On’s Cloud X Tempo Pro: a purpose-built hybrid racing shoe that blends running speed with gym stability

On joins Nike and Puma in the race for HYROX athletes with its first-ever carbon-plated hybrid workout shoe

Table of Contents

  1. Key Highlights
  2. Introduction
  3. Why hybrid racing demands a new class of footwear
  4. What On put into the Cloud X Tempo Pro: materials and mechanics
  5. Trade-offs and design realities: what hybrid shoes concede and what they demand
  6. How the Cloud X Tempo Pro compares with established hybrid and training shoes
  7. Who benefits most from the Cloud X Tempo Pro (and who should think twice)
  8. Real-world race and training scenarios: how athletes might use the Cloud X Tempo Pro
  9. Price and availability: what the cost communicates
  10. How to evaluate a hybrid racing shoe: a practical testing checklist
  11. Care, maintenance and expected lifespan
  12. Practical considerations before committing
  13. What the Cloud X Tempo Pro suggests about the direction of hybrid sport footwear
  14. FAQ

Key Highlights

  • On launches the Cloud X Tempo Pro, its first shoe specifically designed for hybrid racing such as HYROX, combining a full-length carbon Speedboard, Helion HF foam and a reinforced midfoot for rapid transitions and strength movements.
  • Developed with world-record HYROX athlete Alexander Roncevic, the shoe aims to bridge running performance and functional-fitness stability but carries a premium CHF 300 price tag and trade-offs typical of hybrid designs.

Introduction

On has long built its reputation on lightweight, responsive running shoes; now it has moved decisively into hybrid racing with the Cloud X Tempo Pro. The shoe answers a specific demand: athletes who must sprint between running sections and immediately perform strength-focused exercises like sled pushes, farmer carries and lunges without changing footwear. That dual requirement reshapes the priorities of midsole, outsole and upper design. On’s new model borrows the high-energy materials and rocker geometry found in road racers while adding reinforcement, grip and retention systems usually reserved for training shoes.

This launch marks On’s most explicit challenge to brands that have established a foothold in the hybrid and functional-fitness category—Nike, Puma and Reebok among them. It also signals maturation in a market segment that rewards compromises done well: enough propulsion for fast runs, enough stability and traction for heavy, lateral and loaded movements. The Cloud X Tempo Pro arrives with a clear pedigree—the shoe was developed with Alexander Roncevic, the HYROX athlete who set a world record of 51:59.37—and with engineering choices that reveal On’s priority: move quickly between disciplines without losing performance or confidence.

Why hybrid racing demands a new class of footwear

Hybrid races change what athletes expect from a shoe. Traditional road racing shoes prioritize energy return, low weight and a geometry optimized for forward motion. Strength or CrossFit-style training shoes prioritize a firm, flat platform, close-to-ground stability and grip for heavy lifts. Hybrid racing blends eight repeated blocks of running and functional work—typically 1 km of running followed by a workout station, repeated multiple times—so footwear must serve both needs in a single session.

Athletes competing in HYROX-style events require:

  • Rapid turnover and propulsion during repeated running intervals.
  • Lateral and multi-plane stability to perform loaded carries, sled pushes, lunges and wall balls.
  • Durable traction for transitions across surfaces and for pushing equipment.
  • Secure lockdown to avoid foot movement inside the shoe during sudden directional changes or heavy presses.

No single existing shoe perfectly met those combined demands. Road shoes with excessive cushioning can feel unstable under load; flat, stable training shoes can sap running economy. Hybrid footwear must therefore strike a balance—responding for sprints, yet resisting deformation under pressure—while remaining comfortable over the 45-to-90-minute durations typical of competitive and recreational hybrid events.

What On put into the Cloud X Tempo Pro: materials and mechanics

On designed the Cloud X Tempo Pro to navigate the tension between responsiveness and stability. The primary elements that define the shoe’s character are the full-length carbon Speedboard, the Helion HF midsole foam, rocker geometry and a reinforced upper structure with Missiongrip outsole and integrated strap system. Each component addresses a specific challenge posed by hybrid racing.

Full-length carbon Speedboard A carbon Speedboard runs the shoe’s length to bring stiffness and a spring-like response to toe-off. Unlike segmented carbon plates used in some road racers, a full-length board provides consistent propulsion throughout the gait cycle and encourages forward momentum during the running portions. It helps maintain efficiency on repeated 1 km intervals and aims to reduce energy lost during the transitions from run to workout.

