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Best ON Running Shoes (August 2024)

Written on 28th August by Brandon Law Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
180 other reviews
Best ON Running Shoes
As we always do, we purchased all the On running shoes you'll find on our pages with our own money. We refuse free shoes from companies to ensure complete independence and lack of bias.

Today we are looking at the On running shoe lineup: these shoes look and feel different than many other running shoes so it might be confusing trying to figure out which shoe is right for you. Hopefully we can help with that!

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.

ON Cloudsurfer 7

Best Daily Trainer
Weight: 9.1oz Drop: 10mm
Our Rating
8.0
Users Rating
4.0
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...
MSRP $160 $149 Best price today this will redirect you to RunningWarehouse.Com

ON Cloudrunner 2

Best Supportive Trainer
Weight: 9.7oz Drop: 10mm
Our Rating
7.0
Users Rating
7.0
The On Cloudrunner 2 caters to an audience that enjoys plenty of cushion in a sneaker. They’re suited for walking or slow paced running and can handle various distances. To cap it off, the...
MSRP $149.95 $149 Best price today this will redirect you to RunningWarehouse.Com

ON Cloudmonster 2

Best Max Cushioned
Weight: 10.4oz Drop: 6mm Carbon plate
Our Rating
8.0
Users Rating
7.0
The On Cloudmonster 2 is actually a versatile max cushion daily trainer. It handles speed moderately well and it can go the distance. The fit leaves extra room throughout the upper but it’s not...
MSRP $179.95 $179 Best price today this will redirect you to RunningWarehouse.Com

ON Cloudflow 4

Best Lightweight Trainer
Weight: 8.7oz Drop: 8mm
Our Rating
7.0
Users Rating
7.0
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. ...
MSRP $159.95 $159 Best price today this will redirect you to RunningWarehouse.Com

ON Cloudsurfer Trail

Best Trail Running Shoes
Weight: 9.6oz Drop: 7mm
Our Rating
7.0
Users Rating
0.0
The On Cloudsurfer Trail boast an outdoor aesthetic but is primarily most comfortable on the roads or very non technical trails. The Cloudsurfer Trail is quite comfortable but the fit feels...
MSRP $159.95 $159 Best price today this will redirect you to RunningWarehouse.Com

Table of content

  Our Top 5 picks for all categories
 
 
What to consider
 
 
Best Daily Trainer
 
 
Best Supportive Trainer
 
 
Best Max Cushioned
 
 
Best Lightweight Trainer
 
 
Best Trail Running Shoes
 
 
Quick questions you might have
 
 
Comments
 

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 Daily Trainer

ON Cloudsurfer 7

merchant logo
$160.00
$149.00
See deal   >
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
Read full review

Best Supportive Trainer

ON Cloudrunner 2

merchant logo
$150.00
$149.00
See deal   >
In short
The On Cloudrunner 2 caters to an audience that enjoys plenty of cushion in a sneaker. They’re suited for walking or slow paced running and can handle various distances. To cap it off, the Cloudrunner 2 is also an attractive looking shoe.
Pros
  • High quality materials
  • Lighter than last model
  • CloudTec design upgrades
Cons
  • Upper was too roomy
  • Little midsole support for heel
  • Bland color options
Who should buy it

This shoe is a great option for folks running at slower paces and even those looking for a comfy walking shoe.

Who should not buy it

There is a lot of give to the midsole in the Cloudrunner 2. Runners looking for a firm, responsive ride should look at other options. I also found the shoes to be wider than normal. If you have a narrow foot, beware.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.7 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
6.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
Read full review

Best Max Cushioned

ON Cloudmonster 2

merchant logo
$180.00
$179.00
See deal   >
In short
The On Cloudmonster 2 is actually a versatile max cushion daily trainer. It handles speed moderately well and it can go the distance. The fit leaves extra room throughout the upper but it’s not unpleasant.
Pros
  • Tons of cushion
  • Stylish
  • Durable
Cons
  • Fit is inconsistent
Who should buy it

The Cloudmonster 2 is perfect for someone who spends a lot of time on their feet during weekend long runs. Someone attempting a marathon or ultra distance race would also benefit from the cushion it provides.

Who should not buy it

People who are particular with their fit should not buy the Cloudmonster 2. The shoe fits wide for feet that have high arches and that are narrow.

It has plenty of cushion, but it’s a little stiff so someone who is looking for a softer foam should not buy this shoe.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.4 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
Read full review

Best Lightweight Trainer

ON Cloudflow 4

merchant logo
$160.00
$159.00
See deal   >
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
Read full review

Best Trail Running Shoes

ON Cloudsurfer Trail

merchant logo
$160.00
$159.00
See deal   >
In short
The On Cloudsurfer Trail boast an outdoor aesthetic but is primarily most comfortable on the roads or very non technical trails. The Cloudsurfer Trail is quite comfortable but the fit feels inconsistent. If you like running the majority of the time on roads with the occasional smooth trail this could be a solid choice.
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Cushioned enough for roads and trails
  • Outdoor aesthetic
Cons
  • Heavy for a road to trail shoe
  • Not for technical trails
Who should buy it

In my mind the Cloudsurfer Trail is best for those who have limited trail options and run primarily on the roads. The ideal scenario would consist of the runner starting their run on the roads and eventually making their way to the dirt path near by that is nice and buffed out free of rocks and roots.

Who should not buy it

The avid trail runner where all they do is run up to the summit everyday and take the most technical path to get up to the top. The runner who likes their feet to feel protected on the trails.

Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.6 oz
Heel
41 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
7 mm
Toe
99934 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
7.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
6.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
Read full review

Quick Questions you might have

Is it "On" or "On Cloud"?

It is just "On", or maybe "On Running". Cloud is their midsole technology and most of their shoes name start with "Cloud", hence the confusion.