On vs. Alo: Which brand should you buy?

On is a performance-first Swiss brand that designs technologically advanced running shoes with its signature CloudTec cushioning, while Alo is a fashion-forward American activewear brand renowned for its stylish yoga and studio-to-street apparel. On focuses on function and minimalist design for athletes, whereas Alo prioritizes trend-setting aesthetics and premium fabrics for yoga enthusiasts and a lifestyle audience.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right brand for your active lifestyle.

On: The Leader in Performance Running Technology

On is a Swiss-based athletic sportswear company founded in 2010, celebrated for its revolutionary CloudTec sole that provides a unique running experience. The brand serves serious runners, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts who demand peak performance and comfort from their footwear. The aesthetic is clean, modern, and functional, with a focus on engineering over flashy trends.

• Product mix: Primarily high-performance running shoes for road, trail, and competition. They also offer a focused collection of athletic apparel and training footwear with the same minimalist design principles.
• Price point: Shoes are priced in the mid-to-premium range, typically costing between $130 and $180, reflecting the brand's investment in technology.
• Technology & Innovation: On's signature is the CloudTec® sole, which features hollow pods that compress for a soft landing and lock for an explosive take-off. This technology defines their entire footwear line.
• Sizing/Fit: Their shoes generally run true to size but are known for a slightly narrow fit, especially in the toe box. Those with wider feet may want to consider sizing up a half size for more comfort.
• Sustainability: The brand is committed to sustainability by using recycled materials in its products and working towards developing a fully circular performance running shoe called the Cyclon.

On is built for those who prioritize innovative technology, functional comfort, and a subtle, sleek look in their athletic gear, especially for running.

Shop On: on-running.com

Alo: The Trend-Setting Activewear Brand

Alo, founded in Los Angeles in 2007, is a premium activewear brand that masterfully blends studio functionality with street style. Originally designed for yoga, its stylish and high-quality pieces have become popular for all types of workouts and everyday fashion. Alo's target audience is the fashion-conscious individual who wants their activewear to perform well during a workout and look great afterward.

• Product mix: Offers a wide range of activewear including leggings, tops, sports bras, jackets, and loungewear. They've also expanded into accessories, wellness products, and studio-to-street style footwear.
• Price point: Positioned in a mid-to-high range, with popular leggings and tops costing between $60 and $150.
• Quality & Materials: Alo uses proprietary, premium fabrics designed for incredible softness, stretch, and durability. Their focus is on luxurious feel and a flattering fit that feels as good as it looks.
• Sizing/Fit: Apparel generally fits true to size, but many of its core products, like leggings and fitted tops, have a snug, compressive feel. It's always a good idea to consult their sizing chart.
• Sustainability: Alo emphasizes ethical and eco-conscious production, holding a Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) certification and using environmentally friendly practices in its offices and boutiques.

Alo is ideal for shoppers looking for versatile, fashionable, and high-quality activewear that makes a statement in and out of the gym.

Shop Alo: alo-yoga.com

On vs. Alo Comparison

Price Comparison

Both On and Alo are premium brands, and their pricing reflects that positioning. On's running shoes typically fall between $130 and $180, placing them at the higher end of the athletic footwear market. This cost is driven by their proprietary cushioning technology and performance-focused engineering.

Alo's pricing for apparel is comparable, with best-selling leggings in the $100-$130 range and jackets or specialty items costing more. While their products feel expensive, the price is aligned with their use of high-end materials and trendy designs. Neither brand is for the budget shopper, both represent an investment in quality for a specific purpose - performance for On, and style-meets-function for Alo.

Quality & Materials

Quality is a strength for both brands, but their approaches differ. On's quality is centered on performance and durability. Their engineered mesh uppers are lightweight and breathable, while the CloudTec soles are built to withstand miles of running, providing consistent cushioning and responsiveness. The focus is technical and tangible performance.

Alo's quality comes from its luxurious and high-performance fabrics. Their proprietary blends are incredibly soft, offer four-way stretch, and are moisture-wicking and anti-odor. The brand excels at creating a premium feel against the skin and an ultra-flattering silhouette, making their clothing both comfortable for workouts and durable enough for frequent wear.

