On Running built its reputation on firm, functional shoes that runners wore everywhere except for their hardest runs. That changed in 2022 when the brand released the Cloudmonster a shoe so different from what On had made before that it genuinely surprised the running community.
Three versions later, the Cloudmonster is one of On’s most recognizable shoes. It has a bold, unmistakable silhouette, a max-cushioned platform, and a price tag that makes most people pause before buying. The question worth answering before you spend anywhere between $170 and $190 is simple: does the ride actually hold up?
This review covers all three versions of the Cloudmonster the original, the v2, and the Cloudmonster 3 so you can understand how the shoe has evolved and which version, if any, is the right fit for where you are in your training.
Quick Answer
The On Cloudmonster is a max-cushioned daily trainer with a firm-but-protective ride built around On’s CloudTec midsole technology. It works well for easy runs, long runs, and recovery days. It is not a plush or bouncy shoe in the traditional sense, and runners expecting a soft, sink-in feel may find it surprisingly firm.
What the Cloudmonster Series Is Actually About
| Version | Launch Price | Weight (Men’s US 9) | Stack Height (Heel / Forefoot) | Drop | Key Midsole Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudmonster v1 (2022) | $170 | 9.7 oz / 275g | ~35mm / ~29mm | 6mm | First max-stack Helion + CloudTec platform; single-density midsole |
| Cloudmonster 2 (2024) | $179.99 | 10.3–10.6 oz / ~292g | 35mm / 29mm | 6mm | Dual-density Helion midsole; reshaped Speedboard; larger toe box |
| Cloudmonster 3 (2026) | $190 | 10.4 oz / 295g | 35mm / 29mm (stated); 38.6mm / 32.2mm (measured) | 6mm | Triple-layer CloudTec; redesigned upper; tightened midfoot lockdown |
On describes the Cloudmonster as a max-cushioned trainer, but that label creates false expectations for runners coming from shoes like the Hoka Bondi or New Balance 1080. The Cloudmonster is not soft in the traditional sense. It is cushioned, protective, and well-structured — but the CloudTec pods that make up its midsole produce a firm, supportive feel rather than a plush, sink-in one.
Every version of the shoe uses a stack of large CloudTec pods sitting on top of Helion superfoam, combined with On’s Speedboard a nylon plate that sits inside the midsole to add energy return and prevent the foam from feeling too mushy underfoot. The rocker geometry rolls your foot forward naturally from heel to toe, which is a notable feature in this category.
The Cloudmonster was never On’s answer to the Hoka Bondi. It is closer in spirit to the Hoka Clifton cushioned enough for long days, structured enough to feel efficient, and firm enough to keep you moving rather than sinking.
Cloudmonster v1: The One That Changed Everything
The original Cloudmonster launched in spring 2022 at $170 and landed as the most cushioned shoe On had ever made at the time. It weighed around 9.7 oz in a men’s US 9 and featured a 6mm heel-to-toe drop — a figure that has remained consistent across every version of the shoe.
The v1 heel stack measured approximately 35mm, a significant step up from the leaner On shoes that came before it. For the first time, On had a shoe that genuinely felt cushioned rather than just marketed as cushioned.
Ride Feel and Performance
The v1 offered a firm but noticeably softer experience than anything else On had made. Runners who had dismissed On as a brand for people who like firm shoes found the Cloudmonster far more approachable. The CloudTec pods compressed underfoot with each step, creating a springy, trampoline-like sensation that encouraged forward movement.
Energy return from the foam itself was modest — lab testing by RunRepeat recorded around 57% energy return, which is below average for a premium-priced trainer. What compensated for that was the structured ride: the Speedboard and rocker geometry kept transitions smooth and made the shoe feel faster than its weight and cushion level suggested.
The v1 was best at easy-to-moderate paces. At faster efforts, the ride felt slightly cumbersome and lacked the snap that lighter shoes or plated trainers provide. It was not a tempo shoe, but it could handle steady runs without falling apart.
Fit and Sizing
The v1 fitted on the smaller side for many runners, with multiple reviewers recommending going a half size up from your normal running shoe size. The forefoot offered decent width — notably wider than previous On shoes but the upper could loosen up considerably over time, which left some runners struggling to maintain a secure heel-to-toe lockdown at longer mileages.
