On Running Cloudspike Amplius

Description 162g · Neutral Our verdict Best for Racing and speed workouts — at 162g, 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 Cloudspike Amplius $212.50 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 dropOn has engineered a middle-distance spike that bridges the gap between sprinting aggression and distance comfort. The Cloudspike Amplius 2 packs Helion HF hyper foam into a 157g package, targeting 1500m to 10,000m specialists who need responsive cushioning without the weight penalty. The widened platform (hence “Amplius”) adds stability through the turns while maintaining the sharp, precise feel demanded at elite track speeds. What sets this spike apart is On’s decision to prioritise midsole cushioning over minimalist construction. Where traditional middle-distance spikes strip everything back for weight savings, the Cloudspike Amplius 2 builds in genuine impact protection through its CloudTec pods and Helion HF foam. The trade-off? At 157g, it’s heavier than pure speed spikes, but that extra cushioning could be the difference between fading and finishing strong in longer track events. Who It’s For 800m-10K specialists seeking cushioned comfort — The Helion HF midsole delivers energy return while protecting legs through multiple laps, crucial when racing distances that demand both speed and endurance Runners stepping up from sprints to middle distance — The widened platform and sub-20mm stack height provide stability without feeling clunky, easing the transition to longer track events Track athletes with sensitive feet or injury history — CloudTec cushioning pods reduce impact stress compared to minimal spikes, potentially extending your track season Who Should Skip It Pure sprinters chasing sub-11 second 100m times — The 157g weight and cushioned design sacrifice raw power transfer. Try the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 instead for maximum propulsion Cross-country runners needing off-track grip — The five-spike configuration is track-specific with no outsole lugs for grass or dirt. Consider the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly XC for versatile surfaces Budget-conscious athletes — At $225, it’s pricey for a spike with limited versatility. The Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 offers similar performance for $179.99 Key Specs Weight 157.3g (men’s size unspecified) Stack Height Under 20mm (World Athletics legal) Midsole Helion HF hyper foam Cushioning CloudTec pods Plate Midfoot shank plate Spikes Five-spike configuration How It Compares Model Weight Best For Price On Cloudspike Amplius 2 157g 1500m-10K with cushioning $225 Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 ~155g 100m-400m pure speed $280 Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 ~135g 800m-5K minimal feel $179.99 Technology Breakdown On’s Helion HF (hyper foam) represents their most responsive compound, engineered specifically for track performance. Unlike the standard Helion used in road shoes, HF prioritises energy return over durability — expect snappier toe-offs but shorter lifespan. The CloudTec pods, typically associated with On’s road range, have been adapted here to provide discrete cushioning zones without adding bulk. The midfoot shank plate deserves attention. Rather than a full-length carbon or nylon plate, On opted for a targeted stability element that enhances torsional rigidity through the midfoot. This design choice maintains flexibility in the forefoot for natural toe-off mechanics while preventing energy loss through unwanted flex during the drive phase. Price Intelligence Currently available at $225 from Pace Athletic (down from $250 RRP — a 10% discount). This positions the Cloudspike Amplius 2 in the premium spike category, though still below elite options like the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 at $280. The current discount makes it more palatable, but even at sale price, you’re paying a premium for On’s cushioning technology in a spike format. Historical pricing suggests On spikes rarely drop below 20% off RRP, making the current 10% discount reasonable but not exceptional. If you’re targeting a specific race in the next 8-12 weeks, the current price is fair. Otherwise, waiting for end-of-season sales could yield better value. The Reality Check Let’s address the elephant on the track: cushioning in spikes is controversial. Traditionalists argue that excessive midsole material dulls ground feel and slows turnover. The Cloudspike Amplius 2 challenges this orthodoxy by betting that preserved leg freshness outweighs any theoretical biomechanical disadvantages. The five-spike configuration is conservative — most modern distance spikes use six for enhanced grip through turns. On likely made this choice to reduce weight and maintain flexibility, but runners accustomed to six-spike setups might notice reduced confidence when hammering through tight bends. Durability Concerns Track spikes inherently sacrifice longevity for performance, but the Helion HF compound raises particular concerns. User reports suggest the midsole maintains its responsive feel for approximately 150-200km of track work — significantly less than road racing shoes. The spike plate itself should outlast the midsole, but factor in replacement costs if you’re logging heavy track volume. The upper construction appears robust enough for a full season, though the precise fit that makes it race-ready also means less forgiveness for foot swelling during longer sessions or hot conditions. Training Integration The Cloudspike Amplius 2 occupies an interesting niche as both a race spike and a potential workout shoe for specific sessions. The added cushioning makes it viable for longer track intervals (think 8x1000m at 5K pace) where traditional minimal spikes might leave you beaten up. However, at $225, using them as a regular training tool becomes an expensive proposition. Consider reserving these for race day plus key simulation workouts. For general track training, a more durable option or older spike model makes better economic sense. Final Verdict On has created a spike that makes sense for a specific athlete: the middle-distance runner who values leg preservation over absolute minimal weight. The Helion HF midsole and CloudTec cushioning deliver genuine comfort advantages for 3000m and up, where maintaining form through fatigue separates winners from also-rans. However, this isn’t a spike for everyone. Pure speed demons will find it overbuilt, cross-country runners need more versatility, and the price point demands serious commitment to track racing. If you fit the target demographic and can stomach the cost, the Cloudspike Amplius 2 offers a compelling blend of Swiss engineering and cushioned performance. Value Rating ������ (3/5) — Premium price for specialised performance. The $225 sale price (down from $250) helps, but you’re still paying top dollar for a spike with limited use cases. The innovative cushioning system and quality construction partially justify the cost, but only if you’re specifically targeting middle to long-distance track events where that extra protection pays dividends. Further Reading On Running Cloudsurfer Australia — See how On’s cushioning philosophy translates to daily road running Best Running Shoes for Beginners Australia 2026 — Starting your running journey? Check these before jumping into spikes Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 — A more affordable spike option for middle-distance racing Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 — The ultimate sprint spike if pure speed is your goal