Swiss running shoe company On has come a long way, rising to success in a time when tried and true brands like Nike and the like were already long-dominating the market. The key to this success is perhaps their tech-first approach to footwear. The standout line in their discography, displaying On’s innovation magnificently, has to be their Cloud series.
On’s Cloud shoes, while highly respected for their functional abilities, have also found their footing among the gens du monde, showing that the brand clearly did not ignore form altogether. From fast five-mile runs to donning the feet of the fashion-forward—On Cloud shoes aren’t to be slept on.
Images via Yahoo!
What Are the On Cloud Shoes Available?
The On Cloud series comprises these main silhouettes: the Cloud, Cloud X, Cloudswift, Cloudsurfer, Cloudnova, and Cloudmonster. Let’s take a closer look at each.
On Cloud
The On Cloud is a versatile, lightweight running shoe designed for all-day comfort and urban performance. It features CloudTec® cushioning, which provides soft landings and responsive takeoffs, and a Speedboard® for smooth energy transfer during movement. Its sleek, minimalist design makes it suitable for running, walking, and even casual wear.
Additional features include a breathable, flexible upper, a slip-on configuration with elastic laces for convenience, and premium materials that balance durability with comfort. The On Cloud is particularly popular among commuters, gym-goers, and those looking for a stylish, performance-oriented sneaker.
The On Cloud comprises the Cloud 5, Cloud 5 Waterproof, Cloud 5 Coast, and Cloud 5 Push. There are more colorways available for women than men—whether intentional or not, catering more to the ladies is something On tends to do, setting them further apart from the competition.
On Cloud X
The On Cloud X is a versatile, ultra-lightweight shoe built for multi-functional performance, including running, gym sessions, and mixed workouts. Featuring CloudTec® cushioning, it ensures soft landings and explosive takeoffs, while the Speedboard® provides smooth energy transfer to enhance agility and responsiveness.
Its engineered mesh upper offers optimal breathability and support, while the dual-density sock liner enhances comfort during high-impact activities. Designed for dynamic movement, the Cloud X is ideal for athletes seeking flexibility, durability, and style, making it a go-to option for training—although you won’t be penalized using it casually either.
The On Cloud X series spans the Cloud X 4, Cloud X Z5, and Cloud X 3 AD.
On Cloudswift
The On Cloudswift is a lightweight running shoe designed for urban environments, offering superior comfort and performance for short to medium runs. It features Helion™ Superfoam, delivering responsive cushioning and durability, even in varying temperatures. The shoe’s CloudTec® pods in the outsole ensure smooth landings and natural transitions, while the Speedboard® enhances forward propulsion for an effortless stride.
The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and flexibility, and the integrated sock-like fit offers secure support without sacrificing comfort. With its stylish design and focus on urban running, the Cloudswift is perfect for city runners tackling hard pavements or those seeking an all-day active shoe.
The On Cloudswift is a straightforward line in the Cloud discography, coming in just two models so far: the On Cloudswift 3, and Cloudswift 3 AD for both women and men.
On Cloudsurfer
The On Cloudsurfer is designed for runners seeking a smooth, efficient ride with advanced cushioning. Featuring CloudTec® Phase, an upgraded version of On’s signature cushioning technology, it offers a more fluid transition between landing and takeoff by syncing the compression of the pods with your natural stride. This creates a smoother, more seamless experience during long runs or daily training sessions.
The shoe also incorporates Helion™ Superfoam, ensuring lightweight comfort and durability, while the Speedboard® enhances propulsion for faster, more energy-efficient strides. A breathable, engineered mesh upper provides flexibility and support, keeping your feet cool and secure throughout your run. The Cloudsurfer combines innovation with performance, making it ideal for runners looking for speed, comfort, and versatility.
On’s Cloudsurfer line houses the Cloudsurfer, Cloudsurfer Trail, Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof, Cloudsurfer Next, and Cloudsurfer Next Wide.
On Cloudnova
The On Cloudnova is a stylish, high-performance sneaker designed for both athletic use and casual wear. Combining On’s signature CloudTec® cushioning for soft landings with Helion™ Superfoam for responsive, lightweight comfort, the Cloudnova is engineered to offer an adaptable and smooth ride. Its bold, modern design features a premium upper construction with a knit fabric that offers breathability, flexibility, and a sock-like fit for a secure, comfortable feel.
The shoe is built with Speedboard® technology to enhance energy transfer and provide forward propulsion, ideal for both urban running and everyday activities. The Cloudnova’s unique aesthetic is complemented by a combination of performance and comfort, making it a go-to option for those looking for a versatile, fashion-forward sneaker that doesn’t compromise on technical performance.
The On Cloudnova is available for women and men in three models: The Cloudnova 2, Cloudnova Form 2, and Cloudnova X.
On Cloudmonster
The On Cloudmonster is an innovative, bold running shoe designed for maximum cushioning and comfort. Featuring CloudTec® technology with larger, more pronounced pods, it provides enhanced cushioning that absorbs impact and offers a responsive, springy feel. This makes it ideal for runners seeking softer landings and an energetic takeoff, even during long-distance runs.
The shoe incorporates Helion™ Superfoam for durability and lightweight cushioning, while the Speedboard® works to efficiently transfer energy with every step, helping to propel you forward. The breathable engineered mesh upper provides a flexible, sock-like fit for added comfort, and the design offers a unique, futuristic aesthetic that stands out in both performance and style.
The Cloudmonster is perfect for those looking for a plush, smooth ride with a bold, high-performance design. It is available in three models for women and men: Cloudmonster, Cloudmonster 2, Cloudmonster 2 DISTANCE, and Cloudmonster Hyper.
Conclusion
In an industry dominated by giants, On has carved out a space by blending cutting-edge technology with versatile, stylish designs. The Cloud series showcases the brand’s dedication to performance innovation while appealing to fashion-conscious consumers. From the all-purpose Cloud to the bold Cloudmonster, On offers a diverse range of footwear that bridges athleticism and lifestyle. With its relentless focus on functionality and aesthetics, On has redefined what it means to run on clouds, securing its place as a trailblazer in modern footwear.
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