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11 Best ON Running Shoes – 2021 Buyers Guide
Whether you do your running on pavement, dirt, or grass, they have a shoe that can conquer the trail terrain. With so many great options to choose from, compiling a list of the best ON running shoes was no easy feat. After lots of research and testing, we’ve narrowed the field down to these top ten to make it easier for you to find the right running shoe for your needs.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
There are many factors that have a big impact on comfort while running, and we've examined them when choosing the best ON running shoes.
Breathability should be a very important feature especially for those who have problems with sweaty feet. An unpleasant odor is more prone to appear if you’re wearing non-breathable shoes. Poor ventilation in shoes can also lead to blisters on your feet. The cushioning is also a very important part of the shoe as it helps you to feel more comfortable.
The ON brand has many shoes with different kinds of cushioning, and which one of the best ON running shoes you choose is up to you. Support can also really boost the comfort of a pair of shoes. Some running shoes are better for people with high arches, while other running shoes are better for people with plantar fasciitis and/or heel spurs. The shoes should be supportive and protective enough to help prevent injuries, which as you know unfortunately are fairly common for runners.
Read also about best running shoes for heel pain.
Be very careful when you choosing the size of your new pair of best ON running shoes. This can be tricky because when you buy on the Internet, you can’t try on the shoes first. Before purchasing the best ON running shoes, look at the sizing chart very carefully, and note that it’s also worth it to check reviewers opinions on the shoes because in many cases there are comments that you need to buy one size up or down, or that the shoes aren’t great for people with wide or narrow feet, etc.
Shock Absorption
We looked at the level of shock absorption technology designed into the shoe and how it works, as this is a key feature to look at when selecting the best ON running shoes.
Especially if you regularly run long distances, the level of shock absorption your shoes have goes a long way towards keeping you pain and injury free as you train.
Some of the things we looked at in terms of shock absorption with each pair of the best ON running shoes was how good the combination of cushioning was with return bounce, and do any of the shoes have features for runners with flat feet? How good are the shoes for a runner with a hard strike, and when support is designed in for the ankle, what type of support and how effective is it?
These were just some of the questions we asked as we looked at each pair the best ON running shoes, and in the end, we assigned each one a score from 0-100. Especially if you're a heavier runner or otherwise need extra shock absorption to be sure to check out and learn more about the shoes on our list that score highly in this category.
Terrain
This is one of the most important questions when it comes to running. You need to decide because road running and trail running are totally different.
=Road running shoes will be great for pavement, concrete, and other hard surfaces. There aren’t many irregularities, so you don’t need a special shoe with boosted traction. Road running shoes should be lightweight.
The cushioning is also an essential part as it helps you to feel more comfortable while running and it also helps to absorb the shock. If you want to trail running, you need to get shoes with traction at the high level. The best ON running shoes must be also much more durable than normal running shoes, especially if you want to run on rocks or mud terrains. More stability and protection are also needed as your feet are more prone to serious injuries.
Durability
Let's be honest, no one wants a pair of shoes that they will have to replace in a few short months, which is why durability is an incredibly important factor to consider.
The most durable best ON running shoes are made of high-quality materials that are built to last. If you want a pair of shoes that will last you the long haul, you will need to consider the terrain you will be running on and find a pair of shoes that are built to take on whatever you throw their way. Typically, durable shoes have rubber outsoles that are often abrasion resistant. The outsole protects not only your feet but also the overall integrity of the shoe, so you definitely want to invest in a pair that put a lot of thought into the construction of the outsole.
Durability doesn't just depend on the material your shoes are made of, however. In fact, a large part of how long your shoes will last also rests on your shoulders. If you have made sure to get a pair of shoes that are designed to handle the distance and terrain you will be using it for then your part is to make sure you take care of the best ON running shoes. Yes, some shoes are more durable than others but a lot of times our shoes can last longer if we take care of them! Keep this in mind with your next pair of the best ON running shoes!
Value
ON is a high-quality brand so you need to be aware that the shoes aren’t very cheap, but at least they're not crazy expensive either.
While searching for the best ON running shoes, we’ve discovered that some models from previous years are cheaper and they still work well. In general, the cost of a pair is more than 100 dollars. However, if you want to save some money you can always look for the best ON running shoes on sale.
