The On Cloudboom Volt: A Mixed Bag for Runners

The recent launch of the On Cloudboom Volt has left many in the running community pondering its place within On’s extensive lineup. At first glance, this shoe appears to combine several innovative features – a plate and On’s renowned Helion HF midsole foam – making it an enticing option for runners seeking speed.

However, upon closer inspection, the Volt seems to lack the finesse of its more accomplished sibling, the Strike 2. While it may be cheaper, the Volt falls short as a top-tier racing shoe. Instead, it finds itself relegated to the realm of fast training shoes with plates – a category where its merits are somewhat lost in translation.

The price point of $200 in the US and £190 in the UK is certainly an attractive feature for those on a budget, but does it justify the Volt’s existence? In recent years, running shoe manufacturers have increasingly prioritized innovation over excellence. This trend raises questions about whether style trumps substance, as seen with the On Cloudboom Volt.

The shoe’s design and fit are indeed impressive, according to Nick Harris-Fry in his review. The light blue Celeste colorway he tested is undeniably striking, and the mesh upper provides a comfortable and breathable ride. However, when it comes to performance, the Volt fails to live up to its more accomplished counterparts.

The use of two layers of Helion HF foam in the midsole is an interesting development, but ultimately fails to deliver the same level of energy return as other On shoes – including the Strike 2, which has set a high bar for carbon plate running shoes. The addition of a carbon-infused plate and mild rocker shape are welcome features, but they do little to alleviate the Volt’s overall lackluster performance.

The rise of carbon plate running shoes has been a game-changer in recent years, offering unparalleled levels of energy return and propulsion. However, this trend also raises concerns about whether we’ve become too enamored with innovation at the expense of excellence. The On Cloudboom Volt may be a worthy addition to your rotation, but only as another iteration of the ongoing quest for the perfect running shoe.

The On Cloudboom Strike 2 and the Volt sit on opposite ends of the performance spectrum. While the Strike 2 is an unapologetic racing machine, the Volt prioritizes style over substance. This dichotomy raises questions about our collective priorities as runners: are we willing to sacrifice performance for affordability and aesthetics?

As we continue down this path of innovation and experimentation, it’s worth considering what the future holds for our beloved sport. Will we prioritize excellence over innovation – no matter how alluring the promise of the latest and greatest may seem? The On Cloudboom Volt is a reflection of our collective priorities as runners, serving as a reminder that in an era where innovation often trumps excellence, we must be willing to ask ourselves what truly matters most.