The verdict
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes worth it?
Yes — Cloud 5 Running Shoes is one of the stronger picks we track in sports & fitness. It holds 3 verified certifications (B Corp, Global Recycled Standard, Climate Neutral). Priced in the $$$ band.
- Cruelty-freeUnverified
- VeganYes
- Plastic-free packagingUnverified
- Recyclable / compostableUnverified
- Palm-oil safeUnverified
- Certified organicUnverified
- Fair labourYes
On Running
Cloud 5 Running Shoes
Ethics Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
Buy From
* Affiliate links help support EthiCompare's mission.
Customer Rating
Best for
Eco-conscious urban commuters and casual runners looking for lightweight performance shoes.
AI Ethics Review
A versatile, everyday running shoe featuring high recycled content and a commitment to circularity through On's sustainability initiatives.
Gallery
Claim-by-claim check
The questions shoppers ask most about Cloud 5 Running Shoes, answered from certifications, tags and sourcing notes on file.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes cruelty-free?
- Unverified — no third-party cruelty-free certification is recorded for Cloud 5 Running Shoes in our database.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes vegan?
- Yes — Cloud 5 Running Shoes is described as vegan or fully plant-based.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes plastic-free?
- Unverified — we have no plastic-free packaging claim on record for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes recyclable or compostable?
- Unverified — end-of-life handling for Cloud 5 Running Shoes is not documented in our data.
- Does Cloud 5 Running Shoes avoid problem palm oil?
- Unverified — no palm-oil policy is recorded for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes certified organic?
- Unverified — no organic certification is on file for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
- Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes fairly made?
- Yes — Cloud 5 Running Shoes is backed by a labour or fair-trade standard.
Ethics Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite Ethics Score above.
How it compares in Sports & Fitness
Benchmarked against 3 other published products in the same category.
0%
of compared products score lower
-18
points vs the category average
3
verified certifications on file
In-Depth Review
Engineering Meets Sustainability
The On Cloud 5 is more than just a lifestyle sneaker; it is a testament to how performance footwear can transition toward a circular economy. On, a Swiss-born company, has rapidly climbed the ranks of ethical footwear by prioritizing recycled materials without sacrificing the 'running on clouds' sensation their customers demand. The Cloud 5 specifically utilizes 44% total recycled content, with 100% of the polyester used in the upper coming from recycled sources.
The CloudTec® Advantage
The heart of the shoe is the CloudTec® sole, which provides soft landings and explosive take-offs. This isn't just a gimmick; the structural design allows for less foam usage than traditional chunky midsoles, reducing the raw material required per shoe. The 'Speedboard'—the plate that converts energy into forward motion—is also being transitioned toward bio-based materials in On's newer iterations.
Social and Environmental Responsibility
On is a certified B Corp, meaning they are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. They maintain a strict Supplier Code of Conduct and provide public transparency regarding their Tier 1 factories. By moving toward 'CleanCloud' technology—where foam is made from captured carbon emissions—On is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sports industry.
| Attribute | Impact Profile |
|---|---|
| Recycled Polyester | 100% of Upper |
| Total Recycled Content | 44% Total |
| Packaging | 100% Recycled Cardboard |
| Carbon Footprint | Offset through Climate Neutral |
"Our goal is to create high-performance products with the lowest possible footprint, Moving from a linear to a circular model." — On Sustainability Report
The shoe also features a speed-lacing system that eliminates the need for plastic-heavy lace tips and excess material, focusing on a minimalist but highly functional aesthetic. It's a favorite for urban commuters and light runners who want a low-impact footprint.
- Significant use of recycled polyester.
- B Corp certified transparency.
- Lightweight design reduces shipping carbon.
- Vegan-friendly materials.
Pros
- ✓Extremely lightweight and breathable
- ✓High percentage of recycled materials
- ✓Vegan-friendly and stylish for daily wear
Cons
- ✗Sole can catch rocks easily
- ✗Not designed for heavy marathon training
Key Facts
- Brand
- On Running
- Category
- Sports & Fitness
- Ethics Score
- 78/100
- Price Range
- $$$ (≈ $140)
- Avg Rating
- 4.6/5 (8900 reviews)
- Vegan
- Yes
- Weight
- 8.8 oz
- Closing
- Speed-lace system
- Heel-to-toe drop
- 8 mm
- Recycled Polyester
- 100%
- Certifications
- B Corp, Global Recycled Standard, Climate Neutral
🌱 Sustainability
44% total recycled content; brand is Climate Neutral certified and active in circular economy research.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
Upper is 100% recycled polyester. Midsole is Zero-Gravity foam. 100% Vegan construction.
Price & where to buy
Typically around $140 — prices change often, so check the live listing.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never affects the ethics score.
What Reviewers Say
"Most comfortable shoes I've ever worn, and I love the eco-focus."
"Perfect for travel and light runs. The speed laces are great."
"A bit pricey but you pay for the quality and the B Corp ethics."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes by On Running ethically made?+
Yes. Cloud 5 Running Shoes earns an EthiCompare ethics score of 78/100, backed by third-party certifications including B Corp, Global Recycled Standard, Climate Neutral. A versatile, everyday running shoe featuring high recycled content and a commitment to circularity through On's sustainability initiatives.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes worth buying?+
Cloud 5 Running Shoes scores 78/100 on our ethics rating. That puts it in the upper band of the products we track, so it is a defensible buy on ethics grounds.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes cruelty-free?+
We have not verified a third-party cruelty-free certification for Cloud 5 Running Shoes. See our On Running verdict page for the brand's full animal-testing position.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes vegan?+
Cloud 5 Running Shoes does not carry a certified vegan claim in our database. Check the ingredient notes above and the brand's own disclosure before buying.
What are the best alternatives to Cloud 5 Running Shoes?+
We list higher-scoring sports & fitness products from other brands on this page, and a full set of ethical alternatives to On Running on its alternatives page.
What certifications does Cloud 5 Running Shoes hold?+
Cloud 5 Running Shoes holds the following certifications: B Corp, Global Recycled Standard, Climate Neutral. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.
How sustainable is Cloud 5 Running Shoes?+
44% total recycled content; brand is Climate Neutral certified and active in circular economy research.
What are the key ingredients or materials in Cloud 5 Running Shoes?+
Upper is 100% recycled polyester. Midsole is Zero-Gravity foam. 100% Vegan construction.
How much does Cloud 5 Running Shoes cost?+
Cloud 5 Running Shoes is priced in the $$$ range for sports & fitness. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy Cloud 5 Running Shoes?+
Cloud 5 Running Shoes is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes plastic-free?+
Unverified — we have no plastic-free packaging claim on record for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes recyclable or compostable?+
Unverified — end-of-life handling for Cloud 5 Running Shoes is not documented in our data.
Does Cloud 5 Running Shoes avoid problem palm oil?+
Unverified — no palm-oil policy is recorded for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes certified organic?+
Unverified — no organic certification is on file for Cloud 5 Running Shoes.
Is Cloud 5 Running Shoes fairly made?+
Yes — Cloud 5 Running Shoes is backed by a labour or fair-trade standard.
Customer Reviews
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Questions & Answers
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