Helion HF midsole foam On’s Helion HF foam is a high-performance compound designed for durability and energy return. High-rebound foams enhance propulsion, helping athletes accelerate out of running segments and keep pace during races where seconds count. This foam also balances cushion and resilience so athletes don’t feel punished on shorter strides yet still receive protection across the entire event.

Rocker geometry for turnover Rocker geometry shapes the midsole profile to encourage a faster turnover during running. A deliberate curvature at the forefoot reduces the time spent in stance and smooths transitions through heel-to-toe. That geometry pairs with the carbon Speedboard to produce an effect more commonly associated with carbon-plated road shoes—faster, more efficient forward motion—while still allowing the shoe to function under non-linear forces at workout stations.

Reinforced midfoot cage and integrated strap system Hybrid workouts require extra midfoot security. The Cloud X Tempo Pro includes a reinforced midfoot cage to minimize lateral roll and torsion during loaded movements. Additionally, an integrated strap system supplements laces, creating a tighter, more individualized lockdown. This reduces foot movement inside the shoe, lowers the risk of blisters and ensures stability when performing lunges, sled pushes or farmer carries.

Missiongrip outsole Traction matters in hybrid events where athletes encounter a mix of rubber gym floors, turf, track and sometimes uneven surfaces. On’s Missiongrip outsole offers a grippy compound and tread pattern intended to stay secure during sled pushes and lateral movements. Outsole durability also factors into the race-to-training transition; robust rubber placement where abrasion is highest prolongs the shoe’s effective life.

Upper materials and breathability To remain light, the upper uses breathable, engineered fabrics that limit weight while providing structure. Reinforced zones near the midfoot and toe box prevent collapse or over-flexing under load. The construction seeks to preserve enough flexibility for natural foot motion in running while resisting the multi-directional stresses common to functional movements.

Athlete collaboration On collaborated with Alexander Roncevic, an elite HYROX competitor who set the race world record of 51:59.37 in Warsaw, to refine fit, timing and performance priorities. Athlete input helps manufacturers reconcile where stiffness or softness benefits performance and where additional features aid confidence during rapid transitions.

Trade-offs and design realities: what hybrid shoes concede and what they demand

Every hybrid design is a compromise. Engineers must balance conflicting requirements and accept trade-offs that favor the primary mission of the shoe.

Weight versus stability Adding carbon and reinforcement increases weight compared with a pure road racer. Heft can marginally reduce running economy, particularly over longer distances. On counters this with lightweight engineered materials and geometry choices. For athletes whose priority is overall performance in a hybrid race—the sum of running and workout time—small weight penalties may be acceptable for a gain in stability and traction that prevents time losses or technique breakdowns at workout stations.

Cushioning versus ground feel Deep cushioning increases comfort and protects from repeated impacts, but excessive softness can reduce the feedback athletes need when performing precise strength movements. The Cloud X Tempo Pro’s Helion HF foam seeks to balance protection with responsiveness; the foam remains firm enough for stability while providing the energy return beneficial for running.

Stability versus flexibility A reinforced midfoot and strap system improve confidence during lateral, loaded moves but can restrict some natural foot flexion. Engineers tune stiffness so the shoe remains flexible enough for efficient running stride while offering enough platform integrity to handle heavy or awkward movements. Athletes focused on maximal Olympic lifts or heavy powerlifting will still prefer a flatter, less compressible training shoe; hybrid models target a middle ground.

Durability versus weight and responsiveness Rubber for durability and reinforcement for structural integrity add mass and may slightly soften ride dynamics. Brands must choose targeted rubber placement and minimal reinforcement to keep weight down without sacrificing the parts of the shoe most exposed to abrasion or force.

Price versus market reach Advanced materials—carbon, high-grade foams and complex uppers—raise production costs. The CHF 300 price positions the Cloud X Tempo Pro at the premium end of the market. The target buyer is competitive or highly committed amateur athletes willing to invest in specialized race footwear. Broader market penetration may require more affordable variants or training models without the carbon Speedboard.

How the Cloud X Tempo Pro compares with established hybrid and training shoes

Hybrid racing is now a contested category. Brands have taken different approaches to the same problem: combining running speed with gym stability.

