Best On Running Shoes 2026
Find all the best On running shoes of 2026 at Fleet Feet. From the lightest and fastest to shoes with extra cushion, the best running shoes from On can do it all.
Guide
The unique look of On running shoes makes a quick statement. The performance backs it up.
Whether you're lacing up for your first run or chasing your next PR, there's a good chance at least one of the best On running shoes belong in your rotation.
On has built one of the most recognizable shoe franchises in the world on a simple but powerful idea: what if every landing felt soft and every takeoff felt explosive? The answer is CloudTec® — the Swiss-engineered pod system beneath every On running shoe that compresses on impact and springs back at toe-off for a cushioned, responsive ride unlike anything else on the market. From lightweight everyday trainers to carbon-plated race day supershoes, On designs shoes for every kind of runner and every kind of run.
At Fleet Feet, we've fit thousands of runners in On shoes through our personalized fit id® Outfitting process — and we've personally tested and reviewed them on real runs, real trails and real race courses to give you honest, experience-backed recommendations. Whether you're shopping for your first pair of On shoes or looking to add to a rotation you already love, we're here to help you find the right one.
Here are our expert picks for the best On running shoes so far in 2026:
What It’s Best For | Shoe Model |
Best for Everyday Training | |
Best for Beginners | |
Best for Stability | |
Best for Cushioning | |
Best for Speedwork | |
Best for Race Day | |
Best for Trail Running | |
Best for Cross-Training | |
Best for Travel |
This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2026. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.
Best for Everyday Training
On Cloudmonster 3
Best On Running Shoes for Everyday Training
$190
If you're looking for a daily trainer that brings genuine energy to every run — easy miles, tempo efforts and everything in between — the On Cloudmonster 3 is built for you. It's a firm, dynamic shoe with a rocker ride and triple-layer cushioning that makes every stride feel purposeful and fun.
The Cloudmonster is back to its best — and if you've been waiting for this one, the wait was worth it.
The original Cloudmonster won runners over with its chunky CloudTec pods, lively rocker feel and a ride that was genuinely fun from the very first step. The Cloudmonster 3 picks up right where that original left off, with triple-layer CloudTec cushioning that compresses on landing and springs back at takeoff for a dynamic, energized feel that holds up whether you're settling into easy miles or picking up the pace for a tempo effort.
"My favorite is back!" says wear tester Kate in our On Cloudmonster 3 review. "It has a very dynamic feel underfoot due to the rocker shape and the sensation of rolling across the pods with each step. No matter my pace, I love the way it rocks me forward and stays firm and supportive."
A nylon Speedboard plate embedded in the midsole adds a touch of forward propulsion without tipping this into race-day territory — it's very much a daily trainer, just one with noticeably more energy than most. The redesigned upper fits true to size with a snug heel and midfoot and a slightly spacious toebox, and the engineered mesh keeps things light and breathable without sacrificing structure. Outfitter's tip: the Cloudmonster 3 may run a tad long compared to other On shoes, so if you're between sizes it's worth trying both.
Read more in our full On Cloudmonster 3 review.
Best for Beginners
On Cloudsurfer 2
Best On Running Shoes for Beginners
$120 - $160
New to running? The On Cloudsurfer 2 is a great place to start. It's a simple, dependable daily trainer that delivers a smooth, natural ride without overwhelming you with too much going on underfoot — exactly what a beginner needs to build confidence and fall in love with the sport.
Sometimes the best running shoe is the one that gets out of your way and just lets you run — and the On Cloudsurfer 2 does exactly that.
On’s CloudTec Phase cushioning delivers a balanced, smooth ride that feels so natural underfoot that our Cloudsurfer 2 review wear testers got blissfully lost in the simple joy of running — which is exactly the point.
The oblong-shaped pods collapse like dominoes with each step, creating a subtle rocker sensation that guides you forward effortlessly. It's not the squishiest shoe on the market, and that's a feature, not a flaw. "The On Cloudsurfer 2 has just enough cushion to feel comfortable and protective, but not so much that I'm sinking in and losing my momentum," says Fleet Feet tester Kate. "To me, this is one of those shoes that feels like it becomes a part of your body — running in them feels really natural."
A sustainably engineered upper made with 88% recycled polyester wraps your foot in comfortable, padded support with a streamlined fit that works for a wide range of foot shapes. A more durable outsole compared to the previous version also improves traction in wet conditions — a welcome upgrade for runners who don't let a little rain get in the way. The Cloudsurfer 2 is also available in wide sizing (D for women, 2E for men), making it one of the best On running shoes for wide feet as well.
