A proposed class action lawsuit filed on October 9, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon (Case No. 3:25-cv-1852) alleges that several models of On running shoes emit a persistent and disruptive squeaking noise.
According to the complaint, the defect stems from On’s signature CloudTec cushioning system, which features distinctive rubber pods and geometric soles designed to absorb impact and provide a soft landing. Plaintiffs claim that friction and moisture inside the pods create a squeak that makes the shoes unpleasant and embarrassing to wear in public.
The lawsuit argues that On, Inc. has been aware of this problem for years but continues to market the sneakers as premium performance footwear. Consumers say the company has refused to repair or replace the defective shoes under warranty. Instead, they claim the issue is “normal wear and tear.” Buyers who spent as much as $200 per pair claim that they were denied refunds despite widespread reports of the same defect.
Who Is Involved in the CloudTec Lawsuit
The plaintiffs, Louis Bologna and Patricia Ramirez, filed the complaint on behalf of consumers in California and New York who purchased On sneakers featuring CloudTec cushioning within the relevant statute of limitations period.
The case names On, Inc. as the primary defendant. The lawsuit alleges violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL), California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act (CLRA), and New York’s General Business Law (GBL). Plaintiffs are seeking damages for breach of warranty, unjust enrichment, and deceptive business practices.
If the court certifies the class, eligible consumers could include anyone who purchased CloudTec sneakers in the affected states.
Which Models Are Impacted
The proposed class action identifies numerous On running shoes that allegedly contain the squeaky defect, including:
- Cloud 5
- Cloud 6
- CloudMonster
- CloudTilt
- CloudSurfer
- CloudEclipse
- CloudLeap
- CloudSky
- CloudSwift
- CloudZone
- CloudRunner
All of these models incorporate CloudTec pods which are marketed as designed to cushion impact during running or walking. However, according to the complaint, the same design causes unwanted friction that causes the squeaking noise. Consumers report that the problem often begins within weeks of purchase and persists even after cleaning or replacing insoles.
Online forums and product review pages have documented hundreds of similar complaints. Some users have even uploaded do-it-yourself repair tutorials in an effort to reduce the noise, though these fixes appear temporary at best.
What the Lawsuit Alleges
The lawsuit claims that On’s marketing and design representations are misleading because the company promotes its CloudTec technology as a high-performance innovation that delivers comfort and quiet movement. Plaintiffs argue that the squeaky noise undermines this promise, making the shoes unsuitable for their intended use.
The key allegations include:
- The shoes emit a “loud, embarrassing” squeak with each step, caused by friction between rubber pods and internal materials.
- On, Inc. has known about the problem for years through customer complaints and warranty claims but continues to sell the shoes without a fix.
- The company’s refusal to provide refunds or replacements constitutes a breach of express and implied warranties.
- Consumers would not have purchased the shoes or paid full price if they had known about the defect.
The plaintiffs also point to social media posts and online reviews as evidence that the squeak has been a widespread issue. They argue that On’s failure to disclose the defect amounts to deceptive advertising under state consumer protection laws.
Legal Status and Proceedings
The case is still in its early stages. Court documents show that the initial complaint was filed in an Oregon federal court in October 2025 and assigned to a federal judge for preliminary review. On, Inc. has not yet filed a formal response, and no hearings have been scheduled.
The plaintiffs are requesting that the court certify a class of affected consumers, order restitution or refunds, and require On to stop selling shoes with the alleged defect until it is fixed. They also seek compensation for damages, attorneys’ fees, and injunctive relief to prevent future deceptive marketing.
At this time, there is no settlement or claims process in place. Consumers who believe they have been affected should monitor the case for updates and preserve purchase receipts or warranty communications.
What This Means for Consumers
The lawsuit highlights a growing trend of product defect claims against high-end athletic brands. On markets the CloudTec shoes as premium footwear for runners and casual wearers. The company emphasizes the shoes’ comfort, quiet performance, and sleek design. The plaintiffs say that the squeaky noise contradicts those promises and creates social discomfort for wearers.
The case could impact consumers in multiple ways:
- Refund or Replacement Programs: If the class is certified and succeeds, On may have to issue refunds, replacements, or credits.
- Warranty Policy Changes: The company could be required to adjust its limited warranty language to better cover defects like noise or friction.
- Product Redesign: On may need to revise its CloudTec pod construction to prevent friction and moisture buildup.
If the lawsuit expands beyond California and New York, consumers in other states could also join future class actions or related cases.
Similar Lawsuits in the Footwear Industry
On is not the first company to face litigation over product defects related to noise or comfort. Other brands have dealt with lawsuits involving faulty air pockets, unstable soles, or misleading performance claims.
Consumer protection attorneys say these cases serve as reminders that even luxury or performance-focused footwear must meet reasonable expectations of quality.
Why the On Sneakers Lawsuit Matters
The proposed class action against On underscores how product quality and customer trust are linked in the athletic footwear market. The squeaky-shoe controversy raises questions about transparency, warranty coverage, and corporate accountability.
If plaintiffs succeed, the outcome could encourage other manufacturers to address similar complaints proactively. It may also remind consumers to document product issues and push for fair remedies when defects arise.
Final Thoughts
The On sneakers lawsuit is still unfolding, but it has already drawn national attention from both runners and casual wearers. Many users documented their frustration about the noisy shoes extensively on social media. Anyone who purchased an affected pair should stay informed through reliable legal news sources.
To follow updates on this case and other major class actions, visit OnlyClassActions.com for the latest consumer lawsuit developments and claim opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Check whether your pair uses CloudTec cushioning and if you notice a squeak when walking or running on hard surfaces. Commonly affected models include the Cloud 5, CloudMonster, and CloudSurfer.
Yes, but the plaintiffs argue that the noise is “unreasonably loud and embarrassing.” While the squeak does not appear to pose a safety issue, it may reduce comfort or practicality for daily use.
Keep all documentation related to your purchase, warranty claims, or customer service responses. These records may be useful if the court certifies the class and opens a claims process.
Not automatically. Class members must typically submit a claim form once a settlement or verdict is reached. The amount of compensation, if any, will depend on the court’s findings.
The current complaint applies to consumers in California and New York. However, similar lawsuits could be filed elsewhere if customers in other states experience the same defect.
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