On Cloudmonster 2

RunRepeat’s Carlos Sánchez praises the On Cloudmonster 2 as a striking, durable maximalist trainer that’s especially well-suited to wide-footed runners and long distances. He’s enthused about premium materials, a roomier upper than the original, improved stability from a TPU Speedboard, and excellent durability across toebox and outsole tests, calling it a fun, reliable daily shoe despite its high price. Sánchez tempers enthusiasm with clear criticisms: the shoe is heavier than rivals, offers only modest energy return compared with ZoomX- or PEBA-based foams, and its breathability and tongue padding are underwhelming. Measured lab data (stack, SA, energy-return percentages, durometer results) and side-by-side comparisons with ASICS and Nike lend authority, leading to a largely positive but measured verdict: an excellent option for wide-foot marathoners and midfoot strikers, not the top choice for runners prioritizing lightness or springy responsiveness.

Nathaniel Bailey from OutdoorGearLab finds the On Cloudmonster 2 to be a well-made, distinctive max‑cushioned runner that ultimately falls short of its lofty goals. He praises the premium upper, secure lacing, unique CloudTec/Helion midsole construction, and solid performance on easy, long runs, but emphasizes an unexpectedly firm ride—especially at faster paces—excess weight (11.2 oz in a US M 10.5), and limited stability on uneven terrain. Bailey calls the shoe hyper‑niche: comfortable and competent for relaxed mileage but hampered by bulk, a lack of midsole energy for pace changes, and rock-catching outsole grooves. He recommends most runners look elsewhere for better versatility and value, pointing to Asics Superblast 2 or the lighter, more responsive Novablast 5 as preferable alternatives. Overall the tone is measured and slightly disappointed rather than enthusiastic.

Runner’s World UK’s Ali Ball assesses the On Cloudmonster 2 as a solid, likeable follow-up that largely preserves the original’s winning blend of cushioning and propulsion but falls short of feeling like a clear step forward. The reviewer praises the revamped dual-density Helion superfoam, redesigned Speedboard and roomier upper for maintaining a stable, versatile max-cushioned ride that suits long runs, recovery days, and mixed-pace efforts; aesthetics and improved lacing also earn positive notes. Criticisms center on unexpected fit issues — heel and occasional tongue slippage — and only marginal changes to ride feel versus the v1, making the modest £10 price increase harder to justify amid stronger competition. Overall the tone is appreciative yet measured: recommending the shoe to beginners and those wanting a snappy long-run trainer, while voicing mild disappointment that the updates don’t more dramatically improve an already excellent original.

Women's Running praises the On Cloudmonster 2 for its roomy fit, energetic propulsion, and thoughtful fixes (notably filling the midsole cavity), but the reviewer stops short of full endorsement. Esther Newman admires the shoe’s snap and tempo-run responsiveness—crediting the nylon Speedboard and reworked Helion foam for a lively ride—and appreciates the increased space that accommodates thicker socks. However, she finds the higher stack surprisingly firmer and less cushioned than the original Cloudmonster, making it feel underwhelming on easy long runs and too stiff for maximal-cushion fans. Overall the tone is cautiously positive: impressed by improvements and sprint/tempo performance, yet mildly disappointed that the promise of “more cushioning” doesn’t fully materialize and that the update doesn’t clearly better the first version.

Marathon Handbook’s Alex Cyr highlights the Cloudmonster 2 as a boldly cushioned, quirky “Hulk” of a trainer that delivers exceptional bounce, durability, and versatility—handling easy runs, long steady efforts, and tempo work with surprising responsiveness. Cyr praises the doubled Helion foam, oversized Cloudtec pods, and nylon speedboard for a plush, forward-rolling ride and long mileage life, rating it 7.9. Criticisms focus on notable weight (10.4 oz), an overly roomy, tall fit that can cause ankle chafing unless tied tightly, and the need to feel snugger and lighter to be a true do-it-all shoe. Unique insights include calling it a supertrainer/recovery hybrid—more propulsive than a classic trainer but too heavy to be a supershoe—and recommending it for runners who value durability and a smooth, gear-like ride despite its bulk.

Solereview editors praise the On Cloudmonster 2 for its excellent build quality, plush protection, and stable, comfortable feel on long, easy runs, but deliver a measured, mildly critical verdict: the shoe is heavy, lacks true foam softness or notable energy return, and feels mechanically cushioned by hollow chambers rather than modern responsive foams. The review is enthusiastic about everyday long-run comfort, secure fit once sized down, and durability, yet it warns that the Cloudmonster 2 is overly specialized (poor for speedwork and sharp turns), offers limited width options, and represents poor value at its price point — a well-made but middling performer best suited as a daily cruiser rather than a versatile racer.

Believe in the Run praises the On Cloudmonster 2 as a bold, mostly successful evolution for On: reviewers appreciate the unique, protective ride from the max-stack, dual-density midsole and softer Helion forefoot, calling the rocker and tank‑tread pod feel enjoyable for steady miles and casual wear. Enthusiasm is tempered by repeated criticism of sloppy sizing, an overly roomy toebox, inconsistent fit across pairs, and a relatively heavy weight that undermines long-run performance; the updated upper improved heel lockdown but didn’t fully fix the loose fit for narrow feet. Overall the team sees the Cloudmonster 2 as a meaningful step forward for the brand—good for runners who like a firmer, stable trainer and striking aesthetics—but not clearly superior to similarly priced competitors until On addresses fit and weight.

Runner's Lab praises the On Cloudmonster 2 as a highly comfortable, stable, and versatile maximalist trainer that shines for long runs and daily training while retaining a lively, propulsive ride. The reviewer—an experienced marathoner—highlights the huge CloudTec elements, Helion dual-density foam, and new nylon Speedboard as delivering excellent shock absorption, smooth rear-to-front transitions, and reassuring natural stability, while noting improved outsole durability and thoughtful small details (gusseted tongue, reflective elements). Criticisms focus on inconsistent fit—narrow-footed runners may find excess volume—and the added weight versus v1, which can blunt top-end interval performance even as many testers still praised responsiveness. Overall the tone is strongly positive and enthusiastic, recommending the Cloudmonster 2 as one of the best daily trainers available, especially for runners prioritizing comfort and durability over racing-level lightness.

WearTesters praises the On Cloudmonster 2 as a well-balanced, comfortable max-cushion daily trainer that tames the polarizing feel of the original. The reviewer, Drew Whitcomb, highlights the dual-density midsole and three-quarter Speedboard for a ride that’s neither too squishy nor too firm—smooth, responsive enough for tempo work, and notably comfortable for long days on your feet. He praises the high-quality materials, roomy yet adaptable upper, and reliable traction, while noting downsides: a premium $180 price, a firmer feel compared with the current max-squish trend, and an outsole that can trap larger rocks. Tested by an experienced daily runner and clearly disclosed as a provided sample, the review frames the Cloudmonster 2 as an attractive choice for runners and professionals who value comfort, craftsmanship, and a more controlled max-cushion experience.