On Running is a Swiss-based athletic footwear company known for its innovative running shoes. The brand has gained popularity among runners for its unique CloudTec® technology that creates an aesthetically pleasing look and responsive, well-cushioned ride.
At Marathon Sports, we’re proud to offer a full selection of On Running shoes, ranging from daily trainers to race day and long-distance running shoes. Our expert reviewers researched and tested the latest and greatest shoes from On Running to help you determine which shoes will work best for you.
On Running shoes are known for their distinctive CloudTec® cushioning technology. The midsole of On Running shoes features cloud-like segments or “clouds” that compress with impact and then firm up to provide a responsive and supportive underfoot experience. This design is intended to offer a comfortable and cushioned ride while maintaining responsiveness and agility. Runners who prefer On Running shoes claim CloudTec® drastically improves the overall running experience.
After months of research and plenty of running, our experts determined the 10 best On Running shoes. Learn the ins and outs of each shoe’s fit, technologies, performance, and more here.
Our Review Process
Our Marathon Sports team members specialize in helping runners find the shoes that work best for them. They spent months researching and running in the hottest new On Running shoes. To determine the 10 absolute best On Running models, they took into account the fit, technical features, weight, durability, performance, and versatility. The following reviews are the results of what they found.
The 9 Best On Running Shoes
- On Cloudsurfer
- On Cloudgo
- On Cloud 5
- On Cloudmonster 2
- On Cloudrunner
- On Cloud X 3
- On Cloudstratus 3
- On Cloudflow 4.0
- On Cloudboom Echo 3
On Cloudsurfer
The On Cloudsurfer is a popular running shoe designed for running on roads or trails. The Cloudsurfer features many of On Running’s hottest technologies, including CloudTec® for incredible responsiveness and comfort. The Cloudsurfer also features a ®Speedboard, which is a plate between the midsole and outsole of the shoe, ensuring optimal energy transfer.
This year’s Cloudsurfer offers a lightweight, breathable mesh upper that keeps feet cool and comfortable from the first mile to the last. Reflective details ensure runners are visible when running in low light.
On Cloudgo
The Cloudgo is a relatively new addition to the On Running lineup. It’s one of the brand’s best neutral running shoes, featuring CloudTec® cushioning, a TPU Speedboard®, and an engineered polyester mesh upper. The mesh is made with 85 to 90 percent recycled materials.
The Cloudgo is designed to be the shoe that takes your running to the next level, whether you’re seeking a new PR or simply want to run more often. Soft cushioning, forefoot rocker, and all-around comfort make this one of our favorite daily trainers. It’s available in wide sizing, too, making it one of the best running shoes for wide feet on our list.
On Cloud 5
The On Running Cloud 5 is a somewhat new favorite among On Running fans. This year’s version features an improved fit, superior comfort, and 44 percent recycled content. It’s a daily trainer that’s ready for long-distance runs with CloudTec® cushioning, Zero-Gravity foam, and a flexible yet snug mesh upper.
Our reviewers praised these On Cloud running shoes for their attractive look, making them versatile enough to go from a long run to work, the store, and everywhere in between.
On Cloudmonster 2
The On Cloudmonster 2 keeps the best features of its fan-favorite predecessor — support and comfort for beginning runners, long-distance performance for pros, and balanced compression — while adding smart upgrades that address user concerns. On has a good relationship with its running community, and it’s obvious the Swiss manufacturer took supporter feedback into account when creating the Cloudmonster 2.
One of the most notable changes comes in the design of the honeycomb-shaped CloudTec pods in the sole. This year, they’re bigger but also better positioned. Gone is the large vertical gap that tended to trap debris on the road. The split-sole design remains for excellent traction on wet and dry running surfaces, but there’s more Helion cushioning to fill the gap.
The Cloudmonster series is still one of On’s best offerings for long-distance running and daily training, and version 2 kicks things up a notch with an extra layer of resilient Helion foam for compression, bounce, and durability. This mileage-friendly shoe rocks a roomier fit with four eyelets instead of three to maintain control, responsiveness, and support.
On Cloudrunner
The Cloudrunner is one of the best stability running shoes in the On Running lineup. This ultra-comfortable daily trainer features CloudTec® technology with multidirectional Cloud elements, a breathable mesh upper, ankle support, and solid stability.
The outsole of the Cloudrunner is wider at the forefoot to provide a more stable ride and prevent ankle rolls. Our revivers praised the Cloudrunner as one of the best On Running shoes for beginner runners, as it is remarkably stable, comfortable, and breathable. This shoe is slightly heavier than some other On Running models, but our team members commented that they didn’t notice due to the ultra-comfortable fit.
We recommend the Cloudrunner for novice runners, recovery days, and as a supplemental running shoe for more relaxed workouts.
