On has long been a favorite among road runners for its lightweight construction and eye-catching design. With the release of the Cloudsoma, the Swiss athletic brand is now setting its sights on a different kind of runner: the curious beginner who wants to explore the trails without sacrificing comfort, style, or their wallet.
The Cloudsoma went on sale April 2nd through On’s website, priced at $180, in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Built for the Trail — and the Commute
The shoe introduces CloudTec Connect, On’s newest cushioning technology. Unlike traditional foam platforms, CloudTec Connect uses independently flexing pods that adjust to uneven ground in real time. For runners accustomed to the predictability of road surfaces, that kind of adaptive cushioning can make a significant difference when hitting dirt, roots, or rocks for the first time.
Underfoot stability is further supported by an updated Missiongrip outsole, which uses a new rubber compound and revised lug pattern engineered for grip on wet and muddy terrain. The Helion HF hyper foam midsole, running at a 6mm drop, keeps the foot close to the ground while still absorbing impact. A sock-style upper wraps snugly around the foot, reducing excess weight and improving lockdown.
Together, these features make the Cloudsoma approachable for newer trail runners — but they also translate remarkably well to everyday city wear. Uneven pavement, slick crosswalks, and long days on your feet are no match for a shoe designed to handle actual mud and roots.
A New Look for On
Longtime On fans will notice something different about the Cloudsoma’s silhouette. The brand’s signature cloud pods — those distinctive cutouts visible in the sole of most On shoes — are absent here. Instead, the Cloudsoma presents a unified, sleek outsole that reads more modern and versatile.
The colorway lineup reinforces that city-friendly aesthetic: Black/Black for the minimalists, Glacier/Pearl for a clean and understated look, Sandstone/Tangerine for those who want to stand out, and Sakura/Safari for something a little more unexpected.
Is $180 Worth It?
Trail running shoes at $200 and above are increasingly common in 2026, particularly where technical features drive up costs. At $180, the Cloudsoma sits at a relatively accessible price point for what it offers — especially given the dual-purpose usability. Runners who want one shoe that works on the trail Saturday morning and around the city the rest of the week will find the price easier to justify.
For first-time trail runners who aren’t ready to invest in highly technical, race-oriented footwear, the Cloudsoma fills a genuine gap. It doesn’t promise podium finishes, but it does promise a comfortable, sure-footed experience whether you’re navigating a muddy forest path or a wet city street. If you’re weighing your brand options, our Hoka vs On comparison is a good place to start — and if you’re still figuring out which type of running shoe is right for you, we’ve got you covered there too.
