The 6 Best On Shoes for Walking of 2026, Tested By Fitness Editors and Podiatrists
Our best overall? The Cloudrunner 3.
Reviewed by Christian GollayanStyle and Reviews DirectorExpert consulted: Bradley Schaeffer, DPMPodiatrist
Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. Why Trust Us?
As a Women’s Health style writer, I regularly test the latest releases from all the major sneaker brands. On kicks are some of my favorites, and our editors and A-list celebs love ‘em too (including Zendaya). The Swiss brand has seen impressive growth over the past year, becoming a major competitor among sneaker giants like Nike and Adidas. On’s signature CloudTec cushioning not only makes you feel like you’re “walking on clouds,” but it’s also right on trend and a major style statement for wellness girlies.
Best On Shoes for Walking
- Best Overall: On Cloudrunner 3
- Most Stylish: On Cloudtilt Remix
- Best Slip-On Sneakers: On Cloudnova Form 2
- Best for Wide Feet: On Cloudmonster 3
- Best for Cross-Training: On Cloud X 4
We've named these kicks some of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, but after vigorous testing, we absolutely love On shoes for walking, too. Podiatrist Brad Schaeffer, DPM, says he walks around the city daily in his On sneakers because they make him feel supported and comfortable and accommodate his Dr. Scholl's insoles. "Thanks to the thicker sole and rounded heel, they provide that perfect mix of function, stability, and cushion without sacrificing any category," he says.
On has a large roster of comfortable sneakers, so it can be tricky to know where to start to find the perfect pair. That's why we tapped Schaeffer, podiatrist Daniel Geller, DPM, and Women's Health fitness editors to give us the lowdown on what to look for when shopping for the best On Cloud shoes for walking. In this case, weight, cushion, stability, and heel-to-toe drop.
Keep reading to see our favorites, and be sure to check out our 4-Week Walking Plan for the perfect workout to break in your new kicks.
Best Deal
On Cloudrunner 3
On Cloudrunner 3
Pros
- Lightweight without slacking on support
- Well-cushioned without feeling too bouncy
- Does not cause chafing or blisters
Cons
- Heaviest shoe on this list
After testing several pairs of On shoes, the Cloudrunner 3—a cushier, more supportive upgrade from the Cloudrunner 2—takes the top spot for a few key reasons. Andriakos has tested more than a dozen On shoes and says the Cloudrunner 3 has become a go-to in her sneaker collection lately. That’s because the shoe has a relatively lightweight feel with tons of stability.
That balance comes from the sole, which is made with On’s Helion Superfoam. This material, made from thermoplastic polyurethane, blends firm and flexible foam components to create a lightweight, responsive, and well-cushioned feel. The mix of stiffer and softer sections absorbs impact from every step and actually helps propel you forward. The Cloudrunner 3 is actually a touch heavier than its predecessor (by only .7 ounces), but we chalk it up to the upgraded plush heel collar and wider base that offer a bit more comfort and stability. I’ve noticed this shoe is super durable, holding up to months of wear and tear on city sidewalks. During my walks in this shoe, I appreciate that I don’t feel overly bouncy, but the cushioning is still noticeable and light enough to help me feel grounded.
“At nine months pregnant, I need to prioritize stability and comfort over everything else in a sneaker right now, and the On Cloudrunner 3s delivered for me,” Andriakos says. “It feels firm and supportive (and not overly cushioned), which has noticeably reduced my pelvic and low back pain when I’m on my feet all day and walking a lot.” She’s also been wearing it for hybrid strength-and-cardio workouts, and while it’s not a super-flat traditional lifting shoe, the fairly neutral sole and structured shape and feel make it surprisingly versatile. “Plus, the toe box is on the wider side and roomy enough for my swollen feet, so my toes can actually breathe,” Andriakos adds.
Read more: Best Walking Shoes
| Weight | 8.8 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 8 mm |
| Cushioning | Medium |
| Stability | Max |
| Colors | 8 |
On Cloudtilt Remix
On Cloudtilt Remix
Pros
- Great for walkers who like a soft underfoot feel
- Super stylish and great for everyday wear
- Easy to slip on and off
Cons
- Layered mesh upper may be difficult to keep clean
After about four months of testing an alarming amount of shoes, the On Cloudtilt Remix is my everyday go-to. That’s because this sneaker teakes everything we love about the original Cloudtilt and gives it a fashion-forward upgrade with a techy upper designed with “X-ray layers,” or semi-transparent mesh overlays that look super sleek.
