What Sets Helion™ Apart from Other Running Foams?

Why Helion™ Superfoam Changed the Game in Running Shoes

Running shoes have come a long way since their early beginnings. One of the earliest known examples—dating back to 1865—can still be seen today in a museum in Northampton, England. Resembling a leather dress shoe with nails hammered through the sole, it was likely used for cross-country running. Today’s marathon runners would no doubt be horrified by its weight and discomfort.

Fast forward to the 1970s, and comfort finally entered the conversation. In 1971, Nike launched the Cortez with a sponge rubber midsole, marking a shift toward cushioning and impact absorption. Around the same time, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) was introduced—a foam still used today for its shock-absorbing properties.

Enter Helion™ Superfoam

In 2010, Swiss brand On entered the market with a vision to transform the running experience. By 2019, they introduced a breakthrough that would reshape the industry: Helion™ superfoam.

Frustrated with the compromises between soft cushioning and high energy return, On’s designers engineered a better solution. Traditional lightweight foams lacked durability, while denser foams delivered less energy rebound. Helion™ offered both—without compromise.

Created through advanced chemical processing, Helion™ blends rigid sections for stability with flexible chains for cushioning—on a molecular level. The result is a temperature-resistant foam that doesn’t falter in heat or cold and delivers excellent rebound with every foot strike.

This means runners can move forward using the energy generated by impact, thanks to the foam's ability to return to its original shape quickly and efficiently. In short, Helion™ allows more of your energy to drive you forward—making every step more powerful.

Greater energy return means you expend less effort, enhancing endurance and reducing fatigue. And when paired with On’s signature CloudTec® cushioning and Speedboard™ technology, the result is a uniquely responsive and agile ride.

What Makes Helion™ Different?

Unlike traditional foams, Helion™ delivers the best of both worlds: ultra-lightweight cushioning and structured support. It reduces strain, improves agility, and maximises energy return—all while providing a soft yet responsive ride.

On co-founder Olivier Bernhard puts it best: “Since no other foam was able to offer what we wanted, we decided to build our own. Helion™ is a lighter, softer, and more agile foam for a ride that feels more alive every step of the run.”

One of On’s latest releases features more Helion™ than ever—and it’s already making waves for its remarkable comfort and performance.