On has made a big splash in its relatively short existence, and now has the accolade of being the fastest growing running shoe brand in the world. Founded in 2010 by a three-time world duathalon champion and multiple Ironman winner Oliver Bernhard, together with his friends David Allemann and Casper Coppetti, the vision from the off was to come up with a fast and truly revolutionary running shoe.
Whilst that term gets bandied around too much, in On’s case you just have to look at the Cloud or Cloudflow to realise that these On Running shoes are unlike any other running shoes on the market. They set out to solve the two perennial problems in distance running shoes: of combining a cushioned, soft landing with a firm, responsive take-off; and a highly cushioned shoe that is also extremely lightweight. Plenty of shoes on the market are good at one or the other, but not both.
Distance shoes tend to be either fast, responsive and lightweight; or comfortable, cushioned and heavier. On has come up with a shoe design that genuinely delivers on both fronts, built around two main innovations. Let's dive in to our On Running shoes review.
In just fifteen years, On has gone from a garden-hose prototype dreamt up by three-time world-duathlon champion Olivier Bernhard and co-founders David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti to the fastest-growing performance shoe brand on the planet.
From day one their mission was clear: solve the twin headaches of running-shoe design - marrying a cushioned, cloud-soft landing with a light, punchy take-off - without forcing runners to choose between “plush but heavy” and “fast but harsh”. CloudTec pods and the spring-steel Speedboard cracked that code; today’s Phase pods and Helion HF super-foam push it even further
And the line-up has exploded. 2025 brings innovations such as Cloudmonster 2’s max stack. This On Running shoes review breaks down every key current model, who it suits, and which ones you should pick.
The hollow “clouds” are still the most recognisable and ride-defining feature of every On shoe. Arranged in neat rows along the outsole, each pod compresses on landing to disperse impact, then rebounds both vertically and laterally so the foot rolls forward and snaps into toe-off. Watch the clip below: the pods seem to vanish under load, then re-inflate to catapult the next stride, giving that “rolling on rails” feel you notice the moment you lace up. Beneath those pods runs a deep central channel that lets each cloud deform independently, matching the nuances of your gait instead of forcing it into a rigid rocker. The original pods were moulded from On’s feather-light Zero-Gravity EVA foam - still in several lifestyle pairs today - but performance models now layer in Helion (an ultra-responsive EVA-Olefin blend) or its Pebax-based cousin Helion HF for a softer, springier rebound. Since 2023 the geometry itself has evolved too. CloudTec Phase re-orders the pods so they collapse like dominoes for an even smoother transition, while max-stack shoes such as Cloudmonster and Cloudstratus double-stack the clouds for extra cushioning with very little extra weight. The result: the familiar cloud sensation you love, refined for faster, longer, more forgiving miles. Those CloudTec pods don’t work alone. They sit on top of a thin, semi-stiff “Speedboard” that runs the length of the shoe. Moulded from a springy, glass-fiber reinforced polymer, the board stores the downward energy created as each pod collapses, then snaps forward to accelerate the toe-off. If the midsole were allowed to fold completely in half, much of that potential energy would simply leak away in flex. Since 2023, though, On has started tuning the Speedboard concept rather than treating it as mandatory. Shoes built on CloudTec Phase (Cloudsurfer Phase, Cloudeclipse) drop the plate entirely: the domino-style pods give a smooth roll on their own, trimming weight and stiffness for easy-day comfort. Meanwhile the latest tempo and race models, Cloudflow 4 and Cloudboom Echo 3, keep a lighter, spoon-shaped board to maximise snap at speed. Nailing that cushion/propulsion blend has always been On’s calling card, but keeping the grams off is just as critical. Peer-reviewed studies still show that every extra 100g per shoe slows 3km performance by roughly 1%. Apply that +1% to a marathon or longer distance and you’re talking about a lot of time.Other running brands have been reducing the weight of shoes in the last couple of years, so On doesn’t have quite the weight advantage it once did, but On shoes are still often 50-75g lighter than competitors. If you crave a lively ride: stick with Speedboard-equipped shoes (Cloudflow 4, Cloudboom Echo 3) If you want mellow miles: look for Phase-based pairs (Cloudsurfer Phase, Cloudeclipse) that skip the board for extra softness Whilst the key innovation in On running shoes is in the CloudTec sole, On’s seamless uppers have evolved just as quickly, staying feather-light and extremely breathable, but getting smarter, stronger and greener. The basic recipe is the same - ultra-thin engineered mesh reinforced with no-sew tapes so it adds grams of support, not weight - but the materials and fit technologies have taken big steps forward. You still get that springy, barely-there feeling that we’ve always celebrated about On, but today’s uppers breathe even better, hug the mid-foot more securely on fast corners, and tread steadily lighter on the planet.How Clouds work and how they have moved on