This shoe is basically built for walking, too, thanks to the CloudTec Phase midsole, a walking-focused cushioning system designed so each “cloud” compresses in sequence, delivering a smooth, plush ride. The result is an exceptionally smooth heel-to-toe transition that feels natural and effortless during long days on your feet. It also has a moderate 7 mm heel-to-toe drop, meaning it distributes weight evenly throughout the lower body and helps keep the foot in a neutral walking position, making it a pretty universal pick.
Underfoot, the cushioning lands squarely in the Goldilocks zone. The Helion superfoam provides plenty of impact absorption, but the ride never feels overly soft or marshmallow-like. Instead, it delivers a lightly responsive, cushioned feel that keeps your feet comfortable during long walks, travel days, and hours of sightseeing without sacrificing ground feel or stability. Lightweight, stylish, and genuinely built for all-day movement, the Cloudtilt Remix is the On sneaker I reach for when I want my shoes to work as hard as the rest of my outfit. The sleek, streamlined look is super easy to style with everything from tennis skirts to joggers to track pants. If you ask me, it’s kinda the perfect shoe that combines everything on this list into one sleek kick.
My one note is that I worry about the layered mesh upper being difficult to clean if the shoe gets too dirty. Luckily, I’ve managed to keep it pretty clean, but I avoid wearing this shoe in wet weather or otherwise messy conditions.
Read More: On Cloudtilt Remix Review
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 7 mm |
| Cushioning | Medium |
| Stability | Medium |
| Colors | 6 |
On Cloudnova Form 2
On Cloudnova Form 2
Pros
- Easily slides on and off
- Feels grounded and not bouncy
- Breathable materials for air circulation
Cons
- Runs a bit small
Hate tying your shoes? The Cloudnova Form 2 might be your new favorite—thanks to its easy slip-on, slip-off design, which Andriakos swears by. That said, it still has laces if you want to tighten things up for a more secure fit. This is my everyday shoe when I’m heading out the door to run errands or pop out for a walk but don’t feel like wearing anything bulky or something that needs a full lace adjustment (just lazy girl things!). It looks super cute with sweatpants and leggings, and a boxy t-shirt on top.
Comfort-wise, the Cloudnova Form is a win right out of the box. During my testing, I found that there was no break-in period needed (big ups). The moderately cushioned sole is super balanced, which makes it ideal for long walks and power strolls, and Andriakos especially likes that it doesn’t have the super-prominent “bubble” look that many On shoes are known for. Instead, it has a lower-cut silhouette that feels a bit more grounded and less bouncy.
Another plus: It’s made with a breathable mesh upper and a soft microfiber tongue, so your feet stay cool and comfortable even on warm days. On the downside, it runs small, so it’s a good idea to size it up by half. Also worth noting: it has a high heel-to-toe drop (14 mm), which can put extra stress on the knees and hips. If you deal with pain in those areas, you might want to skip this one.
| Weight | 8.7 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 14 mm |
| Cushioning | Max |
| Stability | Medium |
| Colors | 5 |
On Cloudmonster 3
On Cloudmonster 3
Pros
- Spacious toe box despite no wide sizing
- Breathable materials to help combat sweat
- Supremely cushioned
Cons
- Low heel-to-toe drop not the best for heel-strikers
On only offers wide sizing for certain models, but this shoe has a spacious toe box for a roomy fit. Accardi has bunions and never experiences pain when wearing it. “Most sneakers that don’t come in wide sizing tend to irritate and rub against my bunions, which makes them throb, but not the Cloudmonster,” she says. “The toe box is surprisingly a perfect fit and lets me walk around for hours pain-free.”
This new version of the shoe delivers a cradling sensation while the foam slightly compresses to conform to your feet. The sensation is pillow-like under the foot while also offering a stable feel. Appleton notes that it's her all-time fave On walking shoe for its high-stack cushion, meaning it has a very thick foam between your foot and the ground. The 3 gets back to the Cloudmonster’s roots and becomes a good running shoe for intermediate to advanced runners again. That’s thanks to a speedboard that promotes a forward rolling motion, along with the aforementioned maxed cushioning. This has added a little weight from the last model (6.6 ounces to 8.5), so you don’t have to worry about this shoe holding you back during long walks or runs.
"Whenever I want to feel super comfortable in my shoes but don't want that tight, locked-in feeling like I do when I'm running, the Cloudmonster is my go-to," Appleton says. She wore the shoe while moving into her fourth-floor Brooklyn walk-up, and notes it kept her feet comfortable all day. And while it’s great for getting your steps in, this shoe has that chunky look that’s super on trend right now. I love pairing it with tailored pants and a boxy t-shirt on top for that upgraded activewear vibe.
