Did you ever think it was possible to run on clouds? On-Running is the magician behind this unique idea. Many didn’t believe it was possible not until they experienced the combination of CloudTec and zero-gravity foam. On shoes are purposely made to promote soft landings and explosive take-offs.
This company offers the ultimate lightweight running experience. But the brand’s product line has grown to the extent that it can be challenging for you to pick the best model for your application. So, in this On Shoes Review, I took into account the unique features you would want your first On Running shoes to have.
The Best On Shoes Are…
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. On Running Men’s Cloud Black White Mesh Trainer |  Top Pick |
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| 2. On Women’s Cloud Sneaker |  |
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| 3. On Running Men’s CloudSwift Mesh Trainer |  |
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| 4. On Running Men’s Cloud Terry Textile Synthetic Trainer |  |
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| 5. On Running Cloudflow Men’s Sneaker |  |
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| 6. On Women’s Cloudsurfer Sneaker |  |
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| 7. On Running Men’s Cloud X Sneaker |  |
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1. On Running Men’s Cloud Black White Mesh Trainer — Overall Best On Running Shoes
We pick the best of the bunch for our first On Cloud shoe review. This incredible new release from On has taken the world by a storm with its unique design and features. Apart from running, it doubles as casual wear.
Specs
- Zero gravity foam
- Breathable mesh upper
- Lightweight and fully cushioned
- Neutral support
The breathable mesh upper is ingeniously designed to allow for an unparalleled step-in feel. The mesh upper is antimicrobial, which is great because it provides stay-fresh comfort. The no-sew taped application in the inside prevents irritation and supports the perfect fit. You’ve also got a reinforced collar lining for added durability.
The two most important features in this shoe are zero-gravity foam and the CloudTec technology in the outsole. The two combined provide you with unmatched softness, superior plushness, cushioned landings, and explosive take-offs.
You can call this a running or a casual shoe, depending on how you plan to use it thanks to its aesthetically appealing features and style. But the thing is, the lace used on this shoe looks more appropriate for casual wear than running.
Pros
- Breathable mesh allows for a step-in feel
- Mesh material is antimicrobial
- The no-sew taped application provides the perfect fit
- Zero gravity foam is soft and plush
- Cleverly designed outsole allows for cushioned landings
Cons
- Featured lace is more fitting for casual wear than running
- Could be much easier to wear with a pull-up tab on the heel
Verdict
A versatile shoe that you can use for running and casual wear. Not to mention that it is extremely lightweight for a cushioned running shoe.
Overall Rating – 4.9
2. On Women’s Cloud Sneaker — Best Flexible Design
This amazing shoe has a lightweight and flexible design paired with fantastic comfort. The On Women’s Cloud delivers a unique running experience that can handle tempo runs and daily training.
Specs
- Engineered mesh upper
- Seamless synthetic overlays
- Zero gravity foam
- CloudTec sole unit
This incredible On-footwear promotes a more forward foot strike, which is good because it encourages you to land on your forefoot instead of your midfoot or heel. This practice will allow you to prevent unnecessary injuries while improving speed and endurance.
The breathable mesh is skillfully designed to promote airflow for a cool running experience, especially in hot weather. The unique synthetic overlays provide superior structural support where you need it the most. I admire the speed lacing system that allows for a slip-on and glove-like fit. Not forgetting the remarkable reflective hits that improve visibility in low light conditions.
The shoe sports a heavy-duty CloudTec sole that’s engineered from On proprietary zero-gravity foam for superior cushioning and plushness. The use of a stiffer plastic speed board creates added responsiveness. But the thing is, some big-time fans of this shoe have complained about inconsistent quality control.
Pros
- Supports a forward foot strike for added speed
- Less prone to get injuries with this shoe
- Very breathable mesh upper
- Synthetic overlays guarantee reliable structural support
- Easy slip-on and a glove-like fit
Cons
- Possible quality control from one model to another
- Some sizes tend to run narrow
Verdict
Ladies! This is a Cloud you can rely on for comfort, speed, and endurance during tempo runs and daily training.
Overall Rating – 4.6
3. On Running Men’s CloudSwift Mesh Trainer — Best Upper Design
I know the On Running Shoes look pretty much the same, but the uniqueness of the Men’s CloudSwift Mesh Trainer is felt on the track with each stride.
Specs
- Lightweight CloudTech outsole
- Bouncy hellion super foam
- Engineered and stretchable mesh upper
- Cushioned foam insole
The upper is my favorite part of this amazing footwear. The engineered mesh is extremely breathable, soft on foot, and has a bit of stretch where needed. The subtle overlays around the toe cap and the sides of the shoe give the upper some integrity and enhanced comfort feeling. Once you get into this shoe, it feels like it is connected to your foot.
