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The On Cloud 6 continues On Running’s mission to deliver a lightweight, comfortable, and stylish lifestyle shoe for people who are constantly on the move.
I’ve worn every version of the Cloud since its earliest days, and while the core design philosophy hasn’t changed, the tweaks in this sixth version make it a bit more comfortable, a bit more inclusive in fit, and slightly more refined for everyday life.
Like the Cloud 5, this isn’t a shoe built for performance running, but rather for commuting, travel, errands, or just standing and walking around all day, especially if you appreciate the option to break into a jog when the dog bolts or you’re running late for something.
Key specifications
- Price: $160 at On.com
- Weight: 9.6oz (272g) for a US Men’s 9 (my pair)
- Drop: 8mm
- Upper: Recycled polyester mesh with TPU overlays, new wider entry design
- Midsole: Bio-attributed Zero-Gravity CloudTec® foam with Speedboard® (Nylon 6)
- Outsole: Rubber patches on heel and forefoot, CloudTec pods with updated shaping
- Extra Attributes:
- Speed lacing system (plus traditional laces in box)
- Wider toe box and entry for improved fit
- New insert for easier step-in
Sizing and fit
The Cloud 6 fits true to size and now includes a slightly wider forefoot and overall upper shape, which is great news if the Cloud 5 felt a bit snug on your feet.
The upper construction provides a comfortable wrap, and the padded heel collar feels noticeably more secure.
If you’ve got higher volume feet or mild bunions, the extra space up front will be a welcome change.
Performance review
Let’s be clear, this is not a performance running shoe, and On isn’t trying to position it as one.
It’s a lifestyle shoe through and through, but one that makes walking feel easy and breezy.
That signature CloudTec® pod midsole delivers the familiar ride: soft landings that compress under your foot, followed by a little pop as you transition forward.
It’s still using the Zero-Gravity foam, but now it incorporates 50% bio-based materials from renewable feedstocks, which helps reduce the carbon footprint without changing the feel too much.
The Speedboard® in the midsole does add a touch of structure, helping the shoe hold shape and giving the ride a little more energy return than your average slip-on.
It won’t feel springy, but it avoids that mushy, undercooked feel that some lifestyle shoes fall into.
I also appreciate the changes to the heel collar and geometry, they subtly improve overall comfort.
The padded heel feels kind on the Achilles and helps secure the rearfoot more naturally, which I think will be especially helpful for anyone with heel sensitivity or issues like bursitis.
The outsole gets small but meaningful tweaks, too.
Like the Cloud 5, there are rubber patches on the forefoot and heel (with the rest being less durable exposed foam), and the pods are angled to reduce debris collection but stand on the perfect size stone on a gravel path and you can stick pick one up.
Traction is solid for dry and wet urban surfaces, although the lack of full outsole coverage means it may wear down faster in high-friction areas over time.
One of the standout updates is the wider entry and new sockliner, which genuinely makes the shoe easier to slip on, especially when paired with the elastic speed lacing system.
If you want to learn how to tighten On’s speed laces, watch my video demonstration here.
You can still swap to traditional laces (included in the box), but honestly, the speed lacing is one of the reasons this shoe stays in my daily rotation, it’s just so convenient when you want to slip them on and GO.
Where the Cloud 6 falls a bit short is in all-day support for people standing long hours.
After extended periods, it’s possible that you might find the cushioning a little firm, particularly in the arch. It’s not as plush or structured as something like the Hoka Bondi 9 or Clifton 10, and I’d suggest aftermarket insoles if you need more arch support.
Durability is a bit of a mixed bag. The upper is very breathable and holds up well, even after extended wear, and the breathable mesh does a solid job reducing hotspots in warmer weather.
Lastly, while I appreciate the slightly more relaxed upper fit, visually the shoe does look a bit bulkier, especially in the forefoot. This may not bother most people, but it’s worth noting if you prefer a more tapered silhouette.
My verdict
At $160, the On Cloud 6 isn’t cheap (you’re paying for that premium brand logo), but it refines one of On’s most iconic lifestyle shoes with thoughtful tweaks that improve comfort, entry, and fit without abandoning the core ride and aesthetic that made it popular.
It’s still a great pick for:
- Daily wear around the city
- Those who work in the service industry, on their feet all day if you don’t mind a firm feel
- Light walks and casual movement
- Travel, errands, and quick slip-on moments
- People who want a shoe that bridges comfort and design
If you already love the Cloud line, this is a welcome evolution. But if you’re after more underfoot support or plan to be on your feet for 10+ hours a day, something like the Cloudsurfer 2 or even Cloudsurfer Max, might suit you better.
To learn more about how I rate each On Cloud running shoe for different types of runs, and ultimately which the best ones are, read my Best On Running Shoes roundup, next.
For my needs, including light movement, walking Kepler, wearing something I’m happy to be seen in, the On Cloud remains a solid choice in my rotation.
