On Unveils the Cloudsurfer 3: Delivering the Softest Run Yet Through Breakthrough Surreal™ Superfoam and CloudTec Phase®
Zurich, Switzerland, September 15, 2026 – On, the premium Swiss sportswear brand, today launches the Cloudsurfer 3 - the third generation of its cushioned everyday running shoe, designed to deliver its softest run yet. Representing a breakthrough in structural engineering, the Cloudsurfer 3 combines On’s newly created Surreal™ superfoam with a re-engineered CloudTec Phase™ system to deliver one defining sensation - softness - without sacrificing the responsiveness runners need from their footwear.
The Cloudsurfer 3 is an everyday trainer that leverages On's signature approach to innovation to deliver a totally new, unique union of soft-meets-bounce, making it a perfect option for casual and recovery runs to longer training sessions.
In simulations powered by Advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA)*, combining Surreal™ superfoam with CloudTec Phase achieves superior performance than superfoam alone by delivering:
- 15.5% More Compression: Integrating CloudTec Phase geometry into Surreal superfoam deepens compression by 15.5%, absorbing significantly more impact than the superfoam compound on its own.*
- Smoother Ride: The computer-optimized orientation of CloudTec Phase works in tandem with the foam to deliver a 9.9% reduction in peak braking force*, creating a smoother ride sensation than un-engineered superfoam.*
The development took place at On’s in-house Foam Competency Center at On Labs Zurich, drawing on years of material science and biomechanical research to formulate Surreal superfoam, a lighter, softer and more responsive foam than Helion - On’s previous everyday running foam.
Developed and tested in tandem to Surreal, the CloudTec Phase system’s computer-optimised geometry was re-designed to allow its Cloud elements to compress in sequence as the foot moves. This structure unlocks a level of softness than superfoam could deliver alone, while creating a smooth, effortless roll through every stride.
The breakthrough was not simply that we created a new superfoam - it is that we can engineer structure into it to unlock even more from the material,” says Scott Maguire, President and COO at On. “Bringing our foam development, structural engineering and biomechanical capabilities together at On Labs allowed us to do exactly that. The Cloudsurfer 3 is the first expression of this breakthrough, and we’re excited to keep exploring Surreal’s potential across our running footwear portfolio.”
The innovation has addressed a clear runner need: cushioning that feels soft and protective without compromising a smooth, natural sense of movement. Recognizing that a daily running shoe must perform across a wide range of runs, On focused on balancing underfoot comfort with fluid transitions from landing to take-off.
“Our ambition with the Cloudsurfer 3 was to rethink what softness should feel like in a daily running shoe,” says Zoé Gerdil, Product Manager at On. “Runners want generous cushioning, but they also need a shoe that feels effortless and easy to move through. By pairing Surreal™ superfoam with the re-engineered CloudTec Phase system, we created a ride that feels soft underfoot, yet smooth and alive from landing to take-off.”
The Cloudsurfer 3 is the first product to feature Surreal, with its debut marking a major evolution in On’s foam innovation, and Surreal set to play a growing role across the brand’s running footwear range.
The shoe will pre-launch exclusively through specialist running retailers on October 1, 2026. This exclusivity reflects On’s ongoing commitment to the success of the specialist running retail channel and recognizes the vital role these retailers play at the heart of running culture. A full global launch across all channels, including On.com and On retail stores, will follow in early 2027.
* Claims are derived from internal, specialized FEA analytics conducted at On Labs Zurich - a predictive computer-modeling technique where On engineers analyze virtual prototypes to optimize footwear performance.
* Peak braking force refers to the maximum resistance to forward horizontal motion.
CLOUDSURFER 3 TECHNICAL FEATURES:
- New Surreal Superfoam
Introducing our new proprietary superfoam. Surreal is a breakthrough in softness and cushioning, engineered to help soften every step and help you stack miles with ease.
- Re-engineered CloudTec Phase
The reimagined cloud orientation of CloudTec Phase enhances the rolling motion of the foot, creating a smoother, more continuous ride where each step flows naturally into the next.
- Evolved Warp Knit:
New engineered mesh upper provides a breathable, secure fit that adapts to your foot, while still holding it securely in place as you move, so comfort and structure work together mile after mile.
Weight: 285 g*
Sizes: 36 – 49
Drop: 8 mm
Price: 160 USD, 170 EUR, 150 GBP, 210 CHF
* Mens US 8.5 shoe
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About On
On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Sixteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® and LightSpray™ innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.
On is present in more than 80 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com.