7 Shocking Reasons Why 'Last Season' On Cloud Shoes Are Your Smartest Buy In 2025

The secret is out: buying "last season" On Cloud shoes is the smartest strategy for runners and casual wearers in 2025. While the Swiss-engineered brand continuously rolls out new iterations like the Cloud 6 and Cloudmonster 2, the reality is that the previous generation often offers 90% of the performance at a significantly lower price point, sometimes up to 40% off the original retail price.

As of December 2025, the latest models are hitting shelves, pushing perfectly capable, high-performance shoes from the 2023 and 2024 lineups into the "Last Season" sale bin. This guide will walk you through the top models to hunt for right now, detailing the minimal differences between the older and newer versions to ensure you get the best possible value.

The Ultimate Last Season On Cloud Shoe Buyer's Guide: Top 7 Models to Hunt For

The term "Last Season" on the On Running website refers to shoes from previous collections that are being phased out to make room for new arrivals.

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This is where the savvy shopper wins, as you can score incredible deals on models that are still considered top-tier in terms of comfort, performance, and the signature Cloudtec feel. Here are the seven best "Last Season" On Cloud shoes you should be looking for in 2025:

1. The On Cloud 5 (The All-Day Icon): The quintessential all-day shoe. Its replacement, the Cloud 6, features a slightly wider fit and more cushioning, but the core experience of the Cloud 5 remains nearly identical, making it the best value for casual wear.
2. The On Cloudmonster 1 (The Maximalist Bargain): The original maximalist shoe with the biggest CloudTec elements. While the Cloudmonster 2 is now available, the v1 is often lighter and still provides an incredible, rockered ride for long runs.
3. The On Cloudrunner 1 (The Stability Steal): A fantastic mild-stability shoe for runners needing extra support. The Cloudrunner 2 has a newer foam, but the original is a great way to try the stability category at a deep discount.
4. The On Cloud X 3 (The Training Versatile): The predecessor to the Cloud X 4, this model is a perfect hybrid for gym workouts, short runs, and cross-training. It offers a firm, responsive feel that many athletes prefer over softer, newer models.
5. The On Cloudflow 3 (The Speed-Training Workhorse): Designed for tempo runs and faster training, the Cloudflow 3 is a nimble, responsive shoe. As newer versions take the spotlight, the Cloudflow 3 becomes a high-performance shoe at a daily trainer price.
6. The On Cloudultra (The Original Trail Titan): Before the Cloudultra 2, the original model was a top choice for long-distance trail running, featuring the unique FlipRelease™ tool for a customizable fit. It's a great choice for trail runners on a budget.
7. The On Cloudswift 3 (The Urban Runner): A model specifically tuned for city running and hard surfaces. The Cloudswift 3 is a solid, responsive shoe that can often be found at a significant markdown, perfect for those who log their miles on pavement.

Why Last Season Models Offer Unbeatable Value and Performance

The biggest misconception in the footwear market is that the newest version is always exponentially better. While Swiss-engineered performance running shoes from On do see incremental improvements, the core technology and design philosophy remain consistent. This is exactly why "Last Season" models are a smart investment.

1. Minimal Performance Gap with Massive Price Drops

The primary reason to choose a discounted "Last Season" On Cloud shoe is the price-to-performance ratio. You can save up to 40% on the retail price, and the performance difference is often negligible for the average user.

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• The Cloud 5 vs. Cloud 6 Example: The Cloud 6’s main improvements include a slightly wider fit and more cushioning in the tongue and heel. If you found the Cloud 5 comfortable, opting for the older model saves you money while delivering the same all-day comfort and sleek aesthetic.
• The Cloudmonster 1 vs. 2 Example: The Cloudmonster 2 is heavier but more stable laterally. If you prefer a lighter feel and already have a neutral gait, the Cloudmonster 1 is arguably the better shoe and is now available at a fraction of the cost.

The core technology—the CloudTec system, the responsive Speedboard, and the high-quality engineered mesh upper—is present and highly effective in the older models. You are essentially paying for a minor tweak in fit or a new colorway, not a complete overhaul of the shoe's fundamental performance.

2. Addressing Common Fit Issues with Older Versions

Sometimes, the "Last Season" model is actually the preferred fit for many wearers. Shoe companies often make changes based on mass feedback, which can alienate loyal fans of the previous design.

For instance, the original Cloud 5 was known for its snug fit. While the Cloud 6 was made wider to accommodate more feet, those with narrower feet or who preferred the classic, sock-like feel of the original Cloud will find the Cloud 5 to be the perfect option. Similarly, for runners who prioritize a lighter shoe, the original Cloudmonster 1 is the superior choice over its slightly heavier successor.

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Key Entities and Technologies to Look For in Your Last Season Purchase

When searching for the best deal, understanding the core components of On shoes will help you identify a high-quality "Last Season" model:

• CloudTec®: The signature cushioning system featuring individual "Cloud" pods that compress horizontally and vertically to provide a soft landing and an explosive take-off. This technology is the heart of every On shoe.
• Speedboard®: A liquid-injected plate positioned above the CloudTec elements. It converts the energy from your soft landing into forward momentum, creating the signature "running on clouds" feeling.
• Zero-Gravity Foam: A lightweight, high-performance foam used in many of the all-day and lifestyle shoes, like the Cloud 5, to ensure comfort without adding bulk.
• Helion™ Superfoam: A next-generation foam used in performance models like the Cloudmonster and Cloudrunner. It combines soft cushioning with high energy return, ensuring the shoe performs well over long distances.
• Discontinued Colorways: While the shoe model may still exist in a newer version, the "Last Season" sale is the only place to find unique, limited-edition colorways that will never be restocked.

In conclusion, the best time to buy On Running shoes is right now, focusing your search on "Last Season" collections. By targeting models like the Cloud 5, Cloudmonster 1, and Cloudrunner 1, you benefit from a proven, high-performance design and the significant savings that come with a product cycle update. Don't let the term "old" fool you; these are modern, Swiss-engineered masterpieces available at an unbeatable price.