On Cloud X 3
The Cloud X 3 is an ideal running shoe that can double as a cross-trainer, too. This well-rounded On Running shoe is ready for whatever workout you feel like accomplishing. A soft, breathable upper combines with CloudTec® technology for a comfortable ride from start to finish. This year’s edition also features raised sidewalls for a more custom-like fit.
With On Running’s latest gem, the Cloud X 3, say goodbye to mid-run lace fiascos. Its stellar lacing system keeps everything snug and secure, so you can focus on crushing those miles or acing your workout without interruption.
But that’s not all — the Cloud X 3 also packs a punch with its upper design and unique shape, offering the stability you need whether you’re making quick directional changes, leaping, or just pounding the pavement on your daily run. Keep your stride smooth and your focus sharp!
On Cloudstratus 3
The On Running Cloudstratus is a popular running shoe designed for road and long-distance running. Like all On Running shoes, it features CloudTec® cushioning with dual CloudTec® layers for added comfort and support. The upper’s engineered mesh is lightweight and breathable.
The Cloudstratus 3 features Zero-Gravity foam in the midsole for superior comfort and cushioning. The foam is lightweight yet supportive. Adding to the shoe’s stability is the external TPU heel counter, which helps prevent overpronation.
Our reviewers praised the Cloudstratus 3 as one of the best stability running shoes in the On Running lineup without offering over-the-top correction. The contemporary design is another bonus. The Cloudstratus looks good, whether running, working, or taking a recovery day.
On Cloudflow 4.0
Not all running shoes cater to every audience, and that’s often a good thing. The Cloudflow 4 is a case in point. This sleek running shoe has a form-fitting design that feels closer to a custom-designed shoe than your average daily trainer. Fans of fashionable, streamlined, and lightweight designs love this high-performance model.
The Cloudflow 4 offers several upgrades compared to the Cloudflow 3. First up is its lower weight profile. On managed to shave an impressive 0.7 ounces from the sole without sacrificing build quality, compression, support, or stability. Weighing in at just 8.6 ounces (men’s styles), this phenomenal shoe provides a lightweight responsiveness and agility that is hard to beat.
The supportive Helion foam, 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, and nylon Speedboard layer combine to deliver enhanced forward momentum. Think of the Cloudflow 4 as a running shoe that’s on the verge of transforming into a racing shoe. Its nimbleness and breathability are a great fit for fans of interval training, too.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo is an elite-level race day shoe designed to help you reach your next PR. CloudTec® cushioning combines with ultra-light Helion™ foam for a responsive, lightweight, and energetic ride. An extreme rocker and propulsive Speedboard® add to the shoe’s ability to move fast.
The Cloudboom Echo 3 features a lightweight, breathable microfiber upper that absorbs moisture to keep feet dry. Our reviewers recommend this high-tech shoe for race days and speed training, but it can also double as an everyday trainer. The unique design sets this shoe apart from others in the On Running collection, with less visible “Clouds” for a more streamlined look.
How to Choose the Right Running Shoes
Choosing the right running shoes is essential for a comfortable and injury-free running experience. Here are a few steps to help you find the shoes that are best for you.
- Consider your running goals. Are you a beginner or an experienced runner? What type of running do you plan to do, and how often will you run?
- Understand your foot type. Our Marathon Sports experts can help you determine your arch type, pronation, gait, and more.
- Measure your foot size and determine if you prefer narrow, standard, wide, or extra-wide running shoes.
- Consider your comfort preferences. Account for any prior injuries, bunions, and other factors that affect how shoes feel and support your foot.
- Determine which type of running shoes you prefer. Our Marathon Sports experts can help you determine if you need stability, neutral, minimalist, maximalist, or another type of running shoe. Choose shoes that will match the type of terrain you prefer, such as trail running shoes, track spikes, or road running shoes.
- Stop by a Marathon Sports location for an in-depth assessment of your feet, gait, running style, and more. We’ll use our expertise to recommend the shoes that are best for you. Try on multiple pairs of shoes to assess how they feel on your feet.
- Test the feel and comfort by jogging around the store. Pay attention to any areas of discomfort, pressure points, or rubbing. Shoes that feel uncomfortable in the store will likely feel uncomfortable on a run.
The Finish Line
All of these On Running shoes are available right here at Marathon Sports. In addition to On Running, we offer all the best running shoe brands, including Nike, Adidas, HOKA, ASICS, and many others.
Not sure which running shoe is best for you? The “best” running shoe for one runner may not be optimal for another. Stop by one of our locations to take part in our The Right Fit™ program. Our experts will assess your foot shape, gait, running style, and more to help find the best running shoes for your individual needs.
Shop all the shoes listed above and countless others in stores or online today!