Read more in our full On Cloudsurfer 2 review.
Best for Stability
On Cloudrunner 3
Best On Running Shoes for Stability
$160
Runners who want a steady, supportive ride without feeling locked down will find a lot to love in the On Cloudrunner 3. It's a confidence-inspiring stability shoe that keeps your stride on track without ever feeling heavy or restrictive — great for beginners, experienced runners with flexible arches and anyone who simply wants to feel more secure on the road.
If your feet feel good, you'll run farther — and the On Cloudrunner 3 is designed with exactly that in mind.
On's signature CloudTec® cushioning system features deeper cavities than the previous version, expanding inward so your foot collapses into the shoe rather than rolling out to the sides. High sidewalls create a true "bucket seat" experience that surrounds your feet in support from landing to takeoff.
"The Cloudrunner 3's midsole provides some unmatched stability," says wear tester Max in our On Cloudrunner 3 review. "After doing the bulk of my weekly mileage in max-cushion, squishy trainers, a return to something more stable is like a sigh of relief for my ankles." TPU heel clips along the base of the heel add gentle reinforcement without ever feeling stiff or cumbersome, and a decoupled heel lets your foot move naturally without the entire platform shifting with each stride.
The well-padded upper matches the supportive feel underfoot — a cushy tongue and heel collar wrap your foot in comfort from step one, and the shoe fits true to size across the board. Available in wide sizing (D for women, 2E for men) for runners who need a little extra room. "I would recommend the Cloudrunner 3 for all levels of runners who like to feel planted in their shoes and in control of their stride," says wear tester Tom. "The stable platform of the shoe is confidence-inspiring whether you're walking, running or working out."
Read more in our full On Cloudrunner 3 review.
Best for Cushioning
On Cloudsurfer Max
Best On Running Shoes for Cushioning
$135 - $180
Runners who want serious cushioning without the instability that sometimes comes with a tall stack height will feel right at home in the On Cloudsurfer Max. It's a smooth, highly cushioned daily trainer with a subtle rocker shape and a cradled fit that makes longer efforts feel surprisingly effortless.
Step into the On Cloudsurfer Max and your feet will immediately know they're taken care of.
On's Double-layered CloudTec Phase cushioning — designed using computer-based simulation technology that predicts foot-to-ground impact — delivers a soft landing and an energetic heel-to-toe transition that rolls you forward naturally with every stride. High sidewalls cradle your feet deep inside the midsole rather than on top of it, creating a stable, connected feel that impressed even our On Cloudsurfer Max reviewers who typically avoid high-stack shoes. "The Cloudsurfer Max has taken the top spot in my rotation for most of my road miles," says wear tester Tom. "It provides a slight trampoline effect, whether I'm heel-striking or landing on my midfoot. I felt connected to the ground despite the stack height, and was able to control my pace during workouts."
A smooth engineered mesh upper, flat knit ankle collar and pillowy heel cushioning create a premium, lockdown fit that feels genuinely luxurious — and a pull-tab at the heel makes getting in and out easy without causing any irritation on the run. The Cloudsurfer Max fits true to size with a roomy interior that works especially well for runners with high-volume feet, though it's worth noting it's not currently available in wide sizing. "For anyone looking to train for their first half or full marathon, I could see these shoes taking someone from their first workout all the way to race day," says Tom.
Read more in our full On Cloudsurfer Max review.
Best for Speedwork
On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper
Best On Running Shoes for Speedwork
$220
Serious marathon training demands a shoe that can handle serious miles — and the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is built for exactly that. With a Pebax midsole pulled straight from On's race-day supershoes and a taller stack height tuned for long efforts, this is the training shoe for runners who want their legs to feel as good at mile 18 as they did at mile one.
The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper takes the dynamic, rocker-driven ride of the standard Cloudmonster platform and elevates it with the kind of performance technology usually reserved for race day.
The full-length Helion HF Pebax midsole actively returns energy with every stride rather than simply absorbing impact — a meaningful difference that shows up late in long runs when your legs are asking for a little help. CloudTec pods are tuned specifically for power and energy return, working with the Pebax foam to keep the ride lively and forward-moving deep into back-to-back training days. At 39.5 mm of stack height in the heel, there's serious cushioning depth here — enough to take the edge off the miles that accumulate over a big training week without dulling the responsive, engaged feel underfoot.
