top of page
< Back

ON Running Shoes Explained: Everything You Need To Know

ON has grown from a small Swiss start-up into one of the most recognisable names in running footwear. Known for its distinctive hollow pods on the sole and clean, minimalist styling, the brand has built a reputation for combining innovative technology with premium design. Originally popular with triathletes and performance runners, ON shoes are now worn by everyone from beginners and marathon runners to commuters and fashion-conscious shoppers.

ON has grown from a small Swiss start-up into one of the most recognisable names in running footwear. Known for its distinctive hollow pods on the sole and clean, minimalist styling, the brand has built a reputation for combining innovative technology with premium design. Originally popular with triathletes and performance runners, ON shoes are now worn by everyone from beginners and marathon runners to commuters and fashion-conscious shoppers. While the unique appearance of ON shoes attracts plenty of attention, their success has been built on far more than looks alone. The brand continues to invest heavily in research and development, producing shoes that aim to deliver a soft landing, an efficient push-off and a comfortable ride across a wide variety of running styles. The History Of ON ON was founded in Switzerland in 2010 by former professional triathlete Olivier Bernhard together with David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti. Bernhard wanted to create a running shoe that cushioned the landing but still felt responsive during take-off, leading him to experiment with pieces of garden hose attached to the sole of prototype shoes. Those early ideas eventually evolved into the distinctive CloudTec cushioning system that remains at the heart of every ON running shoe today. The company grew rapidly throughout the following decade, expanding from specialist running stores into global sports retailers before becoming a publicly listed company in 2021. Today, ON sells shoes, clothing and accessories in countries around the world and has established itself as one of the fastest-growing premium running brands on the market. Why Are ON Running Shoes So Popular? ON has successfully combined innovative running technology with modern design. Unlike many performance running brands, ON shoes have become just as common on city streets as they are at races and parkruns. Their clean styling, premium materials and comfortable ride have made them popular with runners and non-runners alike. For runners, however, the appeal goes much deeper than appearance. ON shoes are lightweight, responsive and available in a wide range of options, whether you're looking for a daily training shoe, a marathon racer, a trail shoe or something comfortable for walking and travelling. What Is CloudTec Technology? The most recognisable feature of an ON shoe is the series of hollow pods underneath the sole, known as CloudTec. These individual "Cloud" elements compress independently when your foot lands, helping to absorb impact before becoming firmer as you push off into your next stride. The goal is to provide a landing that feels cushioned without making the shoe feel overly soft or unstable. It creates a ride that many runners describe as both responsive and efficient, particularly during steady-paced road running. One small downside is that the spaces between the Cloud elements can occasionally trap small stones when running on gravel paths or uneven trails. While this has become less noticeable on newer designs, it remains one of the most common criticisms of some ON shoes. What Is CloudTec Phase? One of ON's newest innovations is CloudTec Phase, introduced to provide an even smoother running experience. Rather than using separate Cloud elements that compress individually, CloudTec Phase is engineered so each section of the midsole collapses in sequence as your foot moves through the stride. This creates a more flowing heel-to-toe transition and gives a softer feel underfoot than some earlier ON models. Shoes such as the Cloudsurfer have helped demonstrate how this newer technology delivers a more comfortable daily running experience while maintaining the responsiveness the brand is known for. Helion Foam And Speedboard Technology CloudTec is only one part of the shoe's construction. ON combines it with lightweight foam compounds, including Helion, which is designed to remain responsive across a wide range of temperatures while providing long-lasting cushioning. Many ON shoes also include a Speedboard, a flexible plate positioned between the midsole and outsole. Depending on the shoe, this may be made from nylon, composite materials or carbon fibre. The Speedboard works alongside the CloudTec system to encourage a smooth rolling motion and efficient energy transfer from landing through to toe-off. In everyday trainers, the Speedboard helps improve running efficiency without feeling overly aggressive. In racing shoes, carbon fibre versions provide greater propulsion at faster speeds. Does ON Make Carbon Plate Running Shoes? ON now offers several high-performance racing shoes designed for runners targeting personal bests and marathon racing. Models such as the Cloudboom Strike and Cloudboom Echo 3 combine carbon fibre Speedboards with lightweight performance foams to maximise running efficiency during races. These shoes are