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Best ON Running Shoes 2024
Table of content
The best On running shoes
Keep scrolling or click on a shoe to find out why we chose it and what other shoes you should consider.
Best Max Cushioned On Running Shoes
Best On Running Shoes for Daily Training
Best Supportive Daily Trainer
Best for Speed Training
Best for Road Racing
Best for Trail Running
An overview of On's technology
CloudTec®
Pods which react according to your unique movements, compressing horizontally and vertically to cushion just where it should.
Speedboard®
Harnesses the energy you generate while moving to turn it into momentum. It bends and flexes with your run, to push you forwards.
Helion™
A midsole foam that combines rigid, stable sections with more flexible foam elements along the same molecular chains.
Missiongrip™
Enhanced traction patterns and a specially selected grip-rubber compound to keep you in control – whatever tricks the trail has in store.
CloudTec Phase®
A sequentially collapsing midsole that emphasizes both soft landings and a seamless weight transfer from heel to toe.
Best Max Cushioned On Running Shoes
Super soft and highly cushioned, these maximalist trainers are designed to be the plushest and most luxurious in the range.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudeclipse is a good maximalist trainer which offers a very high level of protection from the ground. It has a firmer ride than most max-cushioned trainers and it’s best suited to easy or recovery runs because its Helion foam midsole doesn’t provide much energy return. While it has a very comfortable upper and ride, it doesn’t warrant its premium price over other max-cushioned trainers which are in the $160 price range.Pros
- Smooth, highly cushioned ride
- Accommodating upper fit
- Excellent foot lockdown
- Balanced ride
Cons
- Upper’s dye bleeds onto the white laces
- Low outsole durability
- Overpriced
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a highly cushioned On trainer which has a softer ride than the Cloudmonster but a more cushioned, firmer ride than the Cloudsurfer, the Cloudeclipse is worth a try.
Who should not buy it
If you enjoy light trainers with lots of ground feel, the Cloudeclipse is not the running shoe for you. If you’re looking for a really versatile, energetic daily trainer which can handle uptempo runs, the Cloudeclipse is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
A double layer of CloudTec Phase® provides plenty of deep, soft cushioning for easy runs or long runs. It has a Helion midsole and a Speedboard on its outsole for stability and guidance. Read full reviewBest On Running Shoes for Daily Training
A jack-of-all trades shoe, this trainer should be capable of performing most runs well at a reasonable price.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudsurfer is designed to be a daily trainer but it feels more like a max-cushioned trainer due to its plush ride. Its upper is first class in terms of comfort and it’s best suited to short runs at easy/recovery paces. This latest version of the Cloudsurfer has been completely redesigned and feels nothing like its predecessors or any other On Running shoe because of how soft and smooth it feels.Pros
- Unique ride experience
- Smooth transitions
- Luxurious upper
- Cloud-like ride
Cons
- Low energy return
- Low versatility
- Warm upper
Who should buy it
If you’re a light runner who doesn’t need much structure, the Cloudsurfer is a great choice for slow runs. It has a super soft ride with very unique transitions.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a versatile daily trainer for a variety of runs and paces, the Cloudsurfer is not a great shoe for you. The Cloudsurfer feels like a max-cushioned trainer and doesn’t do well on fast-paced efforts.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.1 oz
Heel
32 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
22 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
9.0
Upper
10
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
A single layer of CloudTec Phase® gives the Cloudsurfer an incredibly smooth, plush ride. The Cloudsurfer is perfect for everyday easy runs. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The On Cloudmonster is classified as a max-cushioned trainer but it feels more like a versatile daily trainer. It has the ability to handle slow paces as well as faster paces due to its springy Cloud cushioning system which propels you forward. The Cloudmonster is On’s softest, most cushioned trainer and extremely fun to run in.Pros
- Very comfortable upper
- Highly cushioned ride
- Great versatility
- Good stability
Cons
- Cushioning is not plush
- Overpriced
Who should buy it
Who should not buy it
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.70 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Team review
A versatile trainer with a springy CloudTec® midsole. The Cloudmonster is designed to provide forward-rolling transitions for a more efficient ride. Read full reviewBest Supportive Daily Trainer
Provides guidance and support, these trainers are for runners who overpronate excessively.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudflyer 4 brings responsive stiffness to On’s cloud-like ride along with customized fit in the forefoot (once you figure the lacing out). These positives are countered by an insecure heel fit and ankle collar that is too high in places and too sharp in others, causing potential irritation; it’s a mixed bag.Pros
- Snug yet adjustable forefoot due to cutting-edge lacing tech
- Protected underfoot yet maintains ground feel
- Smooth transition through foot plant
- Moderately stable
Cons
- High collar threatens ankle irritation
- Loose heel fit
- Price
Who should buy it
Buy this shoe if you want the softness of On’s Cloud pods but also need a quicker, more responsive ride. It’s a good fit for mid-long distance track athletes who also do distance runs.
