For years, I’ve been a runner on a mission to find the perfect daily trainer a shoe that can handle long, relentless road miles without feeling like a brick. After countless pairs and endless research, I finally decided to try something different.

I had heard whispers about On’s new Cloudmonster 2, a sneaker that promised maximal cushioning with a twist. The idea of “monster” Cloud pods and a responsive ride sounded almost too good to be true.

From the moment I unboxed them, I knew this wasn’t just another running shoe. The design was bold and unlike anything I had worn before. Putting them on for the first time, I could feel the promise of that massive foam underfoot.

My initial easy miles turned into a test of its claimsthe plush landings, the energetic pop, and the forward-rolling sensation that made me feel like I could run all day.

This is my in-depth look at whether the On Cloudmonster 2 lives up to its monstrous name and if it has finally earned a permanent place in my running shoe rotation.

Comparison

Feature / Attribute	On Men’s Cloudmonster 2	Salomon Women’s Ultra Flow	Saucony Men’s Peregrine 15
Best For / Strengths	Max-cushioned road running with huge energy return and a stable ride	Versatile door-to-trail use lightweight with smooth ride and durable upper	Rugged trail performance grippy outsole, softer foam, and broad utility
Variants (Color / Edition)	Multiple colorways: Glacier / Tangerine, Tempest / Horizon, Black/Black, Ivory/Silver, Undyed/Zest, Frost/Rock, Asphalt/Iron, plus limited PLEASURES x The Loop edition; around 6–20 options	Base version priced $90–120; no widely listed GTX variant, but shares styling with trending fashion collaborations	Variants include: standard, Wide, GTX (Waterproof), and a 3sixteen collaboration; wide array of colorways (~9–10)
Price (Typical MSRP)	~$180 USD	~$90–120 USD (often on sale)	~$145 USD for base model; GTX ~$175; 3sixteen ~$155
Notable Tech Highlights	Largest-ever CloudTec®, Helion superfoam, Speedboard for propulsion, maximal cushioning	High stack, cushioned ride, breathable yet durable upper great door-to-trail comfort	Upgraded PWRRUN foam, durable PWRTRAC outsole, rock guard, breathable mesh upper trail focused
General Feedback / Reviews	Praised for premium materials, durability, comfortable roomy fit though pricey	Appreciated for its lightweight versatility and stable ride on mixed terrain; some note steep drop and snug fit	Strong improvements in comfort, softer feel, better energy return; reliable for long distances

For years, my quest for the perfect daily trainer has been a journey through a landscape of soft foams, rigid plates, and ever-evolving designs. As a runner who puts in significant mileage, I’ve always searched for a shoe that marries maximum cushioning with a ride that’s not just protective, but also engaging and responsive.

My journey has led me to On, and to their latest creation, the Cloudmonster 2. The initial release of the Cloudmonster was intriguing, but with the “2” promising a more refined and purposeful update, I had to see for myself if this shoe could live up to its ambitious name.

This review is a deep dive into the technology, performance, and overall feel of a shoe that aims to be a category-defining “monster” of the road.

The Midsole: The Heart of the Monster

The core of the Cloudmonster 2’s experience lies entirely in its midsole, a complex fusion of three distinct technologies: CloudTec®, Helion™ superfoam, and the Speedboard®. It’s here that On differentiates itself from the rest of the max-cushioned crowd.

CloudTec: The Bouncy Engine

At first glance, the Cloud pods are the most striking visual feature of any On shoe, but on the Cloudmonster 2, they are simply enormous. This isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s the primary source of the shoe’s cushioning.

These “pods,” or hollow chambers, are designed to compress both horizontally and vertically upon impact. This dual-directional compression is a unique approach to shock absorption.

Instead of a single slab of foam just deforming under pressure, the pods collapse sequentially, creating a more dynamic and controlled landing. The benefit of this is a softer, more distributed impact, which is a godsend for your joints over a long run.

The “monster” moniker is well-earned here these are the biggest pods On has ever produced, and you can absolutely feel the increased cushioning and energy return. Landing on them feels less like a simple squish and more like a controlled, bouncy descent.

