On Drops a New Flagship Super Shoe for Marathon Runners

Don’t break On’s stride. After posting close to $2 billion in sales last year, the Swiss label came into 2024 hoping to cement its status as the next big player in running, tennis and activewear. It’s off to a great start.

Following the release of her movie Challengers, Zendaya joined Roger Federer and tennis world No. 1 Iga Świątek as an On ambassador. Meanwhile, Kenyan distance runner Hellen Obiri won the Boston Marathon in a pair of mysterious On shoes, suggesting the company may be poised for at least one podium in Paris this summer.

If there are any doubts about On’s ability to compete at the highest level of running, they should be squashed with its latest super shoe, the Cloudboom Strike. It arrives just in time for the Olympics and fall-marathon training cycles, ready to take on running’s established elite.

On

On Cloudboom Strike

• $280 at On

On Cloudboom Strike

Like On’s existing marathon racer, the Cloudboom Echo 3, the new Cloudboom Strike combines the company’s proprietary CloudTech cushioning with Helion HF, its house-branded super foam.

On says the CloudTech is “strategically positioned” to optimize transition and increase running efficiency. As is the case with most top-of-the-line racers, however, the secret sauce here lies in the foam and the shoemaker’s ability to deliver its best attributes through design.

On

Similar to Nike ZoomX and New Balance FuelCell, Helion HF derives its performance-enhancing properties from Pebax — a polymer that comes from the aerospace industry and currently rules the roost for several reasons.

For starters, the foam is extremely lightweight, which helps to shave off precious seconds that would otherwise add up to minutes over the course of a 26-mile race.

Helion HF also promises superior energy return compared to traditional EVA foams, which On says it “amplifies” with a unique drop-in midsole construction that makes the most of its stack height — a spec closely regulated by World Athletics.

On

All shoes must conform to a controversial rule set by the the sports governing body, which says shoes cannot exceed 40mm. The Cloudboom Strike measures 39.5mm.

Of course, comfort is also key when it comes to long-distance running, and the Cloudboom Strike has plenty of it. The one-piece mesh upper promotes breathability, while a molded heel, padded tongue and wrap-around cage system keep the fit secure.

Availability and pricing

The Cloodboom Strike will be available from July 11 for $280, a price comparable of other high-end super shoes.

If it sells out, look for it on August 10, when the Olympic Marathon broadcasts live from Paris. There’s a good chance it will be on the feet of someone near the front of the pack.

On

On Cloudboom Strike

• $280 at On

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