Best On Trail Running Shoes of 2026: Which Model Should You Buy?

On's Amazon listings list almost no specs and its website loads products by script, so these boxes use listing titles and attribute tables only.

1. Best Overall: On Cloudsurfer Trail 2

On Mens Cloudsurfer Trail 2

• Ride: cushioned and lightweight (listing)
• Uses: trail running and hiking (listing)
• Weather: not water resistant

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Why it made the list: The Cloudsurfer Trail 2 is the newest version of On's soft-riding trail shoe, and the listing tags it for both trail running and hiking. It is highly rated by buyers, with only a few ratings. For runners coming from On's road shoes, it is the most natural step onto dirt.

Highlights:

• Newest generation of On's cushioned trail line
• Light build for everyday runs
• Doubles as a hiking shoe

Trade-off:

• A modest rating pool so far

Best for: Runners who want On's cushioned feel on groomed and mixed trails.

2. Best Budget (Under $150): On Cloudultra 2

On Mens Cloudultra 2

• Ride: cushioned (listing)
• Uses: running and hiking (listing)
• Weather: not water resistant

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Why it made the list: On does not sell a current trail shoe under $100, so we raised this award to under $150, and the Cloudultra 2 is the lowest-priced current On trail model we found. Its name points at ultra distances, and it has the largest rating pool of our three, with a strong buyer rating from hundreds of ratings.

Highlights:

• Highest star rating of our picks
• Built with long distances in mind
• Lowest price in On's current trail line

Trade-off:

• The listing gives very few technical details

Best for: Long-distance runners who want On's trail feel for less.

3. Best Premium / Upgrade Pick: On Cloudsurfer Trail 2 Waterproof

On Mens Cloudsurfer Trail 2 Waterproof

• Weather: waterproof (listing)
• Uses: trail running and hiking (listing)
• Base: Cloudsurfer Trail 2 platform

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Why it made the list: This is the waterproof version of our top pick, which makes it the upgrade for rainy seasons, dewy mornings and shoulder-season snow. It costs more than the standard shoe and is well rated by buyers, with only a few ratings. If your trails stay dry, the regular version breathes better.

Highlights:

• Waterproof build for wet trails
• Same platform as our Overall pick
• Good for cold-weather runs

Trade-off:

• Runs warmer and has fewer ratings than the standard version

Best for: Runners in wet climates who want dry feet on the trail.

We did not test these shoes hands-on. We looked at the newest generation of each On trail line sold new on Amazon US, then compared listing attributes, star ratings with rating volume, and price. Older versions with a newer model available, like the first Cloudsurfer Trail and the Cloudvista 2, were left out.

Type

• Cushioned: thick foam for long runs and hard-packed trails, like most On models.
• Zero drop: heel and forefoot level; the On listings do not state drop, so check On's spec page.
• Waterproof: a membrane for wet and cold runs; less breathable.
• Wide: check size options; not every On trail model comes in wide.
• Lightweight: less foam and thinner uppers for faster running.
• Carbon plate: a stiff plate for propulsion on race-focused models.
• Minimalist: thin soles and more ground feel; not On's focus.

Fit & sizing tips

Try trail shoes late in the day with running socks. You want a secure midfoot and heel for downhills, and enough toe room that your toes do not hit the front on descents.

Waterproof vs breathable

Breathable mesh drains after stream crossings and stays cooler in summer. Waterproof uppers keep feet dry in cold rain and light snow but hold sweat in heat.

Layering & season

Merino or synthetic running socks work year-round. Add low trail gaiters for sand, scree or snow.

Care & durability

Pick stones out of the outsole after each run, rinse off mud and air dry away from heat.

How much should you spend?

• Under $100: no current On trail running shoe sells new at this price; only older models on sale.
• Under $150: the Cloudultra 2 and occasional deals on other On trail models. The Cloudsurfer Trail 2 and its waterproof version cost a bit more.

On trail running shoes models compared by focus:

The Cloudvista 3 is new on Amazon with only a few ratings (a strong buyer rating from 3), so we mention it rather than rank it. Which On trail running shoes is best? Cloudsurfer Trail 2 for most runners.

What is the best on trail running shoes?

The Cloudsurfer Trail 2 is our pick for most runners. It is the newest version of On's cushioned trail shoe, listed as lightweight and suited to both trail running and hiking, and it is highly rated by buyers, with only a few ratings.

Is on a good trail running shoes brand?

Yes, especially for runners who like soft cushioning. Are On trail running shoes good for technical mountain terrain? That depends on whether you prefer soft cushioning or a firmer shoe with deeper lugs for steep, rocky ground. If you have read on trail running shoes reviews, our practical answer stays the same: fit and terrain decide.

Which on trail running shoes should I buy?

Pick the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 for everyday trail running, the Cloudultra 2 for long distances and the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 Waterproof for wet seasons. Watch listings for an On trail running shoes sale, since prices vary a lot by color and size.

How long do trail running shoes last?

No official lifespan figure is published. Foam compresses and lugs wear down with every mile, and rocky terrain wears shoes faster than soft dirt. Replace them when the tread is smooth, the cushioning feels flat or you notice new aches after runs.

Are expensive trail running shoes worth it?

Sometimes. Higher prices can bring waterproof membranes, better outsole rubber or newer foams. For easy trails and a few runs a week, a well-rated mid-priced shoe is often enough. Pay more for features your terrain and weather actually need.

How do you clean trail running shoes?

Remove the laces and insoles, knock off dried mud and pick stones from the outsole. Scrub with a soft brush, cool water and mild soap, then rinse. Stuff with newspaper and air dry at room temperature. Avoid washing machines and dryers, which can damage foam and glue.

What is the most reliable brand of trail running shoes?

Hoka, Salomon, Brooks, Altra and On all make well-rated trail running shoes. Reliability depends on the model and your fit more than the logo. Check ratings, warranty terms and the return policy on the listing before you buy.

The Cloudsurfer Trail 2 is the best on trail running shoes pick for most runners. The Cloudultra 2 is the lowest-priced current option, and the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 Waterproof is the upgrade for wet trails. Check price on Amazon for each. For other brands, see our best trail running shoes guide, plus our best trail running shoes for men, best trail running shoes for women and best trail running shoes for hiking picks. Shopping for the best on trail running shoes 2026 lineup? Start with the Cloudsurfer Trail 2.