Helion™ Superfoam: A Tale of Two Densities

Underneath the pods is the Helion™ superfoam, but it’s not a uniform layer. On has strategically implemented a dual-density approach.

The foam closest to the forefoot is softer, designed to provide a plush and forgiving feel for the latter part of your stride. This is where most runners land, and a softer feel here makes for a comfortable and smooth transition.

The foam in the heel, however, is slightly firmer. This isn’t for cushioning, but for stability. It provides a more supportive base that prevents the foot from sinking too much on impact, especially for heel strikers.

This two-part system is genius; it gives you the softness you crave for a plush landing while maintaining the structure and support needed to keep the shoe from feeling unstable due to its high stack.

The Speedboard: The Secret Weapon

The unsung hero of the Cloudmonster 2 is the nylon-blend Speedboard®, a semi-rigid plate sandwiched between the two layers of Helion foam. If the Cloud pods provide the cushioning and bounce, the Speedboard provides the propulsion.

As your foot lands and the pods compress, the Speedboard bends, storing potential energy. During toe-off, it snaps back into its original shape, acting like a lever to propel you forward.

This is the key to the “forward-rolling” sensation that On is famous for. It’s a feeling you simply don’t get with other max-cushioned shoes, which often feel cushioned but dead.

The Cloudmonster 2’s ride feels surprisingly snappy and efficient for a shoe of its size, and that’s a direct result of the Speedboard’s work.

The Upper: Comfort, Fit, and Refinement

A shoe’s technology is only as good as its fit, and On has made some crucial improvements to the Cloudmonster 2’s upper.

Material and Feel

The upper is made from an engineered mesh crafted from 100% recycled polyester. It’s incredibly soft and flexible, providing a comfortable, sock-like feel that wraps around your foot without being constrictive.

It’s also noticeably breathable, making it a good choice for running in warmer climates. The materials feel premium and durable, a common characteristic of On products.

Fit and Lockdown

One of the most significant changes from the original Cloudmonster is the fit. The Cloudmonster 2 has a more generous, accommodating fit, especially in the toe box. This is a huge win for runners who prefer to have room for their toes to splay.

While the original was a bit snug, this version feels much more universal. I found the fit to be true to size, but some runners with very narrow feet might consider going a half-size down to achieve a more secure fit.

The lacing system, combined with a newly designed eyestay construction, provides an excellent lockdown over the midfoot. I never experienced any heel slippage or unwanted movement, even on uneven surfaces.

Performance on the Pavement

I’ve put this shoe through its paces on a variety of runs, and its performance has been consistent and impressive.

Long Runs

This is where the Cloudmonster 2 truly shines. On long runs, typically 10 miles or more, the cushioning is fantastic. The shoe absorbs impact effortlessly, and the propulsive feeling from the Speedboard® helps to mitigate fatigue.

My legs and feet felt remarkably fresh after extended mileage, a testament to the shoe’s protective qualities. The forward-rolling sensation makes it easy to settle into a rhythm and just cruise.

Tempo Runs

While not a dedicated speed shoe, the Cloudmonster 2 is surprisingly capable on tempo runs. The responsive ride from the Speedboard® provides enough snap to pick up the pace, and the cushioning is a welcome relief when you’re pushing hard. It’s certainly not a lightweight racer, but its unique feel makes it a viable option for a tempo workout within a longer run.

Easy and Recovery Runs

For slow, easy, or recovery runs, the Cloudmonster 2 is a dream. The plush cushioning and easy-rolling ride allow you to focus on your form and cadence without feeling like you’re fighting the shoe. It’s a comfortable, no-fuss option for those days when your legs are tired and you just want to get the miles in.

Durability and Outsole

The durability of a shoe is as important as its performance, and On has made a smart move with the Cloudmonster 2’s outsole.

Rock-Trapping Issue

A common critique of the original Cloudmonster was its tendency to trap small rocks in the large gaps between the Cloud pods. On has directly addressed this by reconfiguring the outsole’s central channel and using a new pattern.

