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In the world of running shoes, the quest for maximum cushioning and comfort is a never-ending pursuit. Runners seeking a plush, high-mileage trainer have two standout options vying for their attention: the On Cloudstratus 3 and the New Balance 1080v13. Both shoes promise a luxurious, cushioned ride, but which one truly reigns supreme? Let’s delve into the details and declare a winner in this clash of the cushioned trainers.
To help compare these two shoes, here’s a quick overview table:
| Feature | On Cloudstratus 3 | New Balance 1080v13 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | CloudTec hollow cloud elements | Fresh Foam X foam |
| Heel/Forefoot Stack Heights | 34mm / 28mm | 30mm / 22mm |
| Weight (Men’s Size 9) | 11.6 oz / 329g | 10.9 oz / 309g |
| Intended Use | Road running, light trails | Road running, light trails |
| Pronation Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Drop | 6mm | 8mm |
On Cloudstratus 3: The Cloudier, the Better?
The Midsole: A Cushioning Masterpiece
The On Cloudstratus 3 is the latest iteration of On’s maximum cushioning line, and it doesn’t disappoint in the plush department. The midsole features On’s signature CloudTec technology, consisting of hollow cloud elements that compress vertically and horizontally for a smooth, cushioned stride. Key benefits include:
- Increased 34mm heel / 28mm forefoot stack heights for maximum cushioning
- CloudTec elements strategically placed for consistent, responsive cushioning
- Exceptional impact protection and smooth gait transition
The CloudTec technology is truly innovative, providing a unique cushioning experience unlike any other shoe on the market. The hollow cloud elements compress and expand with each footstrike, absorbing impact forces and dispersing them evenly throughout the midsole. This not only provides superior cushioning, but also promotes a smooth, efficient stride.
One of the standout features of the CloudTec midsole is its responsiveness. Unlike traditional foam midsoles, which can feel sluggish and unresponsive, the CloudTec elements provide a lively, energetic ride. This makes the Cloudstratus 3 a great option for runners who want maximum cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness.
The Upper: Snug and Comfortable
- Engineered mesh upper stretches and conforms to your foot shape
- Breathable mesh keeps feet cool and dry
- Padded tongue and collar prevent rubbing/hotspots
- Gusseted tongue stays in place
- Reinforced heel counter provides a secure, locked-in fit
The upper of the Cloudstratus 3 is designed with both comfort and performance in mind. The engineered mesh is stretchy and breathable, allowing your foot to move freely while keeping it cool and dry. The padded tongue and collar provide an extra layer of cushioning, preventing any potential rubbing or hotspots.
One of the standout features of the upper is the gusseted tongue, which means it’s attached to the upper on both sides. This ensures that the tongue stays in place and doesn’t slide around during your run, which can be a common issue with traditional tongues.
The reinforced heel counter is another key feature, providing a secure, locked-in fit that prevents any unwanted heel slippage. This is particularly important for runners with narrow heels, as it ensures a stable and comfortable ride.
The Outsole: Grip and Durability
- CloudTec rubber compound in high-wear areas for durability
- Unique lug/groove pattern enhances traction and stride efficiency
The outsole of the Cloudstratus 3 is designed with both durability and traction in mind. The CloudTec rubber compound is used in high-wear areas, ensuring that the shoe will withstand the rigors of your daily training.
The unique lug and groove pattern on the outsole not only enhances traction on a variety of surfaces, but also promotes a smooth, efficient transition through your stride. The lugs are strategically placed to provide grip where you need it most, while the grooves allow for natural flexion and movement of the foot.
Weight and Versatility
- 11.6 oz / 329g for men’s size 9 (heavier for added cushioning)
- Designed for road running but can handle light trails
At 11.6 oz (329g) for a men’s size 9, the Cloudstratus 3 is no featherweight. However, the added weight is a trade-off for the increased cushioning and protection provided by the CloudTec midsole and durable outsole.
While the Cloudstratus 3 is primarily designed for road running, its versatile outsole and cushioning make it a viable option for light trail running as well. The lugs and grooves on the outsole provide decent traction on packed dirt trails, while the CloudTec midsole offers ample protection from roots and rocks.
