Allbirds vs On Cloud: Brand Background and Product Lines
Allbirds is a San Francisco-based sustainable footwear company founded in 2016 that went public via a SPAC merger in November 2023, trading on NASDAQ under the ticker BIRD. On Cloud is a Swiss performance running brand founded in 2010 by former Swiss national runner Olivier Bernhard, with its parent company On Holding AG listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker ONON since 2021. Allbirds focuses on merino wool, eucalyptus tree fiber, and sugarcane-based materials, while On Cloud emphasizes lightweight mesh uppers, carbon rubber outsoles, and proprietary foam cushioning systems like CloudTec and Helion. Both brands sell primarily through direct-to-consumer websites and select retail partners, with On Cloud also expanding into lifestyle and training shoes beyond pure running.
As of the latest available public filings, Allbirds reported annual revenue of approximately 350 million USD for fiscal year 2023, while On Holding reported revenue of roughly 1.4 billion USD for the same period, reflecting On Cloud's larger scale in performance running. Allbirds positions itself in the sustainable casual and light-performance category, whereas On Cloud targets serious runners and athletes seeking responsive cushioning and energy return. Both companies have faced investor scrutiny regarding profitability, with On Holding narrowing losses and Allbirds working toward margin improvement through direct sales growth and product mix optimization.
Materials, Comfort, and Durability Comparison
Allbirds uses natural and recycled materials such as merino wool from New Zealand, eucalyptus tree fiber from sustainably managed forests, and sugarcane-based SweetFoam midsoles. The brand emphasizes carbon footprint transparency, publishing product-level lifecycle assessments and using the Higg Index to communicate environmental impact. On Cloud uses engineered knit uppers, thermoplastic polyurethane heel clips, and proprietary polyurethane foams, with a focus on lightweight construction and breathable mesh designed for high-mileage running. Both brands offer machine-washable shoes in many models, though Allbirds generally requires more careful drying due to natural wool components.
In independent wear tests and runner reviews, Allbirds models like the Tree Runner and Wool Runner are noted for all-day comfort in casual and light-active settings, while On Cloud models such as the Cloud 5 and Cloudmonster are praised for responsive cushioning during runs. Allbirds uses a single-density midsole approach focused on natural bounce, whereas On Cloud uses multi-density Cloud elements to absorb impact and return energy. Durability varies by use case, with On Cloud running shoes typically lasting 300 to 500 miles depending on surface and gait, while Allbirds casual shoes show longer lifespan in low-impact daily wear but less resilience under heavy running mileage.
Pricing, Availability, and Market Position
Allbirds shoes generally retail between 100 and 170 USD, with limited-edition and specialty models priced higher, while On Cloud running shoes range from about 130 to 200 USD depending on the technology tier and release. Allbirds sells primarily through its own website and select partners such as Nordstrom and Zappos, while On Cloud distributes through its own e-commerce platform, specialty running stores, and major retailers like REI and Running Warehouse. Both brands offer free shipping and return policies in the United States, with On Cloud providing a wider size and width range for performance fitting.
In market positioning, Allbirds appeals to consumers prioritizing sustainable materials and casual comfort, while On Cloud attracts runners and athletes seeking data-driven performance features. Both brands have expanded into apparel and accessories, with On Cloud offering clothing and training gear alongside shoes, and Allbirds introducing loungewear and socks made from merino and recycled fibers. For investors and consumers tracking footwear sector trends, both companies are publicly traded and regularly release earnings reports, with On Holding's larger revenue base giving it greater visibility in