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The best On running shoes for the road and trail, tested and reviewed
From PB breakers to daily trainers, we've put On's running shoes to the test
Tested by The Runner's World Editors
Swiss brand On has made great strides since it launched its first shoe – the Cloudracer – back in 2012. Rewind to 2010, however, and On's success was merely a twinkle in the eye of its co-founders, Olivier Bernhard (a former six-time Ironman champ), Caspar Coppetti and David Allemann, who joined forces in Bernhard’s quest to create a running shoe that delivered a uniquely cushioned landing followed by an explosive toe-off.
Twelve years later, the running brand’s distinctive ‘Cloud’-clad outsole design is instantly recognisable, and the company is touted as being one of the world’s fastest-growing running shoe brands. Whether you're new to running, looking for your next daily trainer or looking to clock a PB, On has plenty of options.
What technology does On use in its running shoes?
Together with its top-notch uppers and swish aesthetic, On's cushioned yet firm and responsive ride has earned the brand a swift upwards trajectory and a growing fanbase worldwide, whether it's on the road or trail. Here's a look at the key technologies On uses in its running line-up.
CloudTec®
CloudTec is On’s original cushioning technology. It provides a cushioned landing and a firm take-off by using a unique arrangement of hollow ‘clouds’ or pods in the sole. Each ‘cloud' compresses upon landing, absorbing impact vertically and horizontally. As you push off, the clouds lock in place to give a firm and responsive transition.
g M, 205g W.
CloudTec Phase®
CloudTec Phase is a more advanced, refined version of the original CloudTec, aimed at creating an even smoother ride. It’s built with staggered or sequential arrangement of the cloud elements, which activates progressively from heel to toe. This phased activation allows for a more fluid transition during each step and in some cases, such as on the Cloudsurfer, it negates the need for a Speedboard. Other shoes that utilise the newer CloudTec Phase include the Cloudeclipse and Cloudsurfer Next.
Speedboard
On’s Speedboard is a rigid, specially engineered plate built into the midsole of On shoes, designed to enhance energy return and stability. It’s positioned between the cushioned CloudTec elements and the upper sole of the shoe, connecting directly to the shoe's structure. When you land, the Speedboard flexes as it absorbs energy. Then, upon push-off, it snaps back into shape, releasing stored energy and propelling the foot forward.
The Speedboard is widely used in On's performance and racing shoes, such as the Cloudboom and Cloudswift, to add responsiveness. In the case of the Cloudstratus, it adds stability and support.
How we choose the best On running shoes
Our team of editors and expert testers have been clocking up the miles in a number of the brand's shoes, with the options below showcasing the best of On's foams, Cloud tech, and other innovations. This guide features a variety of shoes to meet the needs of different runners and running disciplines. For a deeper insight into individual models, check out full-length RW reviews where available.
The best On running shoes, tested & reviewed
Pros
- Lightweight and bouncy
- Comfortable, secure upper
- Fun ride
- Handles a variety of paces
Cons
- Can feel slightly unstable around corners/heel striking
- Great for easy days
- Noisy
> Read our full On Cloudboom Strike review <
The Cloudboom Strike is On’s latest super shoe and the superior option over the Cloudboom Echo 3. In fact, the shoes are very different, with the Strike feeling considerably softer than the Echo 3, which felt stiff and lacked cushioning.
A thin upper with a minimal tongue provides breathability, with just the right amount of structure. The heel counter consists of just two cushioned patches, though, which some testers found caused irritation.
The ride has a propulsive feeling you’d expect from a carbon-plate shoe and you can feel the responsiveness. It’s still firmer than some super shoes, but that’s not a criticism this time around; it’s not uncomfortable or harsh, it just offers a solid platform for push-off.
| Weight | 194g |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 39.5mm (heel), 35.5mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4mm |
| Type | Neutral/performance |
Pros
- Sublime softness underfoot
- The fastest shoes at the 2025 Boston Marathon
- Versatile in terms of speed
Cons
- May be slightly 'mushy' for some
- Loses energy over longer distances
> Read our full On Cloudsurfer review <
Past versions of the Cloudsurfer were marketed as anything from a racing flat to a half-marathon shoe. The seventh and latest version, on the other hand, is a soft and bouncy trainer that's ideal for daily training.
The midsole has received a complete redesign from the previous version, removing the Speedboard plate and introducing what it calls CloudTec Phase technology: the hollow pods are now inside the Helion foam midsole rather than underneath it, and positioned at varying diagonal to horizontal angles. The idea is that these collapse like a line of falling dominoes as you transition from footstrike to toe-off, creating a rolling sensation during transition and sublime softness underfoot. This makes the Cloudsurfer an excellent choice for tempo sessions, though the lack of Speedboard does mean they can start to feel a bit sluggish towards the end of longer miles (the Cloudstratus does a better job at running long).