Speedboard: why it matters (& when On leaves it out)
The On Upper
More sustainable yarns & factory processes
Better fit, more comfort
What this means on foot
On shoes still have a secure, slightly narrow hold through the heel and mid-foot, which many runners love for a locked-in feel. Length is generally consistent with other running brands, but width and volume vary by model, and some styles can feel a little short or tight if you have a broad forefoot or high instep. If your feet are normal to narrow, your usual running-shoe size will suit most models. If your feet are wide or high-volume, you may prefer either a roomier On last or going half a size up in the snugger models. The shoe for you depends on what you want to use them for: The Cloud remains On’s most street-styled model - a blend of everyday comfort and light performance you can wear all day. The trademark speed-lace system still lets you slip them on and off quickly (standard laces are included), and the ride keeps that “light but cushioned” feel thanks to CloudTec in Zero-Gravity foam and a flexible Speedboard tuned for all-day use. The new Cloud 6 brings a wider opening, updated shape/structure, and a new sockliner for easier step-in and a more accommodating fit; the weight is now about 267g (men) and 216g (women). This is still the one to buy as an all-rounder - walking, commuting, travel, and the odd easy 5K - rather than for serious long-distance training. The Cloud 6 feels a touch plusher and slightly wider than the Cloud 5, which helps for longer days on your feet. Anyone who wants one pair for work/travel and a casual 5K without changing shoes. People on their feet all day who want a light, cushioned, slip-on sneaker Gym-goers who value quick on/off speed laces, swapping to the standard set when they want a snugger hold For a more detailed look at this style of shoes read our On Running Cloud Review The Cloud X remains the performance spin on the Cloud: a do-it-all trainer for runners who also lift, class, or HIIT. The latest X4 adds a midfoot cage and an X-shaped Speedboard to stabilise lateral moves while keeping the ride light and snappy with Helion foam. Breathable mesh and a plusher tongue/heel improve comfort without piling on bulk (men’s listed weight ~288g). It’s the pair we reach for when a workout mixes short runs with gym work - treadmill intervals, circuits, classes - rather than pure long-distance training. It has great versatility and lockdown, but note it isn’t built for heavy barbell work or CrossFit-style abuse (the cushioned pods compress under big loads). If that’s your focus, choose a flatter, firmer trainer; otherwise the Cloud X4 hits a sweet spot for mixed sessions. Road runners who like to run, then hit the gym in the same shoe Mixed-training athletes (HIIT, classes, light strength) who want lateral support without losing runability Tech notes: Same Zero-Gravity/Helion CloudTec concept as the Cloud, but the stiffer, X-shaped Speedboard makes it better for side-to-side work and quick toe-offs. For a more detailed look at this style read our On Running Cloud X 2020 Review Discover the On Running Cloud X The Fit
Neutral daily
Speed / uptempo
Stability
Hybrid / lifestyle
Which shoe is for you?
The Cloud
Runners who normally pick this shoe:
Cloud X
Runners who normally pick this shoe:
Club runners who prefer a more locked-in upper than the Cloud for faster efforts, but still want everyday comfort
On’s quick, do-everything speed trainer gets a real overhaul in the Cloudflow 5: a higher, more rockered ride with a layer of Helion HF (the bouncier foam from On’s racers), a glass-fiber/nylon Speedboard, and an updated woven upper with a re-shaped toe box and extra forefoot grip rubber. Listed weight is about 27 g (men), with an ~8mm drop. How it rides (vs Cloudflow 4): The 5 feels snappier and more forgiving - you still get that firm-responsive On feel, but the HF layer and more pronounced rocker smooth out tempo efforts and long intervals better than the 4. It’s happy from track reps to 5K–half-marathon racing, and light runners may stretch it into uptempo daily miles; if you want plush easy days, look at Cloudsurfer/Cloudeclipse, and if you want max race pace, that’s Cloudboom Echo 3 carbon-plate territory. Fit & upper: Hold is secure at heel/mid-foot with a little more room up front than older Cloudflows; the engineered woven mesh keeps things airy without hot spots. Most runners choose their usual running-shoe size; broader feet who found the 4 tight may appreciate the 5’s toe-box tweak. The On Cloudflow 5 offers a superb blend of responsiveness, speed, and comfort. It stands out as an ideal choice for neutral runners seeking a lightweight and agile shoe that doesn’t compromise on feedback and performance.