Nike Metcon series Nike’s Metcon line has long been synonymous with CrossFit and functional fitness. The Metcon platform traditionally emphasizes a flat, stable heel, robust midfoot and durable construction for heavy lifting and dynamic movements. Recent iterations, such as the Metcon 10, introduce softer foams (ReactX) and new topcoat materials to improve comfort and versatility while preserving a stable platform. Nike targets athletes who prioritize strength and mixed-modal training; Metcons are often less aggressive on pure running efficiency than carbon-equipped hybrids but excel at deadlifts, rope climbs and sleds.

Puma and HYROX partnership Puma’s official partnership with HYROX gives it direct routes to competitor feedback and event-specific innovation. Puma’s competition-oriented footwear emphasizes traction and stability with models designed around the movements and surfaces most commonly encountered during HYROX events. The partnership enables Puma to iterate quickly and market directly to the event’s participant base.

Reebok and CrossFit heritage Reebok’s Nano and similar models created the template for durable, stable training shoes designed for functional fitness. Reebok emphasizes a stable platform with toe-box room and durable uppers that hold up under heavy, repeated use. For athletes who prioritize lifting and high-intensity intervals where rope climbs and wall balls are frequent, Reebok remains a trusted choice.

Where Cloud X Tempo Pro fits On’s model targets the athlete who places equal value on the running segments and the functional workouts. The carbon Speedboard and rocker geometry differentiate it from most training shoes by prioritizing running economy, while its midfoot cage, Missiongrip outsole and strap system aim to match the stability and traction of training-specific models. The result is a shoe intended to minimize time lost in transitions: when an athlete finishes a 1 km run and immediately starts lunges or sled pushes, the shoe should feel supportive and secure.

Practical comparison notes

  • Pure lifters and athletes focused on maximal strength may still prefer flatter, stiffer training shoes for lifts. Hybrid shoes like the Cloud X Tempo Pro offer compromise rather than complete substitution.
  • Pure road racers and marathoners likely prioritize lighter, more flexible carbon plate racers optimized for repeated heel-to-toe efficiency across longer distances.
  • For events mixing running and functional fitness, the Cloud X Tempo Pro’s hybrid engineering could yield net performance gains by preserving run speed while preventing mistakes or slowdowns at workout stations.

Who benefits most from the Cloud X Tempo Pro (and who should think twice)

The Cloud X Tempo Pro is tailored to specific athlete profiles. It will appeal to:

  • HYROX competitors seeking race-day footwear that reduces the need for switching shoes between running and workouts.
  • Competitive amateurs and elite athletes who measure gains in seconds and will pay for materials that shave time.
  • Cross-training athletes who split sessions between intervals and strength circuits and appreciate a single shoe that performs credibly across both.
  • Coaches and teams that want uniform footwear for mixed sessions, simplifying logistics and equipment lists.

Athletes who should evaluate alternatives:

  • Dedicated lifters and power athletes who require maximal heel stability and minimal midsole compression for heavy lifts.
  • Long-distance runners and triathletes covering extended road mileage, where the weight and stiffness of a hybrid shoe may not be optimal.
  • Budget-conscious consumers; CHF 300 places this shoe at a premium level, and some will prefer rotating specialized shoes for running and training rather than buying a hybrid.

Sizing and fit guidance Manufacturers who design hybrid shoes often favor a slightly roomier toe box to accommodate swelling during training, while supportive midsoles can create a tighter midfoot fit. The integrated strap system suggests that precise lockdown matters; athletes should try shoes on with the socks they intend to race in and simulate running and a few strength movements to confirm fit. When in doubt, consult brand-specific sizing charts; hybrid shoes may feel different from both running and training models, so testing on a treadmill and in a gym environment is valuable.

Real-world race and training scenarios: how athletes might use the Cloud X Tempo Pro

The Cloud X Tempo Pro is constructed to perform across varied sessions. Practical examples illustrate its potential impact.

Race day: HYROX athlete Scenario: An experienced HYROX competitor aims to shave 30–60 seconds off her personal best. She chooses the Cloud X Tempo Pro for race day. The full-length Speedboard and Helion HF foam help her maintain a slightly faster 1 km split without feeling hollow underfoot. During sled pushes and burpee segments, the reinforced midfoot and strap keep the foot secure; Missiongrip provides traction on the push surface. The combined effect: she sustains run speed and avoids time-consuming missteps at workout stations.

