WHY THE ON IS
DIFFERENT O
n’s edge over traditional running shoes can be explained by simple physics. Running exposes our feet to both vertical and horizontal
forces. Traditional running shoes only absorb the vertical impact – typically by compressing some form of rubber or air pad. But they leave the athlete exposed to the horizontal, or forward-pushing, impact, causing increased muscular breakdown and associated injuries. The On’s CloudTec™ system absorbs both vertical and horizontal forces by a radical new design: three-dimensional elements made of highly flexible and
Want to know what it feels like to run on air? Take a ride with On: soft, fast, unique
very unique circular pieces of rubber. During the foot strike phase, these 3D elements fold back and cushion the landing by allowing the foot to softly glide into the step. Put in physics terms: the On is using travel to slow down the impact shock. Once on the ground, the elements become interlocked, providing a solid surface and stability for the push-off phase. So while traditional running shoes are either soft and slow or hard and fast, the On is soft and fast. The 3D flexibility has another positive
effect on the runner’s body. The postural muscles – which can become lazy and can degenerate when runners wear over-supportive running shoes – are actually activated and strengthened by the flexibility of the system.
World-class genesis The driving force behind this innovation was six-time Ironman Winner and World Champion duathlete Olivier Bernhard. Bernhard, who was recovering from injury, wanted to find a shoe that would protect his body from the impact of long-distance running – without compromising on speed. His sponsors were all focused on cushioned running shoes for the mass market, and could not deliver his vision. So he worked with a Swiss engineer to develop and perfect a
52 n RUNNING FREE
technology, which would match his professional needs. “I was very excited by the On shoe, as
I felt that it delivered all of the things that were missing in the market,” explains Bernhard. “It allows you to land softly and to push-off hard – so you can go very fast and very long.” Before the On, soft shoes equalled poor performance. The excellent cushioning also allowed Bernhard to build his shoe in line with the latest research on the movement of the foot: the On features an extremely flexible sole and a low heel. The result is almost a ‘rolling’ experience that gives you extra forward momentum for a faster run. “And, over time, your foot muscles are trained to get better by themselves, rather than depending on cushioning and support. It’s not the shoes that lift you, it is you,” says Bernhard. The On is now making a big impact among professional athletes. Kenyan former marathon world record holder Tegla Loroupe has selected the On as her running shoe of choice. She was given a prototype pair while recovering from injury and has not looked back. “The On is the fastest shoe I have ever
tried,” she said after completing the 2010 London Marathon in a pair. “Its 3D cushioning turns long runs into short ones.”
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