it comes to longevity, both shoes should provide a respectable number of miles before needing to be retired. However, the 1080v13 may have a slight edge here.
Aspect | On Cloudeclipse | New Balance 1080v13 |
---|---|---|
Midsole Compound | Potential compression over time | Durable Fresh Foam X |
Expected Lifespan | Shorter than traditional midsoles | Longer lifespan |
New Balance’s Fresh Foam X compound is known for its durability, and the brand’s shoes tend to hold up well over time. The Cloudeclipse’s unique CloudTec setup, while innovative, may be more prone to premature compression or breakdown after extended use.
The Verdict
So, which shoe takes the crown as the ultimate daily trainer? As with most things in the running world, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs.
If you prioritize a supremely plush, bouncy ride and appreciate a bit of extra stability, the On Cloudeclipse is an excellent choice. Its unique CloudTec setup provides a cushioning experience unlike any other, and its wider platform keeps you grounded and supported.
On the other hand, if you value a more traditional (but still highly cushioned) ride with a bit more responsiveness and potential durability, the New Balance 1080v13 is tough to beat. Its Fresh Foam X midsole strikes a perfect balance between softness and energy return, making it a versatile option for all kinds of training.
Whichever shoe you choose, one thing is certain: both the On Cloudeclipse and New Balance 1080v13 are outstanding options for those seeking a premium, highly cushioned daily trainer. Your feet (and joints) will thank you for the plush, comfortable ride they provide, mile after mile.
Who Should Choose the Cloudeclipse?
- Runners who prioritize a unique, bouncy cushioning experience
- Those seeking extra stability and a grounded ride
- Runners focused primarily on easy and recovery runs
- Fans of On’s innovative CloudTec technology
Who Should Choose the 1080v13?
- Runners who prefer a more traditional (but still plush) cushioning feel
- Those looking for a versatile shoe for various training paces
- Runners seeking a responsive, energetic ride
- Anyone prioritizing potential durability and longevity
No matter which shoe you ultimately choose, the On Cloudeclipse and New Balance 1080v13 are both excellent examples of how far cushioned daily trainers have come. With their innovative technologies and plush, comfortable rides, they’re sure to keep your feet happy and supported through all your training miles.