Adapted from Steve’s video review.
The On Cloudrunner Max 3 is a brand-new shoe, despite the slightly confusing name.
There was no Cloudrunner Max 1 or Cloudrunner Max 2. On basically took the Cloudrunner line, added a higher-cushion option, and called it the Cloudrunner Max 3 so it would sit alongside the Cloudrunner 3. It makes sense once you understand the lineup, but it is definitely a little confusing at first.
When we first saw this shoe, I was excited about it because high-cushion stability shoes are a huge category for us at Run Moore. A lot of people walking into a running store are not necessarily looking to qualify for Boston. They are looking for comfort, support, protection, and something that feels good for walking, running, or being on their feet all day.
Then I picked it up.
This is a heavy shoe. Really heavy.
At around 14 ounces, it immediately felt heavier than a lot of the other shoes I would put in this same category. Walking around in it, I honestly started wondering if this was going to be more of a walking shoe than a running shoe. It felt a little clunky and I did not expect it to be something I would enjoy running faster in.
Then I actually ran in it.
And that changed my opinion pretty quickly.
The Cloudrunner Max 3 runs much better than it walks. Once I got moving, I was surprised by how much bounce it had. It felt much more lively than I expected from something this heavy. It also felt very stable and protected, with a wider platform, dual-density cushioning, higher sidewalls and more support around the foot than I get from the regular Cloudrunner 3.
The word I kept coming back to was cozy.
It surrounds your foot in a way that feels secure without feeling sloppy. I took it out for what was supposed to be an easy recovery run and ended up enjoying it enough that I wanted to keep adding miles. That is not always how a recovery run goes.
To me, this feels like a really nice step up for someone who already likes the Cloudrunner 3 but wants more cushion, more protection and something better suited for longer runs or just more time on their feet. Ironically, even though the Max is heavier, I would probably rather run in the Max and use the regular Cloudrunner more as a walking or everyday shoe.
There are a few things I would change. I wish it were lighter, I wish it came in wide sizes, and I think the upper could probably lose a little material and become more breathable. The lace keeper also feels awkwardly positioned and does not add much for me.
But overall, the Cloudrunner Max 3 surprised me.
It looks heavy. It feels heavy in your hand. It even feels a little clunky walking around.
Then you run in it.
And that is where it starts to make sense.
