7 Best On Walking Shoes in 2026

Olesya Kryakvina
Olesya Kryakvina
on
| Reviewed using methodology 2.5
7 Best On Walking Shoes in 2026

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Since the introduction of its iconic On Cloud, the Swiss brand has expanded its catalogue of walking shoes by well over a dozen. Now, our mission at RunRepeat is to get our hands on every pair of On walking shoes so we can let you know which ones are truly the best for your daily steps.

We have put On shoes through the wringer in our lab, measuring over 30 parameters to arrive at 7 top picks across various categories.

Best overall
On Cloud 6 On Cloud 6
Best sock-like
On Cloud 6 Versa On Cloud 6 Versa
Best support
On Cloudnova Form 2 On Cloudnova Form 2
Best shock absorption
On Cloudtilt On Cloudtilt
Best stability
On Cloudrunner 3 On Cloudrunner 3
Best for trail
On Cloudaway On Cloudaway
Best waterproof
On Cloud 6 Waterproof On Cloud 6 Waterproof

How we test On walking shoes


First, we want to keep our opinions as objective as possible. For that reason, we buy tested shoes with our own money.

We are dedicated to wearing each pair for several hours to get a good feel for it. And once we've got all of the experiential data, we proceed to scrutinise the shoe in our lab:

  • We cut the shoe in half to measure its cushioning parameters with callipers, durometers, and machines.
  • On shoes are often thought of as very expensive and very comfortable and we're here to discover whether that's true. We use an Asker C durometer to measure the softness of the midsole, a specialised machine to test the shock absorption (prolonged comfort, basically!), and we look at all of the tests combined to understand whether the shoe is worth its price. 
  • We publish all the lab data on our website and you can use it to compare On walking shoes with each other or against other brands.

These are just some of the tests that help us assess each On walking shoe's performance before we give our final verdict.

Best On walking shoes overall

On Cloud 6
80
Good
On Cloud 6_main
On Cloud 6_main
On Cloud 6 review
On Cloud 6_pieces
On Cloud 6_cutting
On Cloud 6 Shock absorption heel
On Cloud 6 Energy return heel
On Cloud 6 Heel stack
On Cloud 6 Forefoot stack
On Cloud 6 Drop
On Cloud 6 Midsole softness_test
On Cloud 6 Midsole softness
On Cloud 6_walking
On Cloud 6 Rocker
On Cloud 6 width fit gel test
On Cloud 6 Width / Fit
On Cloud 6 Toebox width
On Cloud 6 toebox space
On Cloud 6 Toebox height
On Cloud 6 Heel traction
On Cloud 6 Outsole design
On Cloud 6 Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloud 6 Weight
On Cloud 6 Breathability_upper
On Cloud 6 Breathability_smoke
On Cloud 6 Breathability_light
On Cloud 6 Breathability_upper_close
On Cloud 6 Lateral stability test
On Cloud 5 vs On Cloud 6
On Cloud 6 Torsional rigidity
On Cloud 6 Heel counter stiffness
On Cloud 6 Midsole width - forefoot
On Cloud 6 Midsole width - heel
On Cloud 6 Toebox durability_1
On Cloud 6 Heel padding durability_1
On Cloud 6 Outsole durability_1
On Cloud 6 Outsole thickness
On Cloud 6 Insole thickness
On Cloud 6 Removable insole
On Cloud 6 Midsole softness in cold (%)
On Cloud 6 Reflective elements
On Cloud 6_upper
On Cloud 6 Tongue padding
On Cloud 6 Tongue: gusset type
On Cloud 6 Heel tab
On Cloud 6_midsole_softness_floor
On Cloud 6 Speed lacing

What makes it the best?

The On Cloud 6 is a fuss-free shoe with comfort that fades in the background. Our lab tests reveal that its minimalist profile offers strong ground control, further enhanced by its high-quality outsole. With its adaptive and light nature, we crown it as our best On walking shoe.

Cloud 6 offers minimal resistance to movement through its light and flexible build. Our scale shows it’s only 9.7 oz (274g), and it never burdened us during our strolls. It bends freely with our feet, as evidenced by its 7.9% higher flexibility score than average.

Its minimalist 28.3/19.5 mm profile enhances free movement and also a surefooted sensation. We felt in control of our strides since we could feel the ground feedback and adjust accordingly.

