Running enthusiasts, get ready to experience a game-changer in cushioned footwear. The On Cluod Monster has been making waves in the running community, offering a unique blend of comfort and performance. You’ll find this innovative shoe pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in long-distance running gear.

As you explore the On Cloud Monster, you’ll discover its standout features that set it apart from other running shoes. From its oversized CloudTec® cushioning to its responsive Speedboard™ technology, this shoe is designed to enhance your running experience. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, the Cloud Monster aims to provide the support and comfort you need for your runs.

On Cloudmonster: A Game-Changer in Cushioned Running

The evolution of On’s cushioning technology

You’ll find that On’s cushioning technology has come a long way since its inception. The On Cloudmonster represents a significant leap forward in the brand’s approach to comfort and performance. On’s classic CloudTec cushioning system, which has been a staple since the beginning, continues to provide a unique ride. This system uses a series of pods underfoot that collapse as you land and spring open as you take off, giving you that distinctive On feel.

What sets the Cloudmonster apart is its use of larger CloudTec elements, making it On’s most cushioned shoe to date. This advancement has allowed On to create a shoe that maintains the firmness needed for quick ground contact while finally providing that feel-good cushion you crave on long runs.

Helion Superfoam and larger CloudTec pods

The Cloudmonster introduces a game-changing combination of Helion Superfoam and larger CloudTec pods. This innovative pairing has a significant impact on your running experience. The Helion Superfoam is a lightweight and responsive midsole material that provides exceptional energy return. It’s designed to maintain its performance across various weather conditions, ensuring consistency in your runs.

The larger CloudTec pods in the Cloudmonster are a standout feature. These pods are significantly bigger than those found in other On shoes, compressing notably under the heel and midfoot. This design provides a cushioned landing at the rearfoot, offering a level of protection and comfort that’s ideal for long-distance running.

While the sensation isn’t necessarily soft in the traditional sense, it is extremely cushioned and protective. This unique feel has made the Cloudmonster a favorite among runners looking for a shoe that can handle high-volume workouts and daily training sessions without sacrificing responsiveness.

Comparison to other max-cushioned shoes

When you compare the On Cloudmonster to other max-cushioned shoes on the market, you’ll notice some key differences. Unlike some ultra-plush options that can feel sluggish, the Cloudmonster maintains a balance between cushioning and responsiveness. This makes it suitable for a variety of running styles and distances.

For instance, while it’s not as soft as something like a Hoka Bondi, the Cloudmonster provides ample cushioning without sacrificing the spring off the ground. This characteristic sets it apart in the max-cushioned category, making it a versatile option for both training and racing.

The Cloudmonster also features a rocker design, which On describes as “pretty extreme.” However, you might not notice this as much during your run. What you will notice is how the shoe efficiently rolls you forward, helping to reduce leg fatigue on long runs.

In terms of stack height, the Cloudmonster sits at 30mm in the heel and 24mm in the forefoot, giving it a 6mm drop. While this isn’t as high as some other max cushion shoes, the combination of Helion Superfoam and larger CloudTec pods creates a sensation of substantial cushioning without excessive bulk.

The On Cloudmonster has quickly become a favorite among runners who want a max-cushioned shoe that doesn’t compromise on responsiveness. Its unique blend of comfort and performance makes it a standout option in the crowded field of cushioned running shoes. Whether you’re logging daily miles or preparing for a marathon, the Cloudmonster offers a ride that’s both protective and energizing, truly living up to its name as a game-changer in cushioned running.

Performance and Comfort Features

6mm heel drop and weight specifications

When you slip on the On Cloudmonster, you’ll notice its unique balance of cushioning and responsiveness. The shoe features a 6mm heel-to-toe drop, which provides a comfortable transition from heel to toe during your stride. This drop is designed to offer a natural feel while still providing ample cushioning for long-distance runs.

The Cloudmonster’s stack height measures 30mm in the heel and 24mm in the forefoot, giving you substantial cushioning without feeling overly bulky. This generous stack height contributes to the shoe’s max-cushioned classification, making it ideal for those long, grueling training sessions or recovery runs.

Despite its robust cushioning, the On Cloudmonster remains surprisingly lightweight. The men’s version weighs in at approximately 275 grams (9.7 oz) for a US size 9, while the women’s model is even lighter at about 230 grams (8.1 oz) for a US size 7. This relatively light weight, especially for a max-cushioned shoe, helps to maintain efficiency during your runs, allowing you to go the distance without feeling weighed down.

Rocker design for improved efficiency

One of the standout features of the On Cloudmonster is its rocker design, which On describes as “pretty extreme.” This design element has a significant impact on your running efficiency. The exaggerated rocker in the forefoot creates a snappy transition as the CloudTec pods compress and release under your toes.

The rocker geometry provides a smooth, rolling sensation that helps to propel you forward with each step. This forward-rolling motion makes the shoe feel energy-saving and efficient, particularly during long runs. You’ll find that moving forward requires less effort because the shoe’s design does much of the work for you.

While some runners might not immediately notice the rocker effect, you’ll likely appreciate how it efficiently rolls you forward, helping to reduce leg fatigue on those longer outings. This feature, combined with the Cloudmonster’s cushioning, makes it an excellent choice for long-distance training and races where maintaining energy and form over extended periods is crucial.

