On’s Robot-Made Performance Running Shoes

The Cloudboom Strike LS trainer – which will debut at the Olympics in Paris – is crafted using the brand’s new LightSpray technology, where a robotic arm fuses 1.5km of thermoplastic filament in complex patterns directly onto a racing midsole.

The single-step process takes a mere three minutes per shoe and while it removes the need for glue, it also cuts out other elements and processes, like seams and laces, the manufacturing of yarns and textiles, and conventional colouration. Consequently, the amount of waste is reduced (water, resources etc.), as are the associated CO2 emissions – On claims that LightSpray contributes to a 75% reduction compared to its other racing shoes.

Additionally, because of its monomaterial construction, the upper can be melted down and remade, meaning the technology has the potential to help progress future circular designs.

In terms of performance, LightSpray uppers are ultra-lightweight (On’s lightest, weighing 30g), breathable and supportive. And the on-demand manufacturing allows for each shoe to be precision-engineered uniquely to each athlete’s fit and preferences.

To optimise these personalised high-performance qualities in the Cloudboom Strike LS shoe (weighing in at 170g), a computer-optimised outsole is used, made using the brand’s bio-based Helion HF (hyper foam).

With its reductive approach to manufacturing, simple streamlined design and recyclable monomaterial construction, On’s innovation closely aligns with the key drivers in our S/S 2024 Direction Clean Reset – and is a pioneering case study we’d expect more brands to take influence from.

For more lower-impact performance strategies across the sports and outdoor landscapes, see Outdoor by Ispo 2024 and CMF Industry View: Activewear & Sports Equipment.