Another element that enhances our control is the reliable traction of Cloud 6. In our friction test, it showed a strong 0.48 score, promising good grip on both dry and wet surfaces. Furthermore, its outsole displays exceptional wear resistance, showing 64.3% less damage than average in our Dremel test.

However, those seeking cushioning for long hours on foot won’t find that in the Cloud 6. We recommend a more supportive platform for better impact protection.

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
Full review of On Cloud 6

Best sock-like On walking shoes

On Cloud 6 Versa
82
Good
On Cloud 6 Versa lab test and review
On Cloud 6 Versa lab test and review
On Cloud 6 Versa review
On Cloud 6 Versa lab test
On Cloud 6 Versa cut in half
On Cloud 6 Versa Shock absorption heel
On Cloud 6 Versa Energy return heel
On Cloud 6 Versa Heel stack
On Cloud 6 Versa Forefoot stack
On Cloud 6 Versa Drop
On Cloud 6 Versa midsole softness
On Cloud 6 Versa Midsole softness
On Cloud 6 Versa Rocker
On Cloud 6 Versa Internal length
On Cloud 6 Versa width fit gel test
On Cloud 6 Versa Width / Fit
On Cloud 6 Versa Toebox width
On Cloud 6 Versa toebox space
On Cloud 6 Versa Toebox height
On Cloud 6 Versa Heel traction
On Cloud 6 Versa Outsole design
On Cloud 6 Versa forefoot flex
On Cloud 6 Versa Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloud 6 Versa Weight
On Cloud 6 Versa Breathability Microscope test
On Cloud 6 Versa Breathability Smoke test
On Cloud 6 Versa Breathability Light test
On Cloud 6 Versa Breathability under microscope
On Cloud 6 Versa Lateral stability test
On Cloud 6 Versa Torsional rigidity
On Cloud 6 Versa Heel counter stiffness
On Cloud 6 Versa Midsole width - forefoot
On Cloud 6 Versa Midsole width - heel
On Cloud 6 Versa Toebox durability
On Cloud 6 Versa Heel padding durability
On Cloud 6 Versa Outsole durability
On Cloud 6 Versa Outsole thickness
On Cloud 6 Versa Insole thickness
On Cloud 6 Versa Removable insole
On Cloud 6 Versa Midsole softness in cold (%)
On Cloud 6 Versa Reflective elements
On Cloud 6 Versa upper
On Cloud 6 Versa Tongue padding
On Cloud 6 Versa lacing
On Cloud 6 Versa Tongue: gusset type
On Cloud 6 Versa Heel tab
On Cloud 6 Versa Price

What makes it the best?

After intensive testing in and out of the lab, we found the On Cloud 6 Versa to be the ideal sock-like On walking shoe. It’s an easy on-and-off shoe that feels versatile because of its lightweight and flexible build, proven by lab results. Moreover, its supportive outsole delivers both grip and longevity.

The sock-like upper was a delight to use, as it hugs our foot snugly in all the right places without feeling constricting. Its knit material is stretchy, with elastic laces that adjust to our feet.

Cloud 6 Versa offers a soothing sensation through its light and loose midsole. Our scales reveal it’s only 8.7 oz (247g), making it 15% lighter than the average walking shoe. Moreover, its pliable midsole adds to its gentleness, emerging 52% more flexible than average in our bend test.

We tested the rubber’s traction and recorded a 0.64 friction score, making it a strong choice for both wet and dry roads since it’s 30% grippier than average. Despite effective traction, it maintains its integrity in our Dremel test, showing only a 0.8 mm dent.

However, one design won’t suit all, and what may be the highlight of this shoe may be a dealbreaker to some. We found that those of us with wide feet or high arches needed more effort to put on the shoe or get the fit right. 

