If you’ve been in just about any airport in the last few years (or pay any attention to Zendaya, for that matter), you’ve probably seen hoards of On shoes strolling around with their unmistakable midsoles that look like little high-tech clouds.
But the earliest versions of retired athlete Olivier Bernhard’s vision for innovative performance footwear began with gluing pieces of garden hose to an outsole. So maybe those of us tinkering away with various odds and ends in our garages should take heart.
Caspar Coppetti and David Allemann would join Bernhard in 2010, and the course was set. On Running formally burst onto the scene in March of that year, when its more developed prototypes won the prestigious ISPO Brandnew Award. [Editor’s Note: On would later win Product of the Year in 2017]. The idea of “running on clouds” was now officially part of the running industry parlance, and CloudTec became synonymous with Swiss innovation.
While CloudTec was intended for soft landings and powerful push-offs that adapt to a runner’s stride, another technology also became a part of On’s identity: the Speedboard.
The Speedboard is essentially a piece of technology that sits between your foot and the midsole and is intended to aid with creating momentum. The concept is to alter the Speedboard’s material, shape, thickness, and curve in order to create different ride experiences for different types of running (and runners). If that sounds like it could have some overlap with carbon plate territory to you, you’re not wrong. In fact, a shoe that appears on this list utilizes a carbon Speedboard…
The Speedboard (in its various forms) has an interesting track record, with some finding it a main key to success in On shoes and others wishing it would go the way of the dinosaurs (except for that carbon race-day version, presumably). But it really is a case of one size does not fit all. And we’ve seen models emerge in recent years that forgo the Speedboard entirely.
As with any company in On’s lane, the drive is always forward – onward (get it?) and upward toward continued innovation. So we’ve also seen an evolution of On’s most signature feature, the clouds themselves (in the form of CloudTec Phase, for example), where their configuration is altered for a different ride experience. On also continues to experiment with its own proprietary foams, such as Helion HF superfoam.
But how do you sift through all of that world-famous Swiss engineering (which tends to come at a premium, as you’ll see is a common theme below) in order to find On’s top performers? That’s where we come in…
Here’s our list of Best On Running Shoes (plus a bonus cross trainer for those so inclined).
Best On Running Shoes – Table of Contents Show
Best Neutral Cushioned On Running Shoes
On Cloudmonster 2
The On Cloudmonster 2 is a max-cushion shoe that provides a more responsive feel underfoot than On’s similarly-stacked but squishier/polarizing midsole option, the Cloudeclipse (which appears on this list for its own strengths). The Cloudmonster 2 sports lots of Pros: it’s neither too squishy nor too firm; it’s stable; it has a smooth ride; it has great aesthetics; it’s made with high-quality craftsmanship; it has a comfortable, accommodating upper; it’s perfect for all-day standing or walking; and there’s no slippage in wet conditions. Cons include: a $180 price tag; it’s still firmer than current running shoe trends; and the outsole design can collect some decent-sized rocks.
The On Cloudmonster 2 fits true-to-size lengthwise, and the upper is both wide and narrow-foot friendly. It’s a slam dunk of a shoe for daily miles, walking, and standing and is just soft enough without going overboard. Is the Cloudmonster 2 perfect? No. Is it expensive? Yes. But it delivers a lot of comfort, a quality build, good looks, and a great fit. If that sounds like the sort of stuff you value, it’s worth taking a look at the Cloudmonster 2. For more details, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 6mm, Price $180
On Cloudeclipse
The On Cloudeclipse is an ultra-thick daily running shoe that features a double layer of CloudTec Phase. With casual appeal, a great, true-to-size and accommodating fit that will work for both wide and narrow-footers, and very dependable traction, the Cloudeclipse has lots of Pros to enjoy. Our reviewers found the midsole polarizing with regard to how they experienced its softness (or lack thereof, depending), but they agreed on one related Con: picking up the pace was a chore. The Cloudeclipse is strictly suited for easy recovery miles, and the x-shaped torsional support piece found across the middle of the outsole aids with keeping a sense of extra stability as you slowly cruise around the roads.
The On Cloudeclipse is a very comfortable shoe that successfully crosses over between relaxed daily trainer (again, depending on how you experience the midsole) into excellent casual footwear. If you’re looking for a soft-ish shoe that’s not super squishy and don’t mind paying the On premium, you’ll get a solid combo of that daily performance and lifestyle use out of the On Cloudeclipse. For more details, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 6mm, Price $180
Best On Super Trainers
On Cloudmonster Hyper
The On Cloudmonster Hyper is billed as an all-around upgrade to another shoe on this list, the Cloudmonster 2, and is On’s first super trainer. But it’s a bit of a mixed bag of positives and negatives. On the Pros side, we have awesomely grippy laces, smooth transitions and weight distribution, a comfortable upper, and a bouncy forefoot. As for the Cons, it runs large (so you’ll want to go down a half size for the proper fit – even likely including wide-footers), it can feel like a negative drop shoe depending on where you strike, the overbuilt heel controls motion, the laces (while awesomely grippy) are exceedingly long, and the outsole durability is questionable.