The heel-to-toe drop is also on the smaller side at six millimeters, which Accardi says distributes impact evenly on the knees, hips, and ankles. “As someone with knee issues, taking the load off my knees is essential, especially post-run,” she says. If you’re a heel striker and don’t struggle with pain in these areas, the Cloudrunner 2 could be a better fit.
Read More: On Cloudmonster 3 Review
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 8.5 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 6 mm |
| Cushioning | Medium |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Colors | 13 |
On Cloud X 4
On Cloud X 4
Pros
- Can handle long walks and cross-training workouts
- Secure and supportive
- Mesh upper keeps feet dry
Cons
- 7 mm heel drop not ideal for lifting, but works well for walking workouts
If your workouts don’t fit neatly into one category, the On Cloud X 4 is the sneaker you’ll want on standby. Designed specifically for mixed training, it’s comfortable, responsive, and stable, making it equally suited for walking, HIIT training, and gym sessions. Unlike some of On’s chunkier models, the Cloud X 4 has a slightly lower-profile silhouette that looks and feels sleeker on foot, pairing easily with everyday outfits and activewear.
The shoe features On’s signature CloudTex cushioning, which delivers a comfortable, impact-absorbing ride without feeling overly squishy. Andriakos, who logs a high daily step count, says it’s become one of her favorite shoes for long walks because the cushioning feels nice and plush while maintaining a grounded feel. “The mesh upper is super breathable, so my feet don’t feel overheated and sweaty after long walks, and small design details (like the cool X lace pattern from above!) make it feel really polished,” she says.
The supportive lacing system creates a secure, locked-in feel that feels stable during lateral movements and dynamic workouts. “I’ve worn it to HIIT classes, and it feels super supportive, though I’d still opt for a flatter, more structured shoe for traditional lifting,” Andriakos says. The mesh upper is a nice touch, too, keeping things super breathable so your feet don’t get overheated or sweaty on long walks.
| Weight | 7. 9 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 7 mm |
| Cushioning | Medium |
| Stability | High |
| Colors | 8 |
On Cloud 6 Coast
On Cloud 6 Coast
Pros
- Breathable and ventilated
- Featherlight comfort
- Great for packing and travel
Cons
- Doesn't provide much ankle or arch support
The On Cloud 6 Coast is a refreshed take on the brand’s classic On Cloud—but this ultra-lightweight version takes it even further. It keeps all the upgrades of the latest model, including the original slip-on, no-lace design and On’s signature CloudTec cushioning system. The big win here? It weighs in at just 6.5 ounces. That means your ultra-cushioned shoe is now perfect for traveling, long days on your feet, or hot, humid commutes. It’s built with an updated mesh that’s super breathable and ventilated—you can even wear this shoe barefoot!
It also features a wider opening for a more inclusive, easy-on fit. I really appreciated this feature as a wide-footed girly. It also has a moderate heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm, making it a great universal walking shoe. Bottom line: this shoe is made to handle just about anything, which makes it a must-have in your rotation.
This shoe has a medium cushion level for that sweet spot that’s comfortable and light on your feet without being overly plush. The CloudTex midsole does a great job absorbing impact, making it a solid choice for everything from sightseeing and airport sprints to casual daily walks. The lightweight build almost disappears on your foot, which is exactly what you want when you’re packing light or spending hours exploring.
The tradeoff for all that packability and featherlight comfort is support. The flexible upper and minimalist construction can feel a bit flimsy compared to more structured walking shoes, especially if you need extra arch support or stability.
| Weight | 6.5 oz |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 8 mm |
| Cushioning | Low |
| Stability | Low |
| Colors | 3 |
What to Consider
Weight
On sneakers are extremely comfortable, but Schaffer says that's because most of its shoes have a bit of weight to them. If a shoe is too lightweight (under four ounces), it sacrifices function and stability, he says. But, don't get it twisted—these don't feel like bricks on your feet either. Most On shoes are between four and 10 ounces, which means they're the perfect medium weight that doesn’t slack on support.
Heel-To-Toe-Drop
A heel-to-toe drop, sometimes called a midsole drop, is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot (toe area). Schaeffer says to look for a walking shoe with a heel-to-toe drop that puts your foot in a neutral position, which will be different for everyone’s unique foot and step pattern.
- High heel-to-toe drop: If you have shin splints, arch or heel pain, or plantar fasciitis (a foot condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot), a higher heel drop is beneficial. Schaeffer says that opting for a drop higher than eight millimeters (hi, Cloudnova Form 2) can take pressure away from the heels when walking or running, which can alleviate foot aches.