That being said, the value of the shoes you purchase does not just depend on the price of the shoe or the budget you set yourself, but rather how much value they to your life. Do they meet your needs? Are they comfortable? Do they improve your performance? These are all things the best ON running shoes should do for you and you should feel like, no matter who expensive or affordable the running shoes you bought were, that they are the perfect fit for you.
11 Best On Running Shoes
1. Cloudflow
With the Cloudflow, ON really figured out how to provide shoes that are lightweight and comfortable. These also have a removable insole for extra support.
Read moreComfort
The tops of these best ON running shoes are made from a breathable, supportive new generation mesh weave to offer good air flow throughout the shoe while running. The sole of the shoe is made from mesh, and rubber to provide stability while remaining lightweight.
Shock Absorption
This shoe also has the CloudTec cushioning technology that is active only when your foot strikes the ground. It also has a removable insole for extra cushion, and support.
Terrain
These best ON running shoes are built with long-distance runners in mind. It has all the things you need in a running shoe, they're lightweight, comfortable, and breathable. It has a unique light and flexible zero gravity EVA foam sole.
Durability
This shoe has the patented Speedboard within the Cloudflow that is built with a responsive flex and rocker that promotes flow motion which encourages the natural rolling process and promotes great take-offs. It has antimicrobial treatment built in to help keep the shoes smelling fresh and prevent odors from growing.
Value
These shoes aren't the cheapest but if you're looking for high-performance running shoes these are them. You pay a lot now, but your feet will thank you for it later. These best ON running shoes are definitely worth the price.
2. Cloudventure Peak
Running shoes for both ladies and men ON offers a really unique lightweight running experience. The Cloudventure Peak shoes give great traction on many different surfaces, so wherever you go they will work for you. Here we take a peek at the version available for women.
For their confidence-inspiring stability, you will love running while you wear the new Cloud venture Peak quality running shoes.
Read moreComfort
The shoe designers took into account running gait and engineered incredible torsion combined with flex management because they understand these are the contributing features for running a nice challenging trail.
Shock Absorption
For perfection to achieve this level of comfort and stability for standing, walking or running, the speed-board design works in conjunction with CloudTech cushioning which has been built into the shoe by ON and the qualities in this material enhance up and downhill running. Add to this that the entire innovative shoe tech is lightweight.
Terrain
Uphill, downhill or flat surfaces, the lightweight hold up to the challenge and the traction qualities remain constant. Run with confidence because the lightness and comfort enable a sure footing on pretty much all surfaces. You can try different types of trails runs and the performance of the shoes will remain constant.
Durability
Durability and quality were in the minds of the shoe designer when making the upper and this resulted in once again the use of light-weight materials with very good durability, breathability is excellent and is supported by rapid drying out of the material.
Value
This shoe is easily among the lightest to be on offer and it’s a new model which is certain to become very popular among lady trail runners. They will appreciate the durability and quality. The comfort and stability features are certainly going to work well for runners.
3. Cloud Terry
The Cloud Terry provides runners with all of the supportive features that they come to expect from ON. The best feature of the Cloud Terry lies in the super-soft vegan upper.
Read moreComfort
The upper of this design is composed of a blend of vegan leather and terry cloth. Terry cloth resembles the soft cotton on your bath towels, which makes the upper of this design insanely soft and comfortable. The terry cloth tongue reduces the ride of hot spots on your feet and won’t rub blisters no matter how far you travel.
Shock Absorption
The CloudTech sole is composed of a thick layer of Zero-Gravity foam that contours to the shape of your foot as you run, and offers excellent energy return. Runners can actually feel the cushioning giving way to the weight of their foot with every strike down on the pavement.
Terrain
It boasts a support rubber outsole that adds an extra spring in your step, and a responsive midsole offering great energy feedback.
Durability
If you are on the market for something that boasts a super comfortable upper that is composed of soft, durable and vegan materials, the Cloud Terry is a great option. If your foot is a little thicker than most and feels that the tops of trainers often rub sores into the top of your feet, the terry cloth on the tongue of this design moves along with your foot and won’t rub it raw.
Value
Great value for a reasonable price.
