On's No. 1 Bestselling Running Shoe Is Now Under $100 and Has 'Significantly Better' Arch Support Than Nikes

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In the last two years, On’s athletic sneakers have soared in popularity, reaching levels typically only seen by brands like Nike or Asics, among others. But as trends in running shoes shift toward lighter-weight models, brands like On have come to the forefront with styles like the aptly named Cloud 5, which recently received a rare discount.

Right now, On is hosting a last-season sale that features a handful of styles like the responsive Cloudswift and the waterproof Cloudvista, but it’s the Cloud 5 that shoppers can’t get enough of. Right now, the On Cloud 5 is on sale in a handful of colorways for just $90—a rare 30% discount off the original price of $140. This style is one of the brand’s bestsellers across the board, even at stores like Zappos and Nordstrom—and with good reason. 

On Cloud 5 Men’s Running Shoes in Ox/Shadow, $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 Glacier/Reseda, $90 (was $140) at On

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.