Runners Are Ditching Their Nikes for This Under-$100 On Running Shoe With ‘Significantly Better’ Arch Support
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Clouds tend to clear up in the sky after a while but that’s not true for On’s aptly named running sneakers, which have started to prove themself trend-proof heading into 2024. Runners and walkers alike want lighter shoes, and On’s lineup has continued to deliver on that with its “CloudTec” foam sole and shoes like the Cloud 5, which is 30% off and was just restocked.
For the last six weeks, Men’s Journal has been tracking the On Cloud 5 during the brand’s last-season sale that’s seen some of the most sought-after styles, like the responsive Cloudswift and the waterproof Cloudvista sell out in just days. Recently, the Cloud 5, which has been on sale for just $90, was restocked in several colors that had previously been sold out. This style has been one of the brand’s bestsellers at multiple retailers, including Zappos and Nordstrom—and with good reason.
On Cloud 5 Men’s Running Shoes in Stellar/Eclipse, $90 (was $140) at On 
The On Cloud 5 is one of the best go-between sneakers you could have for a combination of light running and walking thanks to its middle-ground 7mm drop (the difference in height from the heel to the forefoot). Weighing just under nine ounces, this lightweight sneaker is made from reinforced antimicrobial mesh and features the brand’s CloudTec cushioning system. This pair comes with On’s speed-lacing system—an elastic lace that knots at the top eyelets to maintain your preferred fit and make slipping them on and off more convenient. For those who prefer the stability of regular laces, On also includes a pair in the box.
According to Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist, surgeon, and physician spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), the best shoes for walking are running shoes. “I just believe that they are better designed, come in different varieties, colors, and materials, and have better mechanical function than typical walking shoes,” Dr. Mendeszoon explained to Men’s Journal in a previous interview. While other brands, like Hoka, have received official APMA certifications on some styles, all you have to do is turn to the reviews of the Swiss-designed On Cloud 5 to learn how they perform.
On Cloud 5 Men’s Running Shoes in Ox/Shadow, $90 (was $140) at On 
The On Cloud 5 Men’s Running Shoes in Ox/Shadow.
On doesn’t have a reviews section for the Cloud 5, but Zappos has accumulated nearly 600 from verified shoppers. Many love these shoes because they’re comfortable, lightweight, and stylish. “Nicest-looking running shoe around,” as one Zappos shopper put it. “Like these much more than my New Balance for $40 less. So lightweight, a better version of the Nike Free Run, with significantly better arch support.”
Shoppers, especially runners, frequently mention the speed-lacing system and how it may be better for casual wear but are still happy to have the option of different laces. “I have a narrow foot, so the shoe has a slightly looser fit with the short laces that come on the shoe,” a Zappos shopper said. “For running or more rigorous activity, the full laces shipped with the shoes will offer you a more secure fit. Very comfortable shoe with a soft, bouncy ride. With the short laces, it is easy to slip on and off. Great shoe!”
Despite it being one of the internet’s trendiest shoes, we don’t think the On Cloud 5 is going away any time soon. That makes right now the best opportunity to see what they’re all about for less. At $90, we’re confident these will sell out soon, so if you think this is the next do-it-all shoe for you, hop on it quickly.