For a more detailed look at this style read our On Running Cloudflow review. Discover: On Running Cloudflow Women's 
Cloudflow
Runners who normally pick this shoe:
Cloudswift started as On’s “soft(er) city runner,” but the 4th-gen has clearly shifted toward all-day, urban wear with short runs on the side. On even sells a dedicated Cloudswift 4 AD (“All Day”) with a water-repellent upper and lifestyle positioning. Think: commute, travel, errands - and comfortable 5-10K when you want it. Ride & cushioning: The Cloudswift 4 keeps CloudTec on dual-density Helion foam for protective pavement miles, plus a nylon-blend Speedboard and a rockered geometry for a smooth roll. It’s intentionally firmer than On’s plush options, suiting city walking and light training more than high-mileage softness. Listed weight: ~278g (men). Upper & fit: You get a breathable one-piece mesh upper with perforated toe box and an updated midfoot cage for secure hold; the AD version adds a sock-like, water-repellent construction for everyday use. Most shoppers stick with their usual running-shoe size. Who normally pick this shoe: People who want one pair for work/travel and city life that can still cover a casual run. All-day wearers who prefer a sleek, firm-responsive feel over ultra-soft cushioning If someone asks for a softer, run-first feel, steer them to Cloudsurfer/Cloudeclipse/Cloudmonster; keep Cloudswift in the “active life” lane. For an in-depth exploration of this style, be sure to check out our comprehensive On Cloudswift Review Discover: On Running Cloudswift Women's
Cloudswift
New or returning runners prioritising style + comfort for short, easy pavement mile
On’s supportive daily trainer for runners who want more guidance without old-school posts or rails. The latest version builds stability from the geometry and foams: a wider platform, moulded heel counter, and dual-density Helion midsole with a firmer blend under the heel and medial arch to resist collapse. There’s still a springy Speedboard® to smooth the roll. Instead of a heavy medial post, stability comes from firmer medial/heel Helion™, a broad base, and the heel counter to guide motion. The result is moderate support without bulk, aimed at keeping you centred through mid-stance and giving a confident toe-off. How it rides (vs older Cloudflyers): v5 is more cushioned and more planted than past models - excellent for easy and long pavement miles, brisk walks, and return-to-running phases. It’s on the firmer side of cushioned stability (classic On feel) rather than plush and bouncy. If you loved the lightness of early Flyers, note that v5 trades a few grams for comfort and support: it now weighs ~320 g (men) with a ~9 mm drop. Mild/moderate over-pronators or neutral runners who like a steadier platform without intrusive posts Runners who want a stable, protective trainer for easy/steady runs and all-day wear; less ideal if you want a super-soft or very lively feel Upper & fit: A plush ankle collar, padded tongue, and a roomier, more accommodating fit than many On road shoes make v5 comfortable for average-to-slightly wide feet; heel hold remains secure. Breathability and step-in feel are clear upgrades. Most runners stay in their usual running-shoe size. Bottom line: Cloudflyer 5 remains a relevant pillar in On’s line - supportive, steady, and comfortable for daily miles and long days on your feet. If you want softer/max stack, steer to Cloudeclipse or Cloudmonster 2; if you want snappier speed days, look to Cloudflow 5. For a more detailed look at this style read our On Running Cloudflyer review Cloudflyer
Runners it suits:
The On Running Cloudmonster is On’s flagship max-cushion road trainer with the brand’s biggest CloudTec pods and a reworked dual-density Helion superfoam around an updated nylon-blend Speedboard. The result is a high-stack shoe that still feels lively and rolls you forward decisively. If you like Hoka-style cushioning but want more “pop,” this is the On to try. Ride & use: Built for long, steady road miles and recovery days, yet responsive enough for uptempo work thanks to the rocker and plate-assisted rebound. It has a smooth, springy transition and better energy return than On’s softer options; it’s a trainer first, but many runners are happy to race in it up to the marathon. Upper & outsole: The v2 gets a refined engineered-mesh upper (100% recycled polyester; ~92% recycled polyester content on the upper overall) and a tidier eyestay for improved lockdown. Underneath, grip rubber and a revised traction pattern add security on wet pavement versus early On outsoles. Fit notes (vs v1): Expect a roomier feel, especially across the forefoot; some testers even recommend going a half-size down if you have narrow, low-volume feet. Others measure the toe-box height as moderate-low - so width feels up, height not huge - which explains why opinions vary. If you’re between sizes, start with your usual running-shoe size and fine-tune with a runner’s knot. Specs snapshot: men’s weight around 289–300 g (US 9); women’s around 230 g (US 7.5). On lists a 6mm drop. Who picks this shoe? Road runners who want maximum cushioning without losing forward snap for long runs Half- and full-marathon trainees chasing fresh legs over higher weekly volume Runners moving up from Cloudsurfer/Cloudstratus who want more stack and rebound. Bottom Line: The Cloudmonster 2 is the franchise’s sweet spot - max cushion with real energy return, a secure ride for long pavement miles, and a fit that’s more accommodating than classic On without going sloppy. For a more detailed look at this style, read our On Cloudmonster Review
