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Which On running model is right for you?

Karin Krisztová
13 Dec, 2024
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Which On running model is right for you?

If you look at any model from the wide range of On running sneakers, you will immediately realize that they are unlike any other running shoes on the market. In order to solve the eternal dilemma of choosing between a cushioned, soft landing with a firm, sensitive take-off and a high spring rate of the shoe, which would maintain lightness on the other hand, a unique technology was created that combines both of these qualities.

Clouds

Long-distance running shoes tend to be either fast and light, or comfortable with high spring rate, but heavier. Cloud technology thus combines these two contradictory qualities and precisely because of this
it becomes innovative. The most visually striking feature of each On shoe are the small hollow “clouds” that stretch along the entire length of the sole, providing cushioning and dispersing pressure, but also because they move laterally and vertically and propel you forward. The clouds disappear upon landing as they cushion the impact, but quickly regain their natural shape to power your bounce.

Speedboard

A central channel runs through the middle of the sole of the On shoe, allowing the individual components of the Cloud to move independently, providing a natural range of motion and best responding to the gait of each runner. The CloudTec® sole in all On shoes is made from ‘Zero-Gravity’ foam, a signature EVA blend that is super light, flexible and responsive.

The On really delivers something special through its sophisticated Swiss engineering. When you go for your first run, you’ll immediately notice the difference in the ease of movement and how soft the subsequent landing is, but also the fact that you’re lifting your knees higher than usual.

Put these factors together and you’ll logically end up with more speed. The Cloud, Cloud X and Cloudflow models each weigh around 220-230g for a UK size 8, which is around 100g less than, for example, the Adidas Ultra Boost (310g) or the ASICS Kayano 25 (336g). In this context, several studies* have also shown that an additional 100g per shoe increases times by approximately 1.1% over 3000m. Apply this to a marathon or longer distance and we're talking about a lot of time.

Upper

While the key innovation of the On running shoe is the CloudTec sole, the seamless uppers also play a role, continuing the trick of balancing comfort with ultra-lightweight. The upper adds almost no weight to the shoe, yet the mesh is still quite strong and reinforced in key areas. The On Running sneakers are extremely breathable, and the mesh is flexible enough to allow the foot to move appropriately as you walk or run.

Fitting

In terms of fit, On shoes tend to be cut quite narrow, especially in the heel area, which provides a nice locked-in feel, but runners with wider feet may want to size up. The slightly narrower shape is also more pronounced at the back of the shoe, widening towards the toe to provide a sense of space and comfort in the naturally wider part.

So which ones?

This question of course depends on what you plan to use them for. Here are a few key models - some of which you can find in our range.

Cloud

The Cloud is the most basic model, a mix of urban style and performance. The quick lacing system makes it easy to put on and take off and is ideal as an everyday shoe, but also for activities such as walking and easy runs up to 5km. The Cloud running shoe combines the best of both worlds in that it is very lightweight, but still well cushioned.

Cloud X

The Cloud X is an evolution of the Cloud with a more performance-focused design for runners who want a shoe for longer distances but also versatile and supportive enough for use in weightlifting. A newer upper and a more refined heel add stability for lateral movements and regular runs. The Cloud X is generally chosen by runners who do not define themselves by just one sport. The Cloud X is On's most versatile shoe, with an excellent combination of stability, low weight (less than 240g) and high responsiveness.

Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster is the most cushioned shoe in the On range. If you're a fan of Hoka sneakers, the Cloudmonster is the one for you. With its large cushioning clouds, it provides the softest impact imaginable, and its unmistakable design is also striking. The Cloudmonster is made for long miles on the road. It's incredibly responsive, with great energy return and a strong rocker that helps ensure a smooth transition from landing to take-off. The combination of these subtle details really helps reduce leg fatigue on long runs. The shoe's material is also very breathable and durable, made from 35% recycled materials and with minimal seams to reduce the risk of chafing.

Cloudsurfer

The Cloudsurfer is a brand new shoe (launching March 2023) featuring innovative CloudTec® Phase cushioning technology, designed to compress through each phase of your stride for total cushioning. The revolutionary CloudTec® Phase is made from Helion™ super foam, based on a computer-optimized FEA cloud shape engineering approach, for an extremely smooth heel-to-toe transition and super soft cushioning. The Cloudsurfer’s upper is made from mesh for high breathability and the shoe has foam support around the heel. In terms of sustainability, the upper is made from 30% recycled materials and 100% recycled polyester and even uses fully recycled yarn for all the support-enhancing embroidery on the shoe – no more sewn TPU.

Cloudvista

If you're looking for the perfect shoe for most standard terrain, then the Cloudvista is the one for you. It's a bit narrower, but still provides the right amount of comfort for your performance. This lightweight and versatile trail running shoe features a Helion™ superfoam outsole for cushioning and Missiongrip™ traction to keep you light and agile. The ultra-lightweight, breathable upper provides excellent ventilation without adding unnecessary weight to the shoe.
* Also available in a Waterproof version

Cloudventure

The third generation Cloudventure is perfect for the most technical trails. Thanks to technologies such as Helion™ super foam and an improved Missiongrip™ outsole, they will give you great grip and soft cushioning for steep climbs and fast descents. With these features, the Cloudventure is the ideal running shoe for technical trails where precision is key. With a breathable upper for the best climate control and optimal feedback from the pad, they offer exactly what the demanding terrain requires.
*Also available in Waterproof version