A recycled polyester engineered mesh upper keeps things light and breathable over long efforts, and an engineered heel construction locks your foot in place so fit is never something you're thinking about late in a run. This is a shoe that earns its place in the rotation of dedicated runners who take their fast miles seriously — and want a trainer that helps them finish strong.
Best for Racing
On Cloudboom Strike
Best On Running Shoes for Race Day
$280
When race day arrives and everything you've trained for is on the line, you need a shoe built to deliver. The On Cloudboom Strike is On's premium road racing shoe — soft enough to stay comfortable through a full marathon, springy enough to handle the pace when it counts and stable enough to keep you confident through every mile of the effort.
The On Cloudboom Strike brings together On's Helion Hyperfoam Bounceboard — a PEBAX®-based foam with exceptional energy return — and a carbon-fiber Speedboard plate to create a racing shoe that feels fast from the very first step.
The spoon-shaped Speedboard works with the rocker geometry to propel you forward naturally, while the plush Bounceboard midsole keeps things comfortable over race distances ranging from a mile on the track to 26.2 on the road.
"The plate and the rocker motion combined to help me forget about my lack of fitness while feeling fast," says wear tester Travis in our On Cloudboom Strike review. "In my opinion, the Cloudboom Strike is right up there with the Nike Vaporfly 3 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 in terms of lightweightness and responsiveness." A one-piece mesh upper wraps snugly around your foot for a performance-oriented, true-to-size fit with minimal excess material — exactly what a racing shoe should feel like. One note: the laces run long, so take a moment to lace them to your comfort before heading to the start line.
Read more in our full On Cloudboom Strike review.
Looking for On's most technically advanced race shoe yet? Check out the On Cloudboom Strike LS — featuring a first-of-its-kind LightSpray upper spun by robot into a seamless, lace-free second skin that weighs just 30 grams.
Best for Trail Running
On Cloudsurfer Trail 2
Best On Running Shoes for Trail Running
$170
Trail-curious road runners and seasoned off-road adventurers alike will find a welcoming, capable shoe in the On Cloudsurfer Trail 2. It brings the smooth, effortless feel of On's road cushioning to the trail — so exploring new terrain feels like a natural next step rather than a leap into the unknown.
The trail doesn't have to be intimidating, and the On Cloudsurfer Trail 2 is proof of that.
CloudTec Phase technology — computer-optimized to predict foot-to-ground impact — delivers On's signature silky-smooth heel-to-toe transition, now enhanced with shock-absorbing Helion superfoam for extra cushioning on uneven ground. The updated Missiongrip rubber outsole features bigger, boomerang-shaped lugs that bite into the trail with confidence on wet, dry and technical terrain alike, so you can stay focused on the scenery rather than your footing. A protective, tear-resistant upper built from recycled polyester and TPU keeps your feet comfortable and secure, while lockdown lacing and a padded heel lining create a more inclusive fit that works for a wide range of foot shapes.
Whether you're venturing off-road for the first time or looking for a trail shoe that handles everything from local paths to long stretches of singletrack, the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 makes every adventure feel smooth and approachable.
Prefer to keep your feet dry on wet trails? The Cloudsurfer Trail 2 is also available in a waterproof version (Women's | Men's) so nothing — not puddles, not mud, not an unexpected downpour — gets between you and a great run.
Best for Cross-Training
On Cloud X 4
Best On Running Shoes for Cross-Training
$120 - $160
If your week includes a mix of runs, gym sessions, travel and everything in between, the On Cloud X 4 is the shoe that handles all of it without skipping a beat. It's a versatile, go-anywhere trainer that looks as good with jeans as it does with workout gear — and performs just as well in both.
One shoe. Every workout. That's the promise of the On Cloud X 4 — and it delivers.
CloudTec® elements cushion every landing while an X-shaped Speedboard® converts your energy into explosive, responsive takeoffs whether you're mid-tempo run, between sets or sprinting through an airport terminal. Lightweight Helion™ superfoam adds all-day comfort on top, and an updated 7 mm drop makes the ride feel more energetic and natural than its predecessor. A star lacing system in the recycled mesh upper keeps your foot snug and secure through lateral movements, direction changes and anything else your workout throws at it, while rubber tread pads on the outsole deliver confident grip on gym floors, sidewalks and every surface in between.
Clean, minimal styling means the Cloud X 4 transitions as easily from the weight room to the coffee shop as it does from the track to the trail — which is exactly what a great cross-trainer should do.
