On Running Cloud 5
Candle Safety
1. Trim your wick before burning your candle the first time and every subsequent burn thereafter.
2. We advise burning your candle for periods of no longer than three hours at a time.
3. Discontinue burning your candle when there is 10mm / 1cm of wax is remaining.
4. Always burn your candle on a stable and heat resistant surface, away from drafts or items that can catch alight.
5. Never leave a burning candle unattended, near children or pets.
6. If you’re burning more than one candle at a time, space your candles approximately 100mm (10cm) apart.
Description 225g · 8mm drop Our verdict Best for Tempo runs and uptempo training — light enough to move fast at 225g Runners Also ComparedMizuno Wave Rider 29230g · 8mm dropASICS Gel-Contend 9 Wide235g · 8mm dropadidas adizero Evo SL235g · 6mm dropFrom $229Altra Experience Flow235g · 4mm dropThe On Cloud 5 strips running shoes back to their essential purpose: comfortable daily miles without unnecessary complexity. Built around On’s signature CloudTec cushioning pods and a streamlined 277g frame, it’s engineered for runners who value lightness over max cushioning. The shoe’s distinctive hollow pods compress vertically on impact, then firm up for a responsive toe-off — a mechanical approach to cushioning that feels nothing like traditional foam midsoles. What sets the Cloud 5 apart from its stable of daily trainers is its commitment to versatility. The redesigned upper features a wider opening and more spacious fit than previous versions, while new bio-attributed Zero-Gravity foam delivers softer landings without adding weight. At 10mm drop with modest stack heights, it occupies the middle ground between minimal and maximal — enough protection for 10km runs, light enough for gym sessions. Here’s the editorial truth: the Cloud 5 excels at being inoffensive. It’s competent across multiple use cases without truly excelling at any. The CloudTec system provides decent impact protection for easy runs, but lacks the energy return of modern super foams. The upper breathes well and fits most foot shapes comfortably, yet feels premium enough to wear casually. At $200-240, you’re paying for Swiss engineering and lifestyle versatility rather than cutting-edge running performance. For dedicated runners logging 50 kilometres weekly, there are better options. For active professionals wanting one shoe for morning runs, gym sessions and weekend errands, the Cloud 5 makes compelling sense. Who It’s For Casual runners doing 3-4 runs per week under 10km — the moderate cushioning handles short distances without feeling clunky Fitness enthusiasts who split time between running and gym work — the stable platform and minimal 277g weight suit both activities Runners transitioning from lifestyle sneakers — familiar comfort with proper running shoe support Anyone prioritising all-day wearability — the refined aesthetic and comfortable fit work from morning run to evening out Who Should Skip It High-mileage runners needing maximum cushioning — the modest stack won’t protect through 20 kilometre runs. The HOKA Bondi 9 delivers proper long-run protection Runners seeking modern energy return — CloudTec feels dead compared to super foams. The ASICS Novablast 5 offers bouncy FlyteFoam Blast at the same price Anyone needing stability features — zero pronation control here. Look elsewhere for guided support Budget-conscious runners — at $200 , you’re paying lifestyle tax. The New Balance 1080v14 delivers superior cushioning for $30 less Key Specs Weight 277g (men’s UK 9) — impressively light for a daily trainer with decent cushioning Drop 10mm — higher than typical On shoes, promotes heel-striking patterns Midsole CloudTec pods with Zero-Gravity foam — unique mechanical cushioning system Upper Engineered mesh with wider fit — accommodates most foot shapes comfortably Best For Easy runs under 10km, gym sessions, all-day casual wear Price Intelligence The On Cloud 5 currently sells for $200 at Pace Athletic (down from $240 RRP — 17% discount), while JD Sports maintains full price at $240. This $40 saving at Pace Athletic represents solid value for a current-season On model, which rarely see deep discounts. At $200, it’s priced competitively against other lifestyle-oriented runners, though dedicated performance shoes offer better value for serious training. The 17% discount suggests either end-of-season clearance or competitive positioning — either way, it’s the best price we’ve tracked for this model in recent months. How It Compares Model Price (AU) Key Difference Best For ASICS Novablast 5 $199.99 Bouncy FlyteFoam Blast vs mechanical CloudTec Runners wanting energy return New Balance 1080v14 $169.99 Plush Fresh Foam X vs firmer CloudTec pods Long runs and max comfort HOKA Bondi 9 $260.00 Maximum stack height vs moderate cushioning Ultra-distance protection Value Rating (3/5) — The Cloud 5 delivers fair value at its $200 sale price, less so at $240 RRP. You’re paying a premium for Swiss design and lifestyle versatility rather than pure running performance. Competing daily trainers from ASICS and New Balance offer superior cushioning technology for similar or less money. However, few match the Cloud 5’s ability to transition seamlessly from morning run to office to evening gym session. For runners who value that versatility and appreciate the distinctive CloudTec feel, the current discount makes it worth considering. Pure performance seekers should look elsewhere. Further Reading Learn more about On’s running shoe lineup: On Running Cloudsurfer Australia Review Cloudflow 5 vs Cloudmonster 2 Comparison On Cloudsurfer 2026 Deep Dive Related products to consider: ASICS Novablast 5 — Bouncy alternative with better energy return New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 — Plush cushioning for less money HOKA Bondi 9 — Maximum cushioning for long-distance comfort

