On Running shoes are genuinely worth considering if you want premium cushioning without the eye-watering price tags of Nike or ASICS. The brand's CloudTec technology — a patented cushioning system with staggered pods — offers responsive comfort that works for both daily runners and gym-goers. Among their current range, the Cloudflow 5 (£138) stands out as the best all-rounder, combining lightweight construction with reliable daily-run performance, whilst the Cloudflyer 5 (£127.50) edges out value for those prioritising affordability, and the Women's Cloudstratus (£162) wins for runners seeking maximum cushioning on longer distances.
Why On Running?
On Running, founded in 2010 in Zurich, is best known for inventing CloudTec — a gravity-defying cushioning system with precisely engineered cloud-like pods that compress on impact and spring back underfoot. Unlike traditional foam, this design offers firm response rather than pure softness, making it ideal for runners who dislike mushy shoes. The brand has grown from a local experiment into a global performance player backed by serious biomechanical research. Their shoes prioritise responsiveness over softness, which means they suit runners who value court-like feedback and energy return. Swiss engineering credentials also mean consistent quality control across their range — you're not buying into hype, but into a specific, well-tested technology.
Top Picks
On Running Men's Cloudflow 5 — £138
Best for versatile daily running and gym work. The Cloudflow 5 is the Swiss workhorse: lightweight at approximately 195g per shoe, it pairs responsive cushioning with a snug, sock-like fit that doesn't require a break-in period. The updated sole geometry offers improved ground feel compared to earlier versions, making it suitable for both road running and casual sneaker duty.
On Running Cloudflyer 5 "Stone/Glacier" — £127.50
Best for budget-conscious runners who won't compromise on brand pedigree. The Cloudflyer 5 undercuts most of the range whilst retaining full CloudTec cushioning. The stone/glacier colourway is a neutral option that works across seasons. At £10.50 cheaper than the Cloudflow, you're trading minimal tread pattern complexity for genuine savings — a smart buy if you're testing the brand for the first time.
On Running Women's Cloudstratus — £162
Best for longer distances and runners prioritising maximum underfoot comfort. The Cloudstratus is On's cushioning flagship, with a thicker stack height (approximately 10.5mm more foam than the Cloudflow) and a wider toe box designed specifically for women's foot geometry. The added cushioning absorbs road impact more aggressively, making it ideal for half-marathons or extended training runs where comfort accumulation matters.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Cloudflow 5 | £138 | All-round daily running | Lightweight (195g), responsive sole | | Cloudflyer 5 | £127.50 | Budget entry point | Lowest price, full CloudTec cushioning | | Women's Cloudstratus | £162 | Distance running | Maximum cushioning stack, women-specific fit |
What to Look For
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CloudTec cushioning design: Verify the shoe has the patented staggered cloud pods rather than traditional foam. This is what you're paying for — it delivers responsive energy return that standard EVA foam doesn't offer. Check the product spec sheet for explicit mention of CloudTec generation (the Cloudflow 5 and Cloudflyer 5 both feature the current iteration).
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Weight-to-cushioning ratio: The Cloudflow 5 at 195g is 18g lighter than comparable ASICS Gel runners, meaning you're not sacrificing speed for comfort. If you're clocking 20+ miles weekly, weight matters — lighter shoes reduce leg fatigue over long sessions.
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Fit and toe box width: On shoes run narrow compared to ASICS or New Balance. Women's Cloudstratus intentionally widens the toe box; men should size up 0.5 if you have wider feet or expect sock padding. Check reviews for your specific foot shape before buying.
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Durability metrics: On Running's rubber outsole is rated for approximately 400–500km of running before significant wear. At your current price points, that's roughly 6–9 months for moderate runners (30–40km/week). This lifespan is standard for the market and justifies the premium versus budget brands.
The Bottom Line
On Running delivers on its engineering promise: CloudTec cushioning is genuinely responsive and requires no break-in period, and all three current models offer solid value at their price points. The Cloudflow 5 at £138 is the safest pick for most runners — it's light enough for speed work, cushioned enough for daily comfort, and hits the sweet spot between the budget Cloudflyer and the premium Cloudstratus. Buy based on your weekly mileage: Cloudflyer for casual runners testing the brand, Cloudflow for consistent 20–40km weekly runners, and Cloudstratus if you're covering 40km+ and need maximum shock absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is On Running good value for money?
Yes, relative to Nike and ASICS at the same price tier. The Cloudflow 5 at £138 competes directly with Nike Pegasus and ASICS Gel-Excite, but On's CloudTec technology offers firmer, more responsive feedback than those shoes' standard foam. You're paying for proprietary engineering, not brand hype, and the quality control is exceptionally consistent.
How do I know which On Running shoe is right for me?
Choose based on weekly mileage and distance goals: under 25km/week = Cloudflyer 5; 25–40km/week = Cloudflow 5; over 40km/week or marathon training = Cloudstratus. If you have wide feet, add 0.5 to your usual size — On shoes run narrow.
Do On Running shoes need a break-in period?
No, they're unusually ready straight out of the box. The sock-like collar and flexible chassis mean most runners feel comfortable within the first few wears. This is a genuine advantage over traditional running shoes that require 50–100km of gradual adjustment.
Are On Running shoes durable?
The outsole lasts 400–500km before visible wear, which is standard for performance running shoes at this price. CloudTec midsoles don't collapse like some foams, so the shoe maintains responsiveness even as tread wears down — typically good for 6–9 months of regular running before cushioning degrades noticeably.
