The History of On Running: How Cloud Shoes Were Born in the Swiss Alps

The History of On Running & On Cloud Shoes

On Cloud shoes have become a global favourite for runners and everyday wearers alike—and it’s easy to see why. Behind the sleek design and signature cushioning is a unique origin story that starts in the Swiss Alps with a retired athlete chasing a completely new feeling in running.

The Origins of On Running

Have you ever imagined what it feels like to run on clouds? That idea came from Swiss athlete Olivier Bernhard, the co-founder of On.

Bernhard didn’t set out to build just another running shoe. Instead, he wanted to recreate the sensation of effortless running—something lighter, softer, and more responsive than anything on the market.

With no formal background in shoe design, his earliest prototype was far from polished. It featured unusual additions like pieces of garden hose glued to the outsole of a standard running shoe. While it didn’t look refined, it helped achieve the feeling he was searching for: soft landings with a powerful push-off.

He later teamed up with David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti, and together they founded On Holding AG in 2010.

In just over a decade, On has grown rapidly into a globally recognised performance brand, even becoming one of the fastest-growing athletic footwear companies in the U.S. Much of this success comes down to one thing: a distinctive ride experience paired with strong design and everyday comfort.

From Alpine Idea to Global Movement

What started as a simple idea in the Swiss Alps has evolved into one of the most recognisable names in modern footwear.

Today, On continues to blend performance innovation, minimalist design, and sustainability—creating shoes that are just as suited for daily life as they are for running performance.

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