They really do make running feel easier, so if you're after a competent daily trainer for easy runs, recovery runs and even a bit of uptempo, they're a great choice.
| Weight | 245g (M), 205g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 31mm (heel), 21mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Type | Neutral/road |
Pros
- Updated: 24 December 2024
- Capable of handling faster efforts
- Stable
- Bouncy and fun ride
- Breathable, secure upper
Cons
- Youre after plush level cushioning
- Might be too firm for some
> Read our full On Cloudmonster 2 review <
With its amped-up CloudTec midsole, lightweight Helion foam stack and snappy midsole Speedboard, On’s Cloudmonster promises to deliver ‘massive cushioning and max energy’ during long and easy-pace runs, Fantastic grip on mixed terrains.
Despite its chunky looks and hefty wedge, testers described it as lightweight, soft and ‘bouncy’ underfoot, with a stable fit. Yes, it’s firmer than the marshmallowy ride of some maxi-cushioned shoes, however, they still enjoyed the cushioned run experience and the gentle rocker geometry, which is designed to propel you forward and keep your legs feeling fresh.
Up top, there's a breathable mesh upper and revamped lacing system with bungee cord-like eyelets that ensure a more adaptable and locked-in fit. Though it's worth noting that one tester found the heel collar on the v2 caused some heel slippage.
All in all, though, this is a great shoe for cruising through your easy miles, and also capable of picking up the pace.
| Weight | 300g (M), 230g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 35mm (heel), 29mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 6mm |
| Type | Neutral/road |
Pros
- Comfortable and stable ride
- The fastest shoes at the 2025 Boston Marathon
- Great for easy days
Cons
- You're after 'plush' level cushioning
> Read our full On Cloudeclipse review <
The Cloudeclipse is On’s thickest midsole yet, packing in plenty of its Helion superfoam (37mm in the heel, 31mm in the forefoot) and a double layer of On’s signature CloudTec technology, creating a smooth rolling sensation alongside softer landings.
While the shoe does have that immediate pull-on level of comfort, most noticeably in the toe box where it feels like there's a pillow hugging the top of your foot, it's still on the firmer side of the cushioning spectrum underfoot. In fact, it's almost like a lovechild of the Cloudsurfer and Cloudmonster; where the former is quite 'mushy' and the latter is quite firm, the Cloudeclipse finds a middle ground in delivering a soft yet fun and balanced ride.
A speedboard 'shank' in the midfoot adds stability to the shoe (necessary when you've got a thick wedge of cushioning) and injects an element of stiffness which helps to provide a poppy toe-off, but overall it's a very forgiving shoe, best suited for easy recovery days.
The upper is lovely and breathable too and it fits true to size, with no hotspots or blistering.
| Weight | 285g (M), 240g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 37mm (heel), 31mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Type | Neutral/road |
Pros
- Light
- Comfortable and stable ride
- Comfort and build quality
- Good value
Cons
- A little firm for easy/recovery days
- Narrow fit may not suit very wide feet
- May not work as well for extreme heel strikers
> Read our full On Cloudsurfer Next review <
While the two might share a name, the Cloudsufer Next is much less the soft, cushy cruiser you get in the Cloudsurfer 7 and much more built for the faster stuff. Of course that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, the Clousdurfer Next is made for those looking for something firmer, peppier and more responsive over plush cushioning for their training miles, but as it’s still pitched as a daily trainer, adding enough comfort to make sure those daily miles aren’t too punishing.
Its narrower silhouette is inspired by On’s pinnacle race-day shoes – and even though our tester has pretty wide feet, the fit didn’t cause them any issues on the run. The toe box isn’t the roomiest, but there were no problems with friction or constriction and the slimmer shape delivered a more race-like feel.
The midsole features On’s Cloudtec Phase technology, which delivers a ride that feels both dynamic and very smooth. A late forefoot rocker also sits very near the front of the shoe, adding a more propulsive toe-off. For mid-to-forefoot strikers, this clicks really well at faster paces, though the geometry might not be as effective for pronounced heel-strikers.
