Cyclon
Cloudneo is a completely new type of high-performance running shoe developed by the Swiss company On according to the principles of the circular economy and will launch in 2022. Unlike conventional sports shoes, which are always made from a mix of materials that are virtually impossible to break down, Cloudneo is a shoe made from only one material family. Both the sole and the upper - a knitted fabric - are largely made from a high-quality, bio-based plastic called Rilsan PA 11, which, thanks to its quality, can be recycled a virtually unlimited number of times. This means that after its use, Cloudneo returns completely to the material cycle. The material thus recovered is used to create a new shoe. This model can only work if the used shoes are actually recycled. Therefore, Cloudneo is not sold, but rented out on a subscription basis called Cyclon. While the shoes go back to the manufacturer at the end of their life cycle, customers receive a new pair by return of post.
Comments of the nominators
Cloudneo proves that high performance and sustainability can be combined. The shoe follows the idea of the circular economy and implements it holistically. In addition to the actual product development, the associated business model is also impressive: Cloudneo is not sold but rented out to ensure that the used shoes are recycled. If successful, this should soon find imitators.
Comments of the jury
The Swiss label On, known for its innovative running shoes and still young, does not rest on its successes, but remains courageous. The new running shoe is a product that for the first time has been consistently and convincingly developed according to the criteria of the circular economy. If the associated holistic approach proves itself in practice – which one has good reason to hope it will – it will be a shining example of sustainable products. Of crucial importance is Cyclon’s completely new mono-materiality, on which the shoe’s recyclability is based. This not only results in a new, possibly groundbreaking product aesthetic but, with the subscription system, also a potentially exemplary new business model. There’s really nothing more you can expect from a running shoe.
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