Swiss sportswear brand On is scaling up its revolutionary LightSpray technology, which uses robotic arms to spray fibers directly onto shoe molds, creating ultra-light sneakers in minutes. With a new automated factory in South Korea, global production is set to expand thirtyfold in 2026, marking a major leap in footwear innovation.
On, the Swiss athletic brand known for its performance-driven footwear, is preparing for a worldwide launch of sneakers made using its cutting-edge LightSpray technology. This breakthrough process employs robotic arms to spray 1.5 kilometers of specialized filament onto a shoe mold, forming a seamless, feather-light upper in just three minutes.
The company’s latest expansion comes with the opening of a fully automated factory near Busan, South Korea, housing 32 robots. This facility builds on On’s first LightSpray site in Zurich, Switzerland, which began operations in July 2025 with four robots. Together, these factories are expected to increase global production capacity thirtyfold in 2026, setting the stage for mass-market availability of spray-on fiber sneakers.
Key Highlights
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LightSpray technology creates one-piece uppers that are ultra-light, durable, and sustainable, reducing material waste compared to traditional shoe manufacturing.
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The South Korea factory represents On’s second global hub, strategically positioned to accelerate nearshore production and distribution worldwide.
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Each sneaker upper is produced in approximately three minutes, showcasing efficiency and scalability for global demand.
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On’s long-term strategy involves establishing LightSpray factories across multiple regions, ensuring faster delivery and localized production.
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The innovation aligns with consumer demand for lightweight, eco-conscious footwear, positioning On as a leader in next-generation sportswear manufacturing.
With this expansion, On is not only redefining sneaker design but also reshaping the future of footwear production. The global rollout of spray-on fiber sneakers signals a new era where performance, sustainability, and speed converge seamlessly.
Sources: SGB Online, Just Style, WWD