Pros

  • Pleasantly smooth ride
  • Much lighter than average
  • Excellent grip on wet and dry
  • Sock-like upper
  • Perfect medium fit
  • Great durability
  • No need to tie laces

Cons

  • Pricey for what it offers
  • Not for all-day wear
Full review of On Cloud 6 Versa

On walking shoes with the best support

On Cloudnova Form 2
94
Superb
On Cloudnova Form 2
On Cloudnova Form 2
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_01
On Cloudnova Form 2-pieces
On Cloudnova Form 2-cutting
On Cloudnova Form 2 Shock absorption heel
On Cloudnova Form 2 Energy return heel
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel stack_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_09
On Cloudnova Form 2 Forefoot stack_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_011
On Cloudnova Form 2 Drop_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_02
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_5
On Cloudnova Form 2 Midsole softness
On Cloudnova Form 2 toebox width gel test
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox width - widest part
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox width - big toe
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox height
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_013
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_05
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel traction
On Cloudnova Form 2 Outsole design
On Cloudnova Form 2 Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloudnova Form 2 Weight-1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Breathability_3
On Cloudnova Form 2 Breathability_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Breathability_2
On Cloudnova Form 2 Breathability_4
On Cloudnova Form 2 Lateral stability test-1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_012
On Cloudnova Form 2 Torsional rigidity_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_07
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel counter stiffness_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Midsole width in the forefoot_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_4
On Cloudnova Form 2 Midsole width in the heel_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_3
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox durability_3
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox durability_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Toebox durability_2
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel padding durability_3
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel padding durability_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Heel padding durability_2
On Cloudnova Form 2 Outsole hardness_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Outsole durability_2
On Cloudnova Form 2 Outsole durability_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Outsole thickness_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Insole thickness_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Removable insole-1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Removable insole-3
On Cloudnova Form 2 Difference in midsole softness in cold_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Reflective elements_1
On Cloudnova Form 2 Tongue padding_1
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_010
On Cloudnova Form 2 Tongue: gusset type_1
On Cloudnova Form 2-upper
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_08
On Cloudnova Form 2_outdoor_06

What makes it the best?

The On Cloudnova Form 2 is our go-to when we know we'll spend long hours on foot. It offers the perfect mix of everything: cushioning, responsiveness, and stability in one shoe. Lab results back up its surefooted sensation, without losing comfort and flexibility, making it our On walking shoe with the best support.

The effective containment of Cloudnova Form 2 stems from its wide platform. Our calliper shows it’s indeed massive at 119.1/98.0 mm compared to the 112.0/90.3 mm average. This shoe doesn’t need a very rigid structure to offer a well-planted footing.

Speaking of structure, the midsole feels fluid and natural, which enhances its comfort and versatility. In our bend test, we verified it’s 7.9% more flexible than average.

The cushioning was a delight on foot, offering both joint protection and a nice spring to our steps. Our shock absorption test shows an above-average 115 SA, while our energy return test records an impressive 54.5%. We attribute its bounce to the CloudTec cushioning and the nylon Speedboard, which help propel us forward.

We encourage clothing with reflective elements on night strolls with this shoe, since it has none and blends in the dark.

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
Full review of On Cloudnova Form 2

On walking shoes with the best shock absorption

On Cloudtilt
92
Superb
On Cloudtilt lab test and review
On Cloudtilt lab test and review
On Cloudtilt review
On Cloudtilt lab test
On Cloudtilt cut in half
On Cloudtilt Shock absorption heel
On Cloudtilt Energy return heel
On Cloudtilt Heel stack
On Cloudtilt impact protection
On Cloudtilt Forefoot stack
On Cloudtilt rocker
On Cloudtilt Drop
On Cloudtilt heel to toe
On Cloudtilt cushioning
On Cloudtilt Midsole softness
On Cloudtilt Internal length
On Cloudtilt Internal length
On Cloudtilt toebox width gel test
On Cloudtilt Toebox width - widest part
On Cloudtilt Toebox width - big toe
On Cloudtilt Toebox height
On Cloudtilt laces
On Cloudtilt extra eyelet
On Cloudtilt Heel traction
On Cloudtilt Outsole design
On Cloudtilt Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloudtilt Weight
On Cloudtilt logo
On Cloudtilt Breathability microscope test
On Cloudtilt Breathability
On Cloudtilt Breathability transparency test
On Cloudtilt vs On Cloud 5 Push upper fabric comparison
On Cloudtilt Lateral stability test
On Cloudtilt Torsional rigidity
On Cloudtilt Heel counter stiffness
On Cloudtilt Midsole width in the forefoot
On Cloudtilt Midsole width in the heel
On Cloudtilt wide platform
On Cloudtilt Toebox durability test
On Cloudtilt Toebox durability
On Cloudtilt toebox durability comparison
On Cloudtilt toebox
On Cloudtilt Heel padding durability
On Cloudtilt Heel padding durability
On Cloudtilt outsole design
On Cloudtilt Outsole hardness
On Cloudtilt Outsole durability test
On Cloudtilt Outsole durability
On Cloudtilt Outsole thickness
On Cloudtilt Insole thickness
On Cloudtilt Removable insole
On Cloudtilt Difference in midsole softness in cold
On Cloudtilt Reflective elements
On Cloudtilt Tongue padding
On Cloudtilt Tongue: gusset type
On Cloudtilt Heel tab
On Cloudtilt medial side

What makes it the best?

