The 8 Best On Running Shoes to Buy in 2023, According to Our Fitness Editor

On has made a mission of delivering pro-athlete-grade footwear to the everyman. At just 8.4 ounces, the Cloudflow is an extremely lightweight shoe that’s designed for ultra-light road runs. Bonus points for an aesthetic that works for casual, everyday wear too. Like all of On’s best running shoes, this model features proprietary CloudTec technology with Helion superfoam for full cushioning that doesn’t sacrifice a fast, responsive feeling. Unlike some of its bulkier brethren, these feature a streamlined aesthetic—great for minimalists who want everything they need in a shoe and nothing they don’t. Grippy rubber pads add extra traction to provide for more surefooted running in wet weather and around tight corners.

At less than $140 delivered, these are not only On’s best lightweight running shoe, but also one of its most affordable. In our research, we found only minor gripes from buyers. Some noted the cushioning is fine for shorter runs (a few miles or less), but insufficient for longer hauls.

What do buyers say? “My first run in these was amazing. These shoes are half the weight of my old ones and have really good arch support,” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

For the minimalist runner without the need for unnecessary cushioning and tech and an overblown design, there’s On’s Cloudeasy. The brand proudly boasts that each of these shoes is made from just 15 individual pieces “carefully chosen for fit, function, comfort and sustainability.” Indeed, they’re made from 37% total recycled content which is pretty respectable. But, these ultra-streamlined shoes are designed first and foremost for casual, everyday wear. The aesthetic is reminiscent of Allbirds with a dash of understated ready-to-perform vibe. The roughly 9-ounce weight is reasonably lightweight and the half Speedboard design helps keep things light, while ensuring you’re ready to run (literally) when the mood strikes.

The $130 price tag on these is as attractive as the shoes themselves. We love the minimalist ethos of the Cloudeasy, which makes them an “easy” shoe to love for all-day wear. Still, they might be a little too minimal for hardcore runners. But, for anyone looking for a reasonably priced street shoe with performance running chops under the hood, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better alternative.

What do buyers say? “As the name says, super easy and light shoe for everyday wear. Love them!” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

On ups the ante every year with a new “best in show” running shoe. But for us, the Cloudmonster from 2022 is still a winner. With a bold rocker design and some of the biggest cushioning On has ever offered in a running shoe, they’re built for long road runs from “light” 5Ks to longer 20s. Plus, the addition of a proprietary Speedboard guarantees softer landings and explosive rebounds for the best, most effective running experience. In addition to the ultra-cushioned build, a solid list of next-gen features—a lightweight, temperature-resistant construction and a soft sockliner and upper— guarantee an incredibly comfortable wear, even on the longest runs. We also like the eco-friendliness of this model with 80% recycled polyester and 35% total recycled materials.

Honestly, there’s little to dislike about these kicks. Some reviewers note a wider-than-usual fit, especially in the toebox. And On admits that these aren’t built for competition runs. But, at less than $170 delivered (with free returns), the Cloudmonster is our pick for the best cushioned On running shoe of 2023.

What do buyers say? “These are the most cushioned, comfortable road shoes I have ever worn! They definitely help with form and are such a smooth ride that I forget I’m running on road!” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

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On the other end of the spectrum are On’s simple, supportive Cloudrunner shoes. “Support” is the key word here. These feature a wide outsole at the forefoot for improved stability and reducing the potential for lateral ankle roll (especially helpful for newbie runners). Beefy support at the ankle and heel areas, plus a CloudTech cushioned outsole also provide for more comfortable and surefooted runs. A cleverly engineered mesh upper makes for incredible breathability and temperature regulation, even during long runs. For all these reasons, the Cloudrunner is a great shoe for beginner and intermediate runners just getting started. But, they’re also a great supplemental shoe for veterans looking to work more recovery runs into their weekly routine.

