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0 The global marathon racing landscape is shifting as Swiss sportswear brand On officially announces the second generation of its flagship marathon franchise. On July 30, 2026, the brand will launch two highly engineered racing models: the Cloudboom Strike 2 and the ultra-lightweight LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2. Built specifically to optimize and sustain raw speed over 26.2 miles, these silhouettes mark a technical leap forward for elite marathon footwear, introducing entirely new geometry and manufacturing standards to the roads.
Launch of CloudBoom Strike 2
On has overhauled its top-tier racing lineup with a synchronized two-model strategy. While the standard Cloudboom Strike 2 offers a traditional premium upper assembly, the headliner of the launch is the LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2. This model represents a dramatic shift from conventional, multi-step shoe assembly to an automated, robotic upper fabrication process.
The LightSpray system completely eliminates the need for glue, stitching, or laces. Instead, a singular robotic arm sprays 1.5 kilometers of a continuous, specialized filament directly onto the midsole in just a few minutes. This complex automated method creates a seamless, laceless, single-piece upper that acts like a second skin.
On Maximizing Performance
For competitive marathoners, the engineering upgrades translate directly into raw weight reduction and measurable biological efficiency. By moving to the LightSpray process, On strips away the overlapping fabrics, adhesives, and hardware inherent to traditional uppers. This results in an incredibly light race-day package.
A recent independent study conducted by the University of Cape Town validated the performance of this setup, proving a 1.6% increase in running economy when evaluated against leading industry benchmark racing shoes. For a marathoner operating at their limit, a 1.6% efficiency gain provides a critical margin to combat late-race fatigue and maintain aggressive splits deep into the final miles.
Performance, Tech, and Industry Implications
The mechanical engine underneath both models is heavily upgraded for this second generation. On has replaced its previous midsole design with a brand-new cushioning platform called CloudTec Sphere. This geometric system utilizes precisely engineered cushioning channels beneath the foot to optimize impact absorption and maximize rebound.
Under the Hood: Generation 2 Material Specs
- The Foam Architecture: Both shoes utilize On’s new Helion HF hyper foam. This dual-density material is 15% lighter than the first-generation foam compound, slashing overall weight while increasing energy return.
- The Propulsive Plate: Sandwiched directly between the dual-density Helion HF layers is a redesigned, curved carbon Speedboard. The plate is lighter and stiffer than its predecessor, providing aggressive forward momentum at toe-off.
- Geometry: Both models feature an identical 5mm heel-to-toe drop, positioning the foot for an efficient, mid-to-forefoot strike.
Model Comparison: Weight and Retail Pricing
| Model | Weight | Key Characteristic | Retail Price |
| Cloudboom Strike 2 | 191g | Traditional premium upper with laces | $250 USD |
| LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2 | 158g | Laceless, robotic one-piece upper | $310 USD |
Beyond pure product specs, the manufacturing shift carries massive industrial and environmental implications. Traditional performance uppers typically require roughly 200 individual production steps spread across multiple global facilities.
According to a prospective life-cycle assessment prepared by carbon-accounting firm Vaayu, On’s localized, single-step robotic spraying process requires significantly less manufacturing space, generates far less material waste, and slashes the upper’s carbon footprint by up to 65% compared to conventional manufacturing methods.
Key Takeaways:
- Robotic Manufacturing Leap: The LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2 features a seamless, laceless upper created by a robot spraying 1.5km of filament in minutes, reducing the upper’s carbon footprint by 65%.
- Upgraded Performance Engine: Both models feature a 5mm drop, a new 15% lighter Helion HF hyper foam, a stiffer curved carbon Speedboard, and CloudTec Sphere geometric cushioning channels.
- Proven Elite Speed: Independent testing by the University of Cape Town confirmed a 1.6% increase in running economy, a metric already reflected in elite marathon breakthroughs by Hellen Obiri, Yeman Crippa, and Joe Klecker.