The unique springy midsole is what makes this On Running Shoe very responsive at every footstrike. The innovative cushioning tubes are directly attached to a plastic plate for that springy experience on impact. The best thing about this design is the explosive take-off.
Another good thing about this shoe is the Helion super foam, which is lightweight and bouncy for superior energy return. You will also love the structured support of the heel. The issue with this footwear isn’t the shoe itself, is its competition. Someone looking for a soft shoe may probably go with another brand for the price point.
Pros
- Breathable, stretchable and comfortable mesh upper
- Has good structured support and superior fit
- It’s very responsive at every footstrike
- CloudTech outsole promotes explosive take-offs
- Energy return is great thanks to the Helion super foam
Cons
- Not the softest shoe compared to other brands with the same price point
- A bit heavy to be considered swift
Verdict
If you want a running shoe that doesn’t have a high heel drop, can handle daily mileage and provide comfort, then try the CloudSwift Mesh Trainer.
Overall Rating – 4.6
4. On Running Men’s Cloud Terry Textile Synthetic Trainer — Best Forward Footstrike
Take your all-day running performance to new levels of style, cushioning, and comfort with the Cloud Terry from On Running.
Specs
- Zero-gravity foam
- CloudTec outsole unit
- Bungee speed-lacing
- Super-plush terry tongue
- CloudTec outsole
This amazing footwear comes with a very durable and smooth upper that’s designed from two genuine types of leather. The fabric linings are extremely breathable to promote superior airflow. You’ve got seamless synthetic overlays, which is great because they improve structural support.
The tongue; on the other hand, is made from super-plush terry fabric for easy put-on. I appreciate the zero-gravity foam CloudTec outsole, which combines unmatched cushioned comfort with minimal weight. The outsole is fitted with a central channel between the lateral and medial sides for superior foot motion and landing.
You also get maximum flexibility and an enhanced range of motion, thanks to the flex grooves. This is a great shoe for the money, but I wish it had the Helion super foam. Also, some people have complained about poor durability.
Pros
- Upper is made of durable and smooth leather
- Breathable linings improve airflow and comfort
- Super-plush terry fabric tongue makes the shoe easy to put on
- Offers maximum flexibility
- Good for enhancing range of motion
Cons
- The durability of the shoe seems to be short-term
- Could be better with Helion super foam
Verdict
The Cloud Terry is designed to perform and impress whether as casual wear or a running shoe. But some models may have poor durability.
Overall Rating – 4.6
5. On Running Cloudflow Men’s Sneaker — Best Heel Design
If you are looking for a fully-cushioned, lightweight trainer and racer, look no further than the Cloudflow from On Running.
Specs
- CloudTec cushioning technology
- Eighteen adaptive Cloud elements
- Engineered mesh upper
- Moderate cushioning for neutral stability
The refined upper builds on the engineered mesh that we all love so much. It holds you tight just in the right places for the perfect fit. It’s highly ventilated for improved airflow and breathability in hot conditions. Another unique feature that many of you will appreciate is the speed-lacing system that allows for quick put-on.
The 18 adaptive Cloud elements combine with the engineered speed board to transform the impact energy into acceleration. The heel unit is curved for superior hold, comfort, and durability. You’ve also got more cushioning and support from the removable dual-density insert. This is a good performing shoe when compared to other On Running models, but its long-term durability is questionable.
Pros
- Provides superior fit and responsiveness
- Promotes forward footstrike for added speed
- Highly ventilated and breathable mesh upper
- Dual-density insole improves cushioning
- Speed-lacing allows for easy slip-on
Cons
- Not the most durable option from On Running
- Could be better with Helion super foam
Verdict
The shoe’s fit, cushioning, responsiveness, and overall performance are remarkable. But it may not be the most durable choice.
Overall Rating – 4.5
6. On Women’s Cloudsurfer Sneaker — Best Grip and Traction
Designed for women who are looking to build up stability and speed, Cloudsurfer from On Running is agile, lightweight, and extremely comfortable with excellent grip and traction.
Specs
- CloudTec cushioning technology
- Engineered mesh upper
- Rebound rubber sole
- Breathable textile lining
- Neutral foot type support
What’s special about the Cloudsurfer? In a nutshell, everything! The shoe is expertly engineered from the ground up. It has uniquely designed cloud elements on the outsole for maximum durability and great grip on the road.
