Business17 October, 20252 min read
Customers Sue Sneaker Company On Over Defective Shoes That Squeak Loudly When Worn
This article is an automated aggregation of coverage from news outlets. Our editorials offer in-depth analysis curated by the NewsCord team.
Class action lawsuit filed October 9 in U.S. District Court in Portland, Oregon Lawsuit targets On's shoes using CloudTec technology causing loud, embarrassing squeaks
5 outlets told this the same way.
Lawsuit Over Noisy Sneakers
A class action lawsuit targets On, the Swiss athletic brand behind “CloudTec” cushioning, over sneakers that allegedly emit an “embarrassing” squeak with every step. Newser reports the case was filed in federal court in Portland, Oregon, where On’s North American headquarters is located.
“A lawsuit has been filed against the shoe company On over its ‘CloudTec’ technology, which is designed to provide cushioned support but allegedly causes the shoes to produce a loud, embarrassing squeak with every step.”
NBC News emphasizes consumers’ claims that the squeak occurs “with every step” and is humiliating. Local outlet WKRC confirms the class action posture and highlights the core allegation that shoes with CloudTec technology produce an “embarrassingly loud” noise when worn.
Squeaky Shoe Complaint Details
The scope and cost framing differ by outlet. Newser specifies the complaint targets sneakers in 11 models priced between $140 and $180 and alleges the noise occurs with every step. NBC News frames the products as nearly $200 sneakers and underscores the embarrassment caused by the issue.
WKRC adds timing information, noting that the case was filed in October, but does not expand on model counts or pricing. Together, these reports depict a case alleging that CloudTec-equipped shoes routinely squeak during normal wear.
On's Response to Squeaking Issue
On’s response is central to the dispute. NBC News reports that On acknowledges the squeaking but classifies it as “normal wear and tear” rather than a production defect, excluding it from warranty coverage. Plaintiffs say the company refuses to issue refunds.
“Although On acknowledges the squeaking, it classifies it as ‘normal wear and tear’ and not a production defect, thus excluding it from warranty coverage.”
Newser similarly reports the suit accuses On of being aware of the issue yet refusing to cover it under warranty, dismissing the squeaking as normal wear and tear. WKRC’s brief item does not discuss the company’s stance, focusing only on the existence of the class action.
Customer Issues with Shoe Defect
Consumers’ experiences and alleged impact of the defect are also highlighted. NBC News recounts that the defect is particularly tough on people who stand all day, such as nurses. The report notes customers resorting to DIY fixes like coconut oil or baby powder.
Newser similarly reports customers have tried various fixes but states there is no easy solution. It adds that plaintiffs claim the defect affects all CloudTec shoes during both walking and running. WKRC reiterates the “embarrassingly loud” squeak but does not delve into user groups or attempted remedies.
Class Action Lawsuit Details
NBC News reports that plaintiffs accuse On of fraudulent business practices and deceptive marketing. The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory, statutory, and punitive damages along with refunds. NBC News also notes that On declined to comment on the allegations.
“The plaintiffs accuse On of fraudulent business practices and deceptive marketing, seeking compensatory, statutory, and punitive damages along with refunds.”
Newser adds that the complaint includes multiple online customer grievances documenting a persistent squeak issue. WKRC confirms the class action filing and provides timing details but does not specify the legal theories or requested remedies.