The On Cloudmonster 2 is a cushioned, maximalist running shoe designed to blend stability with cushioning, perfect for daily runs. It features a high stack and a nylon 'Speedboard' plate, with an updated midsole that features a second layer of denser foam above the plate to enhance stability and impact absorption. Runners looking for a stable shoe for daily training and long, steady miles will appreciate the Cloudmonster 2. However, the roomy fit and firmer cushioning may not suit those who prefer a snug, ultra-soft feel.
Our Verdict
The On Cloudmonster 2 isn't the best choice for marathon racing. Its poor energy return and heavier build limit efficiency over long distances, making it less ideal for sustained speed. While the cushioning provides decent protection and the plate adds some structure, the shoe lacks the responsiveness needed for competitive long runs. Its lateral stability is a strong point, ensuring a steady ride, but overall, better options exist for marathon racing.
Speedboard adds stiffness.
Bulky.
Foam isn’t bouncy.
For shorter races, the On Cloudmonster 2 is a mixed bag. Its firm forefoot helps, but the weight and poor energy return hinder overall performance. The shoe doesn't deliver the snappy, efficient ride needed for high-speed efforts.
Speedboard adds stiffness.
Foam is quite firm, especially at the forefoot.
Bulky.
Foam isn’t bouncy.
The energy return of the On Cloudmonster 2 is bad. The midsole struggles to efficiently recycle energy, particularly in the heel, making the ride feel dull. The forefoot offers slightly better responsiveness, but overall, the shoe lacks the springiness that defines a highly energetic ride.
Foam isn’t bouncy.
The On Cloudmonster 2 is cushioned but not exceptionally so. The heel provides a good level of protection, helping to soften landings, while the forefoot feels notably less plush. This setup makes it comfortable for moderate distances but not the most protective choice for long-haul runs.
Good heel cushioning.
Forefoot is lacking some protection.
The strongest aspect of the On Cloudmonster 2 is its lateral stability. The wide outsole, firm structure, and secure design provide a steady feel, making it a great choice for those who prioritize balance. This stability can help runners maintain form, especially during longer efforts when fatigue sets in.
Speedboard adds stiffness.
Foam is quite firm, especially at the forefoot.
Wide base.
Performance Usages
Changelog
- Updated Jul 30, 2025:
We revised the phrasing in the Cushioning, Heel Cushioning and Compared to Other Running Shoes box to reflect the changes in the latest test bench.
- Updated Jul 30, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.1, which mainly updates the score components for the Marathon Racing and Lateral Stability usage boxes to improve accuracy.
- Updated Jun 12, 2025:
We added a comparison to the On Cloudsurfer 2 in the Compared To Other Running Shoes box.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the On Cloudmonster 2 in men's US size 9, as indicated on our product's label. The color shown here is White | Flame, and the shoe is available in ten other colorways, including Asphalt | Iron, White | Frost, and Undyed | Zest. Additionally, a limited-edition collaboration with French running retailer DISTANCE is available, featuring a unique colorway and signature sockliner print. Wide versions are not offered for this model.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The On Cloudmonster 2 stands out primarily due to its stability, offering runners who appreciate the distinctive Swiss brand's fit and design a solid daily trainer option. However, while stable, its firmer and somewhat less cushioned ride means it's not the most versatile or comfortable option for most runners, especially compared to softer, more dynamic alternatives like the Nike Invincible 3 or the ASICS NOVABLAST 5. If a firmer ride is your preference, the Cloudmonster 2 is appealing, but most runners should consider the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4, which provides similar stability but with a lighter, more responsive feel.
Within On's lineup, the Cloudmonster 2 sits as a stable, cushioned daily trainer. Meanwhile, the On Cloudsurfer 2 is another daily trainer that offers a more traditional, grounded ride experience. The Swiss brand also proposes more specialized options like the interval-focused On Cloudboom Zone, the carbon-plated racing-oriented On Cloudboom Strike, and super trainers like the On Cloudmonster Hyper, which is lighter and has a more premium midsole.
For more options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes.
The On Cloudsurfer 2 and the On Cloudmonster 2 offer two distinct experiences within On's daily training lineup. The Cloudsurfer 2 is a classic daily trainer, with a moderate stack height, lighter weight, and an early-stage rocker that promotes smooth transitions at easier paces. Its firm underfoot emphasizes ground feel and control over plushness or bounce. The Cloudmonster 2, on the other hand, is On's maximalist option—higher stacked, more cushioned, and noticeably more energetic thanks to a more responsive midsole. While both shoes are on the firmer side overall, the Cloudmonster 2 feels slightly softer and more forgiving.
The HOKA Clifton 9 and On Cloudmonster 2 are popular daily trainers—perfect if you run mostly for Strava kudos. The On is more stable, noticeably bouncier, and provides more cushioning underfoot. The HOKA, however, is lighter and simpler, offering a smooth ride on casual daily runs. If you prioritize maximum comfort and bounce, choose the On; if weight matters most, the HOKA is your better bet.
The Nike Invincible 3 and On Cloudmonster 2 are both popular daily trainers but offer distinct experiences. The Nike provides a noticeably bouncier ride, ideal for versatile daily runs. On the other hand, the On is slightly firmer, appealing to runners who seek security underfoot, especially over longer miles.
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 and On Cloudmonster 2 are both daily trainers, but each appeal to different tastes. The Rebel v4 offers a lighter, firmer, and closer to the ground experience. In contrast, the Cloudmonster 2 provides more substantial cushioning, making it a better choice if you prioritize protection on slower runs.
Test Results
The On Cloudmonster 2 is on the heavier side, which impacts its overall efficiency, particularly for speed-focused runs. This extra weight makes it feel less agile compared to lightweight trainers like the adidas Adizero Evo SL. It does not feel overly cumbersome, but those looking for a featherlight experience will find it sluggish.
Runners familiar with the original Cloudmonster will notice a subtle change in the second iteration: the outsole redesign. The previous version had a small cutout exposing the nylon Speedboard, which had an annoying tendency to trap rocks and debris. This cutout has now been filled, making the shoe more practical.
The heel energy return in the On Cloudmonster 2 is bad. It lacks the responsiveness needed to propel runners forward efficiently, making landings feel boring rather than bouncy. This can contribute to a less dynamic ride, particularly for heel strikers who rely on a lively rebound for smoother transitions.
The forefoot energy return is slightly better than the heel but still falls short of delivering a truly responsive ride. The midsole struggles to recycle energy effectively, resulting in a ride that feels dull. Runners who prioritize a snappy toe-off will find the shoe lacking in spring.
The heel cushioning in the On Cloudmonster 2 is well-balanced, offering a good level of shock absorption. It effectively softens landings, making it a solid option for those who prefer a bit of extra protection underfoot. However, while adequate, it doesn't reach the plushness of max-cushioned trainers like the Mizuno Neo Vista.
The forefoot is noticeably less cushioned than the heel, providing a less forgiving underfoot feel. Runners who prefer a plush forefoot experience will find it a bit harsh.
The heel of the shoe is moderately firm, offering a structured and stable landing. While not excessively stiff, it lacks the plushness of softer trainers like the Mizuno Neo Vista. This firmness aids in stability but may not suit runners seeking a more forgiving heel strike.
The forefoot is notably firm, contributing to the shoe's stable feel. This stiffness is partly due to the Speedboard, which holds the foam together and adds structure. While this design improves stability and control, it also reduces the natural flexibility that some runners may prefer for a smoother, more adaptive ride.
