Gallery Streetwear has On. footwear from Switzerland
The Story of On Running: How a Swiss Idea Changed Modern Sneakers
Some of the world’s most innovative products start with strange experiments.
For On Running, it began with pieces of garden hose glued to the bottom of a prototype running shoe.
Today, the Swiss footwear company is one of the fastest-growing sneaker brands in the world. Known for its distinctive CloudTec® cushioning and minimalist design, On shoes have become a favorite among athletes, travelers, and everyday sneaker fans.
At Gallery Streetwear in downtown Kelowna, we’re proud to carry On. shoes and bring this innovative Swiss brand to the Okanagan.
Customers exploring the newest footwear arriving in store can browse the latest drops in New Arrivals.
The Founders Behind On
On was founded in Zurich, Switzerland in 2010 by three friends: Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti.
Olivier Bernhard was a professional athlete and multiple-time world champion duathlete. After years of racing, he became fascinated with the idea of building a running shoe that felt completely different from anything else on the market.
Bernhard wanted a shoe that combined two opposing sensations: a soft landing and a powerful push-off.
Most running shoes forced runners to choose between cushioning and speed. His goal was to deliver both.
The Garden Hose Experiment
To test his idea, Bernhard began experimenting with different materials.
One of his earliest prototypes used small pieces of garden hose attached to the outsole of a running shoe. The hose segments compressed when the foot hit the ground and then rebounded during push-off.
The unusual design produced a surprisingly smooth and responsive ride.
This early concept eventually evolved into what is now known as CloudTec® technology—the signature cushioning system found in every On Running shoe.
Customers interested in exploring the models currently available can browse the full On. Running Shoe Collection.
From Running Innovation to Global Brand
When On launched its first running shoes in 2010, the brand immediately caught the attention of runners looking for something different.
The distinctive sole design stood out visually while delivering real performance benefits. As word spread, the brand quickly expanded beyond Switzerland into Europe and North America.
Today, On Running shoes are worn by professional athletes, runners, and everyday consumers in cities around the world.
What began as a performance running brand has now expanded into lifestyle footwear and modern streetwear culture.
Customers looking for more premium footwear available in store can also explore the full Shoe Collection.
Support from Athletes and Cultural Icons
One of the most important supporters of the brand is tennis legend Roger Federer.
Federer joined On. as both an investor and collaborator, helping the company expand its reach into lifestyle footwear and fashion. His partnership with the brand helped introduce On. shoes to a broader global audience.
The brand has also partnered with influential cultural figures and designers, bringing its sleek Swiss design language into the worlds of fashion and streetwear.
This balance between performance and lifestyle is one of the reasons On. continues to grow so rapidly.
Customers pairing modern sneakers with contemporary apparel can also explore the full Streetwear Collection.
Why On Running Continues to Grow
On. Running stands out because it approaches footwear differently.
Instead of focusing purely on appearance, the brand prioritizes innovative engineering, lightweight materials, and comfort-driven design.
The result is a shoe that feels both technical and stylish—something that works equally well for running, travel, and everyday wear.
For many customers, On sneakers represent the perfect balance between performance technology and minimalist design.
On Running at Gallery Streetwear
Gallery Streetwear is an independent streetwear and sneaker boutique located in downtown Kelowna, British Columbia.
Our shop focuses on carefully curated brands that combine culture, innovation, and long-term quality. On. Running fits naturally into that philosophy.
Visit us in-store at:
Gallery Streetwear
588 Bernard Ave
Kelowna, BC, Canada
Or shop online at
www.gallerystreetwear.ca
On. shoes are available in-store and online with Canada-wide shipping.
Explore More at Gallery Streetwear
Discover the newest footwear in New Arrivals
Browse performance sneakers in the On. Running Shoe Collection
Explore curated brands in the Streetwear Collection
Related Blogs
On. Shoes – Swiss Innovation Meets Style at Gallery Streetwear
The History of New Balance: From Arch Supports to Global Sneaker Icon
What Is Streetwear? The Culture, History, and Future of Modern Style
FAQ
Who founded On Running?
On Running was founded in Switzerland in 2010 by Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti.
What inspired the design of On shoes?
Early prototypes used pieces of garden hose attached to the sole to create a cushioned landing and responsive push-off.
What is CloudTec technology?
CloudTec is On’s patented cushioning system that compresses on landing and rebounds during push-off to create a smooth running experience.
Where can I buy On Running shoes in Canada?
You can find On shoes at Gallery Streetwear in Kelowna or online with shipping across Canada.
Does Gallery Streetwear ship On shoes nationwide?
Yes. Orders placed online ship across Canada from the Kelowna store.
Written by Gallery Apparel