However, for more technical trail running or ultramarathon distances, a dedicated trail shoe with more aggressive lugs and a rock plate would be a better choice.
New Balance 1080v13: A Tried-and-True Favorite
The Midsole: Fresh Foam X Cushioning
The New Balance 1080 line has long been a go-to for plush, responsive rides. The 1080v13 continues this with:
- Fresh Foam X proprietary foam compound
- Soft, responsive cushioning that adapts to your stride
- 30mm heel / 22mm forefoot stack heights
The Fresh Foam X midsole is a proprietary foam compound developed by New Balance, designed to provide a soft, responsive cushioning that adapts to your stride. Unlike traditional EVA foams, which can feel firm and unforgiving, the Fresh Foam X has a more plush, cushioned feel that conforms to the shape of your foot.
With 30mm of cushioning in the heel and 22mm in the forefoot, the 1080v13 offers ample protection for high-mileage training. The cushioning is strategically distributed throughout the midsole, providing a smooth, responsive ride from heel-strike to toe-off.
One of the standout features of the Fresh Foam X midsole is its durability. Unlike some foam compounds that can break down quickly, the Fresh Foam X is designed to maintain its cushioning and responsiveness over hundreds of miles.
The Upper: Breathable and Secure
- Lightweight, breathable engineered mesh hugs the foot
- Allows for ample toe splay
- Padded tongue and collar prevent rubbing
- Reinforced heel counter prevents slippage
The upper of the 1080v13 is a true standout, featuring a lightweight, breathable engineered mesh that hugs the foot snugly while allowing for ample toe splay. The mesh is designed to stretch and conform to the shape of your foot, providing a secure, locked-in fit without feeling restrictive.
The padded tongue and collar add an extra layer of comfort, preventing any potential rubbing or hotspots. The tongue is also gusseted, meaning it’s attached to the upper on both sides, ensuring it stays in place and doesn’t slide around during your run.
The reinforced heel counter is another key feature, providing a secure, locked-in fit that prevents any unwanted heel slippage. This is particularly important for runners with narrow heels, as it ensures a stable and comfortable ride.
The Outsole: Traction and Durability
- Durable rubber in high-wear areas
- Unique lug/groove pattern enhances grip and stride transition
The outsole of the 1080v13 is designed with both traction and durability in mind. The durable rubber compound is used in high-wear areas, ensuring that the shoe will withstand the rigors of your daily training.
The unique lug and groove pattern on the outsole not only enhances traction on a variety of surfaces, but also promotes a smooth, efficient transition through your stride. The lugs are strategically placed to provide grip where you need it most, while the grooves allow for natural flexion and movement of the foot.
Weight and Versatility
- 10.9 oz / 309g for men’s size 9 (lighter than Cloudstratus 3)
- Designed for roads but can handle light trails
At 10.9 oz (309g) for a men’s size 9, the 1080v13 is slightly lighter than the Cloudstratus 3, making it a more nimble option for those seeking a balance between cushioning and responsiveness.
While the 1080v13 is primarily designed for road running, its versatile outsole and cushioning make it a viable option for light trail running as well. The lugs and grooves on the outsole provide decent traction on packed dirt trails, while the Fresh Foam X midsole offers ample protection from roots and rocks.
However, like the Cloudstratus 3, the 1080v13 is not designed for more technical trail running or ultramarathon distances, where a dedicated trail shoe with more aggressive lugs and a rock plate would be a better choice.
The Verdict: Which Cushioned Trainer Reigns Supreme?
Both the On Cloudstratus 3 and the New Balance 1080v13 are exceptional choices for runners seeking a plush, high-mileage trainer. However, when it comes to sheer cushioning, the Cloudstratus 3 takes the cake.
The Cloudstratus 3: Maximum Cushioning Reigns Supreme
With its increased stack height and signature CloudTec technology, the Cloudstratus 3 provides an unparalleled level of cushioning, making it feel like you’re running on literal clouds. The trade-off is a slightly heavier weight, but for those seeking maximum comfort and protection, the extra ounces are well worth it.