Style & Aesthetic

The brands exist on opposite ends of the style spectrum. On embraces a minimalist, sleek, and functional Swiss design. Color palettes are often neutral or earthy, with clean lines and subtle branding. Their shoes are undeniably stylish but in a sophisticated, understated way that complements a modern wardrobe.

Alo, born from the LA yoga scene, is all about trends. Their look is fashion-forward, featuring bold colors, unique cuts, and eye-catching designs. From glossy legging fabrics to chic asymmetrical tops, Alo is designed to be seen. It's the type of activewear you wear to a workout and then to brunch, positioning itself firmly as a lifestyle brand.

Shopping Experience

Both brands offer a premium online shopping experience. Their websites are clean, visually engaging, and easy to navigate. On's site includes detailed guides to help you find the right shoe for your running style and needs, emphasizing technical specifications. Alo's site functions more like a fashion retailer, showcasing complete looks and style inspiration.

Both provide free shipping and easy return processes, ensuring a low-risk purchase. Customer service is generally regarded as responsive and helpful for both companies, which is expected at this price point.

Sustainability & Ethics

Sustainability is a core value for both brands. On is heavily invested in reducing its environmental footprint, using recycled materials and transparently sharing its progress reports. Their ultimate goal is a subscription-based, fully recyclable shoe, showcasing their commitment to circularity.

Alo focuses on ethical production with its WRAP-certified, sweatshop-free manufacturing process. They use eco-conscious materials and have taken steps to create a greener workspace. For the eco-conscious consumer, both brands represent responsible choices in the activewear market.

Which One Should You Choose?

While both brands excel in the activewear market, they serve very different primary needs.

Choose On if:

• Your primary activity is running or high-impact training.
• You value innovative footwear technology that enhances performance and comfort.
• You prefer a minimalist, clean, and functional aesthetic in your athletic gear.
• Durability and advanced engineering in a shoe is your top priority.

Choose Alo if:

• Yoga, pilates, or studio classes are your main form of exercise.
• You want activewear that is trendy, stylish, and can be worn as everyday fashion.
• The feel of premium, soft fabrics and a flattering fit is important to you.
• You're looking for a wide variety of colors, cuts, and styles in your workout wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is On or Alo more expensive?

Both brands operate in a similar premium price tier, but for different products. On's technology-driven running shoes, from $130-$180, can seem expensive. Alo's fashion apparel, with leggings around $120, is also a premium purchase. Your total spend depends on whether you're buying sophisticated footwear or a full activewear outfit.

Which brand is better for running?

On is the clear winner for running. The brand exists to engineer high-performance running shoes with superior cushioning and support. While Alo makes stylish sneakers, they are not designed for serious running.

Which brand is better for yoga?

Alo is specifically designed for yoga. Its fabrics offer the four-way stretch, softness, and compressive yet flexible fit that is ideal for moving through poses.

Does Alo make clothes for men?

Yes, Alo has a comprehensive men's line called Alo Men that includes shorts, pants, tops, and loungewear designed with the same focus on quality and style as its women's collection.

Are On shoes good for walking and everyday wear?

Absolutely. The same CloudTec cushioning that makes On shoes great for running also provides exceptional comfort for walking or standing all day. Their sleek design makes them a popular choice for daily casual wear.

How does On sizing run?

On shoes typically run true to size, but their fit is often described as narrow or snug, especially in the shoe's midsection and toe box. If you have wider feet, you might consider going up a half size.

How does Alo sizing run?

Alo's clothing generally fits true to size. However, their bottoms and tops designed for activities like yoga have a compressive fit, so they will feel very snug. If you are between sizes or prefer a looser feel, sizing up is a good option.

Is Alo similar to Lululemon?

Yes, Alo is a direct competitor to Lululemon. Both are leading premium activewear brands rooted in yoga culture. Alo is often seen as having a slightly more fashion-forward and trend-driven aesthetic than the more classic and ubiquitously popular Lululemon.