On shoes are made by On Holding AG, a Swiss company founded in 2010 that designs its footwear in Switzerland.
The brand is known for its distinctive CloudTec sole technology, a pattern of hollow rubber pods that compress on impact and rebound for a springy running feel.
On was founded by Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti, and the company went public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2021.
Knowing who makes On shoes helps buyers understand how a brand built around Swiss engineering actually manufactures its products overseas like most of the running shoe industry.
This article covers On ownership, where the shoes are manufactured, what makes CloudTec different, and answers to common On questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes On Shoes And Who Owns The Brand?
On was founded in 2010 in Zurich, Switzerland by Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti.
The company, formally known as On Holding AG, completed its initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in September 2021.
Tennis legend Roger Federer became an investor and equity partner in On in 2019, helping raise the brand’s global profile.
Where Are On Shoes Manufactured?
On shoes are manufactured primarily in Vietnam, with additional production in China.
The company has faced criticism from Swiss trade groups over its use of the phrase Swiss engineering on products that are entirely produced overseas, since On does not manufacture any footwear in Switzerland itself.
On maintains that its design, engineering, and product development work takes place in Switzerland, even though physical manufacturing happens in Asia.
What Is CloudTec Technology?
On’s signature CloudTec sole uses a pattern of hollow rubber pods, called Clouds, that compress when the foot strikes the ground.
This design is intended to provide soft landings while transitioning into a firmer, more responsive push off.
The technology has become one of the most visually recognizable sole designs in the running shoe category.
How Did On Grow Into A Public Company?
On built its early reputation among competitive and recreational runners before expanding into tennis, training, and lifestyle footwear.
Roger Federer’s investment and later signature shoe line significantly boosted the brand’s visibility beyond core running circles.
On has continued expanding into apparel and accessories since its 2021 public listing.
On vs Hoka: Which Running Shoe Brand Is Better?
Hoka is known for maximalist, heavily cushioned midsoles, while On’s CloudTec pods create a firmer, more responsive ride.
Both brands manufacture primarily in Vietnam and China despite their very different marketing origin stories.
Runners often choose between the two based on personal preference for cushioning feel rather than brand origin.
For more comparisons, see our guide to who makes Hoka shoes for another popular running shoe brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About On Shoes
Who makes On shoes?
On shoes are made by On Holding AG, a Swiss founded company that manufactures its footwear primarily in Vietnam.
Are On shoes made in Switzerland?
No, On shoes are manufactured in Vietnam and China, though the company is headquartered and designs its products in Switzerland.
Is Roger Federer an owner of On?
Roger Federer became an investor and equity partner in On in 2019.
Is On a publicly traded company?
Yes, On Holding AG went public on the New York Stock Exchange in September 2021.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.