On Running Questions & Answers

On Running Questions

Straight, decisive answers to what runners actually ask before buying On — which Cloud model, sizing, value and care. Independent guidance from the OD's running team.

Which On Running shoe is right for you?
Maximum cushion / long runs Cloudmonster
Soft, everyday neutral Cloudsurfer
Road & city miles Cloudswift
Gym & cross-training Cloud X
Lightweight everyday Cloud 6
Walking & lifestyle comfort Cloudtilt
Trail & all-terrain Cloudvista

OD's Running Team Insight

Our best-selling On Running shoeCloudpulse 2

Best On Running For…

Best On Running for walking

For walking, the Cloud 6 or Cloudtilt are the best On Running choices. Both pair light CloudTec cushioning with a comfortable, stable platform that suits all-day wear and lifestyle use rather than hard training.

Best for: walking, lifestyle, all-day comfort.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudmonster if you want maximum cushioning underfoot.
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Best On Running for the gym & training

The Cloud X is the best On Running for the gym. It is built for cross-training, lateral movement and short runs, with a more secure, lower-profile feel than the cushioned road models.

Best for: gym, cross-training, classes.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudsurfer if your sessions are mostly running.
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Best On Running for long runs & maximum cushion

The Cloudmonster is the most cushioned On Running shoe. Its oversized CloudTec elements give the softest, highest-stack ride in the range — built for long, comfortable miles.

Best for: long runs, max cushion, bigger runners.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudsurfer for a lighter everyday feel.
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Best On Running for road running

The Cloudsurfer for soft daily miles, the Cloudswift for durable city running. Both are neutral road shoes — the Cloudsurfer is the softer everyday option, the Cloudswift the more hard-wearing urban choice.

Choose Cloudsurfer if: soft daily training.  ·  Choose Cloudswift if: tough city miles and commutes.
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Best On Running for beginners

The Cloudsurfer is the best On Running for beginners. It is soft, forgiving and easy to run in, with a smooth ride that suits runners building up mileage.

Best for: new runners.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudmonster if you want more cushion.
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Best On Running for trail

The Cloudvista is On's best all-terrain trail option. It adds grip and protection for mixed off-road running while keeping the familiar On ride on firmer paths.

Best for: light trail, mixed terrain.  ·  Consider instead: Salomon for technical or muddy UK trails.
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Are On Running shoes good for walking and standing all day

Yes — On Running shoes are popular for walking and all-day wear. The cushioning and light weight suit people who walk distances or stand for long shifts, with the Cloud 6 and Cloudtilt the easiest everyday picks.

Best for: walking, work-on-feet, travel.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudmonster for extra underfoot softness.
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Worth It

Are On Running shoes worth the money?

Yes — if you value ride feel and design. On sits at a premium price, but the shoes are durable and the CloudTec ride is distinctive. You pay partly for the look and feel as well as the running performance.

Best for: runners who want ride feel + design.  ·  Consider instead: Saucony for lower-cost pure performance.
Shop On Running at OD's →Shop Saucony at OD's →
Is the Cloudmonster worth it?

Yes, if you want maximum cushion. The Cloudmonster delivers On's softest, highest ride and works for long runs and everyday comfort — the premium buys cushioning, not speed.

Best for: long runs, comfort.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudsurfer for a lighter feel.
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Is the Cloudsurfer worth it?

Yes — it is On's most versatile soft daily trainer. The redesigned CloudTec gives a smooth, rolling ride that suits most runners' everyday mileage at a sensible point in the range.

Best for: everyday running, beginners.  ·  Consider instead: the Cloudmonster for more cushion.
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Is the Cloud X worth it?

Yes — for gym and versatility. The Cloud X handles cross-training, travel and short runs in one shoe, which makes it a strong value pick if you want a do-a-bit-of-everything trainer.

Best for: gym, travel, mixed use.  ·  Consider instead: a dedicated road model if you mainly run.
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Comparisons

On Running vs Saucony: which should you buy?

On for ride feel and design; Saucony for value performance. On's CloudTec is distinctive and premium; Saucony offers proven running performance at a lower price. We stock both, so you can compare them in person.

Choose On if: you want the distinctive ride and look.  ·  Choose Saucony if: value and proven performance.
Shop On Running at OD's →Shop Saucony at OD's →
On Running vs Salomon: which should you buy?

On for road and urban; Salomon for trail and off-road. On is built around road running and lifestyle; Salomon is built for grip and durability on rough terrain. Pick based on where you run.

Choose On if: road, city, lifestyle.  ·  Choose Salomon if: trail, hiking, off-road.
Shop On Running at OD's →Shop Salomon at OD's →
Cloudmonster vs Cloudsurfer: which should you buy?

Cloudmonster for maximum cushion; Cloudsurfer for a lighter everyday ride. Both are neutral road shoes — the Cloudmonster is bigger and softer, the Cloudsurfer lighter and more versatile.

Choose Cloudmonster if: long runs, max cushion.  ·  Choose Cloudsurfer if: everyday versatility.
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Cloud X vs Cloud 6: which should you buy?

Cloud X for the gym; Cloud 6 for everyday running and walking. The Cloud X is built for training and lateral movement; the Cloud 6 is the lighter all-round everyday shoe.

Choose Cloud X if: gym and cross-training.  ·  Choose Cloud 6 if: daily wear and light running.
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Sizing

Do On Running shoes fit true to size?

They run slightly snug. Most runners take their usual UK size, but many size up a half for a little more length and toe room, especially if between sizes.

Size up a half if: you have wider feet or run longer distances.
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Do On Running shoes run narrow?

Yes — On tends to fit on the narrow side through the midfoot. If you have wide feet, ask us about sizing before you buy.

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On Running sizing UK: true to size or size up?

Take your usual UK size for most models. Consider a half size up for length if you are between sizes or running long.

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Technology

What is CloudTec?

CloudTec is On's signature cushioning. The hollow pods in the sole compress on landing and firm up for push-off, creating On's distinctive soft-then-responsive ride.

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What is Helion superfoam?

Helion is On's performance foam. It adds cushioning and energy return across temperatures, and underpins the ride in most current On models.

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What is a Speedboard?

The Speedboard is the plate inside the sole. It converts the CloudTec compression into a forward roll, helping you carry pace with less effort.

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Care

How to clean On Running shoes

Hand-clean only. Remove the laces and insoles, brush off dirt, wipe with mild soapy water and air-dry away from direct heat. Never machine-wash or tumble-dry.

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Do On Running shoes squeak, and how do you fix it?

Some pairs squeak from the insole or tongue rubbing. Re-seating the insole, or a light dusting of talc under it, usually stops it. Current models squeak far less than early ones.

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Brand

Are On Running shoes good?

Yes — On is a respected Swiss running brand. Founded in Zurich, it has built a strong reputation on its distinctive CloudTec ride across road, training and lifestyle.

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Where are On Running shoes made?

On is a Swiss brand, designed in Zurich. Like most performance brands, manufacturing is in Asia, primarily Vietnam.

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