I tried the sneakers people call 'the most comfortable ever' — here's what happened
Whether you’re familiar with On running sneakers or just hearing about them for the first time, one thing is clear: They’re revolutionary.
On’s journey began back in 2010 when two Swiss friends and one former professional athlete decided to take on the multi-billion dollar sneaker market. Casper Coppetti, Olivier Bernhard and David Allemann set out to create sneakers that feel like “running on clouds.” Fast forward to 2019 and On has galvanized more than three million runners (including professional athletes, celebrities and everyday runners) in over 50 countries to stand behind On as a brand that’s on a mission to change the experience of running.
Knowing all about their mega successful On collection: the Cloud X, Cloudflow, Cloud 50 | 50 and more, I decided to test On’s newest release: the Cloudswift. These sneakers are specifically designed to be used in urban environments, where hard concrete sidewalks and streets are the norm for a runner’s playground.
To give context, I’m not usually a runner and my typical sneaker repertoire consists of the usual suspects — Nike, Adidas, New Balance, etc. But I was curious to see if On sneakers truly lived up to expectations or was it all just hype.
Design
At first glance, I was immediately impressed with the Cloudswift’s design. Even from a fashion editor’s strictly aesthetic point of view, I’d wear these sneakers any day of the week—running or not!
I tested a pair in Glacier/White, although they’re also available in Plum/Dawn and Teal/Storm for women. The colors vary slightly for men: Rock/Slate, Denim/Midnight and Rust/Rock.
The sneakers are comprised of a breathable, stretchy mesh upper, while a silicone molded cage wraps around the shoes and helps keep your laces and feet in place. There is a connected padded tongue and collar, which is one of my favorite more subtle design details. There’s nothing I hate more than a shoe’s tongue, frumpily shifting to one side during use. This ensures the shoes have a consistent sleek and stylish look the entire time. Plus, it makes it 10 times easier to slip on and off just like a pair of comfy socks.
Technology
The Cloudswift features On’s proprietary Helion technology — a superfoam cushion that enables incredible performance, durability and responsiveness, especially in a place like New York’s concrete jungle. Did I mention it’s super-light too?
Running around my Brooklyn neighborhood is often taxing on my feet because of its low responsiveness and absorption with each step on the asphalt. I was amazed by how light and airy my feet felt throughout my run and especially how stable I felt with each landing. This is thanks to both the Cloudswift’s Helion technology and extra rubber reinforcements on the soles of the shoes which help provide traction and soft landings.
The Cloudswifts are designed with specially engineered mesh fabric that is breathable too, which is especially critical during summer runs as the temperature heats up.
Each pair of Cloudswift sneakers feature On’s innovative Cloudtec technology which as On puts it, “CloudTec is the first system to offer cushioning only during the landing phase (when you actually need it). As soon as you strike the ground, the Cloud elements lock firm to form a solid foundation for natural, powerful propulsion. Prepare for take-off.”
Comfort
My feet felt like “walking on air” throughout my neighborhood run in Brooklyn and I couldn’t be more excited. The rumors are true. It’s hard for me to believe these comfy, chic sneakers are in fact—running shoes.
To add icing on the cake, everything from the engineered mesh fabric to the Helion superfoam gives these shoes next-level comfort, seemingly made by the sneaker gods.
Overall
Bottom line, I’ve found my new favorite running shoes. I can’t wait to check out the rest of On’s stylish and functional offerings!
Overall, reviewers shared similar, over-the-moon experiences. As one reviewer said, “The most comfortable pair of running shoes I've ever had. Had a pair of On Cloudsurfers but these are performance boosting to another level. Would highly recommend.” Another wrote, “I received my On Cloudswifts last week and was very anxious to try them out. After two long runs in them, I was hooked! My feet didn't hurt and even resolved my sciatic pain after long runs....They are very lightweight, supportive, breathable and hands down the best shoes I have owned.”
What are you waiting for? It’s time to get On it.
On Cloudswift for women
Shop it: $150 (available in three colors), zappos.com
On Cloudswift for men
Shop it: $150, (available in three colors), zappos.com
The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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