Are you ready to take a giant leap in your athletic footwear game? Look no further than On. I have noticed these shoes with the unique outsole and the On branding on the side panel for a while now. Everywhere I went from amusement parks to sporting events, On shoes were everywhere. Before I took the plunge or drank the proverbial Kool-Aid I wanted to find out why these shoes are so popular.
Cloud Shoes in this Article
- Cloud 5 – uses recycled materials. Available on Amazon for $129 (women) and $154 (men).
- Cloudnova Void – uses 95% recycled polyseter. Available on Amazon for $160
- Cloutilt LOEWE – engineered to provide the best cushining. Available at On for $490.
- Cloud X – Helion Superfoam for quick movements. Available on Amazon for $150.
- Cloudflow – weighs 198g for a overall light feel. Available on Amazon for $145.
- Cloudswift – CloudTec repositioned for forefoot comfort. Available on Amazon for $150.
The Genesis of On
On a sports performance and athletic shoe company was founded in 2010 by former Olivier Bernhard, David Allerman, and Caspar Coppetti. Olivier Bernhard a former Swiss Ironman was looking for a shoe that provided stability and cushioning. This led to him creating a prototype cushioning designed for a soft landing and firm take-off. With the help of Allerman and Coppetti On patented Cloud technology was born.
A Look into the Company
On is a Swiss-owned company so it only makes sense that the headquarters reside in Zurich. At the end of ’22, the company saw a revenue of $1.2 billion and had approximately 1,700 employees. In Switzerland On makes up 40% of the running shoe market and 6.6% in the U.S. On products are in 6,000 retailers in more than 50 countries.
The Revolutionary Cloud Technology
The heart of On’s success lies in its unique CloudTec® technology. This innovation features a patented cushioning system that mimics the sensation of running on clouds. These clouds are not just a marketing gimmick; they’re a crucial component of On’s running shoes.
The CloudTec® system consists of hollow pods made from the company’s special Zero-Gravity foam. These pods compress upon landing and lock for a solid foundation during the push-off phase. The result is a shoe that provides both comfort and responsiveness, a delicate balance sought by athletes worldwide.
On Shoe Diversity
One thing I picked up from my research into the company is the wide range of shoes they offer. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all all shoe company. They manufacture shoes for almost everyone. Let’s take a look at some of their collection.
Cloud
The original shoe in the collection. The Cloud features 44% recycled materials. It features a speed lacing system. The antimicrobial mesh is breathable and keeps your feet dry. The Cloud comes in at 250g keeping workout wear light. This is available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Cloudnova Void
The Void is 95% recycled material with the polyester being 30% recycled. The ribbed upper and textured tongue not only looks good but provides a secure fit. The Cloudnova comes in slightly heavier at 305g. Customer reviews state the shoe is not only stylish but comfortable and durable. The Nova is available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Cloudtilt Loewe
The Loewe is the most expensive coming in shy of $500. The Loewe is 97.5% recycled polyester and the total shoe is 25% recycled material. Weighing 303g the Loewe is made with fewer components in the midsole. This provides lightweight movement creating the best cushioning. The general consensus is that if you stand or walk all day the Loewe is worth the $500 price tag.
Cloud X
The Cloud X is almost the lightest of this review at 200g and is available in women’s sizes. On uses Helion Superfoam in the midsole for quick movements. Built for performance the Cloud X features molded pads in the heel and raised sidewalls for agility. Customers seem to agree that the Cloud X is great for all-day wear and trekking around as a tourist.
Cloudflow
The Clodflow is the highest weighing 198g making this ideal for hours of walking. The Cloudflow uses 70% recycled polyester. The rubber grip traction on the outsole keeps feet firmly planted on the ground before the next explosive move. The Cloudflow is available in women’s sizes. Those who switched from Brooks or Hokas stated that this is their main shoe now.
Cloudswift
Cloudswift uses the CloudTec differently than other On silhouettes. The cushioning is positioned more on the forefoot. This allows for larger rear clouds to dampen heel falls. The rocker and Speedboard optimize the natural rolling motion. This shoe is built for urban running providing the best platform for running on sidewalks or the road.
This On got mixed reviews. Most stated that these were the best shoes for walking and running. Other reviews stated that it was difficult to put on and the band across the top was uncomfortable. Lastly customers that switched from Brooks or Hokas satisfied.
Keep it locked here for my On Cloud review. At the time of writing this article I purchased a pair from Ebay so I can see if they live up to the hype. For more on feet reviews check out my experience with the Stray Rats 580.
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