On Cloudmonster Shoe Review

The On Cloudmonster Shoe is a brand new shoe from On. Right off the bat, it features a bold design. When I first saw a photo, I was like, what the heck is going on at On? Many people love On running shoes, but they want more cushion, and that is where the Cloudmonster comes in.

The On Cloudmonster is IOn’s most cushioned shoe yet. It combines On’s Cloudtec technology plus a lot of cushioning and a responsive Speedboard.

On a separate brand-related note, did you know the brand is just called “On”? Not “On Clouds.” The On Cloud is a specific type of On Shoe, but just like all Fords are not called Ford Mustangs, the brand is not called “On Clouds,” just “On.”

On Cloudmonster Quick Facts:

Heel to Toe Drop: 6 mm

Weight: 8.1 oz

Cost: $170

On Cloudmonster Introduction:

$170 for a shoe without a carbon plate is still on the more expensive side. Most high cushioned shoes range in price from $150-$160. Is the On Cloudmonster worth the extra money? On states the Cloudmonster has the double the amount of Helion foam. This makes it smooth but also fairly light.

On Cloudmonster Fit:

The On Cloudmonster has a recycled polyester upper. Most people know by now, but I love brands and companies that are starting to become more environmentally friendly. The upper is thinner but it does fit well and doesn’t cause a lot of problems. I know a lot of people prefer thinner uppers especially as we get into the warmer months.

I strongly believe the best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and for the most part, the On Cloudmonster does. The On Cloudmonster is by far the widest On shoe to date, and since On is not made in a wide, this is good news for those of us (me) who have wider feet!

I do wish the laces were slightly longer but other than that, it fits comfortable. The Cloudmonster shoelaces are slightly different than typically On running shoelaces. They are thicker and stay tied better. I hope this is the way of On’s running shoe future.

Typically in running shoes, I wear between a size 10-11 wide. I’ve found almost every On Running shoe model fits best at a size 11 and the On Cloudmonster is no different. On running shoes do usually run slightly smaller and more narrow so I would go a half size up from your regular running shoe size.

On Cloudmonster Ride:

The On Cloudmonster uses more Helion Superfoam. What is Helion Super Foam? According to On it combines rigid and flexible elements and results in a smooth ride. It also has larger cloud pods to provide more cushioning in the rear foot but still roll you forward. You might expect the On Cloudmonster to be rigid but it is more flexible to keep the ride smooth and rolling easily from heel to toe.

The Cloudmonster also features a “Speedboard” which technically means it’s a plated shoe. When the Speedboard compresses, it propels you forward. Without the Speedboard, the Helion would make the On Cloudmonster too mushy and you would feel like you’re running on a giant marshmallow. The Speedboard really allows you to get some responsiveness.

With On running shoes, they usually feel extremely stiff when you put them on. After running a few miles they began to soften up.

Durability and Traction: I’ve found most On running shoes to be extremely durable. I expect the On Cloudmonster will get over 300 miles on it.

The problem with On running Shoes is occasionally the traction is not as great because the bottom has the pods. These pods can sometimes collect rocks and cause you to slide. Keep in mind, the traction has never been terrible but the pods are likely to pick up a few rocks here and there. Of any On running shoe I’ve tried, the On Cloudmonster has the best traction.

I’ve used the On Cloudmonster for a variety of workouts including easy runs, longer runs, and tempo runs. I found the On Cloudmonster fits best as an easy run shoe but unlike many high cushioned shoes, you do have the ability to run faster in it. I wouldn’t race or do a hard workout because I do like lighter shoes, but it does have the ability to pick up the pace if you prefer. I find I can pack the On Cloudmonster with me when I don’t know exactly what kind of run I’ll be doing.

On Cloudmonster Conclusion:

I hate to say “favorite” for any shoe but the On Cloudmonster is definitely my favorite On running shoe right now. It has plenty of cushion and feels great for easy or daily run days. If you’ve wanted to try On running shoes but felt like you need more cushion or a wider model, it’s a great option.

My Current Shoe Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: On Cloudmonster, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Saucony Triumph 19, Brooks Launch 9

Speed Work: Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Reebok Floatride Energy X

Long Runs: Saucony Freedom 4, Hoka Clifton Edge,  Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3

Trail Running/Hiking: Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL:PDX, North Face Flight VECTIV

Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Asics Metaspeed Sky,Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro,New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, Reebok Run fast Pro 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.

Questions for you:

Have you tried the On Cloudmonster?

What is your favorite running shoe?