On
Cloudultra 3
Product Judgment
Solid
7.9
Category: Light/Moderate Trail
Release year: 2025
Evidence base: Extensive
Experts agree on stability and durability; fit and grip opinions vary slightly.
Price Judgment
Unjustified
Common retail price: ~$190
Availability: Widely Available
Based on manual research as of Sep 24, 2026
Description
Versatile trail model positioned for moderate terrain and long distances. Major updates improve cushioning, traction, and upper comfort over its predecessor. Expert reviews highlight stability, durability, and a firm, predictable ride.
Firm midsole and wide platform create a planted, stable feel on easy trails. Ride is smooth and efficient with moderate shock absorption, but lacks high energy return. Breathable, reinforced upper enhances protection and comfort for long outings. Traction is reliable on gravel but less secure on technical, rocky ground.
Ideal for runners prioritizing stability and durability on gravel, forest paths, and moderate trails. Well-suited for long runs, mixed running and hiking, and those needing a supportive platform. Less recommended for technical mountain routes or runners seeking maximum bounce. Premium build quality makes it a strong choice for consistent trail mileage.
Performance Scores
Comfort
7Firm midsole and snug midfoot fit limit plushness for some runners.
Energy Return
6Midsole is stable and slightly springy but lacks high rebound.
Stability
9Wide platform and firm foam provide excellent stability on moderate trails.
Durability
9Outsole and upper show minimal wear after extended use.
Grip
7Missiongrip outsole offers good traction on gravel and easy trails, less so on technical terrain.
Run Fitness
Daily
8Stable, durable ride suits daily trail runs on moderate terrain.
Long
8Cushioning and support work well for long distances on non-technical trails.
Light Trail
9Excels on gravel and easy trails with smooth, predictable ride.
Technical Trail
6Higher stack and moderate grip limit confidence on technical, rocky terrain.
Door to Trail
7Firm midsole and flexible outsole handle mixed surfaces but lack road softness.
Pros & Cons
- Outstanding stability
- Excellent durability
- Breathable, protective upper
- Smooth ride on moderate trails
- Limited energy return
- Snug midfoot fit
- Average grip on technical terrain
Wide platform and firm midsole deliver outstanding stability on uneven ground.
Durable outsole and reinforced upper withstand long-term trail use.
Breathable Leno weave upper with TPU overlays offers protection and quick drying.
Rocker geometry and moderate cushioning provide a smooth, efficient ride on easy trails.
Midsole lacks the lively rebound found in some competitors, limiting energy return.
Snug midfoot fit may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.
Outsole traction is adequate for moderate trails but less secure on technical, rocky surfaces.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
32 mm heel / 26 mm forefoot
Weight
295 g (men's EU 44)
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
32 mm heel / 26 mm forefoot
Weight
295 g (men's EU 44)
Pronation
Neutral
Width
medium
Terrain
Technical Trail
Technologies
Helion HF dual-layer midsole, Missiongrip outsole, Nylon Speedboard
Plate
Composite
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Comparable Models
On Cloudultra Pro offers a soft, propulsive ride and roomy upper for long efforts, addressing the Cloudultra 3's muted rebound and snug midfoot but adding outsole-wear concerns.
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Brooks Cascadia 20 combines plush protection with dependable varied-surface traction, whereas the Cloudultra 3 feels firmer and less secure on technical rocky ground.
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Hoka Speedgoat 7 adds aggressive traction and responsive protection for demanding trails, addressing the Cloudultra 3's moderate-terrain limitations.
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Topo Vista supplies a broad fit and soft, protective landings, contrasting with the Cloudultra 3's snug midfoot and firmer feel while sacrificing ground feedback.
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Salomon Ultra Glide 4 provides plush, energetic cushioning for long outings, addressing the Cloudultra 3's limited rebound while retaining a slick-wet-rock traction caveat.
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