Training week: balanced program Scenario: A coach designs a weekly program with two interval runs, two full-body strength sessions that include loaded carries, and one race-pace simulation. The athlete uses the Cloud X Tempo Pro for race-pace simulation and interval sessions where functional moves are included, while saving a lightweight road shoe for longer tempo runs and a flat training shoe for heavy lifting days. This rotation maximizes the hybrid shoe’s strengths while preserving specialized footwear for the extremes of each discipline.

Gym-class: CrossFit-style WODs and short runs Scenario: A CrossFit athlete who often finishes workouts with a short 800–1,600 m run uses the Cloud X Tempo Pro for its hybrid convenience. During metcons that require short runs between boxes, the shoe reduces time lost during transitions and provides extra traction for sled and wall ball work. The athlete notices fewer foot slippage issues and improved confidence when lunging with added weight.

Weekend racer: multi-event athlete Scenario: A multi-event athlete participating in obstacle-course and hybrid events finds carrying one pair of adaptable shoes simplifies logistics. The hybrid shoe performs acceptably in an OCR sprint with short runs and obstacles, although for long trail-based sections she prefers a trail-specific shoe with aggressive lugging.

Price and availability: what the cost communicates

On prices the Cloud X Tempo Pro at CHF 300 (roughly £281 / €378 / AU$534). The shoe will launch globally in August 2026.

Positioning and value At CHF 300, the Cloud X Tempo Pro sits firmly in premium territory. Price reflects the incorporation of high-end materials—full-length carbon, Helion HF foam, engineered upper fabrics—and specialized features such as Missiongrip rubber and integrated straps. For athletes who prioritize marginal gains and race-day performance, premium pricing is defensible. For recreational attendees or those who participate infrequently in hybrid events, the cost may be prohibitive; a rotating combination of a road shoe and a training shoe could represent a more economical solution.

Market effect and brand strategy On’s entry at the high end raises the competitive stakes against brands that already supply hybrid and training footwear. The Cloud X Tempo Pro signals On’s intent to compete not only in running but in increasingly lucrative functional-fitness and hybrid markets. Brands with partnerships (for example Puma’s HYROX tie) may respond with event-specific models or price tiers. The broader market may see additional mid-level variants from On or other manufacturers aimed at consumers who want hybrid function at a lower price.

How to evaluate a hybrid racing shoe: a practical testing checklist

When trying the Cloud X Tempo Pro or any hybrid model, athletes should conduct the following tests to assess suitability for their needs.

  1. Fit and lockdown
  • Lace the shoe as you would for race day, engage any strap system, and jog 5–10 minutes.
  • Simulate a few lateral lunges, walking lunges with added weight, and a short sled push if possible.
  • Ensure no significant heel lift and minimal toe-box compression.
  1. Running feel
  • Run a few 400–1,000 m intervals at race-pace to sense turnover, cushion, and propulsion.
  • Pay attention to ride stability, responsiveness, and whether the shoe’s geometry encourages a faster cadence without discomfort.
  1. Stability under load
  • Perform a set of weighted lunges or a heavy farmer carry with a short sprint between intervals.
  • Note midfoot and arch support, torsional rigidity and whether the shoe twists under load.
  1. Traction and surface confidence
  • Test traction on gym flooring, turf if available, and a track or road. Look for consistent grip during pushes and quick direction changes.
  1. Comfort and blister prevention
  • Wear the socks you plan to race in. Complete at least one session that mirrors the race duration (or a long training session) to check for hotspots and chafing.
  1. Weight and fatigue
  • Compare the shoe’s weight to your road and training shoes. Consider how additional weight impacts mile splits over race distance.
  1. Durability indicators
  • Examine outsole placement, exposed foam, and upper reinforcement. Ask about outsole rubber composition and whether the company offers repair or replacement programs.
  1. Return, warranty and size policy
  • Verify the return and warranty policy, and whether the brand provides sizing guidance for hybrid models. Premium-priced shoes benefit from straightforward return policies.

Care, maintenance and expected lifespan

Hybrid shoes must serve high-intensity sessions and varied surfaces; maintenance extends useful life.

Cleaning and drying

  • Remove loose dirt after sessions and brush out grit from tread grooves.
  • Clean uppers with a soft brush and mild soap; avoid harsh detergents that degrade engineered fabrics.
  • Remove insoles and air-dry; do not place shoes near direct heat sources which can deteriorate foam and adhesives.