Who should not buy it
Do not choose this shoe if you are after supreme cushion and a plush feel from the upper (try Cloudgo!) or want a super-snappy ride. The feel and ride fall somewhere between these ends of the spectrum.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.5 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
11 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
This trainer has dual-density CloudTec® and an external heel counter to provide extra foot support. Read full reviewBest for Speed Training
These trainers are built for going fast and are designed to complement their racing counterparts.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudmonster Hyper is an overpriced super trainer that feels like a normal, daily trainer. It has Pebax in its forefoot and core but it doesn't deliver the springy, energetic feeling that you expect. It has deep cushioning with a firm, stable ride that feels awkward at slow paces. The Cloudmonster Hyper has a ride which feels more similar to the Cloudboom Echo 3 than the regular Cloudmonster and it's best suited to steady-paced runs.Pros
- Feels similar to the Cloudboom Echo 3
- Smooth ride transitions
- Excellent, grippy laces
- Very little ground feel
Cons
- Arch pressure if you have flat feet
- Not much energy return
- Heavily overpriced
Who should buy it
If you want a medium-firm trainer which has a similar ride to the Cloudboom Echo 3, the Cloudmonster Hyper is a good option.
If you find the normal Cloudmonster too firm in the forefoot or you want even more cushioning, the Cloudmonster Hyper would work for you.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a really energetic, agile trainer, the Cloudmonster Hyper is not for you. If you have flat feet and sensitive arches, it’s also not the shoe for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.1 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
7.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
4.0
Team review
This thicker and lighter version of the Cloudmonster has Helion HF midsole foam for extra energy return and more speed. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The On Cloudflow 4 is a lightweight trainer that can log miles. However with a lack of traction and a slightly harsh ride this shoe is not made for everyone.Pros
- Look great on the feet
- Great transition to toe off
- Upper is very comfortable and breathable
- Build quality is top-notch
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Traction was lacking on affected surfaces
- Harsh landing
- Price tag is hefty
Who should buy it
This shoe is ideal for lighter weight runners, who mostly do not land on their midfoot. Also would be a good option for those who have mechanics for light landings.
Who should not buy it
Heavier runners and those who have heavy landings should avoid this shoe. I would also recommend that midfoot strikers avoid this shoe for adverse weather conditions.
Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.7 oz
Heel
32 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
24 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
5.0
Transition
10
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
5.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
Inspired by On’s fastest shoe the Cloudboom Echo, the Cloudflow 4 has low cushioning and forward-rolling transitions. Read full reviewBest for Road Racing
Also known as super shoes, these racers are extremely lightweight and have the most responsive foams and technologies to help you achieve a PB on race day.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is a firm-riding, stiff racer which is best suited to short distance races of up to half marathons. It has a comfortable upper but it suffers from outsole durability issues. It doesn’t provide as much propulsion as other super shoes and the giant elephant in the room is its ridiculous $290 price which is way too high for what you get.Pros
- Decent stability
- Excellent traction
- Comfortable upper
- Great foot lockdown
Cons
- Overpriced
- Low durability
- Too firm for long distances
Who should buy it
If you’re a fan of On and you’re looking for a firm racing shoe for short distances, the Cloudboom Echo 3 is for you. It has decent stability and a hydrophobic upper.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a soft racer for long distances, the Cloudboom Echo 3 is not for you. If you want a racer that can double up as a trainer, it’s also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
7.6 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
9 mm
Toe
28 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
6.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
6.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
4.0
Value / Price
4.0
Team review
The Cloudboom Echo 3 is On’s fastest running shoe, and designed for long-distance racing. It has a Helion HF Pebax midsole combined with CloudTec® to create a firm, stable ride. Read full reviewBest for Trail Running
Built to withstand tough elements and uneven terrain, these shoes have protective uppers and aggressive outsoles to help with traction.
The winner
In short
The On Cloudvista is a great entry-level trail shoe or a shoe that does well from road to smooth trails. It's beautifully built and looks great but does lack in some areas that would help make it a great trail shoe.Pros
- Good entry level road to trail shoe
- Lightweight
- Well made
Cons
- Narrow/ Not true to size
- Not a shoe you want to get wet
Who should buy it
This is for the individual who is looking to find a shoe that can serve a few purposes. It’s for the runner who might be thinking about getting into some trail runs or for the person who just wants a shoe that can transition easily from various surfaces.
Who should not buy it
This shoe is not for the ultra trail runner. If you are looking for a well-cushioned shoe, this might not be for you either. It runs on the firmer wide like most On shoes and is felt when put to the test on the trails.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
9 mm
Toe
24 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
One of the lightest trail shoes in the On range, the Cloudvista is a versatile trainer with plush cushioning. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The On Cloudvista is a great entry-level trail shoe or a shoe that does well from road to smooth trails. It's beautifully built and looks great but does lack in some areas that would help make it a great trail shoe.Pros
- Good entry level road to trail shoe
- Lightweight
- Well made
Cons
- Narrow/ Not true to size
- Not a shoe you want to get wet
Who should buy it
This is for the individual who is looking to find a shoe that can serve a few purposes. It’s for the runner who might be thinking about getting into some trail runs or for the person who just wants a shoe that can transition easily from various surfaces.
Who should not buy it
This shoe is not for the ultra trail runner. If you are looking for a well-cushioned shoe, this might not be for you either. It runs on the firmer wide like most On shoes and is felt when put to the test on the trails.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
9 mm
Toe
24 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
7.0