The CloudTec elements in the midsole provide a unique cushioning experience, compressing vertically and horizontally to absorb impact and promote a smooth, efficient stride. The increased stack height ensures that you’ll have ample cushioning underfoot, even on your longest runs.
The upper of the Cloudstratus 3 is also a standout feature, with its stretchy, breathable mesh and padded tongue and collar providing a snug, comfortable fit. The reinforced heel counter ensures a secure, locked-in fit, preventing any unwanted heel slippage.
While the Cloudstratus 3 is primarily designed for road running, its versatile outsole and cushioning make it a viable option for light trail running as well. However, for more technical terrain, a dedicated trail shoe would be a better choice.
The 1080v13: A Responsive, Well-Cushioned Ride
That said, the New Balance 1080v13 is no slouch in the cushioning department. Its Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a responsive, well-cushioned ride that will keep your legs feeling fresh, even on your longest runs.
The updated upper also provides a snug, comfortable fit, with its breathable mesh and padded tongue and collar. The reinforced heel counter ensures a secure, locked-in fit, preventing any unwanted heel slippage.
While the 1080v13 doesn’t quite match the sheer cushioning of the Cloudstratus 3, it does offer a more nimble, responsive ride. This makes it a fantastic option for those seeking a balance between cushioning and responsiveness.
Like the Cloudstratus 3, the 1080v13 is primarily designed for road running but can also handle light trail running. However, for more technical terrain, a dedicated trail shoe would be a better choice.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between these two cushioned trainers will come down to personal preference and running style. If you’re a runner who prioritizes maximum cushioning above all else, the On Cloudstratus 3 is the clear winner. Its increased stack height and CloudTec technology provide an unparalleled level of cushioning, making it feel like you’re running on literal clouds.
However, if you seek a slightly more responsive, nimble ride without sacrificing too much cushioning, the New Balance 1080v13 is an excellent choice. Its Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a well-cushioned ride that will keep your legs feeling fresh, while its updated upper and outsole provide a secure, comfortable fit.
It’s also worth considering the weight difference between the two shoes. The Cloudstratus 3 is heavier, which may be a factor for runners who prioritize a lighter, more nimble feel. The 1080v13, on the other hand, is slightly lighter, making it a better option for those who prefer a more responsive ride.
Whichever shoe you choose, one thing is certain: your daily miles just got a whole lot more comfortable. So lace up those cushioned trainers and hit the roads (or trails) with a newfound spring in your step.
But the decision between these two cushioned trainers doesn’t have to be an either/or proposition. Many runners choose to rotate between multiple shoes, using the Cloudstratus 3 for their long, easy runs when maximum cushioning is a priority, and the 1080v13 for faster-paced workouts or races when a more responsive ride is desired.
Rotating between different shoes can also help prevent overuse injuries by varying the stress on your muscles and joints. The unique cushioning technologies and geometries of the Cloudstratus 3 and 1080v13 will work your body in slightly different ways, promoting a more balanced training load.
When making your decision, it’s also important to consider your individual biomechanics and running form. Runners with a heavier footstrike or who tend to overpronate may benefit from the added cushioning and stability of the Cloudstratus 3, while those with a more efficient, midfoot strike may prefer the slightly lower stack height and increased responsiveness of the 1080v13.
Ultimately, the best way to decide between these two cushioned trainers is to try them on and take them for a test run. Every runner’s preferences and needs are unique, and what feels like running on clouds to one person may feel overly soft or unstable to another.
Many specialty running stores offer test run programs or generous return policies, allowing you to take the shoes out on the roads or treadmill before making your final decision. This can be invaluable in ensuring you find the perfect cushioned trainer for your individual needs.
Whichever shoe you choose, the On Cloudstratus 3 and New Balance 1080v13 represent the pinnacle of cushioned running technology. With their plush, responsive rides and attention to detail in every aspect of their design, these shoes are sure to keep your legs feeling fresh and your spirits high, mile after mile.
So embrace the cushioned revolution, and experience the pure joy of running on clouds. Your feet (and legs) will thank you.