On Cloudswift 4 vs Cloudsurfer Next
Cloudswift 4 or Cloudsurfer Next? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want a firm, stable On for city miles and everyday wear? Get the Cloudswift 4.
Want a firm, stable and light On at a lower price? Get the Cloudsurfer Next.
Get the Cloudswift 4 if
- You like a flexible, natural-feeling forefoot
- You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)
Get the Cloudsurfer Next if
- You want more foam underfoot (6mm more at the heel)
- You’ll use it for tempo runs and workouts
- You need a touch more room than the Cloudswift 4 gives
- You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
On the run
Cloudswift 4: The firm, stylish city runner. Very firm with almost no bounce, but a remarkably stable heel and better traction. Great for everyday wear and short runs.
Cloudsurfer Next: The firm, stable, lighter-priced On. Firm and stable with a low drop and a narrow build that feels agile, especially for midfoot and forefoot strikers. Likely too firm for most runners on long runs.
Specs side by side
| Cloudswift 4 | Cloudsurfer Next | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $160 (was $170) | $150 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 31 / 23mm* | 37 / 31mm* |
| Drop | 8mm* | 6mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 10.3 oz* | 9.3 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | Not available | Not available |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard | Standard |
| Built for | Walking & all-day wear, Easy days | Easy days, Tempo & workouts, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 400–500 miles | 350–450 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Cloudswift 4. True to size with an outstanding knit upper, but the toebox is tight. Wide available.
Cloudsurfer Next. True to size with reliable lockdown. Wide available.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Cloudswift 4 · Shop the Cloudsurfer Next · Compare other running shoes