Best for Travel
On Cloud 6
Best On Running Shoes for Travel
$120 - $160
Travelers, commuters and anyone who needs one great shoe for everything will feel right at home in the On Cloud 6. It's lightweight, stylish and versatile enough to take you from the gym to the gate to the streets of a new city without ever asking you to pack a second pair.
The On Cloud 6 is the shoe you reach for when you're not sure what the day holds.
Improved CloudTec® geometry delivers better cushioning and stability than the previous version, while a custom Speedboard® keeps transitions smooth whether you're power-walking through a terminal or picking up the pace for a morning run in a new neighborhood. Connected cloud elements on the outsole improve grip and durability for whatever surfaces the day puts underfoot, and a wider opening with enhanced heel construction makes slipping in and out of the shoe effortless — because nobody wants to wrestle with their footwear at airport security.
Clean, minimal styling means the Cloud 6 looks just as sharp with travel clothes as it does with workout gear, and lightweight breathable construction keeps your feet comfortable through long days of exploring, sightseeing and everything spontaneous that comes with life on the move.
Read More in Our On Shoe Reviews
On Running Shoes Technology
The unique pods beneath On running shoes cushion both vertical and horizontal forces for easy landings and explosive takeoffs. Each pod compresses independently during landing and springs back at toe-off, creating a springy, responsive ride unlike a traditional uniform midsole.
A specialized version of On's CloudTec® technology where computer-generated, oblong-shaped pods seamlessly collapse like dominoes when your foot lands — each pod falling into the next for a softer, smoother transfer from heel to toe. Designed using computer-based simulation technology that predicts the impact between a runner's foot and the ground, allowing On's designers to fine-tune the ride before a single prototype is made. Found in the Cloudsurfer, Cloudsurfer Max and Cloudsurfer Trail 2.
A springy board sandwiched into On running shoes that works with Cloud elements to support the natural rolling motion of your foot from landing to takeoff. Available in several versions depending on the shoe: a flexible nylon blend Speedboard for everyday trainers, a glass fiber-infused Speedboard for speedwork shoes and a stiff, full-length carbon fiber Speedboard for race day shoes. Each version is tuned to match the purpose and energy of the shoe it's built into.
On developed Helion for premium performance. The foam is lightweight yet durable and highly temperature resistant, meaning it maintains its cushioned feel in both hot and cold conditions. This translates to consistent comfort and less compression over time. Found across On's everyday training lineup.
An evolution of standard Helion foam that fuses two densities — a softer upper layer for plush, springy cushioning and a firmer lower layer for structure, stability and propulsion. First featured in the Cloudmonster 3, dual-density Helion delivers a more nuanced, performance-oriented ride than single-density foam alone.
On's highest-performance foam, reserved for race day supershoes and premium training shoes. A PEBA®-based material that delivers exceptional energy return at an ultralight weight — the same foam technology that powered Hellen Obiri's Boston and New York City marathon victories. The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper uses a plateless design with Helion HF as a deliberate choice — carbon plates boost race-day performance but increase leg fatigue during training, so On lets the foam do the work instead. Found in the Cloudboom Strike, Cloudboom Strike LS and Cloudmonster 3 Hyper.
On's most innovative upper technology yet — and one of the most significant developments in running footwear in years. A robotic arm sprays 1.5 kilometers of specialized filament onto a last in around three minutes, creating a seamless, lace-free, one-piece upper with no seams, no hot spots and no lace pressure. At just 30-33 grams, LightSpray uppers are the lightest On has ever made and emit significantly fewer carbon emissions compared to On's other premium uppers. Each LightSpray shoe comes with a proprietary sock designed to work with the porous upper for ventilation and targeted cushioning. Currently found in the Cloudboom Strike LS and the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper — On's first mass-market LightSpray shoe.
Found in On trail running shoes, the Missiongrip rubber outsole employs extra grip to keep you upright and confident on the trail. The latest version features updated boomerang-shaped lug geometry for superior traction and stability on wet, dry and technical terrain.
A design feature in On's stability shoes where part of the heel is separated from the main platform, allowing your foot to move naturally through your gait cycle without the entire shoe shifting with it. Works in conjunction with CloudTec® cavities and TPU heel clips to deliver support and guidance exactly where your stride needs it. Found in the Cloudrunner 3.
On's speed lacing system uses a special elastic lace that lets you slip shoes on and off in a flash. You can adjust the fit by retying the knot, and if you prefer traditional laces, each pair comes with conventional laces in the box. Found across On's Cloud everyday lifestyle and training range.