- Low heel-to-toe drop: If you don't struggle with foot pain or conditions, you can opt for something flatter, around seven millimeters, like the Cloudtilt Remix. Lower drops cause more impact on the ankles, while higher drops put more stress on the knees and hips.
Stability
Support and stability are the number one qualities you should look for in a walking shoe, says Geller. He notes that when arches are supported, you create an "excellent" platform to launch from, meaning the feet are in the ideal position for takeoff and landing. This can help avoid foot injuries down the line.
Geller also says that many good walking shoes, including motion control shoes, will have medial posting—a firm wedge in the arch that holds up the heel—and firm cushioning for more support. "Firmer cushioning will resist the inward roll of the foot [overpronation], controlling the knees and hips better," he says.
If stability is a priority for you, also consider shoes with a broader sole to minimize excess movement. The increased material along the sides and front of your foot creates a wider platform, which is naturally resistant to feet rolling or wobbling, says Geller. In other words, it's a great feature for walkers who overpronate.
Cushioning
"Whenever you’re looking for a good walking shoe, you want to find a great mix of comfort and stability," says Schaeffer. You want a shoe that’s comfortable on your feet, but the level of cushioning will vary depending on your specific foot needs.
- Low cushioning: Low levels of cushioning in a sneaker are more lightweight and are great for those who prefer a more barefoot feel. They don’t have as much shock absorption as their medium or high-cushioned counterparts, which can be useful for speed walking or longer walks. Most On shoes have medium or high cushioning, but the Cloud 6 Coast is a great option for low cushion and support.
- Medium cushioning: Medium levels of cushioning offer a good balance of support and comfort. Along with low cushioning, it’s a good option for those looking to keep their feet in neutral alignment and prevent ankles from rolling inward or outward. The Cloudrunner 3 offers a medium cushion that doesn’t skimp on comfort thanks to the CloudTec technology.
- High cushioning: Shoes with a high level of cushioning often have a thicker midsole with a super plush, soft feel. These shoes are great for spending long hours on your feet since they absorb shock well and help avoid foot fatigue. The Cloudnova Form has some of the highest cushioning we’ve seen in a shoe, but is surprisingly lightweight and doesn’t slack on support.
Is It Bad to Wear Running Shoes for Walking?
Wearing running shoes for walking isn’t inherently bad, but it’s not always the best idea either. Shoes designed specifically for running tend to have significantly more cushioning to absorb the higher impact that comes with each stride. “This isn't necessary for walking and reduces your feel of the ground, which is problematic for those with any balance issues or previous falls," Milica McDowell, a doctor of physical therapy, previously told Women’s Health.
Running shoes often have a very tight fit for higher performance, a narrow toe box, or are highly supported in the arch, which are features a lifestyle walker does not need, says McDowell. That’s why, in most cases, walkers are recommended to opt for a shoe designed specifically for walking (or one labeled for walking and running).
How We Chose
To curate a list of the best On walking shoes, I tested On kicks for two years, alongside fitness contributor Talene Appleton, NASM-CPT, fitness contributor Nicolette Accardi, NASM-CPT, style contributor Lily Wohlner, and executive health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos.
We wore them during long and short walks for at least several hours at a time. We evaluated each shoe based on:
- Heel-to-toe drop
- Cushioning
- Stability
- Weight
I also sought advice from two podiatrists on what to look for when shopping for the best shoes for walking, as well as their professional thoughts on our favorite On picks.
We originally had three picks in this guide when we first wrote this article in May 2024, but added three more favorites to this list after two years of additional testing. We found that the new and older winners all provide top-notch comfort, cushioning, support, and stability through all our long walks.
Meet the Experts
- Daniel Geller, DPM, is a podiatrist and chief medical officer at Kane Footwear
- Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a board-certified foot surgeon and owner of Central Park Sole in New York City.
Shop More of Our Favorite Sneakers
Best Hoka Shoes For Walking | Best Brooks Shoes for Walking | Best Skechers For Walking | Best Motion Control Shoes | Best Treadmill Walking Shoes | Best Walking Shoes For Flat Feet | Best Walking Shoes For Women | Best Cross Training Sneakers | Most Comfortable Shoes | Walking Shoes For Women Over 50| Best Nike Walking Shoes
Shannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women's Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.
Derm-Approved Face Washes That Editors Actually Use
Hilary Duff Drops Reebok Activewear at Walmart
Shop Kerry Washington’s Exact Vuori Cover Look
The 9 Best Cooling Sheets, Tested by Editors
