On Cloudmonster Review: Why This Running Shoe Took the UK by Storm
There are running shoes that do the job, and then there are running shoes that make people stop and ask what you're wearing. The On Cloudmonster sits firmly in the second camp. With its unmistakable oversized CloudTec® sole unit and a ride that genuinely surprised the running community, the Cloudmonster has become one of the most talked-about road shoes on the market since its original launch.
At OD's Designer Clothing, we've watched the Cloudmonster go from niche runner's pick to genuine streetwear crossover — and with the arrival of the Cloudmonster 2, the conversation has only grown louder. As an authorised UK On Running stockist, here's everything you need to know before you buy.
What Makes the On Cloudmonster Different?
On Running built their reputation on the distinctive CloudTec® hollow pod system — those separated cushioning elements visible on the outsole of every On shoe. The Cloudmonster took that concept and turned the volume all the way up. Where the Cloudswift or Cloud 5 offer a subtle, everyday feel underfoot, the Cloudmonster delivers maximum cushioning through dramatically oversized cloud elements.
The result is a shoe that absorbs impact like nothing else in On's range while still maintaining the brand's signature "landing soft, pushing off firm" sensation. It's max cushion with purpose — not just padding for padding's sake, but an engineered ride that actually returns energy on toe-off.
On Cloudmonster 2: What Changed?
The Cloudmonster 2 arrived with a refined approach. On kept what worked and addressed the areas where runners wanted more. Here are the headline specs:
- Weight: 295g (Men's UK 8.5 / US 9) — competitive for a max cushion shoe
- Stack Height: 35mm heel / 29mm forefoot
- Drop: 6mm heel-to-toe
- Midsole: Dual-density Helion™ superfoam
- Upper: Engineered mesh with higher volume fit
- Outsole: Filled gap design for smoother transitions
The biggest change runners noticed straight away is the forefoot. The Cloudmonster 2 delivers noticeably more cushioning under the ball of the foot compared to the original, which some felt was a touch firm up front. The filled outsole gap also gives a smoother heel-to-toe transition — less of that segmented feeling that divided opinion on the first version.
The upper runs slightly wider too. If the original Cloudmonster felt snug on you, the Cloudmonster 2 should fit more comfortably at your usual size. For narrower feet, half a size down is worth considering.
Who Is the Cloudmonster Actually For?
This is where it gets interesting, because the Cloudmonster has attracted two very different audiences.
For runners: It's a long-run and easy-pace workhorse. The 35mm stack height and Helion™ foam make it genuinely comfortable over 10K, half marathon, and marathon training distances. It's not a speed shoe — you'll want a Cloudboom or Cloudflow for tempo sessions — but for steady miles where you need your legs fresh for tomorrow, the Cloudmonster delivers.
For lifestyle wear: The Cloudmonster's chunky silhouette and clean colourways have made it a genuine fashion piece. It sits in that sweet spot between performance running shoe and designer trainer that brands spend years trying to manufacture. On didn't design it as a lifestyle shoe, but that's exactly how thousands of people in the UK are wearing it — and it looks the part.
How Does It Compare?
The max cushion space is crowded. Here's how the Cloudmonster stacks up against the shoes it's most often compared to:
Against the HOKA Bondi, the Cloudmonster feels more responsive and less marshmallow-soft. The Bondi gives you pure plush; the Cloudmonster gives you plush with a snap-back. Against the New Balance Fresh Foam X More, the Cloudmonster is lighter and has a more defined transition. And against On's own Cloudeclipse, which is the brand's other max cushion option, the Cloudmonster is firmer and more energetic — the Cloudeclipse is the softer, squishier choice.
The Colourways
On consistently nails colourway selection, and the Cloudmonster range is no exception. From muted all-black and all-white options that work as everyday lifestyle shoes, through to bold colour-blocked combinations in teal, orange, and neon yellow that look every bit the performance runner. New seasonal drops keep the range fresh, and limited colourways sell out quickly — particularly in the UK market where On's popularity continues to surge.
Our Verdict
The On Cloudmonster — whether you go original or Cloudmonster 2 — is one of the most versatile shoes in the max cushion category. It runs well, it looks exceptional, and it bridges the gap between performance and lifestyle better than almost anything else on the market. The Cloudmonster 2 refines the formula with better forefoot cushioning and a wider fit, making it the one to go for if you're buying new.
The On Cloudmonster is On at their absolute best. At OD's Designer Clothing, we carry the full range because they represent exactly what our customers want: premium quality, distinctive design, and products that work as hard as they look.
Shop Men's On Running Trainers at OD's | Shop Women's On Running
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the On Cloudmonster good for beginners?
Yes. The Cloudmonster's generous cushioning and forgiving ride make it an excellent choice for new runners building up mileage. The 35mm stack height absorbs impact well, which helps reduce fatigue on longer sessions while your body adapts to running. It's also intuitive to run in — there's no aggressive rocker or complex geometry to adjust to.
On Cloudmonster vs Cloudmonster 2 — which should I buy?
If you're buying new, go Cloudmonster 2. It improves on the original with better forefoot cushioning, a smoother heel-to-toe transition thanks to the filled outsole gap, and a slightly wider fit that suits more foot shapes. The original is still a solid shoe if you find it discounted, but the Cloudmonster 2 is the better all-round package.
Can you wear the On Cloudmonster as an everyday shoe?
Absolutely — and thousands of people do. The Cloudmonster's chunky silhouette, clean colourways and premium build quality have made it as popular as a lifestyle trainer as it is a running shoe. It pairs well with joggers, jeans, and casual fits. The cushioning also makes it genuinely comfortable for all-day wear.
How does the On Cloudmonster compare to HOKA Bondi?
Both are max cushion shoes, but they feel very different underfoot. The HOKA Bondi is softer and more plush — a marshmallow ride. The Cloudmonster is firmer with more energy return, giving you cushioning that still feels responsive. The Cloudmonster is also lighter and has a more distinctive look. If you want pure softness, go Bondi. If you want cushion with snap-back, go Cloudmonster.