The Cloudtilt’s comfort is beyond compare, with its light and gentle nature allowing us to glide effortlessly through the miles. Its plush, stacked foam provides a stable yet cushioned ride as validated by our lab, with a highly durable outsole suitable for extensive mileage. Among On’s walking roster, Cloudtilt is the king of shock absorption.

At 9.4 oz (266g), Cloudtilt is noticeably lighter than the average walking shoe (9.8 oz/277g), even with its generous stack height of 35.5/26.8 mm. It delivers excellent impact protection, further enhanced by CloudTec’s compression, and pleasant responsiveness. Our shock absorption test validates this with a high 132 SA rating, 18.9% above average.

We were impressed by the stability Cloudtilt offers, given its height. It does so by widening its base to 117.7/96.7 mm, giving extra room for us to find our footing securely. 

Underfoot, we observed a tough 81.6 HC rubber in high-wear areas. Putting it against our Dremel, it bravely resisted with only minimal damage of 0.6 mm—60.0% less than average, ensuring its long-lasting nature. Plus, it recorded an impressive 0.47 in our traction test, keeping each step in control with its effective grip.

Unfortunately, those seeking a breathable experience won’t find that here. The upper is tightly woven and will best be enjoyed in cool weather.

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
  • Not for wide feet
Full review of On Cloudtilt

Best stability On walking shoes

On Cloudrunner 3
76
Good
On Cloudrunner 3
On Cloudrunner 3
On Cloudrunner 3
On Cloudrunner 3 parts
On Cloudrunner 3 cut
On Cloudrunner 3 Shock absorption heel
On Cloudrunner 3 Energy return heel
On Cloudrunner 3 swiss
On Cloudrunner 3 Heel stack
On Cloudrunner 3 Forefoot stack
On Cloudrunner 3 Drop
On Cloudrunner 3 Curb
On Cloudrunner 3 Midsole softness
On Cloudrunner 3 Rocker
On Cloudrunner 3 Internal length
On Cloudrunner 3 Gel
On Cloudrunner 3 Width / Fit
On Cloudrunner 3 Toebox width
On Cloudrunner 3 toes
On Cloudrunner 3 Toebox height
On Cloudrunner 3 Forefoot traction
On Cloudrunner 3 Outsole design
On Cloudrunner 3 Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloudrunner 3 Weight
On Cloudrunner 3 Breathability test
On Cloudrunner 3 microscope
On Cloudrunner 3 Lateral stability test
On Cloudrunner 3 Torsional rigidity
On Cloudrunner 3 Heel counter stiffness
On Cloudrunner 3 run
On Cloudrunner 3 Midsole width - forefoot
On Cloudrunner 3 Midsole width - heel
On Cloudrunner 3 Toebox durability
On Cloudrunner 3 Heel padding durability
On Cloudrunner 3 Outsole durability
On Cloudrunner 3 Outsole thickness
On Cloudrunner 3 Insole thickness
On Cloudrunner 3 Removable insole
On Cloudrunner 3 Reflective elements
On Cloudrunner 3 laces
On Cloudrunner 3 Tongue padding
On Cloudrunner 3 Tongue: gusset type
On Cloudrunner 3 Heel tab

What makes it the best?

The Cloudrunner 3 offers confidence-inspiring footing in our walks through its supportive midsole and grippy outsole. Lab results verify it’s the best stability On walking shoe, offering guidance without compromising comfort.

Cloudrunner 3 cleverly adds generous width to its base for confidence-inspiring landings. Our calliper shows an oversized 97.8 mm heel, which gives us plenty of room to maintain balance. Moreover, the decoupled heel and TPU heel clip work together to keep us centred, verified by its high 4/5 heel counter stiffness score.

