History
The On brand was founded in 2010 in Switzerland by three running enthusiasts: Olivier Bernhard , a former professional triathlete, and his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti . Their goal was to revolutionize the world of running shoes by creating a technology that would offer innovative cushioning while promoting natural propulsion. The outsole of the very first On prototype was made of a garden hose cut in its width, whose semi-circles simulated the original idea of On shoes. Each of these elements would be compressed by the weight of the runner upon contact with the ground to ensure a pleasant and soft landing.
After months of testing and prototyping, they developed CloudTec® technology, featuring soles with individual “clouds” that adapt to impact for optimal comfort and responsiveness. Quickly adopted by runners, the brand has enjoyed a meteoric rise, gaining popularity thanks to its sleek designs and technical performance. Today, On has become a global reference in running, worn by elite athletes and appreciated for both training and competition.
Products
Since its inception, On has developed several iconic models that have left their mark on the running world thanks to their CloudTec® technology and innovative design. The Cloudsurfer , launched in 2010, was the first model to introduce the brand's revolutionary cushioning, offering a smooth and dynamic running sensation.
The Cloudflow then established itself as a benchmark for runners looking for a lightweight and responsive shoe, ideal for fast training and competitions. For long distances, the Cloudstratus is popular thanks to its dual CloudTec® cushioning, offering optimal comfort and energy return. The Cloudboom Strike , equipped with a carbon fiber plate, is aimed at marathoners and elite runners looking for speed and performance.
Finally, the Cloudmonster , with its maximum cushioning and oversized sole, pushes the limits of comfort for distance runners. These models illustrate On's commitment to combining innovation, aesthetics and performance to meet the needs of all runners.
Technologies
The On brand is recognized for its technological innovations that revolutionize running. Its flagship technology, CloudTec® , is based on "cloud" shaped pads placed under the sole, which absorb impacts on landing and provide optimal energy return at the push-off, providing a unique sensation of lightness and dynamism.
For even more responsiveness, we have integrated the Speedboard® , a polymer or carbon plate depending on the model, which stiffens the shoe and improves propulsion. The materials used are carefully selected to combine performance and durability, in particular with lightweight foams such as Helion™ , which improves cushioning without weighing down the shoe.
Finally, Missiongrip™ technology, present on the trail models, guarantees optimal grip on all types of terrain thanks to specific sole patterns. Thanks to these innovations, On continues to improve the running experience by combining comfort, performance and avant-garde design.
Logo
Since its creation in 2010 , the On brand logo has always focused on a minimalist and modern design, reflecting Swiss elegance and technological innovation. In its early days, the brand had a clean logo with the name "On" in simple letters, accompanied by the slogan "Run on clouds" , in reference to its CloudTec® technology.
Over the years, the logo has evolved into an even more refined and distinctive version, with the letter “O” stylized into a unique shape, merged with the “n” , creating an instantly recognizable visual identity. This design symbolizes the fluidity of movement and the brand’s continued innovation. Today, the On logo has become a sign of quality and performance, associated with excellence in running and adopted by athletes and sneakerheads alike for its clean, technical style.
Athletes
We have sponsored several high-level athletes who have contributed to its rise in the world of running and athletics. Among them, Hellen Obiri , double world champion of the 5000 meters and Olympic medalist, is one of the figureheads of the brand, having recently made the transition to the marathon with success.
Olli Hoare , 1500m specialist and 2022 Commonwealth Games champion, embodies performance and innovation in middle distance. In trail running, Katie Schide , winner of the UTMB 2022, represents On in ultra-endurance races, proving the effectiveness of the brand’s models on the most demanding terrain. Thanks to these elite athletes, On continues to assert its presence on the international stage, both on the track, on the road and in the mountains.
