The On Cloudmonster stands out as a popular addition to the On’s lineup. Designed for those who seek a combination of cushioning, support, and versatility, Cloudmonster’s have been gaining attention in the running community with their unique Swiss engineering and designs. They combine running technology with visually aesthetic and fun designs.
Table of Contents
Pros
- Visually aesthetic
- Comfortable upper
- Great grip and traction
- Fun ride
- Can push a pace a little
- Light weight
Cons
- Less durable outsole
- Higher pricing (than comparable brands)
Specifications
Brand – On Running
Model – Cloudmonster
Family – Cloudmonster
Type – Cushioned
Weight – 230g (8.1oz)
Heel – 30mm
Toe – 24mm
Drop – 6mm
Carbon plate – No (speedboard)
On Cloudmonster - First Impression
The On Cloudmonster shoes are nothing short of impressive in their distinctive design, featuring the signature On Cloud pods which immediately captures your attention. For a relatively new brand competing in the running shoe market, On running shoes are generally more expensive than comparable shoes on the market. However, after trying the Cloudmonster on in store, I could instantly tell why. The Swiss engineering behind On’s running shoe designs does not disappoint.
When you first slip your feet into these shoes, the comfort factor is amazing. The padded collar, plush tongue, and well-cushioned insole offer a snug yet cozy fit. The overall construction speaks volumes about the attention to detail in this Swiss-engineered footwear. These shoes not only look the part but also feel the part.
On Cloudmonster - Upper
The Upper is where On really knows what they’re doing. I can honestly say I haven’t tried a pair of On trainers where I haven’t been blown away by how comfortable the upper feels, and the Cloudmonster’s are no different.
Crafted from a combination of synthetic materials and mesh, it strikes a balance between breathability and structural support. The engineered mesh material ensures your feet stay cool during longer runs, preventing overheating and blisters. The tongue and collar are well-padded, enhancing comfort and minimising the potential for irritation during extended wear. The fit is secure, thanks to the well-designed lacing system.
While the upper is impressive in terms of comfort and breathability, it is also visually aesthetic and incorporates translucent mesh sections as well as reflective detailing of the On logo on the outer. On’s commitment to providing a one-of-a-kind experience is evident in every detail of the upper.
On Cloudmonster - Midsole
The heart of any running shoe lies in its midsole, and the On Cloudmonster doesn’t disappoint. These shoes feature an ample amount of cushioning with On’s signature CloudTec combined with helion superfoam technology.
The Cloud pods on the sole offer adaptive cushioning, responding to your stride by providing support where needed. The pods utilise multidirectional elements that can react to movement. The design of the pods also means less overall weight, coming in at 230g (8.1oz), which reduces effort and keeps your feet light, even when wet. On also claims the CloudTec technology is “proven to reduce muscle fatigue and lower your heartrate”. Although, I can’t say I have noticed a difference for either.
The midsole also includes a layer of helion superfoam, which further enhances the CloudTec technology’s responsiveness. The helion superfoam responds by folding and releasing more efficiently than previously-used foams to give you a stronger energy return. It is definitely a ride I haven’t experienced before in a running shoe. You can almost feel the individual rows of pods as you transition through your stride.
While these shoes lean more toward the cushioned side, they manage to strike a balance, providing an excellent mix of comfort and performance so you can push the effort comfortably up to about a 5.10 pace before really feeling it. This is due to the incorporation of On’s signature On Speedboard and slight rocker geometry. The Speedboard is a firm plate which runs the full length of the shoe assisting with energy return and forward propulsion. As the On Cloudmonster is designed more for those steady, longer efforts, the Speedboard has been specifically designed to be less aggressive compared to the likes of On Cloudstratus or Cloudboom Echo which are tailored more for speed.
For neutral runners and those seeking a plush ride, the Cloudmonster’s midsole is a standout feature.
On Cloudmonster - Outsole
The outsole is where the rubber meets the road, quite literally. On’s Cloudmonster features a durable outsole designed for longevity and traction. With a pattern of grippy lugs and grooves forming the undersurface of the cloud pods, these shoes offer excellent stability and grip on various surfaces.
Whether you’re running on dry pavement or wet roads, the Cloudmonster’s outsole delivers a reliable performance due to its slightly softer rubber, making it more grippy. Sharp corners and turns are made easier with this more reliable traction. My first run in these shoes was a steady 10km on a route I am very familiar with, and I was genuinely surprised at how confident I felt transitioning on different terrains, whereas in other shoes I would take some more gravelly sections with a bit more caution.
One downside is due to the softer rubber used in the Cloudmonsters, they wear down faster than other shoes with more durable, rigid rubber compounds, such as the Brooks Glycerin 20. So as you start to pick up the milage, definitely continue to monitor for signs of wear on the sole.
The strategically placed Cloud elements underfoot also contribute to the shoe’s cushioning and energy return while adding a unique aesthetic touch.
On Cloudmonster - Conclusion
On Cloudmonster’s are a remarkable addition to the On brand’s lineup, showcasing impressive features from the moment you first try them on. The well-crafted upper, featuring a combination of synthetic materials and mesh, provides a balance between breathability and support. These shoes are not only comfortable but also uniquely designed, setting them apart in terms of aesthetics.
The midsole, featuring On’s CloudTec technology and helion superfoam, offers adaptive cushioning, making them ideal for neutral runners or anyone who enjoys a plush ride. The outsole is durable and grippy, capable of handling various terrains with ease, however this comes at the price of decreased durability and faster wear.
On Cloudmonster offers a combination of comfort, performance, and style that’s hard to beat. If you’re in the market for running shoes that stand out both on the road and in terms of design, you shoulder consider the On Cloudmonster. With their unique blend of cushioning and support, and signature air pods, On has made this shoe into a unique and interesting ride.
We purchased these shoes with our own money from The Athletes Foot.
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