I ran 40 miles in the On Cloudboom Volt and it’s a snappy super-sneaker for training and racing

I attended The Running Event in Texas 2025, where brands showcased their upcoming releases. The On Cloudboom Volt immediately caught my attention due to its striking design - a light blue color that might be the most visually appealing shoe I've tried this year. It also offered good value for money, being more affordable than On's other racing shoes and featuring a carbon plate combined with On's bouncy Helion HF midsole foam.

Upon testing the shoe, the On Cloudboom Strike 2 had overshadowed the Volt as one of the best carbon plate running shoes. Despite this, the Volt proved to be a strong contender for affordable fast training, particularly for those who prefer a more traditional ride compared to highly rockered or squishy options.

The Volt was available in four colors, including the gorgeous light blue Celeste I tested. It fit well in my normal running shoe size, being slightly tighter around the toes, which is typical for speed-focused shoes. The upper featured a lightweight mesh with just enough padding for comfort without adding bulk. The 5mm drop and 7.8oz weight (for a US men's size 9.5) made it lighter than most top racing shoes, which usually weigh under 7oz in my size.

The midsole consisted of two layers of On's Helion HF foam, which was firmer than in other shoes but still provided adequate energy return. A carbon-infused plate ran through the midsole, and the Volt boasted a mild rocker shape to encourage a forefoot push-off. The outsole, while not as minimal as in many training and racing shoes, offered good durability and grip, even on wet roads and light trails.

In terms of performance, I tested the Volt for various running activities, from easy daily training to fast workouts and even a full 20-mile race day. While it wasn't as lightweight or aggressive as some top racers, the Volt delivered a nimble, comfortable ride with a natural pace that worked well for my fast training needs. The firmness of the Helion HF midsole proved beneficial during toe-off, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a more traditional, natural ride over overly bouncy or propulsive shoes.

Despite some caveats - such as its heavier weight compared to other plated shoes and a less efficient ride for ultra-fast runs - the On Cloudboom Volt impressed me as an accomplished fast training shoe. With its MSRP of $200, the Volt is currently more affordable than On's top racing shoe ($250/£230) and priced closer to other fast training options. Considering its potential price drop during On's sales, the Volt is an option worth considering if you appreciate a firmer ride in your speed shoe.