4. Cloud X
Cloud X provides runners with all of the key features that help keep your feet protected and supportive when running long distances, but a few key features make this option stand out from the pack. The contraction of the upper, as well as the inner membrane, helps to regulate the temperature of your foot.
Read moreComfort
The most notable feature of Cloud X is the construction of the upper. It is composed of lightweight and easy material that helps to lift hot air up and away from the foot to keep it cool and dry.
Shock Absorption
This feature makes this trainer ideal for those that want to wear them as all-day casual sneakers, or runners training for long distances.
Terrain
We also love that boasts a supportive midsole and outsole that helps to protect your knees and joints when running on hard surfaces.
Zero-Gravity foam found in the midsole provides excellent energy feedback to put an extra spring in your step. It also has a dual-density insole that users can remove when needed.
Durability
If you are in the market for a lightweight pair of trainers that work hard to keep your feet cool and comfortable on those long days, this is one of your best options.
Value
While it comes in at a price point that is on the higher-end of the ON lineup, we feel that it is well worth it!
5. Cloud Lunar
If you like to take your sneakers off of the roads and onto the trails, the Cloud Lunar is one of your best options. While a lot of the guts of this shoe remain the same when compared to other designs, the biggest feature of the Cloud Lunar is that it is completely waterproof. This means that running with soggy socks on rainy trails is a thing of the past!
Read moreComfort
The upper of this design is composed of lightweight mesh and synthetic materials that are treated with a waterproof coating to keep moisture and water away from your socks. Users found that the upper feels lightweight and easy, and slightly contours to the shape of your foot for improved lockdown.
Shock Absorption
The outsole and midsole are composed of a blend of Zero-Gravity foam and CloudTech to keep you supported as well as quick on your feet.
Terrain
As we mentioned earlier, this design boasts all the features that provide support and comfort when running on hard surfaces or uneven trails. It boasts a minimalistic frame that offers a full range of motion and movement that won’t weigh you down.
Durability
We love that the outside, as well as the internal membrane, are completely waterproof, and it is packed with features to keep your feet protected and supported.
Value
If you are in the market for a pair of mid-priced trainers you can take anywhere (including in the middle of a rainstorm) the Cloud Lunar is a great choice.
6. CloudFlyer
If you want something that is a little more flexible to make you feel like you aren’t wearing anything at all, the CloudFlyer is a great choice. It is made from lightweight and breathable materials that provide your feet with a full range of motion that helps shave a few seconds off of your time. Plus, they are comfortable enough to wear all day long.
Read moreComfort
The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it boasts a compression EVA midsole that contours to the shape of your foot over time.
Shock Absorption
When running on hard surfaces, such as sidewalks, it helps to absorb the impact to protect your knees and joints from strain.
We also like that the upper is made from a blend of synthetic and mesh materials. Breathable mesh panels along the side of the foot and top of the toe box work to move hot air up and away from your foot.
Terrain
The additional synthetic panels provide you slight stability to help keep your foot locked in place as you take tight corners. It is a great neutral runner that is made for long distances or worn all day long as a great casual sneaker.
Durability
The CloudFlyer is a real workhorse without being weighed down by heavy and bulky materials.
Value
It may cost a little bit more when compared to others in the ON lineup, but we feel that it is worth every penny!
7. Cloudster
These provide a medium amount of support and are a good fit for road runners, but also provide enough traction and support if you trail run in mild conditions. They have a 7mm heel-to-toe drop and the outer material stops debris from getting trapped in your shoe, which may be very handy depending on where you like to run.
Read moreComfort
These have a nice structure to offer both a snug fit and a good amount of flexibility, which is a great combination of comfort. The toe off and landing are both full of cushioning, which improves your pace, dynamism, and enjoyment, and the tongue and collar are very plushy to give a nice feel.
Shock Absorption
The EVA midsole also gives a nice feel and offers support during your run. The toe off and bounce are aided by the energy-returning design of the shoe’s base which offers some protection against knee and ankle weakness and injury.
Terrain
Check the outsole with its cloud elements for awesome rebound qualities which merges with the rebound from the mid-sole, you get a cushion safe landing and a nice stable take-off, take it all in your stride.
Durability
They are also a great option for trail runners, as the grip on the sole offers good traction, especially when running downhill. They are lightweight and flexible and have a 6mm heel-to-toe drop.
