Do On Running Shoes Squeak?
If you've searched "do On Running shoes squeak" you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we get asked in-store and one of the most discussed topics on Reddit. The honest answer? Yes, some On shoes do squeak — but it's usually temporary, it's not a defect, and there are proven ways to fix it. Here's what we know from selling On Running every day since 2020.
1 | Do On Running Shoes Squeak?
Yes, some On Running shoes can squeak — particularly on smooth indoor surfaces like wooden floors, tiles, and gym floors. It's a well-documented characteristic that comes up repeatedly on running forums and Reddit threads.
But context matters. The squeak is almost always:
- Limited to indoor surfaces — you rarely hear it outdoors on tarmac or trails
- Temporary — it fades as the sole wears in during the first 20-30km
- Caused by the CloudTec pod design, not a manufacturing fault
We sell hundreds of pairs of On Running shoes each year. A small percentage of customers mention squeaking, and in almost every case it resolves itself within the first few weeks of wear.
2 | Why Do On Shoes Squeak?
The squeak comes from On's signature CloudTec cushioning system — those distinctive hollow pods on the outsole. When brand new, the rubber compound is at its smoothest and stickiest. On certain surfaces, the pods create a friction-and-release cycle that produces that squeaking sound.
The Three Main Causes
- New rubber outsole: Fresh rubber has a smooth surface that grips and releases on polished floors, creating noise
- Pod compression: CloudTec pods compress and decompress with each step — air movement between pods can cause sound
- Moisture trapped under pods: Sweat, rain, or condensation between the sole and a smooth floor amplifies the effect
This isn't unique to On. Many shoes with segmented outsoles — including Nike Free and Hoka models — can squeak when new. The CloudTec design, with its deep channels between pods, is simply more prone to it than a flat continuous outsole.
3 | Which On Models Squeak Most?
Based on customer feedback and what we hear in-store, the models most likely to squeak are those with larger, more separated CloudTec pods and smoother outsole rubber:
More Likely to Squeak
Cloudmonster — oversized pods with deep channels. The most reported squeaker in the range.
Cloud 6 — classic CloudTec with smooth rubber compound.
Cloudtilt — CloudTec Phase pods on lifestyle outsole.
Less Likely to Squeak
Cloud X 4 — training outsole with more rubber contact area.
Cloudpulse 2 — Missiongrip rubber designed for gym floors.
Cloudvista 2 — trail outsole with aggressive tread pattern.
The pattern is clear: shoes designed for indoor or gym use (Cloud X, Cloudpulse) tend to squeak less because their outsoles are engineered for grip on smooth surfaces. Lifestyle and road running models are more susceptible because their outsole compound prioritises cushioning over indoor grip.
4 | How to Fix Squeaking On Running Shoes
If your On shoes are squeaking and it's bothering you, try these proven fixes in order. Most people find the first two are enough.
Fix 1: Break Them In
Wear them outdoors on pavement for 20-30km. This scuffs the outsole surface just enough to reduce the friction that causes squeaking. Most squeaking stops naturally after 2-3 weeks of regular wear.
Fix 2: Scuff the Outsole
Walk on a rough surface — concrete, gravel, or asphalt — for 10-15 minutes. This removes the smooth factory finish from the rubber pods and breaks the friction seal that creates noise. Don't use sandpaper — it's too aggressive and can damage the outsole compound.
Fix 3: Baby Powder Under the Insole
If the squeak is coming from inside the shoe (insole rubbing against the midsole), remove the insole, sprinkle a light dusting of baby powder or talcum powder underneath, and replace it. This eliminates the friction between layers.
Fix 4: Dry the Outsole
If squeaking happens mainly on wet days, wipe the outsole dry before walking on indoor floors. Moisture trapped in the CloudTec channels amplifies the squeak significantly.
What NOT to Do
Don't use WD-40, silicone spray, or any lubricant on the outsole. It will make the shoes dangerously slippery and can degrade the rubber compound. Don't sand the outsole with coarse sandpaper. Natural wear is sufficient.
5 | Does the Squeak Go Away?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. The squeak fades as the outsole rubber loses its factory-smooth finish through normal wear. Most customers who mention it to us say it stopped within 2-4 weeks.
If you're using the shoes primarily indoors (gym, office), the break-in may take slightly longer because smooth indoor floors don't scuff the rubber as quickly as outdoor pavement. In that case, wearing them outside for a few walks will speed the process up.
6 | Is Squeaking a Defect?
No. On Running does not classify outsole squeaking as a manufacturing defect. It is a characteristic of new rubber on smooth surfaces and is not covered under warranty as a fault.
The CloudTec pod design is intentional — it delivers On's signature cushioned landing and firm take-off. The trade-off is that new pods can squeak on certain floors. This is similar to new car tyres squealing on smooth surfaces — it's a property of new rubber, not a defect.
7 | When to Return Squeaking Shoes
While normal squeaking is not a defect, there are situations where you should bring them back to us:
- Structural noise: If you hear clicking, cracking, or grinding — not squeaking — this could indicate a loose Speedboard or delamination
- Persistent squeak after 50+ km: If the squeak hasn't reduced at all after significant wear, bring them in and we'll inspect them
- Visible outsole separation: If CloudTec pods are separating from the midsole, that is a manufacturing defect covered by warranty
- Uneven wear: If one shoe squeaks and the other doesn't after the same amount of wear, there may be an inconsistency worth investigating
OD's Returns Policy
If you've purchased On Running shoes from us and you're not happy, bring them into our store at 44 Barrow Street, St Helens. We'll inspect them, and if there's a genuine fault, we'll exchange or refund under the manufacturer's warranty. We're here to help.
Shop On Running at OD's
If squeaking concerns you, these models are your safest choices — designed for training surfaces with outsoles that grip rather than squeak.
8 | Frequently Asked Questions
Do all On Running shoes squeak?
No. Squeaking affects a minority of pairs and is most common on models with larger CloudTec pods (like the Cloudmonster) when worn on smooth indoor floors. Training models like the Cloud X 4 and Cloudpulse 2 are less prone to squeaking because their outsoles are designed for indoor grip.
Why do my On Running shoes squeak on gym floors?
Gym floors are smooth and polished, which creates maximum friction with new rubber outsoles. The CloudTec pods grip and release rapidly with each step, producing a squeaking sound. This typically fades after 2-4 weeks of regular use as the rubber breaks in.
How long does On Running squeaking last?
Most customers find the squeaking stops within 2-4 weeks of regular wear, or roughly 20-30km. Wearing them outdoors on pavement speeds up the process by scuffing the smooth factory finish on the outsole.
Can I return On Running shoes for squeaking?
Outsole squeaking on smooth surfaces is not classified as a manufacturing defect by On Running and is not covered under warranty. However, if you notice structural sounds (clicking, cracking) or visible outsole separation, bring them to OD's and we will inspect them for a genuine fault.
Will baby powder stop On Running shoes squeaking?
Baby powder can help if the squeak is coming from inside the shoe (insole rubbing against the midsole). Remove the insole, apply a light dusting of powder, and replace it. For outsole squeaking, wearing the shoes outdoors to scuff the rubber is more effective.
Is OD's an authorised On Running stockist?
Yes. OD's Designer Clothing is an authorised UK stockist of On Running. Every pair purchased from us is 100% authentic with full manufacturer warranty, sourced directly from official distribution.