The forefoot is streamlined for a fluid explosive take-off and superior forward footstrike on landings. The speed board that runs through the entire midsole is inventively designed, as well, to very quickly and efficiently snap you through your gait cycle.
The upper made of an engineered mesh not only looks extraordinarily good but also feels like a sock on your foot and has great breathability. The collar is slightly padded for a secure fit and superior comfort. You’ve also got perforations on the tongue for added breathability.
Another good thing about this shoe is the ergonomically made heel counter, which features a firm webbing for an improved fit and comfort. But the thing is, the length of the tongue may appear to be too long for some runners and the arch may feel stiffer for some ladies.
Pros
- Offers great grip and traction on the road
- Promotes forward footstrikes on landing
- Supports fluid explosive take-offs
- Breathable upper provides a sock-like fit
- Reinforced heel counter improves fit and comfort
Cons
- Tongue appears to be too long for some ladies
- The arch may feel stiffer for some women
Verdict
This is a premium performance footwear that combines the comfort of a training shoe with the speed of a racing flat.
Overall Rating – 4.5
7. On Running Men’s Cloud X Sneaker — Best Elastic Performance Laces
As for our last On Running Shoe review, we pick the Cloud X Sneaker. If you are looking for one of the world’s best fully-cushioned shoes for your tempo runs and cross-training, Cloud X from On Running fits the description.
Specs
- Zero gravity foam
- Dual-density sock liner
- Advanced abrasion pads
- Heavy-duty speed board
On-Running put a great deal of thought and development into the upper for Cloud X. It’s constructed with a two-layer mesh system that creates a sock-like feel that holds your foot very well. The lightweight mesh is both durable and very breathable.
Cloud X utilizes a thin seamless lining and well-formed heel counter to further help the foot during lateral and quicker movements. The midsole is made of high-grade EVA and a flexible speed board plate. This unique combination provides great energy return and responsiveness during toe-off while reducing ground impact at the heel.
For the outsole, this shoe combines CloudTec sole with cloud elements for cushioning both horizontally and vertically while maintaining a firm stable foundation. But the thing is, the shoe could perform better with additional cushioning at the ball of the foot.
Pros
- Two-layered mesh upper offers a sock-like fit
- Very breathable, flexible, and comfortable
- Cloud elements encourage forward footstrike
- Great energy return and responsiveness at toe-off
- Lace system offers elastic performance
Cons
- Ball of the foot lacks enough cushioning
- No hellion super foam
Verdict
This is an excellent shoe for runners looking for a versatile model that covers running, gym work, and everything in between.
Overall Rating – 4.3
About The Brand
Brief History
On is a fast-growing Swiss-based sports company. On’s journey began in 2010 with Caspar Coppetti, Olivier Bernhard, and David Allemann when they engineered the first On. In 2011, studies from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology confirmed the effectiveness of On Cloud technology.
Later in 2012, the Cloudracer was introduced into the fiercely competitive sports footwear market. The company’s leadership team grew in 2013 with the introduction of Martin Hoffmann and Marc Maurer. In 2014, the brand released the world’s lightest running shoe that was fully cushioned. Late in 2015, the Cloudsurfer and Cloudflyer were launched.
How Does On Distinguish Itself In The Market?
What truly sets this brand apart from the competition is the unique CloudTec technology. You can directly tell the difference between On Running and other brands by looking at the outsole of the shoe. This technology has reinvented the running shoe to provide cushioning when landing, preparing you for an explosive take-off.
FAQs
What Is Cloudtec Technology?
This is the foundation of every On shoe model as you have seen in our On Cloud Shoes Review. It refers to the Cloud elements you see at the bottom of the shoe. The main purpose of this technology is to provide softer landings and explosive take-offs.
What Is Helion Super Foam?
Helion super foam is On’s latest cushioning technology. This foam is extremely light, but with incredible responsiveness and energy return.
On Running Warranty
The brand provides a One-year warranty, which is only applicable to products that are not more than a year old from the date of dispatch. The warranty doesn’t cover damages caused by misuse, normal wear, improper fit, negligence, or alteration to the product.
Final Thoughts
The future in running is the Cloud On-Running introduced the idea and the world loved it so much. It isn’t just the unique design of the outsole that drives runners towards the various On offerings, but the unique benefits the shoes provide. Softer landings and explosive take-offs aren’t theoretical, they are real.
On has relentlessly engaged the market with new lines of attack to keep the competition down, such as the Helion super foam, Mission Grip outsole, rebound rubber, and engineered speed boards. The brand’s flagship product at the moment is the On Running Men’s Cloud Black White Mesh Trainer. The shoe that proves all the good things that you have heard about the company.
