Today, I’m giving you an in-depth review of the On Cloudmonster 2. Known for its maximal cushioning and responsive feel, this premium shoe offers a unique combination of comfort and performance. We independently purchase all shoes to provide unbiased reviews, so here’s our honest take on the Cloudmonster 2.
Stack Height and Cushioning
The On Cloudmonster 2 offers substantial cushioning:
- 35mm in the rearfoot and 29mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 6mm heel-to-toe drop.
- It weighs around 295g for a men’s size 9 US, making it a relatively lightweight maximalist shoe.
The midsole features Helion cushioning with a dual-density design and a TPU plate (not a carbon plate) for added stability and firmness. This creates a firm, responsive ride that is perfect for uptempo work and more intense runs.
Forefoot Rocker and Ride Feel
The shoe has a forefoot rocker, which helps counterbalance its stiffness. This rocker design promotes a smooth transition from heel to toe, enhancing propulsion during the push-off phase of your gait cycle. However, the ride is firm and resilient, offering substantial energy return and responsiveness.
We classify the Cloudmonster 2 as a stable neutral shoe. While it may not offer as much stability as the Brooks Ghost Max 2, it has several features that add stability:
- The sidewalls in the heel and midfoot act like guardrails, keeping the foot centred in the shoe as you move.
- The cushioning firmness also contributes to stability, although the narrower forefoot design may feel less stable than other maximalist shoes.
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Fit and Comfort
The Cloudmonster 2 provides a snug fit in the heel and midfoot, with a spacious toebox for added comfort.
- True to size with no need to size up or down.
- The tongue is thin and gusseted (stitched into the shoe), which prevents side-to-side movement. However, for some users, the thin tongue might feel tight on the front of the ankle.
The heel counter is softer than expected for a maximalist shoe, which may allow for some side-to-side movement. Typically, maximalist shoes have a stiff heel counter to keep the foot stable within the shoe. The lightweight mesh upper, thin tongue and softer heel counter may contribute to slight foot movement, especially for those with less foot stability.
Ideal Uses for the On Cloudmonster 2
The Cloudmonster 2 shines in various settings:
- Walking and standing all day: The comfortable cushioning makes it ideal for all-day wear, especially for jobs that require prolonged standing.
- Uptempo and faster runs: Its responsive design and forefoot rocker make it enjoyable for faster-paced activities and interval training.
- Casual daily wear: Its stylish design and comfort also make it suitable for casual, everyday use.
However, it may feel slightly clunky during slower-paced runs due to its firmer, responsive cushioning and rigid structure. The shoe excels for speed but may not be as comfortable for those looking for a softer, slower-paced ride.
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Final Thoughts
Overall, the On Cloudmonster 2 is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium maximalist shoe with a balance of stability, comfort, and responsiveness. It’s perfect for standing and walking all day, uptempo workouts, and those who prefer a firm, resilient cushioning system. While it may lack some stability features seen in other maximalist shoes, such as a stiffer heel counter, it still provides a secure fit thanks to its sidewalls and snug heel and midfoot fit.
If you have any questions about the On Cloudmonster 2 or understand how it compares to other maximalist shoes like the Brooks Ghost Max 2 or the Brooks Glycerin Max, please leave them in the comments. If you found this review helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe to our channel for more in-depth shoe reviews.
