If we say On Running, what comes to mind? Chances are, it's the brand's unique cloud-shaped sole. A true identity forged over the years. A look back is in order.
It all began in the Swiss Alps in the early 2000s. Former triathlete Olivier Bernhard, then retired, was looking to invent a running shoe offering new sensations. Keen to create a pair with "soft cushioning" and "dynamic thrust", he developed a prototype by gluing pieces of garden hose (!) to the outsole.
2010 marks a turning point for the Swiss brand. Caspar Coppetti and David Allemann joined the adventure, and the concept of "running on the clouds" was born. The beginnings of a revolution in the world of running.
Cushioned landings, explosive thrusts: the aim is to create the best-performing shoe possible using the most advanced technologies, all with a Swiss design. The prototypes are then reworked and the success story begins.
The ISPO Brandnew Award, a real gas pedal for On
A few weeks later, the brand received a prestigious award: theISPO BrandNew Awardthe world's largest platform for start-ups in the sports and outdoor industry. A veritable growth gas pedal for start-ups, ISPO has already honored GoPro in previous years. And that's just the beginning.
The "On Clouds" was born and unanimously welcomed as a revolution in the running market. The brand quickly set up an international distribution network and saw its sales take off. 14 years later, On has sold over 17 million products, achieved sales of one billion dollars, been floated on the stock market and is now able to compete with industry giants Nike and Adidas. Co-founder Caspar Coppetti has one ambition: "We dream of becoming number one.
Roger Federer joins the On adventure in 2019
Meanwhile, Roger Federer joins the board of the Zurich-based brand as entrepreneur and investor. A real international boost for On. No classic sponsorship here, the legend of 20 Grand Slam titles is investing for entrepreneurial reasons, as he explains: "I'm excited about being part of the On Running team and working on the future of a new-generation sports brand."
The result of this partnership is the THE ROGER.
Technological innovation, On's superpower
"Running on clouds isn't just a slogan. Put your foot in any On shoe and you'll see what we're talking about." It's a promise that the Swiss brand is putting into practice with a precise mission: to revolutionize running by bringing innovative ideas to life through the power of cutting-edge technology. Quite a program.
The secret behind ON shoes? Patented technology CloudTec® where it all began. Designed for soft landings and powerful takeoffs, this technology eases every stride and offers a totally unique and revolutionary cushioning system. In a nutshell: it makes you feel like you're running on clouds.
The proof? The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich conducted a study in May 2011 to prove that theefficiency shoes using this technology. As a result, athletes who tested the On products had lower pulse and blood lactate levels during exercise than athletes wearing different shoes. How about that?
Constantly striving for innovation since its inception in 2010, On is constantly pushing back the boundaries and establishing itself as a trailblazing brand in the running world.
Is it possible to make products without fossil fuels?
Technological innovation is great, but eco-responsibility is even better! Here's an overview of the brand's three pillars on the subject (and without greenwashing, I promise!):
Use alternative materials. Material production accounts for around 80 % of a shoe's carbon footprint. Innovative, sustainable solutions exist. The technology CleanCloud™ is a perfect example: it transforms carbon emissions into high-performance products.
The creation of circular systems. The aim is to design products that can be used and reused. In terms of concrete projects, the On Cyclon™ is the first zero-waste (recyclable and recycled) shoes available by subscription. Designed to be reincarnated as a new product, the principle is simple: every 6 months, simply return your worn pair and we'll send you a new, recycled pair. Ingenious, isn't it?
Encouraging responsible production means reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions in the supply chain. The technology Speedboard® has been completely redesigned to meet these challenges.
Find the brand on Private Sport Shop until 01/10/2023.