Cloudmonster
Launched in early 2022, the On Cloudrunner remains one of On’s most supportive, confidence-building shoes - ideal for newer runners, return-to-running phases, or anyone who wants gentle guidance and cushioning rather than a race feel. The latest model trims weight to ~277g (men’s) and moves to a 10mm drop for a smooth heel-to-toe roll. It’s not a racer, but it is the kind of shoe you slip on and go for easy miles and long days on your feet. Ride & stability: Cloudrunner 2 gives mild stability from its broad platform, durable heel clip and sculpted CloudTec® geometry - no intrusive posts. On also removed the Speedboard in this version, filling in the old midsole channel. That makes landings softer, reduces stone-trapping, and adds a touch more forefoot flex while keeping the classic, slightly firm On feel. Upper & comfort: A plusher tongue/heel and an engineered-mesh upper that’s 100% recycled polyester deliver easy step-in and a roomier fit than many Ons (great if you’ve found the brand narrow). Total recycled content is about 30%. Cloudrunner vs Cloudflyer: Keep Cloudrunner as the light-support, comfort daily; step up to Cloudflyer if you want a firmer, more structured stability feel. We’d frame the Cloudrunner 2 as mild guidance rather than full stability. Runners who normally pick this shoeCloudrunner
On’s 2023 Cloudsurfer introduced CloudTec Phase - pods that collapse in sequence for a softer, smoother roll and no Speedboard needed. The Cloudsurfer 2 keeps that concept but refines almost everything: a more durable, computer-optimised outsole, a tidier upper, and slightly more structure so it copes better with daily miles. The weight is ~261g (men), ~225g (women) and an 8-9mm drop (different by gender) Ride & feel Upper & sustainability Runners who normally pick this shoe: The new Cloudsurfer Max takes Phase to the max-stack level: a double layer of CloudTec Phase on Helion foam, no Speedboard, and a 6mm drop. It’s built for long, effortless road runs - soft, very smooth, and protective. Official weight: 292g (men). Upper & outsole: A breathable mesh upper with a knitted tongue and revised eyestays for lockdown, plus rubber pads placed for road grip. Think Cloudsurfer feel, just more cushion and support for high-mileage comfort. Runners who normally pick this shoe: Runners wanting maximum Phase softness for long, easy miles Cloudsurfer fans stepping up to higher stack without going to the Cloudmonster 2’s snappier, plated feel
Cloudsurfer
Still On’s soft/effortless daily trainer: smooth heel-to-toe, cushioned landings, and a gently rockered forefoot. Compared with the 2023 model, v2 feels a touch firmer and more stable, which makes it better for routine training even if the “wow-soft” sensation is toned down.
Breathable engineered mesh with recycled yarn overlays and an updated tongue for comfort; On lists 261g/225g weights alongside those upper changes.
Cloudsurfer Max
Positioned as the faster sibling in the Surfer family, Cloudsurfer Next adds a more forward-focused rocker, keeps CloudTec Phase + Helion, and stays plate-free. It weighs ~273 g and has a 6 mm drop; the shoe is pitched for daily runs that tilt toward tempo/uptempo with a racier, woven upper feel. Ride & feel: Expect firmer-responsive underfoot with some bounce when loaded—quicker than Cloudsurfer 2, not as “plush,” and a nice middle ground if you want one shoe that can jog easy and pick up the pace. Independent reviews echo the “agile, a little firm, forward-rolling” brief. Runners who normally pick this shoe: Runners who liked the Cloudgo/Cloudsurfer feel but want more snap and a lower 6 mm drop for workouts and short races Travellers and cross-trainers who want a one-pair, faster-feeling daily that still handles easy runs and gym sessions Cloudsurfer Next
Quick chooser (Surfer family);
Our Verdict
On has evolved from clever newcomer to a dependable choice for every kind of run. The brand’s identity is clear: CloudTec /CloudTec Phase cushioning and a smooth rocker that feel quick, light and efficient - more “responsive roll” than pillow-soft sink. If you want plushness you can get it, but On still shines most when you’re moving with intent.
Pick this if…
- You want soft, easy miles: Cloudeclipse or Cloudsurfer Max
- You want max cushion with some pop: Cloudmonster 2
- You want a nimble, faster feel: Cloudflow 5 or Cloudsurfer Next
- You want guidance without bulk: Cloudrunner 2 (light support) or Cloudflyer 5 (more structure)
- You want everyday versatility: Cloud 6 or Cloudswift 4
Choose your feel (plush vs punchy) and fit, and there’s an On that will take you confidently from parkrun to marathon.
Check out all the latest styles: On Running Women's