On's durable, responsive rubber compound used to construct open Cloud elements
On Running Shoes FAQs
It’s just “On.” Although we hear it called QC, On cloud shoes, OC and a host of other names.
Yes, On shoes are great for running, walking and gym work thanks to their CloudTec technology that distributes the weight both vertically and horizontally to give you a snappy, responsive ride.
On running shoes are special because of their unique CloudTec elements. These elements are Swiss-engineered to give you a unique ride while running or working out.
If your shoes get dirty, first brush off any dirt. If washing your shoes is needed, it's best to wash them by hand using warm water. Washing your shoes as seldom as possible is recommended to help make your shoes last longer.
On running shoes are popular because of their combination of style, performance and comfort. Not only do On shoes feel amazing when you run, but they also look great with a pair of jeans.
Yes, On shoes give your feet structure, support and comfort all day long. If you are looking for some extra cushion for all-day activities, we recommend the Cloudmonster or Cloudstratus.
On running shoes should last between 300-500 miles, similar to the lifespan of other running shoes.
On is committed to continuous innovation and that includes everything from the midsole cushion to the laces. The On Cloud series features speed laces to let you slip on and off the shoes easily, while the Cloudstratus and Cloudflyer feature a star pattern lacing to give you more stability and structure.
More of the Best Running Shoe Brands
On makes some of the best running shoes in the business, but there are plenty of excellent shoes from other brands. See the best running shoe brands 2026 for more great shoes.
- Best Brooks running shoes
- Best ASICS running shoes
- Best On running shoes
- Best HOKA running shoes
- Best New Balance running shoes
- Best Nike running shoes
- Best Saucony running shoes
- Best Altra running shoes
- Best Karhu running shoes
- Best Mizuno running shoes
- Best Diadora running shoes
- Best adidas running shoes
- Best Topo Athletics running shoes
- Best Salomon running shoes
How We Tested the Best Running Shoes from On
With over 250 stores in communities across the country, Fleet Feet is the largest running store in the U.S. with over four decades of experience outfitting runners with the best running shoes, apparel and gear. We focus on running and walking gear, so we can be the experts and bring you the best running and walking advice possible.
Through our personalized Fleet Feet fit id® Outfitting process with 3D foot scanning technology, we use data from over 5 million foot scans (and counting) to give us unique insights into how On’s top running shoes fit and perform on a wide variety of feet. Additionally, thanks to 100,000+ runners participating in our local running clubs and training programs each year, we can see firsthand how the newest running shoes and gear perform for all different types of runners, each with different goals in mind.
Collectively, our experienced team of Fleet Feet editors has tried, tested and fallen in love with hundreds of different running shoes from dozens of the world’s top running brands. With this knowledge, we meticulously pour over the smallest details like fit, comfort, materials, durability and weight, to decide which On running shoes are the best. From running shoe and gear reviews to workout tips and inspiration, we are your go-to source for running knowledge and motivation.
With this knowledge and expertise, we’ve tested the best On running shoes based on:
- Purpose. Comparing apples to apples
- Performance. How well does it do its job?
- Real-world testing. We put them to the test on real runs
- Price. Is it affordable? Does its performance justify its cost?
- Sales. Best-selling models are best-sellers for a reason
- fit id® data. Our 5 million+ foot scans show how shoes fit for different feet
- Availability. It won’t be good for you if it’s not in stock
- Designer interviews. We ask the people who made it
Standing Behind Our Picks
Fleet Feet knows running.
We picked the best running trainers from On based on over four decades of experience outfitting runners of all abilities, ages and sizes. If you buy gear from us and you don’t like the way it looks, fits or performs, bring it back within 30 days for a full refund.
Plus, we offer free shipping & returns on all orders over $99 on fleetfeet.com, and we’ll match a lower price from a qualifying retailer. That’s our Happy Fit Guarantee.
fit id® & Dynamic Pressure Mapping
Buying online isn’t for everyone. To try on your gear before you buy it, visit a local Fleet Feet store for an in-person fitting experience.
We fit you for running shoes through our own fit id® outfitting process. The one-on-one process uses a 3D scanner to take precise measurements of your feet. This in combination with our *Dynamic Pressure Mapping system helps our highly trained Outfitters assess your foot’s path of motion and stride as you walk so they can find the perfect shoes for you. Then, using data points for each foot and decades of experience in the industry, we help you find the right gear for your unique feet and specific needs.
Want to try it for yourself? Find a Fleet Feet location near you.
*Pressure plates are available at select Fleet Feet stores