If you’re searching for a stability-focused walking shoe, the On Cloudrunner 2 might be the perfect fit. Despite its name suggesting it’s primarily a running shoe, I’ll explain why it’s one of the best stability walking shoes in On Cloud’s range.
I’m James, a Knee, Foot, and Ankle Specialist who has been advising patients on footwear for over a decade. In this review, I’ll discuss the Cloudrunner 2’s key features, including its cushioning, stability, and overall performance for walking and standing.
Midsole & Heel Drop: Comfortable Cushioning for Achilles Support
The midsole of the Cloudrunner 2 provides 39 mm of cushioning in the rearfoot and 29 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 10 mm heel drop. This high drop significantly reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon, making it a great choice for individuals with Achilles tendonitis.
However, high drops can sometimes place extra pressure on the forefoot. Thankfully, the Cloudrunner 2 addresses this with plenty of padding in the forefoot, ensuring comfort even if you experience conditions like:
- Metatarsalgia
- Morton’s Neuroma
The shoe’s moderate cushioning effectively absorbs impact. When your heel strikes the ground, the CloudTec pods compress to reduce vibration and absorb shock, creating a smoother walking experience. The forefoot rocker is another standout feature, promoting a natural and efficient push-off during the gait cycle.
Stability Features: Designed to Keep You Supported
Stability is where the Cloudrunner 2 shines. Several design elements enhance its ability to keep your feet centered and supported:
- Sidewalls: Raised walls around the heel, midfoot, and forefoot cradle your foot, preventing excessive side-to-side movement. This feature is especially helpful for controlling pronation forces.
- CloudTec Pods: The pods on the inner side of the sole are thicker and broader, offering a denser foam to reduce inward compression. This ensures stability while walking or running.
- Heel Counter: A stiff, padded heel counter enhances rearfoot stability, limiting unnecessary foot movement and improving overall balance.
These features make the Cloudrunner 2 ideal for individuals with:
- Flat feet
- Posterior tibial tendonitis
- Peroneal tendonitis
- Progressive flat foot deformity
Upper Construction: Comfort and Fit
The upper of the Cloudrunner 2 is constructed from engineered mesh, providing a snug yet breathable fit. Here’s what you can expect:
- Heel and Midfoot: A snug fit that ensures a secure lockdown.
- Forefoot: A standard width that should fit most feet, but those with broader feet may need to opt for a wider size or consider sizing up.
- Tongue: Well-padded for comfort, while the laces ensure a secure lockdown.
- Heel Counter: Padded and stiff for added stability and support.
The upper provides a comfortable and secure fit, making this shoe an excellent choice for extended periods of walking or standing.
Performance and Versatility
The Cloudrunner 2 is an all-around stability shoe that performs exceptionally well for:
- Walking: The cushioning ensures a soft impact, while the rocker design facilitates an easy and smooth transition during the gait cycle.
- Standing: The stability features reduce fatigue, making it a great choice for those who spend long hours on their feet.
Final Thoughts: Why the On Cloudrunner 2 Stands Out
The On Cloudrunner 2 is an exceptional choice for those seeking a stability-focused walking shoe. Its combination of cushioning, support, and fit makes it ideal for individuals dealing with conditions like Achilles tendonitis, posterior tibial tendonitis, and flat feet. Whether you’re walking, standing all day, or recovering from an injury, this shoe provides the comfort and support you need.
Key Features Recap:
- 10 mm heel drop for Achilles offloading
- Sidewalls and CloudTec pods for enhanced stability
- Moderate cushioning for shock absorption
- Engineered mesh upper for a secure and breathable fit
- Ideal for walking and standing all day
If you’re considering the On Cloudrunner 2, we’d love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions. Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to check out more shoe reviews on our website.
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