What Is On
On is the shoe brand you recognize by the hollow pods in its soles. Often called On Running or “On Cloud,” it sells both running shoes and everyday sneakers. That distinction matters when you are choosing a pair for foot pain: the Cloud name covers several different designs.
On positions the Cloud 6 for all-day wear and the Cloudtilt for walking. Its running range includes the Cloudrunner 3, which On describes as offering a stable ride, and the Cloudmonster 3, built around a more cushioned, responsive ride. These examples cost about $160 to $190 at current U.S. list prices.
For a foot or joint condition, what matters is what the shoe gives you: room around a painful toe, a cushioned heel, or the support your clinician recommends. Our broader shoe eligibility guide explains the rules across footwear categories.
Why On Shoes Qualify for HSA/FSA
Yes, On shoes qualify for HSA/FSA spending with a Letter of Medical Necessity connecting the pair to a specific medical condition. The letter explains how the shoes' features help manage your condition. Our HSA vs FSA guide explains how the two accounts differ.
IRS Publication 502 states: “Medical care expenses must be primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental disability or illness.” A licensed provider connects your On shoes to your condition in your Letter of Medical Necessity, and that is what makes them HSA/FSA eligible. Conditions that can support a letter include:
- Plantar fasciitis. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says shoes with thick soles and extra cushioning can reduce pain with standing and walking. Your provider can note the cushioning and support your heel needs.
- Painful flat feet. MedlinePlus lists special shoes and arch supports among the options that help painful flexible flat feet. Your provider can note the support your feet need.
- Bunions. Shoes with a roomy toe box that doesn't squeeze your toes can often ease bunion pain, according to AAOS guidance. Your letter can name the toe room and width you need.
- Insertional Achilles tendinitis. AAOS says shoes that are softer or open at the back of the heel can reduce irritation of the tendon. Your provider can note the heel your shoes should have.
- Knee osteoarthritis. In a 164-person randomized trial, stable supportive shoes eased knee pain on walking more than flat flexible shoes after six months.
Which On Models Qualify
On's everyday and running shoes are HSA/FSA eligible when your letter names them for your condition. Use the table to find the family that fits how you'll wear them.
| Model | On's intended use | Approximate U.S. price | HSA/FSA eligible with an LMN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud 6 | All-day wear | $160 | Yes |
| Cloudtilt | Walking | $170 | Yes |
| Cloudrunner 3 | Everyday running, stable ride | $160 | Yes |
| Cloudmonster 3 | Everyday running, responsive ride | $190 | Yes |
Prices and descriptions checked October 15, 2026, against On's Cloud 6 and Cloudtilt pages above and its Cloudrunner and Cloudmonster collections. Versions, widths and prices can change.
Comparing brands? Our HOKA eligibility guide covers HOKA's options the same way.
How to Get On Shoes Covered With a Letter of Medical Necessity
Crates keeps this to three steps: get your letter, buy the On shoes you want, and get your HSA/FSA funds back.
- Get your LMN. Through your doctor or podiatrist, or through Crates, as described below.
- Buy the On shoes anywhere. Pay with your personal card at On or any retailer, online or in store, and keep the itemized receipt showing the model and the amount paid.
- Get your funds back. Use Crates one-click reimbursement to file the claim for you, or submit the letter and receipt to your administrator yourself. For an HSA, keep both with your tax records.
Option 1: Through Your Doctor
If you already see a provider for your condition, they can write the letter:
- Book a visit and say you want to buy a pair of On shoes with HSA/FSA funds
- Ask them to document how it helps prevent, manage, or reverse your condition
- Make sure the letter is signed and dated
- Timeline: a few days to a few weeks, and you may owe a copay
Option 2: Through Crates
Crates streamlines the same process online:
- Complete a short health assessment, about 2 to 3 minutes
- A licensed provider reviews it, typically within 24 to 48 hours
- If you qualify, your Letter of Medical Necessity is issued for the pair of On shoes
- Buy the pair of On shoes with your personal card at any retailer
- Use Crates one-click reimbursement to get your HSA/FSA funds back
- Your LMN stays valid for 12 months and renews each year
You do not need a pharmacy prescription; the letter itself is what establishes eligibility.