In our traction test, we recorded a remarkable 0.55 result, indicating all-weather-ready grip, which we can attest to. Whether we passed through rainy sidewalks or slippery tiles, the Cloudrunner 3 maintained control.

To boost comfort, the cushioning offers impact protection, particularly in the heel with its high shock absorption score of 130 SA. At this level, it’s ready for long hours of standing.

However, its focus on support compromises the shoe’s flexibility. Those seeking a natural underfoot sensation should go for more forgiving shoes.

Pros

  • Premium-feeling upper
  • Beautiful, elegant design
  • Excellent support
  • Amazing for walking
  • Durable outsole built for heavy mileage
  • Thick, comfy tongue reduces lace pressure
  • Not as expensive as other On shoes
  • Improved rockered geometry
  • Good for heel strikers

Cons

  • Low energy return
  • Heavy build limits faster paces
  • Narrow toebox limits toe splay
  • Breathability struggles in hot climates
Full review of On Cloudrunner 3

Best On walking shoes for the trail

On Cloudaway
82
Good
On Cloudaway
On Cloudaway
On Cloudaway review
On Cloudaway lab test
On Cloudaway cut in half
On Cloudaway Shock absorption heel
On Cloudaway Energy return heel
On Cloudaway Heel stack
On Cloudaway Forefoot stack
On Cloudaway Drop
On Cloudaway heel to toe
On Cloudaway cushioniong
On Cloudaway Midsole softness
On Cloudaway Toebox width at the widest part
On Cloudaway Toebox width at the big toe
On Cloudaway upper
On Cloudaway Heel traction
On Cloudaway Outsole design
On Cloudaway Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloudaway Weight
On Cloudaway microscope upper
On Cloudaway Breathability
On Cloudaway transparency
On Cloudaway Lateral stability test
On Cloudaway Torsional rigidity
On Cloudaway Heel counter stiffness
On Cloudaway Midsole width in the forefoot
On Cloudaway Midsole width in the heel
On Cloudaway vs HOKA transport
On Cloudaway Toebox durability
On Cloudaway Heel padding durability
On Cloudaway Outsole hardness
On Cloudaway outsole durability test
On Cloudaway Outsole durability
On Cloudaway outsole durability test damage
On Cloudaway Outsole thickness
On Cloudaway Insole thickness
On Cloudaway Removable insole
On Cloudaway Difference in midsole softness in cold
On Cloudaway Reflective elements
On Cloudaway Reflective
On Cloudaway Tongue padding
On Cloudaway Tongue: gusset type
On Cloudaway Heel tab
On Cloudaway walking

What makes it the best?

The On walking shoe that we can never skip for our trail adventures is the On Cloudaway. It’s superbly equipped for the demands of trail walking, especially with a base and overall structure that fortify our footwork on our hikes. What makes it a done deal is the tough outsole that doesn’t diminish even after miles.

Even after long-distance off-road walks, we didn’t feel a hint of weariness on our legs and feet because of the shoe’s extra supportive footbed. We analysed this in our lab and with the help of our durometer, we recorded a midsole hardness of 60.0 AC. While this is 24% firmer than average, it kept us well-balanced. Cloudaway also has an accommodating fit that preserves the comfort throughout our treks. Employing our calliper, we acquired the width of the widest part of the toebox to be 103.1 mm. This gives our toes 5.2 mm extra space compared to the average.

When it comes to durability, based on our trail walks alone, Cloudaway’s outsole could last for a long time as it didn’t even thin out after using it for a long period. This was also the case when we exposed it to our Dremel, as the tool only trimmed 0.7 mm of the outsole, which is 56.3% less than the average, proving its robustness.

However, it took a while before our feet got dry from sweat because of the insufficient airflow of the shoes. When we examined the upper under our microscope, it became clearer why: the upper is closed shut. Due to this, we recommend individuals who can’t deal with sweaty feet to search for breathable pairs.

