On Running Best Shoes: Find Your Perfect Pair

1. On Running Cloudrunner 2

We’ve put the Men’s Cloudrunner 2 through its paces, and it offers a solid entry point into the On Running ecosystem. The cushioning feels responsive, providing a noticeable spring in each step during our road runs. The upper construction is breathable, keeping our feet relatively cool even on warmer days.

However, we did notice a slight stiffness in the forefoot during longer, more intense efforts. While the overall support is good for neutral runners, those who require significant stability might find it lacking. The lacing system, while functional, felt a bit basic compared to some of On’s more premium offerings.

This shoe is ideal for the everyday runner looking for comfort and a bit of pep without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those logging moderate mileage or using it for gym workouts and casual wear. It’s not the best choice for trail running or for marathoners seeking maximum cushioning and advanced stability features.

2. On Running Cloud 6

The Men’s Cloud 6 presents a more refined experience, focusing on a blend of comfort and a sleek aesthetic. We appreciated the improved responsiveness of the CloudTec® sole, which felt more dialed-in for a quicker feel underfoot. The upper material has a premium touch, offering a snug yet forgiving fit that adapts well to the foot’s shape.

During our testing, the transition from heel to toe felt smoother than expected, making it a versatile option for both walking and light jogging. One minor annoyance we encountered was the slightly narrow toe box, which might be a concern for runners with wider feet. Despite this, the overall sensation is one of controlled cushioning.

This sneaker shines for the urban explorer or the runner who values style as much as performance. It’s excellent for daily commutes, shorter runs, and casual outings where a sophisticated look is desired. Avoid this if you primarily engage in high-mileage training or need a shoe with a very wide toe box.

3. On Running Cloud 6

We’ve revisited the Men’s Cloud 6, and it continues to impress as one of the on running best shoes for versatility. The signature CloudTec® sole delivers a balanced ride, offering both soft landings and an energetic toe-off that feels consistent across various activities. The engineered mesh upper provides excellent ventilation, preventing overheating during our testing sessions.

The fit is generally accommodating, though we did find that the tongue could occasionally shift slightly to one side, requiring minor readjustment. This is a minor quibble in an otherwise well-constructed shoe. The overall feel is one of lightweight agility combined with dependable comfort.

This shoe is a strong contender for runners seeking a do-it-all option for their daily miles, tempo runs, and even some light gym work. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate On’s signature design and performance. If you require a shoe with a plush, highly cushioned feel for ultra-marathons, you might want to look elsewhere.

4. On Running Cloud 6

Our third look at the Men’s Cloud 6 confirms its status as a highly capable shoe in the On Running lineup. The engineering behind the CloudTec® elements provides a distinct feeling of responsive cushioning that doesn’t feel mushy. We found the upper to be particularly well-executed, offering a secure lockdown without creating pressure points on longer runs.

The overall ride is smooth and propulsive, encouraging a natural foot strike. One minor point of critique we noted is that the outsole, while durable for road use, might not offer sufficient grip on wet or slippery surfaces. The aesthetic remains clean and modern, fitting well with both athletic and casual attire.

This sneaker is best suited for the runner who values a blend of performance and style for their everyday training. It’s a great option for tempo runs, recovery jogs, and even as a comfortable travel shoe. Those who frequently run in challenging weather conditions or on varied terrain should consider a shoe with a more aggressive outsole tread. (See Also: Best Chef Work Shoes )

5. On Running Cloudswift 4

The Women’s Cloudswift 4 is engineered for the demands of urban running, and we found it delivered on its promise. The midsole offers a firm yet responsive cushioning that absorbs impact well on hard surfaces like pavement. We particularly liked the re-engineered heel counter, which provides a secure and locked-in feel without being overly restrictive.

The upper is constructed from a lightweight, breathable mesh that kept our feet comfortable throughout our test runs. However, we did notice that the shoe’s stack height feels a bit lower than some competitors, which might be a drawback for those seeking maximal plushness. The overall sensation is one of agility and direct connection to the road.

This shoe is ideal for the runner who prioritizes a responsive feel and a streamlined design for city running. It’s excellent for shorter to medium-distance runs, tempo efforts, and when you want a shoe that feels fast. Skip this if you are looking for a highly cushioned shoe for long endurance runs or if you need a shoe with significant arch support.

6. On Running Cloudmonster

We put the Men’s Cloudmonster through its paces, and the immediate impression is one of substantial cushioning. The oversized Cloud elements on the outsole are visually striking and deliver a noticeably soft landing, especially on longer runs. The upper feels secure, wrapping the foot without feeling restrictive during our testing sessions.

On the road, the Cloudmonster offers a unique ride. There’s a definite ‘monster’ of a cushion underfoot, which is fantastic for recovery runs or days when you want to protect your legs. The rocker geometry encourages a smooth transition from heel to toe, making each stride feel effortless.

However, we did notice a slight lack of responsiveness for faster-paced efforts. While the cushioning is superb, it can feel a bit too plush if you’re looking to pick up the tempo significantly. The tongue, while padded, could also be a touch more integrated for a truly locked-in feel.

