Where Are On Shoes Made? A Comprehensive Guide

When finding the perfect running made, On shoes often stand out. Known for their innovative design and superior comfort, these shoes are a favorite among athletes and casual wearers. But a common question arises: where are On shoes made? This article dives deep into the origins, production process, and locations where these popular shoes are manufactured.

Now, let’s address the central question: where are On shoes made? While the design and development occur in Switzerland, production occurs in several countries, primarily in Asia. This approach allows On to leverage advanced manufacturing technologies and skilled labor in these regions, ensuring high-quality output while managing costs effectively.

Manufacturing in Vietnam:

A significant portion of On shoes is manufactured in Vietnam. The country has become a hub for high-quality footwear production due to its skilled workforce and advanced manufacturing facilities. Vietnamese factories are known for producing large volumes of shoes without compromising quality. On collaborates with these factories to ensure each pair of shoes meets their strict standards.

Production in China:

China is another critical location for the production of On shoes. The country boasts a well-established infrastructure for footwear manufacturing, with state-of-the-art factories and experienced workers producing shoes in China. One benefit from the efficiencies of scale and the technological advancements present in the country’s manufacturing sector.

Other Manufacturing Locations:

While Vietnam and China are the primary manufacturing hubs, On collaborates with factories in other countries, including Indonesia and Myanmar. These locations are selected based on their ability to meet On’s quality requirements and production capabilities. By diversifying its manufacturing base, On can mitigate risks and ensure a consistent supply of shoes to meet global demand.

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On, a Swiss company, was founded in 2010 by former professional athlete Olivier Bernhard and his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti. Their mission was to revolutionize the running shoe industry by creating shoes with perfect running sensation. The founders combined their knowledge and experience to develop a unique cushioning technology that sets On Shoes apart.

The Concept and Design Process:

Before we delve into where On shoes are made, it’s essential to understand the meticulous design process of creating each pair. On shoes are renowned for their unique CloudTec® technology, which offers a smooth and responsive ride. This innovation didn’t happen overnight; it involved years of research and development.

Research and Development in Switzerland:

The journey of every On shoe begins in Zurich, Switzerland. The company’s headquarters houses a dedicated team of designers, engineers, and researchers who work tirelessly to improve the technology and aesthetics of the shoes. This is where the initial concepts are born and prototypes are created.

Switzerland is known for its precision and high-quality craftsmanship, and On leverages this reputation to ensure that each shoe meets rigorous standards. The research and development phase involves extensive testing and refinement to create a product that looks good and performs exceptionally well.

Prototyping and Testing:

Once a design concept is developed, it undergoes rigorous testing. Prototypes are crafted and put through a series of tests to evaluate their performance in various conditions. This phase is crucial to ensure that the final product meets the high standards set by On. The Swiss Alps provide an ideal testing ground for these shoes, allowing the team to assess their performance on diverse terrains and in different weather conditions.

On takes several measures to ensure that their shoes are not only of high quality but also produced sustainably. Here’s how they achieve this:

Strict Quality Control:

Quality control is a top priority for On. The company has implemented rigorous quality assurance processes at every stage of production. This includes detailed inspections of raw materials, ongoing manufacturing process monitoring, and final checks before the shoes are shipped. This meticulous approach helps maintain the high standards that On customers expect.

Ethical Manufacturing Practices:

On is committed to ethical manufacturing practices. The company carefully selects its manufacturing partners, ensuring they comply with strict labor standards and environmental regulations. On regularly audits its factories to ensure that workers are treated fairly and that working conditions are safe and healthy.

Sustainable Materials:

It is also focused on sustainability. The company actively seeks to reduce its environmental footprint using more sustainable materials and production methods. For instance, On has introduced shoes made from recycled materials and is continually researching innovative ways to make their products more eco-friendly.

The choice of manufacturing locations significantly impacts shoes overall quality, cost, and availability. Here are some critical factors influenced by where the shoes are made:

Cost Efficiency:

Producing shoes in countries like Vietnam and China helps Manage production costs effectively. These regions offer lower labor costs than Switzerland, allowing On to invest more in research and development while keeping the final product affordable for customers.

Technological Advancements:

One can leverage the latest technologies and techniques by manufacturing in countries with advanced footwear production capabilities. This ensures their shoes are at the forefront of innovation, providing superior performance and comfort.

Global Supply Chain:

Having manufacturing facilities in multiple countries allows On to optimize its supply chain. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with geopolitical issues, natural disasters, or other disruptions that could affect production. It also enables On to respond quickly to changes in demand and ensure timely delivery of products worldwide.

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Once the shoes are manufactured, they undergo a series of steps before reaching the consumer. Here’s a brief overview of the journey from factory to foot:

Quality Inspection and Packaging:

After production, each pair of shoes undergoes a final quality inspection to meet On’s standards. Once they pass this inspection, the shoes are carefully packaged to protect them during transit.

Shipping and Distribution:

On has a well-organized logistics network to manage the shipping and distribution of their products. Shoes are shipped from the factories to distribution centers in strategic locations worldwide. These are distributed from retail stores and directly to online customers.

Retail and E Commerce:

On shoes are available in numerous retail stores globally, including specialty running stores and major sporting goods retailers. Additionally, On has a robust online presence, allowing customers to purchase their shoes directly from the company’s website. This multi-channel approach ensures that On shoes are accessible to many customers.

So, Where Are On Shoes Made? While the journey begins in Switzerland with meticulous design and development, the production occurs in several countries, primarily Vietnam and China. These locations are chosen for their advanced manufacturing capabilities, skilled labor, and cost efficiencies. On maintains strict quality control and ethical manufacturing practices to ensure that each pair of shoes meets their high standards.

By understanding On shoes’ origins and production process, customers can appreciate the care and innovation that go into creating these exceptional products. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual runner, knowing where your shoes come from and how they made can enhance your overall experience and trust in the brand.

In a world where the origins of products are becoming increasingly important to consumers, On stands out by being transparent about their manufacturing process and commitment to quality and sustainability. Next time you lace up a pair of On shoes, you’ll know their remarkable journey from concept to your feet.