While it’s not completely foolproof, the issue is significantly reduced. I ran on a variety of surfaces, including some light gravel, and found that the new design works much better at shedding debris.

Lifespan

The outsole rubber is a durable grip compound, and the midsole foam feels robust. Based on its construction and the mileage I’ve put on it, I would confidently estimate the lifespan of the Cloudmonster 2 to be in the range of 300-500 miles.

Comparisons and Final Verdict

Head-to-Head with the Competition

The Cloudmonster 2 occupies a unique space in the max-cushioned category. Compared to the Hoka Bondi 8, which is known for its pure softness, the Cloudmonster 2 provides a much more dynamic and responsive ride.

The Bondi feels like a pillow, while the Cloudmonster feels like a bouncy, cushioned trampoline. Against shoes like the Brooks Glycerin or the New Balance Fresh Foam X More, the Cloudmonster 2’s ride is distinctly more structured and propulsive, thanks to its Speedboard®. It doesn’t just absorb impact; it actively works to propel you forward.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional Cushioning
• Unique Ride Feel
• Accommodating Fit
• Improved Durability
• Versatile

Cons:

• Weight
• Niche Feel

Why should choose On Men’s Cloudmonster 2 Sneaker

Based on the review, you should choose the On Men’s Cloudmonster 2 if you are a runner who values a unique blend of maximum cushioning and a responsive, energetic ride.

Unlike other high-cushioned shoes that can feel dull or “mushy,” the Cloudmonster 2 utilizes a semi-rigid Speedboard® plate and oversized CloudTec® pods to create a propulsive, forward-rolling sensation that makes every mile feel more efficient.

This shoe is an excellent choice for long-distance training and daily runs, as it provides exceptional comfort and protection for your joints while maintaining a lively and engaging feel underfoot.

It’s also been updated with a more accommodating fit and a refined outsole, making it a reliable and versatile workhorse for runners seeking both comfort and performance.

FAQs

How does the Cloudmonster 2 differ from the original Cloudmonster?

The Cloudmonster 2 features several key updates. The most notable changes are a dual-density Helion™ superfoam in the midsole, which provides a more balanced ride, and a redesigned upper with a more accommodating fit, particularly in the toe box. On also improved the outsole to better address the issue of small rocks getting stuck in the Cloud pods.

Is this shoe good for long-distance running?

Yes, the Cloudmonster 2 is an excellent choice for long-distance running. Its combination of maximum cushioning from the oversized CloudTec® pods and the propulsive feel of the Speedboard® helps to absorb impact and reduce fatigue over extended mileage, keeping your legs feeling fresh.

Is the Cloudmonster 2 a good option for people who need a lot of support or stability?

While the Cloudmonster 2 is not a dedicated stability shoe, its high-stack midsole and wide platform provide a surprisingly stable and secure ride. The firmer Helion™ foam in the heel also helps to prevent excessive sinking, making it a good neutral option for runners who need a bit of support without the added weight of a traditional stability shoe.

How does the Cloudmonster 2 compare to other brands like Hoka or New Balance?

The Cloudmonster 2 stands out in the max-cushioned category due to its unique, propulsive ride. Unlike the Hoka Bondi 8, which is purely soft, or the New Balance Fresh Foam X More, which offers a soft but less structured feel, the Cloudmonster 2 uses its Speedboard® to create a snappy, forward-rolling sensation.

It delivers a more energetic and responsive experience while still providing the high level of comfort you would expect from a max-cushioned trainer.

Final Thought

The On Cloudmonster 2 is more than just an update; it’s a confident statement from On that they’ve refined their unique running philosophy. By dialing up the cushioning and perfecting the ride, they’ve created a shoe that stands out in a crowded market.

It’s an ideal choice for any runner seeking a high-mileage workhorse that offers not just protection and comfort, but also a truly engaging and energetic experience. If you’re looking for a shoe that makes long runs feel a little bit more fun, the Cloudmonster 2 is a monster worth having in your lineup.