On Cloudmonster review

Who should buy the On Cloudmonster

Get the Cloudmonster if you're looking for a: 

• maxed-out daily trainer for road running and walking 
• highly protective and bouncy shoe for long training runs

Who should NOT buy it

Consider the New Balance 1080 v12 instead if you want a cushy and protective ride for recovery days. And if you're among the wide-footed runners out there, your toes can splay comfortably in the Puma Velocity Nitro 2. Even more, it's a more budget-friendly alternative at $120. 

A comfort monster

With a monstrous amount of cushioning, runners can't help but say that "On has made themselves a Bondi!" Not only is it reminiscent in size, but also in comfort. 

It's not your typical On running shoe that's firm. Everyone agrees that it's a massive step forward from the rigid and brick-like On shoes of the past. Simply, the brand has finally achieved what they've always promised the Cloudtec to be. 

The On Cloudmonster may not be a plush shoe, but if there's the best way to describe it, these comments nail it to a T:

• It is great for "walking and long days out."
• It "keeps your legs feeling fresh after long runs."

Be wary on recovery days

It's not for such a pace, to say the least. According to multiple testers, when you're looking to really slow it down, the Cloudmonster is still on the firmer side despite it being branded as On's version of the Nike Invincible Run. 

One expert even went as far as saying his legs "felt trashed" the day after his recovery run as "there wasn’t enough [softness] to keep the feet fresh."

How could a giant weigh so little

On average, max-cushion shoes weigh in at 289 grams or 10.2 ounces in US men's 9. However, the Cloudmonster is only 274 grams or 9.7 ounces despite its massive look and cushion. One runner explains this perfectly saying, it's easy to pick up the pace "without feeling too taxed." 

Runs easy

With its rocker geometry, having an "easy rolling sensation" is the greatest takeaway from most runners. Moving forward doesn't require too much effort because the shoe does it for you. 

The On Cloudmonster offers a springy ride

Almost everyone agrees that this is the most responsive On running shoe yet, saying: 

• It "provides a very fun and versatile ride." 
• The shoe has "a nice fluid toe spring through the forefoot." 
• The "Cloudmonster a little bit of pop at toe-off" which multiple reviewers find "unique" for maximalist shoes. 

Traction that sticks

The outsole grip of the On Cloudmonster is what many consider "exceptional."  Whether you're running through a "late winter snowstorm or springtime showers," it's one of the better grips out there. 

Even better, it doesn't just stick on the road, but also does so excellently on gravel and hard-packed dirt sections of trails.

Won't let you slip

The majority are in awe of the shoe's ability to "keep the movement linear." Despite its titan-like stack, there have been NO complaints about unwanted side-to-side movements. This is thanks to the shoe's wide base that provides planted steps. 

Stepping it up in the lockdown department

The shoe's boot-like collar holds the ankle nicely while "maintaining a nice amount of mobility." It's complemented by the gusseted tongue (attached to the sides), locking the foot in place. 

Additionally, several testers find the lacing system an "underrated feature." They say the shoe's little loops (for eyelets) gave them a perfect lockdown.

Just enough room

For runners with narrow to medium-width feet, the toe box is more than enough. They even say it has enough room when (werewolf reference alert!) "you accidentally go out on a night run with a full moon."

However, the shoe's toe room is a letdown for wide-footed runners. It just feels "tight and compressed;" they can feel pressure on the top of the big toenail.

The Cloudmonster is an eye-candy

It has an "unorthodox and futuristic look" that catches onlookers' eyes. The little design touches "go a long way;" so many were wowed by the shoe.

Built for the long haul

An expert who has logged 100 km in this shoe reports that it "still feels brand new."

Puts a dent in your wallet

The average maximalist trainer retails for $149. Meanwhile, the On Cloudmonster costs $170 a pair, which is a lot.