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.
| 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
Most Popular On Running Questions
Are On Running shoes worth it?
Yes — premium-priced but durable, with a distinctive ride.
Do On Running shoes fit true to size?
They run slightly snug; many runners size up a half.
Best On for walking?
The Cloud 6 or Cloudtilt.
Best On for the gym?
The Cloud X.
Best On for long runs?
The Cloudmonster.
Do On Running shoes squeak?
Some early pairs did; it is usually an insole fix.
Best On for beginners?
The Cloudsurfer.
Where are On shoes made?
Swiss brand, manufactured in Vietnam.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →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.
Shop On Running at OD's →Where are On Running shoes made?
On is a Swiss brand, designed in Zurich. Like most performance brands, manufacturing is in Asia, primarily Vietnam.
Shop On Running at OD's →