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
Full review of On Cloudaway

Best waterproof On walking shoes

On Cloud 6 Waterproof
82
Good
On Cloud 6 Waterproof lab test and review
On Cloud 6 Waterproof lab test and review
On Cloud 6 Waterproof review
On Cloud 6 Waterproof lab test
On Cloud 6 Waterproof cut in half
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Shock absorption heel
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Energy return heel
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Heel stack
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Forefoot stack
On Cloud 6 Waterproof heel to toe
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Drop
On Cloud 6 Waterproof cushioning firmness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Midsole softness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Rocker
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Internal length
On Cloud 6 Waterproof width fit gel test
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Width / Fit
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Toebox width
On Cloud 6 Waterproof toebox space
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Toebox height
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Heel traction
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Outsole design
On Cloud 6 Waterproof forefoot flex
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Flexibility / Stiffness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Weight
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Breathability
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Drying potential
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Lateral stability test
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Torsional rigidity
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Heel counter stiffness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Midsole width - forefoot
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Midsole width - heel
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Toebox durability
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Heel padding durability
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Outsole durability
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Outsole thickness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Insole thickness
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Removable insole
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Midsole softness in cold (%)
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Reflective elements
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Tongue padding
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Tongue: gusset type
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Heel tab
On Cloud 6 Waterproof Price

What makes it the best?

Already revealed in its name and backed up by our lab work, the On Cloud 6 Waterproof is the best waterproof walking shoe from the brand. It has a bootie-like and weatherproof construction that effectively keeps water away, with a robust outsole that can handle wet environments too.

The tongue is inseparable from the upper, leading to a slip-on shoe that’s easy to manage. It wraps around our feet firmly, leaving no chance for water to enter. Moreover, the waterproof textile proved to be protective, with its high 4/5 toebox durability score in our Dremel test.

The outsole allows us to enjoy precise footing even on slick surfaces. We tested it against a wet slab of concrete, and it generated a high friction coefficient of 0.79, making it a staggering 61% grippier than average. We had no instances of slipping, and the rubber proved to be 38% more resilient than average in our abrasion test.

Another feature that kept us safe is its low and steady base. Using our calliper, we measured it to be below average at 30.4/20.9 mm, naturally enhancing surefootedness. 

However, with its low 107 SA result in our shock absorption test, it doesn’t offer the plush sensation some people need for a full day out. Those who need more comfort should aim for shoes with better impact protection.

Pros

  • Impressive outsole traction
  • Stable and grounded ride
  • Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
  • Excellent durability
  • Enclosed bootie upper
  • Easy on-and-off
  • Protective waterproof lining

Cons

  • Not ideal for all-day wear
  • Somewhat overpriced
  • Heavier than average
  • Poor breathability
Full review of On Cloud 6 Waterproof

Choosing the best On walking shoes for you 

With their instantly recognisable clean uppers and CloudTec midsoles, On shoes have developed a certain status as premium trainers. Their sleek designs don't look overly sporty, which makes them versatile enough to go from airport terminals and city streets to offices and business meetings.


But aside from looks, what makes one shoe different from another? Having cut through nearly every On model in our lab, we found quite a spectrum.

Some Ons are extra-light and low-profile, making them ideal for travelling and commuting. Others feel more cushioned and substantial underfoot, offering great support for all-day wear. And if you overpronate, there are some stable options as well!

choosing the best On walking shoes for you

In the sections below, we will match On shoes with your particular use case and personal preferences.

On shoes for walking and standing all day

Even though all On shoes feature the brand’s signature CloudTec cushioning, it is not identical across all models.

on-walking-shoes-cloudtec-midsole.jpg
On's CloudTec midsoles come in different shapes.

Variations in platform thickness, foam softness, midsole geometry, and the overall shock absorption and energy return make the ride feel different from one On shoe to another.

Measuring an On shoe’s shock absorption and energy return in our lab.

But if you spend long hours on your feet, you definitely want to prioritise On shoes with higher shock absorption. The latter minimises the impact of landing, protecting your feet and joints and reducing fatigue over time.

The higher the SA reading, the better the cushioning. We recommend at least 110 SA in the heel for all-day wear.

But as you can see, not that many On trainers made it here. That’s because the brand’s everyday shoes tend to have a sleeker, more grounded silhouette that’s not quite as cushioned or forgiving as it seems.


Our calliper measurements have shown that walking shoes from On tend to have moderate stack heights ranging from 28-35 mm in the heel. For reference, HOKA shoes are much chunkier at 35-45 mm!

measuring stack height in On walking shoes

Another reason On shoes may not feel as luxuriously cushioned, or even be firmer, than other walking shoes is that the brand’s foams (Helion, Zero-Gravity, etc.) are rather firm, and there is nearly always some sort of stiff Speedboard plate embedded in their midsoles.

