The Best On Running Shoes to Go the Distance: 7 Expert Picks

Looking for the best On running shoes to help you go the distance?
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🏃‍♂️‍➡️Fun fact: On athlete David Kilgore just completed The Great World Race, running... 

• 7 marathons, on...
• 7 continents, in...
• 7 days!

He even won the marathons in North and South America, wearing On running shoes, and finished in the top 3 in most of the races.

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Let's take a closer look at the best On running shoes for long runs, daily training, racing and trail running. Here are my top 7 picks...

First, the brand is simply called "On," but its shoes are often referred to as "On Clouds."

• Founded in Switzerland in 2010, On has revolutionized the running shoe industry with its CloudTec technology. 
• Known for delivering "soft landings" and "firm push-offs," On running shoes cater to all kinds of athletes. 

👟The On running backstory
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On was founded by former duathlon World Champion Oliver Bernhard, along with his partners Caspar Coppetti and David Allemann. 

• The Goal was to create a shoe that combined cushioned landings with firm takeoffs, something that was not commonly seen in 2010 when stability shoes and minimalist footwear dominated the market.
• The Breakthrough came in 2014 with the launch of the On Cloud, which gained global popularity after Swiss triathlete Nicola Spirig won a silver medal wearing the shoe at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. 
• The Expansion. Since then, On has expanded beyond running to include hiking, lifestyle shoes, and even tennis. Despite their success in various categories, On continues to focus on developing high-performance running shoes. On shoes are premium, which also means they come with a premium price.

🌍Global popularity
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On is best known for designing and marketing high-performance running shoes and apparel, gaining a strong foothold in global markets. 

• By 2019, On held 40% of the running shoe market in Switzerland and 10% in Germany. 
• Its products are now available in 6,000 retailers across 55 countries.
• On's largest market is in the U.S., where it holds 6.6% of the performance running shoe category.

🙋‍♂️Common questions about On running shoes...

• Are On running shoes good?
• What makes On running shoes great?
• Can you train for a marathon in On running shoes?
• What are the best On running shoes?

In this guide, we'll explore the brand’s most popular models, discuss their unique features, and provide recommendations for runners looking to try On running shoes.

Like any running shoe brand, On has several unique features:
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👟CloudTec

• At the core of every On running shoe is CloudTec, a patented midsole design that features pod-like structures for a soft landing and explosive takeoff. 
• This technology helps reduce impact while maintaining energy return.

👟Helion Foam

• On's Helion foam offers a balance of lightweight cushioning and durability. 
• It’s designed to perform in all temperatures, providing consistent comfort in various weather conditions.

👟Speedboard

• The Speedboard was a defining feature of On running shoes, adding stiffness to the midsole to create a more aggressive push-off.
• However, in 2023, On began phasing out the Speedboard in some models, opting for a softer, more flexible ride. 
• Now On features several softer models without the Speedboard, like the On Cloudsurfer Trail that photographer Alan Lam got to see up close at On + REI Trail Camp in Washington state earlier this year.

Ready to check out the best On running shoes to help you go the distance?
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Here are my top 7 picks...

For long runs

• Weight: 10.5 oz. (men’s), 8.1 oz. (women’s)
• Stack Height/Drop: 6mm drop
• Best for: Long-distance runs with maximum cushioning
• Price: $180

The On Cloudmonster 2 delivers a firm yet cushioned ride thanks to the dual-density Helion midsole and signature CloudTec pods. 
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This high-cushioned trainer provides maximum comfort with an updated upper and improved midsole, aiming to balance performance with comfort. 

👉If you are looking for a high cushioned, long-run shoe this is a great option. 

For neutral daily training

• Weight: 9.1 oz (258g) for USM9 / 6.9 oz (194g) for USW7.5
• Stack Height/Drop: 32mm heel, 22mm forefoot (10mm drop)
• Best for: Daily training with uptempo runs
• Price: $160

The On Cloudsurfer has undergone a major transformation with its removal of the Speedboard, making it more:

• Comfortable
• Softer, and...
• Responsive

With the new CloudTec Phase cushioning and Helion foam, it offers a soft yet bouncy feel while maintaining a lightweight design. 
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👉Whether running, walking, or commuting, it's a great choice for anyone seeking a versatile, comfortable shoe for daily use.

For stability daily training

• Weight: 9.7 oz. (men’s) / 8.5 oz. (women’s)
• Stack Height/Drop: 31mm heel, 21mm forefoot, 10mm drop
• Best for: Daily training, mild stability
• Price: $150

The On Cloudrunner 2 is a mild-stability running shoe with a smooth, comfortable ride. 

• The engineered mesh upper is plush, and the Helion Superfoam midsole provides balanced cushioning. 
• The Cloudrunner 2 feels lightweight and secure, even for wide-footed runners. 
• It also eliminates rock-catching issues by filling in the midsole’s deeper cut-out. 

👉There are very few mild stability shoes on the market in 2024, but the On Cloudrunner 2 is an excellent option.

Supertrainer for daily training

• Weight: 9.3 oz. (men’s), 7.4 oz. (women’s)
• Stack Height/Drop: 37.5mm heel, 31.5mm forefoot, 6mm drop
• Best for: Daily training
• Price: $220

The On Cloudmonster Hyper blends comfort and performance, featuring a Helion HF midsole and CloudTec technology. 

• With a premium upper and excellent fit, it's visually striking. 
• While it offers a high-cushioned, firm, and responsive ride, the $220 price point places it at the higher end of the super trainer category. 

👉Is it good? Yes, but it's more expensive.

For racing

• Weight: 7.5 oz. (men’s), 6.6 oz. (women’s)
• Stack Height: 37mm heel, 27.5mm forefoot, 9.5mm drop
• Best for: Race day
• Price: $289

At $289, the On Cloudboom Echo 3 is one of the most expensive racing shoes out there. 

• It features a responsive Pebax-based midsole paired with a carbon fiber plate for speed. 
• The upper wicks moisture well, providing comfort for longer efforts. 
• Is it fast? Yes, and it's definitely designed for racing. 

👉If you are looking for a fast On running shoe, consider the On Cloudboom Echo 3. 

For trail running

• Weight: 8.6 oz
• Drop: 4mm
• Best for: Technical trails, trail racing
• Price: $160

The On Cloudventure Peak 3 is a lightweight, minimal trail racing shoe with significant upgrades, including:

• A split Speedboard
• Breathable upper, and...
• Improved MissionGrip outsole

Weighing just 8.6 oz, it offers a firm, responsive ride making it best suited for shorter trail runs or races.
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Though not ideal for longer distances or rugged terrains, it excels in races under marathon distance, providing great ground feel for technical trails. 
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👉Make no mistake: the On Cloudventure 3 is a fast and fun trail shoe.

For cross training & light runs

• Weight: 7.9 oz
• Drop: 6.9mm
• Best for: All-day wear, casual walking, light runs
• Price: $140

The On Cloud was one of On's first shoes! 

• The Cloud 5 is a lightweight and versatile lifestyle shoe great for daily use. 
• Its breathable upper and seamless slip-on design make it ideal for long hours of walking, standing, or even hitting the gym. 
• It excels in comfort with a soft, supportive feel and ease of wear, making it a favorite for those on the go. 

👉It’s a great and stylish option for those looking for a lightweight sneaker, but be advised it's not recommended for serious running mileage or training.

On has made a name for itself by blending performance with style, and it continues to grow. 
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With a wide range of options, there’s something for every type of athlete. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual runner looking for everyday comfort, On has a shoe that fits your needs.

Share yours in the comments or create a WeeView and tell us more about your favorite On running shoes.