6 Best On Shoes for Walking, According to Podiatrists and Editors

Lightweight shoes for breezy walks? Yes, please. The Cloud X4 stands out with its flexible build and feather-light 10.1-ounce weight. These sneakers excel not only in walks but also seamlessly adapt to cross-training. The roomy toe box ensures your toes can splay naturally and comfortably, regardless of the walk’s length.

Beyond their lightweight nature, these shoes offer excellent ground feel. It’s no surprise that the Cloud X4s are widely popular—they boast a sleek appearance and consistently deliver outstanding performance for all types of walking. I’ve worn the Cloud X series of shoes for years at this point, but for walks with my daughter and light workouts mainly now.

The inclusion of bouncy Cloudtec cushioning is pleasant, but you’ll notice that the shoe maintains a relatively firm feel (so don’t anticipate maximalist comfort). In my opinion, this is a bonus, because this means better ground feel along with that comfort. The result is a stronger more healthy foot. That’s why this is our best overall pick.

The laces were a touch longer than many other models I’ve worn, which might be a hassle for some walkers depending on the way they tie their shoes. While the extra length may be justified for individuals with wider feet, it can be a minor inconvenience for those with narrow feet.

Ready to power walk with the best of them? Well, the Cloudsurfer 2 certainly is. This shoe offers a responsive and cushioned combination, perfect for those fast-paced walks. What’s particularly appealing is their lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 8.6 ounces. So, when you’re aiming to pick up the pace, you won’t feel burdened by a heavy shoe.

It’s essential to point out that these shoes fall under the neutral category, meaning they’re best for individuals who don’t overpronate, according to Dr. Schaeffer. While some argue that the Cloudsurfer 2s exhibit elements of stability due to their wide platform, there isn’t any specific technology aimed at addressing overpronation, which is the hallmark of a true stability shoe.

We are fond of the snug upper on the Cloudsurfer 2s. It provides a reassuring sense of being locked in without any feeling of constriction. During walking or jogging, we never experienced any discomfort or rubbing with the original version. Additionally, the heel counter boasts a more plush feel compared to other On shoes, a feature I genuinely appreciate.

The Cloudmonster smoothly transitions from an athleisure staple to a robust walking shoe, which is why I’ve crowned it the ultimate top choice. And I’m not alone in this sentiment. Dr. Schaeffer shares my enthusiasm for the Cloudmonster, primarily due to its plush cushioning and rocker-bottom feel.

This sneaker ranks as one of the most cushioned options in On’s lineup. With every step, it feels like a burst of energy propelling you forward. I’m particularly impressed with the recycled upper, which not only offers breathability but also ensures a secure fit, even for narrow-footed individuals like myself. You won’t find your heel slipping in the back during walks.

However, it’s essential to note that these may not be the ideal choice for larger individuals. I prefer the original model, but there is a newer model, the Cloudmonster 2, that is an even better fit for those larger and wider feet. Because the Cloudmonster features exceptionally cushioned, relatively soft Helion foam, the shoe can compress significantly with each step taken.

The Cloudeclipse, one of On’s latest max-cushion shoes, outshines the Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer 2 in terms of size and cushioning. It boasts a softer Helion foam in a dual-layer CloudTec Phase cushioning system, complemented by a Speedboard positioned just above the outsole at the rear and midfoot to enhance overall stability.

While it offers a firmer feel compared to the Cloudsurfer 2, the Helion foam provides a relatively soft underfoot experience. The Speedboard runs from the shoe’s center to just above the outsole to encourage the forward rolling motion while maintaining stability. Unlike the Surfer, the Cloudeclipse no longer features pod-like outsole elements, which makes for a more grounded sensation and less of a lightweight, springy feel.

While the price tag may be on the higher side for a shoe dedicated to walking, this is model also serves as a great road running shoe. If your priority is maximum cushioning and you appreciate the aesthetics of a lofty stack, the Cloudeclipse is an excellent choice.

For those in professions that require extended periods of standing or walking (yes, nurses and doctors, we’re talking to you!), the Cloud 6 stands out as an excellent choice. This sneaker offers outstanding traction, ensuring you stay steady on your feet throughout the day. Based on my experience, they also prove to be highly durable, providing long-lasting wear.

The upper construction impresses me, striking a perfect balance between a snug fit and durability without feeling constrictive. Thanks to the perforated mesh upper, your feet enjoy continuous breathability, a definite plus in my book. For someone whose body always runs warm, having that kind of breeze feels good.

Furthermore, the speed lacing keeps your feet securely locked in all day long. While this feature is particularly essential for individuals with narrower feet, those with average-width feet will also appreciate the added support.

These are super stable shoes that look great on the foot, at the office or on a stroll around the town. The wide base provides a good degree of support, which surpasses most other On models in terms of stability, but falls short compared to some competing stability shoes from other brands.

Trail walking demands a shoe with ample protection and exceptional traction, precisely what the Cloudhorizon delivers. The outsole features deep lugs crafted from high-quality rubber, ensuring your feet remain safe from any troublesome rocks or sharp sticks. Surprisingly, these shoes are quite technical, allowing for precise navigation on the trail, whether you’re jumping over rocks or other obstacles, all without feeling cumbersome.

While On offers various trail shoes, I prefer the Cloudhorizon because it lacks an ankle cuff. If you’re embarking on a more relaxed trail walk, these shoes are an excellent choice. They also boast a relatively lightweight design (for trail shoes), tipping the scales at 390 grams, which I find quite appealing.

However, it’s worth mentioning that these shoes tend to be on the stiff side, particularly if you’re accustomed to more cushioned trail sneakers. Additionally, I’ve encountered some difficulty in keeping the Cloudhorizon clean, especially the mesh upper, which tends to collect dirt and mud during a trail walk.