Runner finds joy with new shoe model

A runner who had been struggling to find joy in their runs decided to try the On Cloudsurfer 3. After decades of logging miles, they weren’t ready to accept that running wasn’t working for them anymore, mentally or physically.

The Cloudsurfer 3 is a hyper-cushioned shoe, featuring the Surreal superfoam in the midsole and a unique outsole geometry. The runner was initially surprised by the extra height of the shoe, but found that it translated into a soft ride.

First Impressions

On the first day of testing, the runner did a couple of easy miles. They found that the Cloudsurfer 3 made their feet feel tucked in, and the extra height seemed to be worth it. The levity and spring from their early running days were back, and their gait was smoother than it had been in a while.

The runner ended up doing 5.25 miles, which felt practically effortless. When they returned home, their legs didn’t feel heavy, and their post-workout yoga wasn’t as painful as usual.

Testing the Limits

On the second day, the runner decided to tackle some stairs and hills. They ran to Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain stairs and found that the Cloudsurfer 3’s cushioning made the toe strikes feel bouncy on the down phases. They were able to get their knees up higher on the up phases, and their heart rate recovered sooner than expected.

The runner also did streetlight intervals, alternating between running and sprinting from one light to the next. They found that the rolling motion of the shoe felt more pronounced during this workout.

Incline Performance

On the third day, the runner decided to tackle Harlem Hill, a notoriously difficult incline. They found that the Cloudsurfer 3’s roll continued to help propel them forward, even on the steep hill. The effort was greater than the day before, but there was less pain than in previous attempts.

The runner finished the second half of their run easily and found that their overall pace was 45 seconds faster per mile compared to the first day. Thanks to the Cloudsurfer 3, they had found their running groove again.

The Cloudsurfer 3’s performance on various terrain, including stairs and hills, suggests that it may be a good option for runners who are looking for a cushioned shoe. A midsole featuring Surreal superfoam and a unique outsole geometry may help to reduce the impact of running on the body. The runner’s experience with the Cloudsurfer 3 was positive, and they were able to enjoy their runs again. The shoe’s cushioning and rolling motion made a significant difference in their running experience.