This is definitely one of those shoes that gives buyers a lot to consider, including a too-high price. But On fans, especially those who forefoot strike, may find the Cloudmonster Hyper is the exact type of upgrade they’ve been waiting for from the brand. For more details and help in discovering whether the Cloudmonster Hyper could be for you, read the full review.
Fit: Runs a half size big, Drop: 6mm, Price: $220
Best On Speed Day Running Shoes
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is a fast and fun, high-performing race-day shoe that simply does not want to go slow. That’s great for race day, but you’re not going to want to bust out the Cloudboom Echo 3 for just any ‘ole run. The main Pro with this shoe is obvious: that unmistakable race-day pop and power from the Helion HF foam and carbon Speedboard. And as one of our reviewers noted, it also does a nice job of rewarding “effort over skill, which is a really nice maiden experience in a super shoe…” Other benefits are the fact that it requires no break-in time thanks in part to its speedy geometry, has a very lightweight but comfortable upper, and a well-constructed, beautiful design. The Cons are straightforward: this is an exceedingly expensive shoe at $290; it has race-day durability (which is to say, it’s not going to last forever); and the fit is more like a track spike than a traditional running shoe, making it a tricky prospect for wide-footers (so best to try it on wherever possible).
Whether the On Cloudboom Echo 3 is right for you will likely boil down most to budget and whether the fit works with your feet. Because it is otherwise a very good shoe for going fast. For more details (as well as a barrage of unhinged James Bond puns), read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 9.5mm, Price: $290
Best On Marathon Running Shoes
On Cloudboom Strike
The On Cloudboom Strike, with its removable midsole and spoon-shaped carbon Speedboard, is the best marathon-focused shoe On has created to-date. While firmer than most of what’s on the market, the Helion HF hyper foam is bouncy and plush without getting too squishy. While you need to make sure to wear socks cut higher than the collar (it’s thin and rigid, perfect for causing blisters and hotspots) this is shoe that can go the marathon distance. It’s breathability, weight, and reliable traction only add to the experience. If you prefer running in On shoes there’s a high likelihood this may be the perfect marathon running shoe for you.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 4mm, Price: $280
On Cloudboom Strike LS
The On Cloudboom Strike LS is very similar to the Cloudboom Strike but dispenses with the removable midsole, slightly tweaks the midsole construction and outsole rubber pattern, but most importantly, replaces the traditional upper with On’s proprietary Lightspray technology. Lightspray uppers are made by robots (seriously…click that link and watch the video, it’s mesmerizing).
Lightspray is seamless, thin, and ultralight. Get the hang of putting on the shoe (one finger in the front and one in the back, slide them around to and fro to allow your foot to slide past) and you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind laceless fit with a legit marathon midsole underfoot.
The Cloudboom Strike LS is an attention grabber whether at your local 5K or a major marathon. It’s comfortable (though not all foot shapes and sizes will love it) despite the minimalism. It’s the most interesting marathon running shoe on the market and early adopters of running shoe technology won’t be able to resist it’s siren call.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 4mm, Price: $330
Best On Trail Running Shoes
On Cloudultra Pro
The On Cloudultra Pro is the first trail super shoe from On, and runners will find this ultradistance racer light and zippy.
It’s packed with Pros: a soft and bouncy, dual-layer Helion HF midsole; a nylon plate that offers both pop and flexibility; a simple yet dependable Missiongrip outsole; an extremely lightweight and breathable upper; and a comfortable, gusseted tongue. Its few Cons include: a mildly loose fit in the midfoot (despite a slightly slim fit overall); and a substantial amount of groundfeel that can become too much if pushing the shoe to its absolute limits. The On Cloudultra Pro fits true-to-size in length, but it’s indeed lacking a bit of width throughout…The upper does conform to the foot after a couple of runs, but wide-footers will do best to try this one in-store or buy from somewhere with a solid return policy. The $260 price is indicative of the premium we tend to see included with every On shoe, and we’d prefer to see the Cloudultra Pro listed for around $20 or so cheaper. But most On fans seem prepared to pay slightly above market rate; and in this case, it may be worth it for the legit fun and excellent performance the Cloudultra Pro offers.
This shoe is best used for long-distance races or super long days, especially on trails where the terrain is light and uneventful (i.e., fewer pointy rocks). It’s a great shoe for summer trail running and draws inspiration from On’s road geometry. You’ll find yourself toeing off well and hitting a groove if the trail allows for it. For more details on the On Cloudultra Pro, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $260
Best On Casual Shoes
On Cloud 6
The On Cloud 6 is THE classic On Running silhouette, but these days it’s more of a casual shoe than anything else. While we specifically tested the standard Cloud 6, the shoe also comes in a variety of other versions such as the Cloud 6 Coast (which has a foldable heel, making it the most travel-ready version), the Cloud 6 Push (a non-slip-on version), and the Cloud 6 Waterproof (which, as you may have guessed, has a waterproof membrane). Let’s get into the Pros of the Cloud 6: it’s slip-on ready (and it comes with a second set of regular laces if that’s your thing); it’s a highly breathable, summer-ready shoe; it’s lightweight; it has high-quality construction; it’s easily packable, making it a great vacation shoe; and it’s wider than previous On Cloud models. The potential Cons are somewhat visible just by eyeing the shoe’s silhouette, namely its low profile in general and rather minimal cushioning.