If you want something that emphasises plush, soft cushioning over speed then stick with the Cloudsurfer, but for pacier sessions or those who prefer a firmer ride, the Next is a winner.
| Weight | 273g (M), 225g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 30mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Best for | Sock upper keeps dirt out |
Pros
- Best for high mileage
- Premium upper
- The plushest On shoe underfoot
- mm heel, 31.5mm forefoot
Cons
- Lacking some propulsion for the price
> Read our full On Cloudmonster Hyper review <
On’s take on the super trainer, the Cloudmonster is designed for running further and faster. It uses a hefty wedge of Helion Hyperfoam – the high-energy return PEBA foam used in On’s racing shoes – encapsulated by the brand’s traditional EVA foam. There’s a noticeable absence of a Speedboard, though – On's version of a carbon plate. The result is a shoe that encroaches into the 'plush' realm more than any On shoe that's come before it. However, while the shoe does have a bouncy and smooth ride, it’s not quite got the snappy toe-off our testers expected. It does, however, deliver a comfortable, forgiving and stable ride that lends itself to easy runs and longer miles.
Up top, there’s an engineered woven upper – one of the best we've seen from On – which strikes the right balance between comfort, weight and breathability. That’s coupled with a gusseted tongue, padded heel collar and traditional lacing system, which provides a fantastic lockdown around the midfoot with no heel slippage. Overall, very premium stuff , though one tester did have a few gripes with the laces coming undone at times.
A shoe you’ll need deep pockets for, yes, but a solid option for high mileage runners seeking a durable workhorse.
| Weight | 272g (M), 210g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 37.5mm (heel), 31.5mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 6mm |
| Type | Neutral |
Pros
- Plush and padded upper
- Wide, stable base
- Smooth transitions
- Not suitable for muddier terrains
Cons
- A little firm for easy/recovery days
- Can feel heavy over longer miles
The Cloudflyer 5 is On’s stability trainer, designed for those looking for a firmer, stable daily trainer. In the latest version, On has actually opted to remove the Speedboard, which helps to give the shoe a bit more flexibility than the v4. That said, it’s still a pretty firm feeling shoe overall.
The upper is extremely plush, with a padded heel collar and tongue providing plenty of comfort. Stability comes in a few different forms, including a wide sole, an external heel clip and a midfoot stability tube that supports the medial side of the foot.
The Cloudflyer 5 isn’t the bounciest shoe around, but it’s great for shorter, easy miles, light workouts and walking. And if you’re someone who overpronates but doesn’t necessarily want high-stack cushioning, it’s a solid choice.
| Weight | 320g (M) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 31mm (heel), 21mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 9mm |
| Type | Stability/road |
Pros
- Best winter running gear
- Sock upper keeps dirt out
- Fantastic grip on mixed terrains
Cons
- Minimalist design might not be for everyone
On’s all-terrain trail racing shoe is worn by its speediest trail athletes, and we can see why.
Lightweight and responsive with a flexible forefoot and grippy, multi-directional lugs, it includes a split Speedboard design to allow the foot to adapt to changing trail terrain (no ankle rolling here). There's also new softer Helion superfoam in the latest version to keep you comfortable over longer distances, though at 27mm in the heel it's definitely a more minimally cushioned trail shoe.
Testers were impressed with the grip – its textured Missiongrip outer sole (which has been updated for enhanced traction) delivered during muddy trail intervals, hill sprints, rapid descents and rock-hopping mixed terrain runs, even in the wet. Granted, the more minimalist design might not be for everyone, particularly if you're looking for lots of shock-absorbing cushioning, but our testers couldn’t fault the shoe.
The newest version also receives a knitted sock upper to keep dirt out and lock the foot in. If you're taking on an ultra and prefer a more nimble-feeling shoe, the Cloudultra 2 is sure to help propel you along, mile after mile.
| Weight | 295g (M), 265g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 27mm (heel), 21mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Type | Max-cushioned/trail |
Pros
- Padded heel collar
- Bouncy ride
- Ideal for mixed terrains
- Grippy outsole
Cons
- Not suitable for muddier terrains
- April running shoe deals: Nike, Hoka & more
Aimed at runners taking to the trails for the first time, the Cloudvista is designed for mixed terrain. It elicited happy ‘oohs’ from testers for its step-in softness and padded ankle collar.
Tested on woodland trails, dirt paths and grassy fields, On’s mix of Helion foam, impact-absorbing CloudTec and a two-prong Speedboard made for a bouncy and responsive ride. However, like many On running shoes, it’s definitely on the firmer side, despite On’s claims of ‘plush’ cushioning. For this reason, the Cloudvista probably works best for shorter distances up to half-marathons.
The Missiongrip outsole includes small rubber lugs which performed well, providing traction on all but the muddiest of trails. A solid road-to-trail shoe for newbie and everyday trail runners alike.
| Weight | 305g (M), 245g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 29mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 5mm |
| Type | Neutral/trail |
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