About Us

The On Story

On was born in the Swiss Alps. Since our founding, we've pursued one goal: to revolutionize running. It all revolves around a radical idea: soft landings followed by explosive push-offs. Or, as we like to say: running on clouds.

It all began in Switzerland

From humble beginnings in Zurich in 2010, On had one big goal: to change the running world. In the eight years since, On has won the hearts and feet of more than seven million runners in over 50 countries. And our success is far from over…

Three friends, one mission

It wasn't just a love of running that brought former professional athlete Olivier Bernhard and his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti together. They all share the same revolutionary idea. This is their story.

After retiring from professional running, three-time Duathlon World Champion and multiple Ironman winner Olivier Bernhard dedicated himself to a very special idea: the running shoe for the perfect running experience. This plan brought him together with a like-minded Swiss engineer who had an idea for a revolutionary running shoe. In the following years, this initial radical idea was refined through the perfect symbiosis of running experience and engineering expertise.

Dozens of prototypes were developed. The core concept – cushioned landing, powerful push-off – was always paramount. It was this unique running sensation that also inspired Caspar Coptetti and David Allemann to collaborate. Together with Olivier Bernhard, they founded the company On in Zurich in January 2010. Their mission to develop a product range characterized by Swiss engineering quickly gained momentum.

Just one month later, in February, the prototypes won an ISPO BrandNew Award, one of the most prestigious awards for innovative sporting goods. The test runners were thrilled. They described it as feeling like running on clouds. In July 2010, the first On shoes hit the market.

Today

Ten years later, On running shoes are available in over 8,700 specialty running stores in more than 50 countries. In addition to its European headquarters in Zurich, On has opened offices in the USA, Japan, Australia, and Brazil. On products continue to win international awards for outstanding design and innovative technology. And On is far from finished.