Many wide-footers will find the added room in the toebox and at the opening to be enough, though those with the widest of wide feet may still need to pass. The Cloud 6 is true-to-size in length. As with most On models, the price ($150) is expensive for what you get in terms of technology. But the style, quality, and comfort make it an intriguing option if you’re not worried about maximizing value. It performs well as an all-day casual or work shoe and is also great for vacation use. For more details on the Cloud 6 and to learn a bit more about the different features and prices of the additional versions, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $150
Best On Cross-Training Shoes
On Cloudpulse
The On Cloudpulse is On’s first official entry (the On Cloud X 3 notwithstanding) into the world of “gym” cross training shoes. Its focus does not lie with heavy lifting, and it’s not going to be your go-to for CrossFit sessions. However, our reviewers were impressed with a few of its Pros, like its flexibility and comfortable Helion foam for things like HIIT classes, its travelability for hotel gyms where it’s more about a decent base than lifting the heaviest weights, and its nice-looking upper (though not necessarily a nice-looking midsole). The Cloudpulse is great as a training shoe when training is merely complementary to your main sport or you’re attending the occasional fitness class. The Cons emerge whenever you’re trying to do things like olympic-style lifts. Keeping feet securely planted under a heavy load proved difficult for our testers in part due to the Speedboard’s (seemingly) three-quarter length causing a disconnection with the ground and in part due to heel slip within the shoe. It also led to a feeling of bulkiness during agility-focused movements.
While the Cloudpulse is a good start for On (which is why it’s appearing here), has some strengths, and avoids the typical “On tax” of a premium price, you won’t see it on our overall Best Cross Training Shoes or Best Weightlifting Shoes lists. It can’t quite reach those heights without some needed tweaks from On. For more details, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $150
Best On Running Shoes – Honorable Mention
On Cloudsurfer Max
The On Cloudsurfer Max is a return to On’s firmer underfoot feel and delivers a max-cushion shoe without the squishy, sinky feeling. It’s best used to soak up daily miles at recovery or easy paces but can handle the occasional uptempo jaunt.
Its Pros include: a respectable (for a max-cushion shoe) perkiness at higher speeds; awesome aesthetics; a comfortable upper; and reliable traction. Some may find the firm underfoot feel of the midsole to be among the Cloudsurfer Max’s Cons, along with a lacing system that is difficult to tighten and a high price. The On Cloudsufer Max competes with a bunch of shoes priced at $160-ish, so it’s indeed overpriced for a high-stack daily trainer, and the On tax is in full effect. The shoe fits true-to-size and is wide-foot friendly thanks to its ample toebox. This is a shoe that looks big and is big, but it doesn’t give that same big feeling underfoot and won’t have you fearing for your ankle stability.
So while we wouldn’t consider the Cloudsurfer Max one of On’s absolute top performers (especially with its uncharacteristic lacing issue), it could be a great max-cushion option for those looking for a walking and/or standing shoe that resists the side-to-side swaying that often comes with so many of the big, puffy (and soft) running shoes on the market today. Additionally, those who are rebelling against the squish will find exactly what they’re looking for in a daily trainer: a shoe that mutes ground impact and can pick up the pace when needed—just without the feeling of sinking into the midsole. For more details on the On Cloudsurfer Max, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $180
On Cloudboom Max
The On Cloudboom Max attempts to answer the question of what middle-to-back-of-the-pack marathoners need, targeting them with super shoe tech tweaked for stability and support, and aesthetically, it is quintessential On quality. The dual-density Helion HF midsole delivers a comfortable, bouncy, and highly stable ride that successfully keeps your feet firmly locked down, proving the shoe is wide-foot-friendly and handles corners well, all while the durable outsole shrugs off 40-plus miles. However, the construction introduces a catastrophic flaw: the Speedboard is ridiculously stiff, completely undermining On’s stated goal for slower runners and making long runs brutal on the legs, meaning the $230 price point is hard to justify for the very people this shoe was supposed to serve
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $230
On Cloudrunner 2
The On Cloudrunner 2 sits at the cross section of running and lifestyle shoes. How you use it will depend on how much you run. It uses Helion foam and ditches the Speedboard. The Cloudrunner 2’s true-to-size, wide-foot friendly fit, top-tier and premium-feeling upper with ample padding and comfort that surrounds the foot, durable and reliable traction, and great performance as a vacation or theme park shoe account for its considerable Pros. Its Cons lie mostly with its sort of middling midsole experience when it comes to running.
It’s more of a fantastic lifestyle shoe that can perform serviceably as a running shoe when needed rather than a performance-based running shoe that also looks good. So if you’re primarily going to use the Cloudrunner 2 to liven up your casual wear, then it will hit the spot. For more details, read the full review.
Fit: True-to-size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $150
Best On Running Shoes Now on Sale
Our picks for best On Super Trainer and Best On Speed Day shoes are on sale and can be found above. Check back soon for more.
On Running Shoes to Avoid
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