Women's Health November 5, 2025 0 Comments

Step Into 2025: Discover the On Shoes That Are Revolutionizing Walking—and Why Experts Can’t Stop Raving About Them!

Ever wonder if a running shoe can really feel like you’re strolling on soft clouds without weighing you down? Well, the On Cloudrunner 2 might just be the answer you’ve been searching for—light as a feather at just four ounces, yet packed with enough cushioning and support to keep your feet happy mile after mile. It’s like the shoe is giving your feet a gentle hug, all while propelling you forward with every step thanks to that clever Helion Superfoam sole. Trust me, after testing more than a handful of On kicks, this one’s got that perfect balance of plush comfort and durability that city walkers crave. Oh, and it’s pretty stylish too—because who says your workout gear can’t look fly? Just a heads up: the higher heel-to-toe drop means it’s better suited for heel strikers or those dealing with plantar fasciitis, so it’s not quite a one-size-fits-all solution. Curious to see why this shoe outruns the rest? LEARN MORE

After testing several pairs of On shoes, the Cloudrunner 2—a cushier, more supportive upgrade from the original—takes the top spot for a few key reasons. Andriakos has tested more than 10 On shoes and says the Cloudrunner 2 is impressively light for a running shoe at just four ounces. In fact, there are other shoes on this list that weigh more than double that. But don’t let the lighter weight fool you—it still offers solid support.

That balance comes from the sole, which is made with On’s Helion Superfoam. This material, made from thermoplastic polyurethane, blends firm and flexible foam components to create a lightweight, responsive, and well-cushioned feel. The mix of stiffer and softer sections absorbs impact from every step and actually helps propel you forward. It has a nice, plush feel underfoot, and is super durable, holding up to months of wear and tear on city sidewalks. During my walks in this shoe, I notice that I don’t feel overly bouncy, but the cushioning is still noticeable and light enough to help me feel grounded.

Out of all the shoes on this list, Andriakos says the Cloudrunner 2 is the most comfortable and padded option. “On average, I walk two to four miles a day in them, and I’ve never had any rubbing, chafing, or sore spots on my feet or ankles,” she says. In other words, it really does feel like walking on clouds. It’s also super stylish. I love wearing it with a pair of leggings and crew socks with an oversized zip-up hoodie on top for a casual yet put-together activewear ‘fit.

One thing to keep in mind: this shoe has a higher heel-to-toe drop (10 mm) than, say, the Cloudmonster 2, which can put more load on the knees. That makes it a better pick for heel strikers or anyone dealing with plantar fasciitis.

Read more: Best Walking Shoes