Cloudmonster 2: More Foam, Less Fun?
The Cloudmonster 2 arrived in early 2024 at a starting price around $179.99. On gave it a taller stack — 35mm heel, 29mm forefoot — along with a dual-density Helion midsole and a reshaped Speedboard for better energy return positioning.
The v2 also picked up about 0.6 oz over the v1, landing at roughly 10.3 to 10.6 oz depending on the source. That weight gain was one of the first things reviewers noticed, and it became a talking point because the rest of the running shoe market was trending toward lighter max-cushioned options during the same period.
What Changed
The midsole received a proper dual-density upgrade, with a softer Helion compound on top and a firmer base layer underneath. The upper was noticeably more spacious — particularly in the midfoot — which some runners loved and others found too loose. The tongue was thin and had a tendency to slide down during runs, a widely reported frustration.
Shock absorption improved modestly in lab testing — 137 SA in the heel, up from 135 in the v1. The ride felt somewhat softer than the original and better suited for pure recovery use. Faster running became even less appealing in the v2 because the heavier, looser platform made quick turnover harder to maintain.
Some runners who loved the v1 described the v2 as a version 1.5 rather than a true generational leap. The original had an immediate, fun energy underfoot that the v2 diluted without offering anything clearly better in return.
Who It Works For
The Cloudmonster 2 made the most sense for runners with wide feet who wanted a roomy, well-cushioned daily trainer at an accessible price point. The generous forefoot width — reported at 98.5mm in lab testing — made it one of the roomier options in the category. If easy-day protection and wide-foot comfort were the only priorities, the v2 delivered.
Cloudmonster 3: The Best Version Yet
The Cloudmonster 3 launched in March 2026 at $190. It returned to what made the original compelling and refined it though it also continued one trend that reviewers found frustrating: the shoe gained a little more weight again.
In a men’s US 9, the Cloudmonster 3 lands at around 10.4 oz and 295g. The stack height sits at 35mm heel and 29mm forefoot (not including the insole), and the drop remains 6mm. The biggest midsole change is a new triple-layer CloudTec arrangement three stacked layers of Cloud pods instead of the previous double-layer design which On claims produces more springiness and forward propulsion.
Upper and Fit Overhaul
On completely redesigned the upper for the Cloudmonster 3, and most reviewers found it a genuine improvement. The breathability remained solid. The midfoot lockdown — a complaint on the v2 — was significantly tightened. The tongue was reworked and no longer slips during runs.
Width-wise, the Cloudmonster 3 continued to offer a wider forefoot than most On shoes, though the midfoot fit runs slightly snug compared to the generous v2. The heel collar is well-padded and the counter provides moderate structure without irritating the Achilles on most runners.
One recurring note from reviewers: the shoe fits slightly long. If you are between sizes, going down rather than up is the safer call with the Cloudmonster 3.
Ride Character and Best Use Cases
The Cloudmonster 3 is firmer than the v2 but more refined than the v1. The triple-layer CloudTec creates a more noticeable spring through the stride, and the rocker geometry is better defined — the heel bevel and forefoot rocker work together to push you through your gait cycle rather than letting you sit in the cushion.
Lab data from RunRepeat showed a heel stack of 38.6mm (measured), forefoot at 32.2mm — both higher than the v2 and significantly taller than the original. The platform width sits around 113.7mm at the forefoot, which is average for the category but narrower than some competitors at this stack height. That narrower base keeps the shoe feeling agile but means it is not the most forgiving option for runners who need wide lateral stability.
Breathability is a known weakness. The engineered mesh upper scored 2 out of 5 in RunRepeat’s ventilation testing, making this a cold-weather or moderate-climate shoe rather than a hot-summer option. Sock choice becomes important if you plan to run in warm conditions.
Upper durability is another area to watch. Lab abrasion testing on the v3 upper returned the lowest possible score in RunRepeat’s assessment. The shoe feels premium in hand and on foot, but the material shows its limits under repeated friction.
The Cloudmonster 3 is at its best during easy runs, long aerobic efforts, and recovery days. It can handle moderate paced work, but heavier runners who can compress the midsole effectively tend to get more out of the foam than lighter runners. At faster paces, the weight and firm-yet-springy character make it feel slightly cumbersome.