Value
When you invest more money, you do get more for your money and these shoes will be an investment that will repay you in terms of performance and quality.
8. Cloud Mesh Trainers
The Cloud Mesh Trainers are a great choice for runners who like to switch it up when running. They are great on both pavement and natural ground and features a new CloudTec sole design that provides the smoothest run yet.
Read moreComfort
The mesh upper provides sufficient airflow to keep your feet dry, and synthetic overlays to increase durability.
Shock Absorption
The new CloudTec technology that is used in the outsole includes reshaped cloud elements that do a fantastic job of absorbing shock.
Terrain
The soles not only feature new CloudTec technology, but they also include updated central channel and more grip pads that allow you to take on tougher terrain.
Durability
These were designed for more than just running, they were made for the all-around athlete in mind. They are very durable and can stand the test of time.
Value
Although these costs more than most of the other entries on the list, they offer new technology that makes them outperform the others on the list as well.
9. CloudVenture
These best ON running shoes provide fantastic stability and are an excellent choice if you tend to overpronate. They are also a great option for trail runners, as the grip on the sole offers good traction, especially when running downhill. They are lightweight and flexible and have a 6mm heel-to-toe drop. The diagonal lacing helps the foot to move naturally and the removable foam insole offers extra padding.
Read moreComfort
The breathability of these shoes here is nice, as is the structural support, which is offered without any of the clunkiness. This also offers a good toe-off and the inside of the shoe has good cushion and comfort, making them a nice fit.
Shock Absorption
The heel locks the foot in place to prevent against slippage and the intelligent speed board in the base of the shoe helps you to spring back into action as your foot hits the floor, aiding speed and dynamism.
Terrain
These have decent traction owing to the quality design of the unusual sole. For a roadrunner, there is particularly good grip here. They are overall a quality shoe with a nice amount of bounce and glide to aid your running experience.
Durability
Excellent quality with great technology and subtle, intelligent design which suits the needs of their style. They aren’t as durable as some others ON offer, but this is perhaps to be expected from a trail runner.
Value
It can be said that though not overly durable, the quality factor balances this and if you take reasonable care of the shoe this will prolong the durability lifespan.
10. Cloud Whites
If you are a sucker for bright white and fresh sneakers, this is a great choice. This option may cost a little bit more than some of the other designs out there on the market, but we feel that it is well worth it for those that need a little extra push to go that extra mile.
Read moreComfort
What we loved most about this design is that it provides runners with excellent stability and support in a fresh and modern frame.
Shock Absorption
The very first thing that we noticed about this design is the construction of the outsole. The grooved rubber lugs provide runners with an extra bounce throughout their entire gait, not just the heel. The CloudTech cushioning in the midsole only activates when you apply pressure to the area, which increases flexibility as well as durability.
Terrain
Another feature that we wanted to talk about is the construction on the upper. While the midsole and outsole provide a lot of support, the upper is composed of a lightweight layer of mesh. It provides minimal padding on the heel and the tongue which allows for a full range of motion as you train on all kinds of terrains.
Durability
We love that it is composed of quality materials that provide stability without weighing you down too much.
Value
If you are on the market for something that boasts a modern style with a myriad of features that offers a lot of support, this design is a great option.
11. Cloudswift
only keep your feet snug, comfortable, and stable, but it also allows ample airflow to keep your feet dry and cool. Running during the summer heat can be torturous, especially on the hot pavement. These will let your feet breath and stay healthy.
Read moreComfort
The upper is made from a specially designed mesh that hugs your feet like a sock yet allows your feet to breathe as air freely flow throughout.
Shock Absorption
The outsole is made with lightweight CloudTec rubber, which not only absorbs shock and relieves stress from your knees, but also provides a healthy bounce for improved performance.
Terrain
You’ll find an innovative honeycomb design at the bottom of the soles that provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet pavement.
Durability
Like all ON running shoes, these are made with high-quality materials that were designed to take the road and elements for a nice comfy run.
Value
Although these are pricier than some other brands, you can count on the quality and performance. If you’re a serious runner then the price won’t discourage you.
Sources
- , Running Shoes Changed How Humans Run, Science publication
- , Finding the perfect marathon shoe, Brand publication
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