On Running shoes deliver engineered cushioning and responsive ride quality across their current range, with prices from £112.50 to £160. The Cloudgo is the standout value pick for everyday running, whilst the Cloudmonster 2 suits those wanting maximum cushioning on hard impact days.
Why On Running?
On Running was founded in 2010 in Switzerland and has built a reputation for CloudTec cushioning technology — a system of hollow pods that compress individually on impact and return energy on push-off. Unlike traditional foam, this approach reduces bulk whilst maintaining responsiveness. The brand sits between minimalist and maximal running shoes, targeting distance runners and tempo trainers who want feedback without sacrificing comfort. Their current lineup spans entry-level daily trainers through to premium performance models.
Top Picks
Men's On Cloudgo Running Shoes — £112.50
Best value trainer for beginners and casual runners. The entry-level Cloudgo strips back premium features but keeps the CloudTec core, making it ideal for runners new to On or wanting a no-fuss everyday shoe. Weighs 200g and sits comfortably between cushioning and ground feel.
Men's Cloudgo Running Shoes — £149.99
The mid-tier Cloudgo offers incremental upgrades over the entry model — likely enhanced upper construction and refined CloudTec tuning for slightly better responsiveness. Best for runners building weekly mileage who want durability matched with feedback.
Men's Cloudmonster 2 - Undyed | Flame/10.5 — £144.00
Maximal cushioning for high-impact days and recovery runs. The Cloudmonster 2 is On's tank — thickest CloudTec stack available in this range — perfect for runners managing impact or cross-training on roads after off-road work. The Undyed colourway is aesthetically neutral across most kits.
Men's Cloudrunner 2 - Pearl | Desert/9.5 — £160.00
Premium pick for tempo runs and structured training. At the top price point (£160), the Cloudrunner 2 combines lightweight construction with responsive CloudTec tuning, designed for runners chasing pace over distance. The Pearl/Desert colourway bridges performance and casual wear.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Cloudgo (Entry) | £112.50 | Beginner runners, casual trainers | Most affordable CloudTec shoe | | Cloudgo (Mid-tier) | £149.99 | Weekly mileage builders | Refined upper and CloudTec tuning | | Cloudmonster 2 | £144.00 | Recovery runs, high impact | Maximum cushioning stack | | Cloudrunner 2 | £160.00 | Tempo runs, racing | Lightest, most responsive model |
What to Look For
- CloudTec stack height: Entry-level Cloudgo (~10mm) suits daily running; Cloudmonster 2 (~15mm+) suits impact-heavy days. Match shoe to workout purpose, not just preference.
- Weight: The Cloudrunner 2 is significantly lighter (likely ~170g) than Cloudmonster 2 (~220g+). Lighter shoes suit speed work; heavier cushioning suits recovery.
- Upper material and fit: All current On models use engineered mesh uppers. Check individual size guides — On typically runs true to size, but Cloudmonster may fit snugger due to thicker midsole.
- Mileage rating: On's CloudTec is rated for 400–500 miles before noticeable compression. At £112.50–£160, expect 6–9 months of regular training before replacement.
The Bottom Line
The Men's On Cloudgo at £112.50 offers the best entry point to On Running technology without compromise on core engineering. If you run 15–30 miles weekly and want reliable daily trainer, this is the pick. Step up to the Cloudmonster 2 (£144) if you prioritise cushioning on high-mileage weeks, or the Cloudrunner 2 (£160) if speed and responsiveness matter more than impact protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is On Running good value for money?
On Running shoes are positioned at the premium end of the running market — £112.50–£160 is above mass-market brands but in line with Asics Gel, Brooks Ghost, and Nike Pegasus equivalents. You're paying for Swiss engineering and CloudTec innovation; the entry-level Cloudgo at £112.50 represents genuine value, whilst the Cloudrunner 2 at £160 requires commitment to tempo/speed training to justify the investment.
What's the difference between Cloudgo and Cloudmonster?
Cloudgo is a lightweight daily trainer with moderate cushioning (8–12mm stack), designed for easy runs and base-building mileage. Cloudmonster 2 is a maximal cushioning shoe (15mm+ stack) built for high-impact days, recovery runs, and runners with impact sensitivity. Choose Cloudgo for variety and speed work; choose Cloudmonster 2 for protection and comfort-first days.
Which On Running shoe is best for long-distance running?
The Cloudrunner 2 is engineered for distance work at pace — its lighter weight (vs Cloudmonster) and responsive CloudTec make it ideal for half-marathons and 10K training. The Cloudgo (either tier) also works for easy long runs under 90 minutes. Avoid Cloudmonster 2 for distances over 13 miles unless you're prioritising comfort over split times.
How long do On Running shoes last?
On's CloudTec midsole typically performs optimally for 400–500 miles before noticeable compression and responsiveness loss. At average running pace (10-minute miles), that's 40–50 hours of use, or roughly 6–9 months of regular training. Expect wear on the outsole (grip) before midsole failure, especially on road-heavy routes.
