On Cloud 6
Pros
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- True to size and width
- Great traction on wet and dry
- Flexible construction
- A bit lighter than average
- Breathable for warm weather
- Promising outsole durability
- Slip-on design with easy on-and-off
Cons
- Steep price hike with minimal changes from the v5
- Not for all-day wear
- Not very supportive
- Upper lacks wear resistance
Key Features
- Rubber sole for durability and traction.
- Reflective accents enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- Lightweight design promotes effortless wear.
- Cushioned collar and perforated tongue provide added comfort.
- Removable insole allows for customization and easy cleaning.
- Patented CloudTec sole delivers superior cushioning.
- Designed for everyday wear, suitable for various activities.
- Round toe for a relaxed fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: Fabric
The On Cloud 6 is a straightforward walking shoe best suited for those who prioritize comfort and ground control during their activities. Our lab tests confirm that its minimalist profile contributes to significant stability, further enhanced by its high-quality outsole. Due to its adaptive and lightweight design, we recognize it as our top choice for On walking shoes.
Cloud 6 minimizes resistance to movement with its light and flexible build, weighing only 9.7 oz (274g), making it easy to wear throughout the day. It flexes naturally with each step, achieving a 7.9% higher flexibility score than average. This feature promotes an unobtrusive experience, allowing for unencumbered movement.
The shoe’s minimalist profile of 28.3/19.5 mm enhances mobility while providing a secure sensation on varying terrains. Users can expect responsive ground feedback, which allows for better stride control and adjustment during walks.
Another aspect contributing to this control is the reliable traction of the Cloud 6. In our friction test, it recorded an impressive 0.48 score, ensuring good grip on both dry and wet surfaces. Its outsole also demonstrates notable durability, exhibiting 64.3% less damage than average in our Dremel test.
However, individuals seeking extensive cushioning for prolonged periods on their feet may find the Cloud 6 lacking in that department. For better impact protection, a more supportive platform is recommended.
On Cloudnova Form 2
Pros
- Incredibly breathable
- Ideal for all-day wear
- Comfortable from minute 1
- Great stability and foot containment
- Supportive heel structure
- Nylon Speedboard for energy return
- Average durability
- Sustainable materials
- Reliable outsole traction
Cons
- Heavier than its predecessor
- No reflective elements
Key Features
- Rubber sole for durability and traction
- Designed for everyday wear with reflective accents for safety
- Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended use
- Patented CloudTec sole for superior cushioning and support
- Round toe design for added room and comfort
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: Recycled Polyester
The On Cloudnova Form 2 is well-suited for individuals who spend extended periods on their feet. It provides a notable combination of cushioning, responsiveness, and stability. Lab tests confirm its reliable footing without compromising comfort or flexibility, making it the best-supported walking shoe from On.
The effective containment of the Cloudnova Form 2 is attributed to its wide platform, which measures an impressive 119.1/98.0 mm, significantly larger than the 112.0/90.3 mm average. This design allows the shoe to maintain a stable footing without requiring a rigid structure.
The midsole's fluid and natural feel enhances overall comfort and versatility. In our bend test, we verified that it is 7.9% more flexible than the average shoe in this category.
The cushioning offers excellent joint protection while providing a pleasant spring in each step. Our shock absorption test recorded an above-average 115 SA, and the energy return test yielded an impressive 54.5%. The CloudTec cushioning and nylon Speedboard contribute significantly to its bounce and propulsion.
It is advisable to wear clothing with reflective elements during night walks, as the Cloudnova Form 2 lacks such features and may blend into dark surroundings.
On Cloudtilt
Pros
- Plenty of cushioning for long hours on feet
- Soft yet bouncy ride
- Feels nice and light on foot
- Abrasion-resistant upper and outsole
- Wide and steady platform
- Excellent outsole grip
- Easy on-and-off with bungee laces
- Upper made of recycled material
Cons
- Not very breathable
- Flimsy inner lining and insole
Key Features
- Rubber logo at sides for added style
- Padded collar and footbed enhance comfort
- Ultra lightweight design ensures ease during wear
- Ombre pattern provides a modern aesthetic
- Round toe design suitable for everyday wear
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Synthetic sole
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: 100% Recycled Polyester
The On Cloudtilt is an ideal choice for those seeking comfort during extensive city tours on foot. Its design focuses on maintaining consistent comfort, featuring generous cushioning that provides impact protection, responsiveness, and stability throughout long walks. Verified lab tests confirm its lightweight construction contributes to its designation as our best walking shoe for Europe.
This model lives up to its name, delivering a sensation akin to walking on clouds. The significant cushioning effectively minimizes ground feel, supported by a tall stack height of 35.5/26.8 mm. The CloudTec compression system enhances the overall experience, absorbing harsh impacts, which is evidenced by its impressive 132 SA score in our shock absorption test, reducing impact by 18.9% compared to average shoes.
Additionally, the CloudTec technology promotes energy return, demonstrated by a high 58.1% score in our lab evaluations, which lessens the effort needed for continuous walking. Weighing just 9.4 oz (266g), this shoe ensures a lightweight experience that does not feel burdensome during extended use.
Even as fatigue set in after multiple days of walking, the wide platform dimensions of 117.7/96.7 mm provided secure footing. This feature instilled confidence with each step, especially while navigating uneven cobblestone streets.