This shoe is ideal for runners who prioritize maximum cushioning and comfort above all else. If you’re looking for a shoe to eat up miles on recovery runs or long, slow efforts, the Cloudmonster is a strong contender. Those seeking a nimble, fast-feeling shoe for tempo work or races might find it a bit too soft.

7. On Running Cloud 6

The Womens Cloud 6 presents itself as a versatile daily trainer, and in our testing, it largely lives up to that billing. The signature CloudTec® cushioning provides a balanced feel – not overly soft, but offering enough protection for everyday miles. We appreciated the breathable mesh upper, which kept our feet comfortable even during warmer weather outings.

During actual runs, the Cloud 6 feels nimble and adaptable. It handles a variety of paces well, making it a solid choice for everything from easy jogs to slightly more spirited efforts. The Speedboard® technology adds a subtle pop of energy return, preventing the shoe from feeling sluggish.

One minor annoyance we encountered was the lacing system; while functional, it sometimes required a bit of adjustment to achieve the perfect lockdown. Additionally, for runners who prefer a very firm ride, the Cloud 6 might feel a tad too forgiving. It’s a great shoe for exploring the best on running best shoes, but it’s not the absolute firmest option.

This shoe is perfect for the everyday runner who needs a reliable workhorse. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a single shoe to cover a range of training needs. Runners who demand a very stiff and responsive platform for racing or extreme speed work might want to look elsewhere.

8. On Running Cloudsurfer 2

We found the Mens Cloudsurfer 2 to be a shoe that champions a soft, flowing ride. The new midsole foam is noticeably more plush than previous iterations, offering a very forgiving feel with every step. The upper is constructed with a lightweight, engineered mesh that breathes well and provides a comfortable, sock-like fit.

On the pavement, the Cloudsurfer 2 excels at delivering a smooth, almost cloud-like experience. The cushioning absorbs impact effectively, making it a great choice for longer runs or days when your legs need a break. The rocker design promotes a natural forward momentum, which we found to be quite enjoyable.

However, we did notice a slight tendency for the outsole to feel a bit slippery on wet surfaces, which gave us pause during a couple of damp runs. The forefoot could also benefit from a touch more structure for runners who tend to land heavily on their toes during faster paces. It’s a supremely comfortable shoe, but not the most grippy. (See Also: Best Running Shoes Marathon )

This shoe is best suited for runners who prioritize a supremely comfortable and soft ride. It’s an excellent choice for recovery runs, easy miles, and long-distance efforts where cushioning is paramount. Avoid this shoe if you frequently run in wet conditions or demand a highly responsive, firm feel for speed training.

9. On Running Cloud 6

The Womens Cloud 6 aims for a sweet spot between responsive cushioning and everyday comfort, and we found it to be quite successful in that endeavor. The CloudTec® elements offer a pleasant landing, and the Speedboard® provides a subtle propulsive feel that doesn’t intrude on comfort. The upper is made from a breathable, flexible material that adapts well to the foot’s shape.

In our real-life usage scenarios, the Cloud 6 proved to be a reliable companion for a variety of activities. We wore them for brisk walks, light jogs, and even just for casual wear throughout the day, and they consistently felt good. The transition from heel to toe is smooth, making for an easy stride, and the overall weight is light enough not to be a burden.

Our main critique is that the heel collar, while adequately padded, sometimes felt like it could offer a bit more stability for quick directional changes. Additionally, for runners who prefer a very snug, locked-down feel around the ankle, this shoe might feel slightly too accommodating. It’s a great all-rounder, but not a precision instrument for aggressive lateral movements.

This shoe is an excellent choice for the active individual who wants a versatile shoe for daily training, walking, and general fitness. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a balanced feel without excessive stiffness. Runners who require exceptional ankle support or perform a lot of court-based sports should consider other options.

10. On Running Cloud 5

We tested the Women’s Cloud 5, and its primary appeal lies in its lightweight construction and immediate comfort. The signature CloudTec® sole provides a soft, responsive feel underfoot, perfect for everyday wear. The upper is a breathable mesh that wraps the foot snugly without feeling constrictive, making it a pleasant option right out of the box.

On foot, the Cloud 5 feels remarkably light, almost as if you’re not wearing shoes at all. The quick-lace system is a notable feature, allowing for rapid adjustments and a secure fit, though we found it sometimes required a slight re-tightening throughout the day. The shoe provides a good balance of cushioning and ground feel, making it suitable for short runs and general errands.

However, we did find that the cushioning, while comfortable, can feel a bit limited for longer or more intense running sessions. The upper, while breathable, could also be a touch more durable for runners who are particularly hard on their footwear. It’s a great lifestyle shoe with running capabilities, but not a dedicated performance trainer.

This shoe is ideal for casual wear, short walks, and light running. It’s perfect for those who value convenience and comfort in a stylish package. Runners looking for a shoe with ample cushioning for high mileage or demanding workouts should seek out a more specialized model.