Published Updated
On Cloudnova is a lightweight lifestyle sneaker for buyers who like On's clean athletic look. It is comfortable casually, but owners report squeaking and firm foam constant squeaking from On Cloudnova 2, so it is not the best pick for serious running.
On launched in Zurich in 2010 around the CloudTec pod sole, and for a decade the brand stayed firmly in the running lane. The Cloudnova arrived as part of On's deliberate push into lifestyle wear, pairing that performance-derived midsole with a chunkier, fashion-aware silhouette. It rode the early-2020s wave of athletic brands chasing everyday closets, and a later Form version with a sock-like upper extended the line further into casual territory.
Generally, Cloudnova fits true to size for standard-width feet. The forefoot can still create friction for some buyers, and there is no wide option to solve that cleanly, a point echoed in On everyday-shoe discussion. If you are between full and half sizes, test the size that gives your toes a little more room.
Mostly, Cloudnova is comfortable for travel days built around airports, errands, and city walking, and owners pick it for exactly that kind of trip new pick up for my upcoming India trip. The Zero-Gravity foam feels lighter and firmer than plush running foam, so it will not suit everyone for very long step counts. It is a clean walking sneaker first, not a max-cushion recovery shoe.
No, Cloudnova is not the right main running shoe. The performance-inspired sole and mesh upper look athletic, but On positions Cloudnova variants as everyday shoes. If you need miles, choose a running-specific On model instead.
Cloudnova differs from Cloud 6 mainly in shape and presence: it has a more sneaker-like silhouette with stronger lifestyle appeal, while Cloud 6 is lighter and easier for quick on-off daily use. Choose Cloudnova if you want a shoe that holds its own with casual office or travel outfits and you are styling it in neutral colors; pick Cloud 6 if breezy, minimal everyday wear matters more, since Cloudnova feels less airy by comparison.
Cloudnova is a poor match for anyone bothered by squeaking, firm cushioning, or the lack of a wide fit. Owners have documented persistent squeaking on Cloudnova 2 constant squeaking from On Cloudnova 2, and buyers wanting a softer On walking shoe should look harder at Cloudtilt.
Claims in the guide text link directly to these Reddit threads and article sources.
Cloudnova guide
Read the guide and compare active prices, sizes, and stores.
Browse the On Running Buyer's Guide
See the full On Running Buyer's Guide on SoleFeed.
On Cloudtilt
Softer city-walking comfort with stronger travel-first positioning.
On Cloud 6
Lighter daily option with easier on-off convenience.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14
Stronger fashion traction with proven all-day comfort.