Outsole care

  • Missiongrip rubber should be checked for wear patterns. Replace shoes when tread depth drops substantially or when traction becomes inconsistent.
  • If pushing sleds outdoors, avoid dragging sharp edges across the outsole which accelerates wear.

Carbon Speedboard and integrity

  • Carbon plates are durable but vulnerable to severe impact; avoid repeated strikes against metal edges or hard obstacles.
  • Inspect for cracks or delamination after heavy use. If detected, discontinue use for race conditions.

Strap system and upper longevity

  • Regularly check strap stitching and bond points, especially if you frequently tighten the strap for extra lockdown.
  • Replace laces and fastenings at the first sign of fraying; a failed lace mid-race can force a costly time loss.

Rotation strategy

  • Rotate hybrid shoes with a running shoe and a training shoe for long-term performance. Use the hybrid primarily for race simulations and sessions that mix running and functional movements.

Expected lifespan

  • Lifespan depends on use intensity and surfaces. Competitive athletes who race frequently should plan for a shorter lifecycle (several months to a year) while recreational users may see longer service. Monitor midsole compression and outsole wear as primary lifespan indicators.

Practical considerations before committing

Before investing, athletes should weigh these considerations:

  • Does your training and racing calendar justify a specialized hybrid shoe?
  • Will you gain net seconds by staying in one pair instead of changing footwear mid-race?
  • Can you test the shoe in conditions similar to your events and training?
  • Is CHF 300 within your budget for footwear, and how does it compare to the cost of rotating two specialized shoes?

Try to replicate race-day conditions when possible: short, high-intensity intervals interspersed with loaded movements. Brands that work closely with event organizers or elite athletes—like On’s partnership with Alexander Roncevic—tend to design with these conditions in mind, but individual mechanics and preferences vary.

What the Cloud X Tempo Pro suggests about the direction of hybrid sport footwear

The Cloud X Tempo Pro is a clear signal that hybrid and functional fitness events have reached a point of technical specialization. Athletic events that combine running and functional workouts reward integrated solutions rather than crude compromises. Expect more brands to introduce race-day hybrids that use advanced materials—carbon elements, high-rebound foams—and upper-lockdown systems. Partnerships with event organizers and elite athletes will accelerate refinement.

The category will likely fragment into tiers:

  • Premium race-day hybrids with carbon and top-grade foams (like the Cloud X Tempo Pro).
  • Mid-range hybrids offering moderate reinforcement and responsive foams at more accessible prices.
  • Dedicated training shoes optimized for lifting and dynamic movements without serious running emphasis.
  • Lightweight running-focused shoes for longer distances where pure running metrics matter.

This diversification will help athletes choose precisely what they need rather than depending on a one-size-fits-all solution.

FAQ

Q: How does the Cloud X Tempo Pro differ from On’s existing Cloud X and strength-training models? A: The Cloud X Tempo Pro is purpose-built for hybrid racing. It combines On’s running technologies—Helion HF foam and rocker geometry—with a full-length carbon Speedboard and added reinforcements such as a midfoot cage, integrated strap system and a grippy Missiongrip outsole. Existing Cloud X models lean more toward training versatility or running emphasis; strength models prioritize flat platforms and maximal stability. The Tempo Pro aims to sit between those lines, optimized for rapid run-to-workout transitions.

Q: Will the carbon Speedboard make the shoe feel like a road racing plate? A: The Speedboard adds a propulsive, stiff element that encourages forward roll and faster turnover, resembling aspects of road-plated shoes. On balances this with midfoot reinforcement and a firmer foam choice to preserve stability under load. Expect a plated feel during runs but with more platform integrity than a pure road racer.

Q: Is CHF 300 justified for this shoe? A: The price reflects the use of premium materials (full-length carbon, Helion HF foam) and engineering tailored to a niche performance need. For competitive HYROX athletes or serious hybrid competitors who measure gains in seconds, the premium may be worthwhile. Recreational users should weigh the cost against their event frequency and consider rotating specialized shoes as a cheaper alternative.

Q: Should I buy the Cloud X Tempo Pro if I primarily lift? A: If you primarily focus on heavy lifting or powerlifting, dedicated lifting shoes or flat, stable training shoes remain superior. The Cloud X Tempo Pro offers good stability for hybrid movements but is designed to balance running performance with functional work rather than maximize lifting mechanics.