While these features add some welcome stability for long hours on your feet, they also detract from the step-in comfort and midsole compression.

Measuring midsole softness in On walking shoes

With an average durometer reading of 53 AC, On walking shoes are 10% firmer than the average walking shoe foam at 48 AC.

To expand your options, you might as well consider some of On’s daily running shoes as well. If you don’t mind their sportier look, you’ll be treated to significantly better impact protection.

 

But if you don’t want to be limited to the Swiss brand alone, there are plenty of max-cushioned options to choose from. See our detailed guides on walking shoes with the best shock absorption as well as the best shoes for all-day wear.

On shoes for travelling

This is probably the most common reason why people reach for On shoes!

In the past few years, the On Cloud has even earned a reputation as ‘the airport shoe!’ Its subdued, not-so-sporty look makes this sneaker easy to style with a variety of casual and even business-casual outfits.

On Cloud the airport shoe

But let’s focus on weight, as that’s arguably the most important characteristic of travel shoes. Whether it’s on your feet or packed in a suitcase, you want the shoe to take up as little space and add as little extra weight as possible.

Gladly, On has quite a few lightweight options below 10.5 oz (300g) to choose from!

Another consideration would be the on-and-off convenience. If you want to slide in and out of the shoe quickly, check its closure type: does it feature traditional laces or stretchy shoestrings?

on-walking-shoes-lacing-types.jpg

Stable walking shoes from On

Unlike other walking shoe brands, On doesn’t specify which of its models are built with enough stability to support overpronation. However, this doesn’t mean that those options are missing.

A wide, structured On shoe can feel exceptionally planted underfoot without claiming to guide the foot against excessive inward rolling.


In our lab, several tests help us determine the amount of stability that a given shoe has to offer:

  • torsional rigidity (how much the shoe resists twisting)
  • heel counter stiffness (how firmly it holds the rearfoot)
  • midsole width (how wide is the base in the heel and forefoot)

Aside from these measurements, we also consider the shoe's overall platform tooling, sidewalls, overlays, and lockdown.

Here is an overview of the most supportive walking shoes from On:

Additionally, some daily running shoes from On provide good stability for walking.

If you have overpronation or a condition that calls for highly supportive footwear, you can find more options from other brands in our guide on stability walking shoes.

Waterproof On walking shoes

Some of the brand’s shoe series, particularly the popular On Cloud lineup, are offered in waterproof variants. These shoes feature a proprietary technology rather than the commonly used Gore-Tex membrane.


We still need more lab tests and data to determine whether On’s waterproofing is more effective or more breathable than the GTX, but so far we've found it equally lacking in both sweat management and drying time.

It’s best to opt for the waterproof versions only if you expect to wear them in cool and wet conditions most of the time.

How On walking shoes fit

Our lab tests consistently show that On shoes run true to size. You can most likely go with your regular US size or, if in doubt, measure your current foot length and consult the brand’s size chart.


Widthwise, we also found that On shoes offer a predictable medium-width fit. Having measured dozens of gel casts both in the widest part and in the big toe area, we found surprisingly little variation among the brand’s walking shoes.

Yet, as the table below shows, some models tend to be snugger or roomier than others. Waterproof versions, in particular, tend to fit more tightly.

Some of the brand’s popular shoe series (Cloud, Cloudrunner, Cloudsurfer, Cloudmonster) are also kindly offered in wide widths.

How durable are On walking shoes?

Given the above-average price point of On shoes, we reasonably expected them to perform well in our durability tests.

Alas, a higher price does not guarantee more hard-wearing materials. Applying our Dremel to each On shoe’s toebox, heel padding, and outsole rubber and assessing the damage, we found that most On walking shoes have rather mediocre or even disappointing durability.

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Author
Olesya Kryakvina
Olesya Kryakvina
Walking shoe expert Olesya entered her shoe-geek era in 2017, diving deep into the latest cushioning and support technologies and features that make shoes truly comfortable. With a 20+ year background in dance, yoga, and pilates, she sees walking shoes as a wellness investment rather than a fashion statement. She doesn’t fall for brand marketing and takes each pair through the wringer in the lab to get real data. Olesya is the go-to person for walking shoe advice, and yes, she will analyse your pair mid-conversation. At RunRepeat, she keeps the content gears turning 24/7.
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