On Running Cloudboom Strike LS

Description 170g · 4mm drop · Neutral · Road Our verdict Best for Racing and speed workouts — at 170g, this is a lightweight performer Neutral runners with an efficient stride Runners who prefer a low-drop, natural feel Skip if You want maximum cushioning for long easy runs You're used to traditional 10-12mm drop shoes (transition slowly) �� Price — On Running Cloudboom Strike LS $323.00 at Pace Athletic ✓ In Stock Buy Now → �� Price History �� Runners Also ComparedASICS Hyper MD 8175g · 5mm dropFrom $175ASICS Hyper Sprint 8147g · 0mm dropASICS Hyper Sprint 8 Unisex Track & Field Shoes147g · 0mm dropMizuno Wave Enerzy Rider Jr - Kids Running Shoes - Peacoat/Ignition Red/Reflex196g · 10mm dropThe Cloudboom Strike LS represents On Running’s most aggressive assault on the super shoe market yet. Built around a 39.5mm heel stack of Helion HF hyper foam, this 218g racer combines On’s signature Bounceboard construction with a spoon-shaped carbon-fibre Speedboard plate that curves dramatically through the forefoot. The “LS” designation signals a lighter, stripped-back upper construction — just 30g of engineered mesh that hugs the foot without any excess material. At 4mm drop, it’s positioned for midfoot and forefoot strikers who want maximum energy return without the typical 8-10mm offset of traditional racers. On paper, the Cloudboom Strike LS ticks every box for a modern marathon weapon: World Athletics legal stack height, sub-220g weight, carbon plate, and proprietary foam that On claims delivers explosive energy return. The Helion HF compound feels notably firmer than the ZoomX or FF BLAST Turbo you’ll find in competitors, creating a more direct, snappy ride that rewards efficient form. The Bounceboard — essentially a decoupled heel and forefoot design — allows independent compression zones that adapt to your strike pattern. Here’s the honest take: this shoe absolutely flies when you’re on your forefoot and running at sub-3:30 marathon pace. The firm platform and aggressive rocker geometry create a catapult effect that genuinely feels propulsive. But it’s unforgiving. If your form breaks down or you’re a heavy heel striker, the firm ride and low drop can feel jarring. The minimal upper, while impressively light, offers zero stretch — nail your size or suffer. At $430, it’s asking Nike Alphafly money for a shoe that’s significantly less versatile. Who It’s For Sub-3:30 marathoners who prioritise weight savings — at 218g, it’s 40g lighter than an Alphafly 3 Midfoot and forefoot strikers who can handle a 4mm drop — the low offset and firm platform reward efficient biomechanics 5K to half-marathon specialists wanting maximum speed without marathon-specific cushioning Runners under 75kg who don’t need excessive impact protection — the firm Helion HF works best with lighter loads Athletes transitioning from track spikes to road racing — the aggressive geometry and minimal upper feel familiar Who Should Skip It Heel strikers or runners over 80kg — the firm platform and 4mm drop create harsh landings. The Fresh Foam X 1080v14 offers plush cushioning for $260 less Anyone seeking daily training versatility — this is a race-only weapon. The ASICS Novablast 5 gives you speed and comfort at $230 less Runners on a budget — at $430, you’re paying Vaporfly prices. The HOKA Bondi 9 delivers marathon cushioning for $170 less Wide-footed runners — the racing-narrow last and non-stretch upper create pressure points that worsen over distance Key Specs Weight 218g (men’s US9) — lighter than Vaporfly 3 (211g) or Adios Pro 4 (220g) Stack Height 39.5mm heel / 35.5mm forefoot — maxed out at World Athletics legal limit Drop 4mm — lower than most super shoes, favours midfoot strikers Upper Weight 30g — ultra-minimal engineered mesh, zero excess material Midsole Helion HF hyper foam — firmer than ZoomX but delivers snappy energy return Plate Carbon-fibre Speedboard — spoon-shaped curve through forefoot for propulsion Price Intelligence The Cloudboom Strike LS currently sits at $430 at Pace Athletic — that’s full RRP with no discounts in sight. This pricing puts it squarely in super shoe territory alongside the Nike Alphafly 3 ($445) and Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 ($420). Unlike those models which occasionally see 20% sales, On Running maintains strict pricing control on their flagship racers. If you’re waiting for a discount, don’t hold your breath — On’s previous Cloudboom models rarely dropped below RRP until the next version launched. At this price point, you’re paying for Swiss engineering and the lightest racing upper in the category, but value-conscious runners should note you can get 90% of the performance from alternatives costing $100-150 less. How It Compares Model Price (AU) Key Difference Best For ASICS Novablast 5 $199.99 No carbon plate but versatile daily trainer/racer hybrid Runners wanting one shoe for training and racing NB Fresh Foam X 1080v14 $169.99 Maximum cushion daily trainer vs stripped-back racer High-mileage runners prioritising comfort HOKA Bondi 9 $260.00 36mm max cushion vs 39.5mm firm racing platform Heavier runners or those needing impact protection Value Rating ������ (3/5) — At $430, the Cloudboom Strike LS demands super shoe money for a more limited use case than competitors. Yes, it’s incredibly light at 218g. Yes, the carbon Speedboard and Helion HF foam deliver genuine propulsion. But the firm ride, low drop, and racing-narrow fit make it a specialist tool rather than an all-around marathon option. Compare this to a Nike Vaporfly 3 at similar money — the Nike works for a broader range of runners and paces. The On excels in its specific niche (light, efficient runners racing 5K to half-marathon) but that’s a narrow target for the price. If you fit the profile perfectly, it’s worth every cent. For everyone else, there are better ways to spend $430. Further Reading For more On Running insights, check out our On Running Cloudsurfer Australia review to see how their daily trainer compares. If you’re new to running, our guide to the best running shoes for beginners Australia 2026 offers more forgiving options. Heavier runners should read our best running shoes for heavy runners roundup for better-cushioned alternatives. Related products to consider: ASICS Novablast 5 — Versatile trainer/racer without the carbon plate premium New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 — Maximum cushion for long runs and easy days HOKA Bondi 9 — Ultra-cushioned alternative for runners prioritising comfort