On Cloudmonster 2: Detailed Review
Hummingbird’s Rob White’s tried and tested On Cloudmonster 2 review.
Whether you're trotting through your weekly long runs or unleashing your inner beast, the On Cloudmonster 2 is the shoe for every occasion.
On Cloud Running has swiftly risen as one of the fastest growing sportswear brands to date, captivating the athleisure world with sleek designs and eye-catching colorways. After a year of putting them through their paces as my main mileage runner, I've discovered they're far more than just a pretty face. Why is this? Let’s blame the cloud.
More Tech than an Airliner
For the shoe tech aficionados who salivate over phrases like 'stack height,' fear not, as the On Cloudmonster 2 boasts some impressive stats:
Cushion: Max
Stability: Forward-rolling
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 6 mm
Stack Height: 34 mm (heel), 28 mm (toe)
Upper: 100% recycled polyester
Midsole: CloudTec and Speedboard
Outsole: Helion™ superfoam
Weight (pair): 1 lb 3.4 oz (men’s), 1 lb 0.2 oz (women’s)
With a substantial stack height, the CloudTec cushioning immediately absorbs impact, balanced by the nylon speedboard, which adds firmness and bounce to each stride. The shoe's design promotes a forward roll, making it energy-efficient for mid-foot strikers, though still supportive for heel strikers.
Despite its chunky appearance, weighing in at a slender 295 grams (at my size US M10.5), it's remarkably lightweight for such max cushioning. However, in my opinion one drawback is the thin polyester upper, which showed signs of wear after about 8 months (fortunately covered by warranty).
The fit on foot
As a neutral runner with flat feet, I found the On Cloudmonster 2 exceptionally comfortable. The wide toe box and minimal arching insoles required minimal breaking in, so fear not - blisters are not a problem here. The shoe fits true to size, a rarity in the world of varying shoe sizes.
Stability is often a concern with performance runners, but with the Cloudmonster 2 consistency shines through. It handles high-tempo runs with ease, keeping up with pace and showing its responsiveness, particularly evident in hill sprints, where its grip and propulsion excel. On have also nailed the lacing system related to comfort and have enabled the heel lock to be far more secure when picking up the pace.
Pro’s
Versatile
Max cushioning
Great stability
Extremely comfortable
Grippy in all conditions
Breathable
Responsive ride
Con’s
On the firmer side.
Verdict
For me, the On Cloudmonster 2 is a runner that absolutely lived up to the hype.
It caters to a wide range of runners, whether you're purchasing your first pair of running shoes or adding to your running regime. The outstanding versatility is what really allows it to beat its chest, I would recommend this to runners of all abilities, for all occasions.
It's a shoe that will evoke a sense of pride when you rock up to your social run club, but also packs a punch when striving for personal bests. With its ample cushioning and firm spring, you'll be itching to chase down your next PB.
If you like what you see, get in contact with Forerunners Northshore or drop in anytime!
Until then, keep pounding the pavement.