What’s more, these are not only On’s best shoes for recovery runs, but one of its most affordable running shoes too. They’re a steal at $150 delivered (with free returns should you need to swap them). There’s not much to dislike here. They’re a little on the heavy side (only compared to On’s other great shoes, though), so they’re not exactly competition-friendly. But, then again, they’re not pretending to be.

What do buyers say? “I honestly cannot recommend Cloudrunners enough. I love them,” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

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Trail runners are exceptionally hard on their sneaks, and long-distance trail runners doubly so. On’s Cloudultra shoes are built for hardcore runs over uneven forest trails and gravel paths. With twin layers of CloudTec and Helion superfoam, they offer maximum cushioning and comfort. Missiongrip tech maximizes grip over the toughest terrain, while a closed-channel outsole helps stop stones from sticking mid-run. A breathable mesh upper keeps things airy and is reinforced with featherweight TPU for a more rugged wear.

Like most of the On running shoes on this list, there’s not much to dislike about the Cloudultra. Some reviewers complain of a too-tight fit, especially around the ankle and arch. For that reason, we (and On) recommend going up one half-size. This model is made with only 5% total recycled content—the lowest of any of On’s running shoes. Still, if you’re looking for a legit cushioned trail running shoe, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option.

What do buyers say? “Great long distance and trail running shoe. I really couldn’t be any happier with these,” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

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The Cloud X 3 is one of the most lightweight models from On, making it easy to move quickly and efficiently when running.

It was born from running, but the highly responsive "CloudTec" technology provides cushioning that adapts to your footstrike, resulting in a secure and comfortable stride. Meaning it's a highly versatile shoe that can handle a variety of different workouts, from running and jumping to lifting and agility training. The shoe features a breathable upper mesh material that helps keep your feet cool and comfortable during a workout, too.

This model's sturdy outsole can withstand wear and tear, ensuring that it will last for multiple workouts. It's lighter on cushioning than some other picks on this list, so if joint pain in a concern, you might want to opt for another model.

On’s Cloudstratus is a workhorse of a shoe. The dual layers of Helion-enriched CloudTec provide maximum cushioning both horizontally and vertically for incredible comfort, even over long distances. These elements work in tandem with the springy Speedboard to maximize performance without sacrifice on the road. The outsole features exceptional rubber grip for extra road traction too. What truly sets this model apart is the wide-fitting forefoot (according to many reviewers, it’s On’s widest running shoe yet) which makes this a great option for runners with wide feet. Still, the star-lacing system ensures a great fit for just about any runner.

We like that the streamlined modern design is casual enough for everyday wear, both while walking to work or running after. They’re also available in a handful of modern colors, from flat black to the Lake/Flare colorway seen above. At $170, they’re on par with most of On’s running shoes and, by ordering directly through On-Running.com, you get free shipping and free returns should you need to swap sizes.

What do buyers say? “These shoes are very lightweight yet extremely comfortable. They have wonderful cushioning, and they are wider than many of the other shoes I've tried,” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

As one of On’s flagship shoes, the new Cloudboom Echo 3 takes everything we love about the original Cloudboom to an incredible new level. In fact, it’s billed as their “fastest-ever marathon shoe”—built for a combination of speed, performance, and endurance. At just 7.65 ounces, it’s remarkably lightweight, thanks in large part to a Carbon Speedboard and other next-gen materials. The exaggerated 10 mm heel-to-toe drop makes for a more aggressive lean forward to encourage constant motion. Plus, the extreme rocker shape provides a more powerful return, while the streamlined upper and bolstered forefoot cushioning ensure maximum comfort, even on the longest road runs.

On the downside, the Cloudboom Echo are pricey. At $290, they’re among On’s most expensive shoes. But, with high-tech materials throughout and one of the company’s most aggressive, competition-ready designs, we think it’s well worth it for performance runners looking to wreck their own personal records. Beginners may want to look elsewhere, however, as these might be a little too much for those just getting into running.

What do buyers say? “Super light feeling and breathable! Fits true to size and is great if [you're] chasing that PB!” said one On-Running.com reviewer.

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