Q: Can I use the Cloud X Tempo Pro for longer road runs? A: The shoe is optimized for short-to-moderate running intervals typical of hybrid events. For longer distances like half-marathons or marathons, a lighter, more flexible road racer will usually provide better economy and comfort.

Q: How should I size the Cloud X Tempo Pro? A: Hybrid shoes may feel different from both running and training shoes. Test with the socks and insole you plan to race in. Try a short run and a few gym movements if possible before committing. Consult On’s sizing chart and consider trying a half size up if you usually prefer more toe-room for racing events where feet swell.

Q: What surfaces is the outsole best suited for? A: The Missiongrip outsole is designed to provide traction on gym floors, turf and track/road surfaces commonly encountered in hybrid events. It balances grip and durability for sled pushes and lateral moves. For soft, technical trails or muddy obstacle-course conditions, a dedicated trail outsole with aggressive lugs is preferable.

Q: How long will the foam and carbon components last? A: Lifespan depends on usage patterns. Higher-frequency competitors may need replacements every few months; recreational users may see a year or more of use. Monitor midsole compression and outsole wear. Carbon plates are robust but should be inspected for damage after heavy or awkward impacts.

Q: Where will the shoe be available and when? A: On will launch the Cloud X Tempo Pro globally in August 2026, with an MSRP of CHF 300. Availability may initially favor primary markets and On’s direct retail channels; expect online availability globally through the brand and select retailers.

Q: Does the shoe come in different colorways or male/female-specific versions? A: On typically offers multiple colorways and both men’s and women’s fits for performance models. Confirm size and gender-specific availability at launch through On’s official channels.

Q: Is the Cloud X Tempo Pro worth buying versus owning separate shoes for running and training? A: For athletes frequently competing in hybrid events or who value the convenience and marginal time gains from staying in one shoe, a hybrid race-day shoe can be worth the investment. Athletes who prefer specialization—maximal run economy for long distances or maximal lift stability—may achieve better overall results with two dedicated shoes and a rotation strategy.

Q: Will On produce lower-priced variants of this shoe? A: Brands often introduce tiered models following a premium launch. If demand exists, On may develop more affordable versions with fewer high-end materials or reduced feature sets to reach broader audiences.

Q: Can I use orthotics with the Cloud X Tempo Pro? A: Using orthotics depends on available insole volume and internal shoe geometry. Many hybrid shoes accept low-profile orthotics; high-profile devices may conflict with the strap system or tight lockdown. Test with your orthotic before race day and confirm fit.

Q: How does the strap system affect midfoot comfort? A: The strap system enhances lockdown but requires correct adjustment to avoid hotspots. Athletes should practice lacing and strapping techniques and wear race socks to find a tension that secures the foot without excessive pressure.

Q: Will On offer the Cloud X Tempo Pro in limited editions or event-branded versions? A: Brands focusing on event partnerships often release special editions. Given On’s collaboration with HYROX athletes and growing interest in hybrid events, limited or event-branded versions are possible though not confirmed at launch.

Q: How does the Cloud X Tempo Pro handle repeated directional changes or lateral loads? A: Reinforced midfoot and a stable platform reduce undesirable torsion and roll, improving confidence during lateral lunges, quick pivots or loaded carries. While not a replacement for purely flat, rigid weightlifting shoes in maximal lifts, the hybrid design addresses the multi-planar forces common to hybrid races.

Q: Are there recommendations for trainers and coaches on integrating hybrid shoes into programming? A: Use hybrid shoes for race simulations and mixed-modal sessions where running and gym movements are combined. Reserve specialist shoes for long runs or heavy lifting days to protect shoe lifespan and preserve the benefits of each footwear type.


The Cloud X Tempo Pro represents On’s clear bet on a maturing hybrid-racing market. Its engineering choices—the Speedboard, Helion HF foam, rocker geometry and reinforced upper—reflect an attempt to reconcile running propulsion with functional-fitness stability. For serious HYROX competitors and committed hybrid athletes, the shoe promises tangible performance benefits. For others, the decision hinges on training frequency, budget and whether the convenience of a single, highly capable race shoe outweighs the benefits of specialized footwear rotation. As hybrid events continue to grow, expect more innovation and differentiation; On’s entry raises the bar and clarifies what many athletes have wanted all along: a shoe engineered specifically for the demands of mixed-discipline racing.

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