Breathable upper and thin tongue construction

The On Cloudmonster’s upper construction is a testament to On’s expertise in creating comfortable, functional running shoes. The upper is made from a sleek engineered mesh with minimal overlays, providing a smooth and streamlined look that belies the complexity of its construction.

You’ll appreciate the upper’s excellent ventilation and breathability, especially during hot and humid conditions. The recycled polyester material wraps comfortably around your foot, creating a secure fit without feeling restrictive. This design allows for natural foot movement while still providing the necessary support for your runs.

The tongue of the Cloudmonster is notably thin, a design choice that contributes to the shoe’s overall lightweight feel. Despite its minimal construction, the tongue incorporates a thin strip of foam to protect your foot from lace pressure. This gusseted tongue design, coupled with the wide laces, helps to distribute pressure evenly across the top of your foot, reducing the risk of hot spots or discomfort during long runs.

While the thin tongue construction has many benefits, it’s worth noting that some runners have observed it may bunch up slightly when putting on the shoe. However, this minor inconvenience is generally outweighed by the tongue’s contribution to the shoe’s overall comfort and breathability.

In conclusion, the On Cloudmonster’s performance and comfort features work together to create a shoe that excels in long-distance running and daily training. Its unique combination of cushioning, lightweight design, efficient rocker geometry, and breathable upper make it a standout option in the max-cushioned category. Whether you’re logging daily miles or preparing for a marathon, the Cloudmonster offers a ride that’s both protective and energizing, living up to its reputation as a game-changer in cushioned running shoes.

Fit and Sizing Considerations

Narrow fit compared to other brands

When you’re considering the On Cloudmonster, it’s essential to understand its fit characteristics. On Running shoes, including the Cloudmonster, generally have a reputation for being narrower than some other brands. This narrow fit has made them a favorite among runners with slender feet. However, if you have wider feet, you might find the fit a bit snug.

The Cloudmonster’s narrow profile is particularly noticeable in the midfoot area. Some runners have reported that the inner sole doesn’t provide enough support for wider feet, potentially causing discomfort during longer runs. If you’re used to brands that offer a more generous fit, you might need to adjust your expectations when trying on the Cloudmonster.

Toe box dimensions and overall comfort

Despite its generally narrow fit, the Cloudmonster has made some improvements in the toe box area. The toe box is relatively spacious, allowing your toes to splay naturally during your stride. This added room can enhance comfort, especially on longer runs where your feet tend to swell.

The upper of the Cloudmonster is constructed from recycled polyester, providing a soft feel and a comfortable wrap around your foot. This material offers decent breathability, which helps keep your feet cool during your runs. The thin, gusseted tongue design contributes to the overall comfort by reducing pressure points and preventing bunching.

However, it’s worth noting that the toe box is relatively shallow. This design feature, likely influenced by the shoe’s exaggerated toe rocker, might not suit everyone. If you prefer more vertical space for your toes, you may need to consider this aspect carefully.

Recommendations for different foot types

For runners with narrow feet, the On Cloudmonster often fits true to size. You’ll likely find that your regular running shoe size provides a snug, comfortable fit. The narrow profile of the shoe complements your foot shape, offering good stability and preventing unnecessary movement inside the shoe.

If you have average-width feet, you might want to consider going up half a size in the Cloudmonster. This extra space can provide a more comfortable fit, especially if you prefer a bit more room in your running shoes. It’s also a good idea if you plan to use the shoes for longer distances where your feet may swell.

For those with wider feet, the Cloudmonster might present some challenges. While On has started to create specific wide models in some of their shoe lines, the standard Cloudmonster doesn’t come in a wide version. If you have particularly wide feet, you might want to explore other models in the On lineup or consider brands that offer wider options.

It’s also important to note that some runners with high arches have found the arch support in the Cloudmonster to be lacking. If you require significant arch support, you may need to consider using custom insoles or looking at other models that provide more substantial arch support.

When trying on the On Cloudmonster, pay attention to how your foot sits in the shoe. The unique CloudTec cushioning system and rocker design can create a different feel compared to traditional running shoes. Take the time to walk around and, if possible, do a short test run to ensure the fit and feel are right for you.

Remember, finding the right fit is crucial for your running comfort and performance. While the On Cloudmonster offers innovative cushioning and a unique running experience, it’s essential to prioritize a proper fit for your specific foot type and running needs.

Its innovative features, including the oversized CloudTec® cushioning and responsive Speedboard™ technology, provide runners with a shoe that can handle high-volume workouts and daily training sessions without sacrificing responsiveness. The shoe’s balance between cushioning and efficiency makes it a versatile option for various running styles and distances.

To wrap up, the On Cloudmonster stands out as a game-changer in the max-cushioned category, providing ample protection without the sluggishness often associated with highly cushioned shoes. Whether you’re logging daily miles or gearing up for a marathon, this shoe offers a ride that’s both protective and energizing. As sports professionals at Every Second Counts, we believe the On Cloudmonster is a noteworthy addition to consider for your running gear arsenal.

Here are some common FAQs about running on Cloud Monster: