The On Cloudmonster 2 marks my introduction to the Cloudmonster series. Reviews for the original version last year were varied, with opinions ranging from "too squishy" to "too unstable" to "still too firm", alongside praise like "the best On shoe yet" and "finally a true max cushion shoe from On".
Amanda at Run to the Finish delivered my preferred Cloudmonster review, because it aptly captured the perplexing essence of the original model.
Upon receiving the second version of the Cloudmonster, I was unsure of what to expect. While I've tried various On shoes before, this one intrigued me due to its divisive reputation.
So, just relax and grab a drink. Let's dive into my thoughts on On's popular Cloudmonster.
What changes were made?
In the year following the Cloudmonster's release, On introduced the Cloudeclipse, a high-stack, maximum cushion daily trainer priced at $180. The Cloudeclipse incorporates CloudTec Phase to provide a plush yet balanced combination suitable for both daily running and casual wear, capable of accommodating extensive easy miles.
The On Cloudmonster 2 enters a realm where it's not On's most cushioned offering, but the runner-up. To enhance its allure in this landscape, On's design team incorporated a dual-density cushioning configuration, clearly discernible through color differentiation on the midsole, as well as tactilely apparent.
Related: Altra Olympus 5 Provides Max Cushion and Foot Protection for Trail Runners
In my colorway, the top layer's flame section in the forefoot is composed of a firmer, more responsive foam, while the grey section above the Clouds in the heel offers a softer, more pliable feel. The Clouds maintain a consistent feel throughout the shoe.
The On Cloudmonster 2 achieves a balanced feel on foot despite the different foams used. It strikes a middle ground between squishy and firm, offering consistent cushioning in both the forefoot and heel. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a moderate cushioning level, avoiding extremes on either end of the spectrum.
The Cloudmonster 2's midsole configuration contributes to its smooth ride. Whether cruising the streets or picking up the pace slightly for fartlek-style tempo work, this shoe performs comfortably and responsively.
The On Cloudmonster 2 feels less bottom-heavy compared to the Cloudeclipse, offering a more natural feel for casual wear or walking. This makes it well-suited for individuals with jobs requiring long periods of standing, such as doctors and nurses. Given its comfort and versatility, I anticipate the Cloudmonster 2 will maintain On's strong presence in the medical field.
The On Cloudmonster 2 features a three-fourths length Speedboard positioned closer to the layer of Clouds than the foot. This design adds stiffness to the shoe without creating hardness underfoot, while also preserving flexibility at the toes. This setup ensures a smooth feel throughout the stride, addressing issues seen in earlier On Speedboards.
Is On Cloudmonster 2 Good for Runners with wide feet?
The On Cloudmonster 2 is true to size in length, and its upper provides ample room, especially in the toe box, making it ideal for longer distance runnings where your feet might swell.
Narrow-footed individuals can rest assured as cinching the laces won't overly deform the On Cloudmonster 2, ensuring a snug fit without compromising its appearance.
Related: How to Lace Your Shoes Correctly?
Does On Cloudmonster 2 Worth the Money?
As mentioned previously, whether you're willing to pay the premium for On shoes depends on your preferences. Comparable daily trainers are usually priced between $140 and $160, whereas On shoes typically fall about $20 above this price range.
However, On's quality remains top-notch, setting a benchmark in the industry. From neat stitches to well-ordered threads, every detail exudes craftsmanship.
The choice of fabrics, notably the 100% recycled polyester mesh upper, contributes significantly to overall comfort. It's evident that On's Swiss engineering expertise is rightly hailed in their marketing campaigns.
The question of whether Swiss engineering justifies the extra cost is open for debate, and we won't attempt to provide a definitive answer here. However, if you appreciate On's craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, you may find the slight premium worthwhile.
On Cloudmonster 2 Conclusion and Summary
The On Cloudmonster 2 is a fantastic choice for everyday runs, walks, and prolonged standing. It strikes the right balance of softness without being excessively plush, making it suitable for a wide range of individuals who appreciate its comfortable feel.
The Cloudmonster 2 isn't flawless, and yes, it comes at a premium price. However, it offers exceptional comfort, durability, stylish design, and an excellent fit. If these qualities align with what you're seeking in a shoe, then the Cloudmonster 2 is sure to impress you.
- Product: On Cloudmonster 2
- Price: $130
- Styles & Colors:
- Undyed-White | Flame
- Black | Magnet
- Frost | Acacia
- Glacier | Meadow
- Dust | Vapor
- Acai | Lavender
- Mist | Blueberry
- Frost | Cobalt
- Fawn | Turmeric
- Moon | Fawn
- Undyed-White | White
- Usage:
- daily runs
- walks
- long periods standing
