For our review section this week we’ll have a look at the On Cloudtilt sneaker, one of the latest models from the Swiss brand. In the fall of 2023 the luxury fashion house Loewe and On started their collaboration by introducing a brand new silhouette, the Cloudtilt. The sneaker featured the Loewe logo on an On model featuring the Cloudtec Phase technology with a new, innovative distribution of the midsole pods. The shoes from this collaboration came a whooping $490 price tag, not surprising given the association with Loewe.
At the beginning of 2024 On brand introduced the Cloudtilt outside the collab with a price of $160 which is more in line with their other models. This is the first walking shoe featuring the Cloudtec Phase technology, being one of the most comfortable in my opinion. If you have been disappointed by the hype around the On running shoes is likely because they did not feel as cushioned as other models from brands like Nike, Adidas or Asics. This shoe will likely make you think to have another look at this brand. The Cloudtec Phase in combination with the Helion foam makes the Cloudtilt a soft, comfortable shoe with excellent balance for the perfect everyday shoe.
First Impressions
At a first look the Cloudtilt reminded me of the Cloudnova with their slighter higher silhouette than their other models like the Cloud 5. They are very lightweight, with size 11.5 for men weighing only 10.34oz which is pretty outstanding given that they are not minimalist shoes. On foot they feel comfortable right away, with no need to break them in.
How They Fit
The On Cloudtilt fits true to size, with a quite forgiving toe box. The shoe molds effortlessly on your feet for maximum comfort. I would say that if you’re in between sizes you can go with the lower size, unless you have slightly wide feet like me. If you are not sure about the size you need for this brand you can check out this size chart.
Upper Design
The upper of the On Coudtilt is made of a seamless mesh made from 100% recycled polyester and also colored using the dope dye technique for 90% less water waste, according to the brand. They also feature the signature speed lacing and a sock construction that makes it very easy to put them on and take them off easily. The padding around the ankle area and tongue is very light which offers just enough cushioning in the upper area. The upper is very breathable, making it an excellent shoe for warm days or for indoor activities.
Sole Unit Technology
The sole unit features the Cloudtec Phase technology which is not as explosive as the original Cloudtec that we are used to seeing on the running shoes from this brand. This new technology that we’ve seen previously on the Cloudsurfer and the Cloudeclipse is absorbing the impact and returns energy in phases which results in a more cushioned ride. Moreover, for the Cloudtilt the cloud pods are distributed in different angles throughout the midsole for a more balanced ride. Being advertised as everyday shoes rather than running shoes the brand focused on comfort and stability instead of speed and explosive energy return. For this On Cloudtilt review I tested these in the city as well as in the gym and they felt great on my feet, certainly the most comfortable pair I tried from this brand. This is also because of the Helion superfoam that makes up the midsole, a lightweight compound that delivers excellent energy return on its own.
Are On Cloudtilt running shoes?
The brand clearly advertises this model as a lifestyle shoe so no, they are not running shoes. These will not deliver the same explosive energy return you’ll get from the other models featuring the Cloudtec midsole. You can use them for slow paced, short runs in the gym, however.
Who are they for?
If you are looking for a stylish, ultra light walking shoe that you can take with you pretty much anywhere these are for you. They are more cushioned than other popular models for this brand and deliver all day comfort. They provide excellent arch support for long hours, keeping your feet from getting too tired too fast.
Bottom Line
To wrap up this review, the On Couldtilt is an excellent addition to the growing line of models from this brand. I was impressed with how comfortable they felt from the get go and the support provided throughout the day. This model is a statement on the ongoing innovation this brand is committed to maximize the use of their signature technologies to accommodate the needs of their customers. The $160 retail price is still pretty high but what you get is one of the best walking shoes on the market today hands down.
