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On Cloudnova Sneaks in with an All-Day Silhouette

Zurich-based running brand On’s bona fides may have been shaped and proven traversing the cragged and bucolic elevations of the Swiss Alps, but the shoemaker recognizes sportswear is really everyday wear today. The On Cloudnova is the company’s latest silhouette, an aesthetic and functional response to those inclined to wearing lightweight, all-day comfort capable of switching from leisurely walk to sprint mode in an instant.

On’s Co-Founder David Allemann describes the Cloudnova as a sneaker outfitted with the same proprietary CloudTec cushioned sole and an energy returning Speedboard molded plate as their running shoes, but one designed to adapt to “work, explor[ing] nature, and travel”. Of course, for the time being, these sneakers might also prove to be a comfortable option while working from home.

When asked about the impetus for designing the Cloudnova shoe, On’s Head of Design Thilo Brunner offered the amusing succinct recorded response from their Zurich studio:

Keen eyes will note various possible future Cloudnova colorways revealed during a segment of the video; at launch only Black Eclipse and White Umber editions will be made available.

Noting the fashion-directive behind the Cloudnova’s launch, the sneaker will be first released at streetwear pantheon, Dover Street Market, before extending out to other retail partners such as Bodega (USA), Shoe Gallery (USA), Machus (USA), Atmos (Japan), 43einhalb (Germany), and MATCHESFASHION (Worldwide).

The On Cloudnova launched in Black Eclipse and White Umber, with the first limited run selling out on their site, but a select few retailers have them available here.

Gregory Han is a Senior Editor at Design Milk. A Los Angeles native with a profound love and curiosity for design, hiking, tide pools, and road trips, a selection of his adventures and musings can be found at gregoryhan.com.