On Cloudsurfer Max vs. Asics Gel-Kayano 32 Running Shoes: We Put Them To The Test

When it comes to running, I’m the laziest when it comes to pushing my limit. But after each run, it always gives me a comprehensive boost; not just for my body but for my mind. Studies have shown that the sport significantly strengthens your cardiovascular system and builds bone density.

Beyond physical health, it’s a proven mood lifter, reducing stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins. Regular runs aid in weight management and improve overall energy levels, fostering better sleep and mental clarity.

With that in mind, I dragged myself back to the gym to instil the necessary discipline to get me out of this limbo. The first few weeks were testing my patience; treadmills were occupied and my shoes were falling apart. But soon enough I managed to squeezed in non-peak timings and I decided a new outfit change was necessary. Plus, if I’m going to start following my friends who are in running clubs, I want to make sure I look the part.

I got my hands on two of the best performing running brands in the market and decided to put it to the test: On’s Cloudsurfer Max and Asics Gel Kayano 32.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

I love the colourways on the Asics Gel-Kayano 32. The plain white and orange/pink streaks give it a nice edge, and it was easy to go from the gym to the office. The heel foam is coupled with their in-house FlyteFoam (FF) Blast technology, which is ASICS’ proprietary midsole foam technology. It was researched, developed, and trademarked by ASICS Institute of Sport Science (ISS) in Japan and introduced in their shoe ranges by 2016. The Gel-Kayano range specifically carries the FF+ technology which is softer and plushier. If it’s your first time to running, make sure you get the Gel-Kayano 32 range with FF+ technology.

And if you have wider feet like mine, this Asics range has a wider shoe tip which makes running smoother. The mesh upper on the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 provides excellent breathability and its stretchy fabric is a welcoming quality.

On the treadmill, for the first one kilometre, I find the shoes to be very comfortable and the landing to be smooth. Surprisingly, it’s almost intuitive, and I didn’t struggle at all with the form nor fit. The under sole feels grippy, which makes it even sturdier and I felt my running form stabilised.

For the next kilometre, I swapped to the On Cloudsurfer Max for my next round of testing. My first On shoes were the Cloudmonster and I wore them the whole week when I was in Japan in 2023 and my feet were so thankful for the support.

Unlike the Cloudmonster which employs single CloudTec cushioning, the soles of the Cloudsurfer Max employs a double layer of CloudTec Phase cushioning, which is a computer-optimised design to help cushion landing and smoother run. There’s also an added foam in the shoes, specifically to support the back of your heel which took me a while to get used to. I struggled a bit to slip my feet inside, even with the tiny pull tab.

When picking up the pace, the shoes didn’t offer the same forward propulsion I experienced with my previous Cloudmonster. However, the run was smooth and I felt the shocks were absorbed well.

Aesthetics-wise, the Cloudsurfer Max has my vote; it’s got a clean, modern and sleek style that makes heads turn wherever you go. Also, all-white sneakers offer a timeless, versatile aesthetic that pairs with almost everything.

On Cloudsurfer Max vs. Asics Gel-Kayano 32: Best in running

Thumbs down, the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 keeps things soft, smooth and consistent for daily runs without disrupting your pace. Also, the price point is a plus point for those who want to train without breaking the bank. I can see half-marathoners and myself (attempting my next 10km) with these pair of shoes with ease.

The Cloudsurfer Max has my heart when it comes to stylish trainers. These shoes require a break-in period, and the fit might be too firm for those who like more flexible trainers. Great for first-time runners but it doesn’t have that propel-forward element that the other On shoes are known for.

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