Expert Verdict
On Running is a Swiss company founded in 2010 by former professional triathlete Olivier Bernhard, and it has disrupted the running industry by combining genuinely innovative technology with fashion-forward design. The company's CloudTec system uses hollow pods on the outsole that compress on landing and lock for a firm push-off, creating a unique cushioning feel that is both soft and responsive. This technology, combined with clean European aesthetics, has made On the fastest-growing running brand in the world.
The Cloudmonster is the maximalist expression of CloudTec, using oversized cloud pods for maximum cushioning and energy return. The Cloudstratus and Cloudsurfer provide daily training options with moderate cushioning and smooth transitions. The Cloudboom and Cloudboom Echo bring carbon plates and Helion Superfoam to racing. The company has expanded beyond running into lifestyle and hiking, with designs that transition seamlessly from workouts to casual wear.
On's design philosophy is distinctly Swiss: precise, minimalist, and functional. The shoes feature clean lines, muted color palettes, and subtle branding that appeals to urban professionals. The Speedboard technology, a plastic plate in the midsole, works with CloudTec to provide propulsion and stability. The upper materials are high-quality, with engineered mesh and premium overlays that justify the premium pricing.
The criticism of On focuses on durability, with some users reporting that the cloud pods compress or detach after 300 miles, and the price is high for the longevity offered. The unique feel also requires an adjustment period, and some runners never adapt to the CloudTec sensation. For style-conscious runners who want shoes that perform well and look exceptional in non-running contexts, On offers a unique combination that no traditional brand can match. The Swiss engineering and fashion sensibility have created a new category of running-lifestyle hybrid.
What stands out
- Distinctive CloudTec cushioning
- Swiss design aesthetic
- Fastest-growing running brand
- Lifestyle versatility