designed primarily for race day and faster training sessions rather than everyday mileage, making them best suited to experienced runners looking to improve their performance. Most recreational runners will still spend the majority of their training in a more traditional daily trainer before saving carbon-plated shoes for important races. The Cloudflow Which ON Running Shoe Is Right For You? ON now produces a broad range of shoes covering almost every type of running. ON Cloudsurfer 2 The Cloudsurfer has become one of ON's most popular daily trainers. Using CloudTec Phase technology, it delivers a smooth, comfortable ride that works well for everything from easy runs to marathon training. ON Cloudmonster 2 The Cloudmonster offers significantly more cushioning than earlier ON shoes while retaining the brand's responsive feel. It is ideal for runners covering longer distances who enjoy a soft but energetic ride. ON Cloudrunner 2 Designed for runners who need mild stability, the Cloudrunner combines supportive features with generous cushioning, making it a popular option for everyday training. ON Cloudflyer 5 The Cloudflyer is another supportive model aimed at runners requiring additional guidance during their stride. It offers a comfortable ride for longer training runs without feeling excessively heavy. ON Cloudswift 4 Built for road running, the Cloudswift combines cushioning with a responsive feel that suits runners training regularly on pavements and urban routes. ON Cloudvista 2 The Cloudvista is an excellent introduction to trail running. It offers dependable grip, lightweight construction and enough cushioning for shorter and medium-distance off-road adventures. ON Cloudultra 3 Designed for longer trail races and ultramarathons, the Cloudultra provides greater protection and durability over challenging terrain while remaining surprisingly lightweight. ON Cloudboom Strike One of ON's flagship racing shoes, the Cloudboom Strike is built for runners looking to maximise speed over half marathon and marathon distances. ON Cloud 6 Although originally inspired by running, the Cloud 6 has become one of the brand's most popular lifestyle shoes. Many people wear it for walking, commuting and everyday comfort rather than regular running. Sustainability Sustainability has become an increasingly important part of ON's business strategy. Many shoes now use recycled polyester uppers, recycled synthetic materials and responsibly sourced textiles where possible. The company has also invested heavily in reducing emissions across its manufacturing processes while continuing to develop new materials that reduce environmental impact. ON has also introduced innovative projects such as Cyclon, a subscription-based programme designed to reduce waste by recycling used running shoes into new products. While initiatives like this are still developing, they demonstrate the company's long-term commitment to improving sustainability. Are ON Running Shoes Worth It? For many runners, absolutely. ON has established itself as one of the industry's leading innovators, producing shoes that combine comfort, responsiveness and distinctive styling in a way that few competitors have managed. However, as with every running brand, there is no single shoe that suits everyone. The best approach is to visit a specialist running retailer, try several models and choose the shoe that feels most comfortable for your feet and running style. The soles of On shoes are very different. Frequently Asked Questions Are ON running shoes good for beginners? Yes. Models such as the Cloudsurfer and Cloudmonster make excellent daily training shoes for new runners, provided they fit well and suit your individual biomechanics. Why do ON shoes have holes in the sole? The hollow Cloud elements form part of the CloudTec cushioning system. They compress during landing to absorb impact before becoming firmer during the push-off phase of your stride. Are ON shoes good for walking? Many people choose ON shoes for walking because they combine lightweight construction with excellent comfort. The Cloud 6 and Cloudmonster are particularly popular for everyday use. Do ON running shoes come up small? Some ON models have traditionally been known for a slightly narrower fit than competing brands. Trying shoes on before buying is always recommended, particularly if you have wider feet. How long do ON running shoes last? Like most quality running shoes, ON models generally last between 300 and 500 miles. Factors such as body weight, running style, terrain and shoe care will all influence their lifespan. Final Thoughts ON has developed from an ambitious Swiss start-up into one of the world's most recognisable running brands by doing things differently. Innovative technologies such as CloudTec, CloudTec Phase and the Speedboard have helped create a distinctive running experience, while the brand's clean design and premium construction have attracted a much wider audience beyond the running community. Whether you're training for your first 10K, preparing for a marathon, exploring the trails or simply looking for a comfortable everyday shoe, ON now offers a model to suit almost every type of runner. The key is choosing the right shoe for your goals and ensuring it fits properly, giving you the best possible combination of comfort, support and performance.

a-history-of-on-running-shoes

bottom of page