However, it is important to note that the plush upper may result in inadequate airflow. Consequently, the On Cloudtilt can cause overheating when worn in warmer summer conditions.
On Cloud 5 Waterproof
Pros
- Perfect for all-day wear
- Super light for its kind
- Easy on-and-off
- Amazing in-shoe feel
- Sustainable materials (40%)
- Regular laces are added
- Reflective elements
Cons
- Catches rocks and debris
- Can get smelly
Key Features
- Lightweight and Waterproof - Ensures comfort without adding weight.
- Signature Speed-lacing - Features elastic laces for quick adjustments.
- Updated Speedboard - Designed to enhance propulsion and efficiency.
- Zero-Gravity Foam - Provides excellent impact absorption.
- Round Toe Design - Offers ample space for toe movement.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Inner Material: Foam
The On Cloud 5 Waterproof is a top choice for those seeking a reliable waterproof walking shoe that excels in comfort and durability. This model allows for extended wear without discomfort, making it suitable for all-day use.
To assess the shoe's material quality, we analyzed the upper both visually and microscopically. The upper exhibited no light penetration, confirming its airtight and watertight properties, while the microscope revealed a tightly interwoven structure.
In terms of durability, the outsole demonstrated impressive metrics, with a hardness measured at 84.0 HC and a thickness of 3.3 mm. These values exceed average benchmarks by 10.7% and 22.22%, indicating that the outsole is designed to withstand significant wear over time.
During extensive testing, the On Cloud 5 Waterproof proved to be non-exhausting, supported by lab findings showing a midsole hardness of 30.4 HA, which is 7.8% firmer than average. This characteristic contributes to an optimal balance of cushioning and support.
However, performance diminishes in colder conditions. After placing the shoe in a freezer for 20 minutes, we observed a 41.9% increase in midsole firmness, resulting in a final hardness that is 10% harder than average. Therefore, we advise considering alternative footwear specifically designed for winter weather.
On Cloudaway
Pros
- Can go from city to trails
- Feels lively and dynamic
- Surprisingly lightweight
- Sock-like fit
- Quick-to-adjust lacing
- Feels supportive
- Quite durable
- Exclusive look
- Uses recycled materials (20%)
- Reflective details
- Great outsole grip
Cons
- Not breathable
- Firm cushioning
Key Features
- Material Composition: Made primarily of synthetic materials, ensuring durability and lightweight comfort.
- Design Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, from city streets to nature trails.
- Lace-Up Closure: Provides a secure and adjustable fit for different foot shapes.
- Color Options: Available in trendy Black/Rock, making them easy to pair with any outfit.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-rubber.
- Outer Material: Synthetic.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up.
- User Rating: 3.9 out of 5 based on 20 reviews.
The On Cloudaway is a walking shoe well-suited for trail adventures, providing solid support for hiking demands. Its durable structure is complemented by a tough outsole that maintains integrity even after extensive use.
After long-distance off-road walks, we noted minimal fatigue in our legs and feet, attributed to the shoe’s extra supportive footbed. Our lab analysis recorded a midsole hardness of 32 HA, which is 27% firmer than average, contributing to its balanced feel. The Cloudaway also features an accommodating fit, with the width of the toebox measuring 103.1 mm, offering 5.2 mm more space for toes compared to typical models.
In terms of durability, the Cloudaway's outsole showed no signs of thinning even after prolonged use on trails. Testing with our Dremel revealed only 0.7 mm of wear, which is 56.3% less than average, affirming its robust construction. This suggests that users can expect longevity from this shoe.
However, one drawback is the limited airflow, which may cause sweat retention during use. Upon microscopic examination, we found that the upper is entirely enclosed, contributing to this issue. Therefore, individuals sensitive to moisture may want to consider more breathable options.
On Cloudrift
Pros
- Super light on the foot
- Very flexible
- Highly breathable
- Springy and effortless ride
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Well-padded collar
- Reflective logos
Cons
- Very thin tongue that causes rubbing
- Really lacks durability
- Not a supportive shoe
Key Features
- Innovative Design: Incorporates advanced running shoe technology for enhanced walking experience.
- Material Composition: Made from a combination of synthetic materials and rubber, offering durability and flexibility.
- Closure Type: Lace-up design ensures a secure fit for varying foot shapes.
- Color Options: Available in stylish White/Cobalt, making them visually appealing.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported.
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber for durability and grip.
- Outer Material: Synthetic, balancing durability with lightweight feel.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for customizable fit.
The On Cloudrift is best suited for individuals seeking a lightweight and breathable walking shoe that offers significant comfort throughout the day.
This model features exceptional airflow, thanks to its upper construction, which was examined under a microscope. The material contains large gaps that allow for unrestricted air passage, contributing to a breezy experience while wearing the Cloudrift. We measured its weight at 8.71 oz (247g), making it 3.5% lighter than the average walking shoe.
During testing, we noted that the Cloudrift easily adapts to natural foot movement. Its flexibility was assessed, showing resistance to bending at only 10.5N, indicating that it is 24.5% more flexible than typical walking shoes and effectively supports heel-to-toe strides.
However, our measurements indicated that the tongue of this shoe is not padded, with a thickness of only 0.5 mm, which reflects an 87.2% reduction compared to the average. While this design allows for enhanced ventilation, it may compromise comfort for those who prefer more substantial padding. If ample cushioning is critical for your walking experience, exploring other options may be advisable.