How the Cloudmonster Compares to Hoka and Nike
The two most common comparisons people make are with the Hoka Bondi and the Nike Invincible Run.
The Hoka Bondi is noticeably softer and plushier than any version of the Cloudmonster. The Bondi absorbs impact in a deeper, more passive way. Runners who want a true rest-day marshmallow feel will find the Bondi more satisfying. The Cloudmonster, by comparison, is more reactive and structured — it pushes you forward rather than absorbing the run around you.
The Nike Invincible Run sits closer to the Bondi in terms of softness. Its full-length ZoomX foam delivers more energy return than the Cloudmonster’s foam compound in isolation, and the ride is bouncier at most paces. Where the Cloudmonster wins is stability — the CloudTec structure and firmer base layer give it a more planted, controlled feel than the Invincible, which can feel wallowy for some runners.
If you liked the original Hoka Clifton — cushioned but not excessive, a little firm, and confidence-inspiring underfoot — the Cloudmonster 3 lands in similar territory with a more structured rocker profile.
Should You Size Up or Down?
Sizing has been inconsistent across versions, and this is one of the most common sources of confusion for first-time buyers.
The original Cloudmonster ran slightly small for many runners. Going a half size up was the standard recommendation at launch.
The Cloudmonster 2 ran generously wide and many runners found true-to-size worked fine, though the midfoot looseness meant some needed to size down slightly for a secure fit.
The Cloudmonster 3 fits slightly long according to multiple reviewers. If you are between sizes, go down. If you have wide feet and value toe box room, you may find your normal size works well — just lace it down firmly at the midfoot.
As a general rule: if you are buying the Cloudmonster 3 and are unsure, try true-to-size first in a store if possible. If ordering blind, lean toward your regular size unless you have consistently found On shoes to run long or narrow for your foot.
Is the Cloudmonster Good for Walking?
The Cloudmonster works well as a walking shoe for runners who also spend time on their feet throughout the day. The rocker geometry makes long-duration standing and walking comfortable, and the cushioned platform reduces fatigue on hard surfaces.
It is not a dedicated walking shoe, and the tall stack height and somewhat narrow platform can feel awkward during casual daily wear if you are not used to max-cushioned footwear. The premium price makes it an unusual choice as a pure lifestyle shoe. But if you are buying it primarily for running and want a shoe that transitions comfortably into walking the rest of the day, it handles that role better than most dedicated performance trainers.
Who Should Buy the Cloudmonster — and Who Should Skip It
The Cloudmonster is a strong choice for:
- Runners who want a structured, cushioned daily trainer for easy and long runs
- Runners who have found other On shoes too firm and want to stay with the brand
- Heavier runners who benefit from a firm, supportive platform with genuine stack height
- Runners with wide feet, particularly in the Cloudmonster 3 with its improved upper and toe box
- Runners doing consistent aerobic volume who need a shoe that protects without adding too much weight penalty
The Cloudmonster is not the right shoe for:
- Runners expecting a soft, plush feel similar to the Hoka Bondi or Saucony Triumph
- Runners who prioritize speed work or tempo training as their primary use case
- Runners who overheat easily or plan to run in hot, humid conditions regularly
- Budget-conscious buyers — at $190 for the v3, there are options with comparable or better foam performance at lower price points
If the primary goal is the softest possible long-run protection, the Hoka Bondi or New Balance 1080 v13 will satisfy you more. If you want a responsive, structured, cushioned trainer that rewards efficient running form and offers a genuinely unique ride, the Cloudmonster 3 is worth every dollar.
Final Verdict
The On Cloudmonster has improved meaningfully across three versions. The original was a surprise. The v2 was a minor step sideways. The Cloudmonster 3 brings the series back to form with a better upper, improved lockdown, and a more noticeable rocker that makes the shoe feel purposeful rather than passive.
The firmness is real do not expect a sink-in cushion experience. But firmness here comes with a clear payoff: a stable, efficient ride that holds up over long miles and keeps you moving rather than absorbing into the ground. The breathability limitation and upper durability questions are worth knowing before you buy, particularly at the $190 price point.
If you are an On fan looking for the brand’s best daily trainer, the Cloudmonster 3 is it. If you are a first-time On buyer drawn in by the design, go in knowing that the ride will feel different from most max-cushioned shoes and that different, for the right runner, is exactly what they needed.
