On Cloudmonster 2 Review: Big Cushioning With a Firmer, Energetic Ride
By Thasmiya
The On Cloudmonster 2 looks like a shoe built for maximum softness. Its oversized CloudTec pods, chunky midsole and unmistakably bold silhouette certainly suggest that.
But once you start running, the experience is slightly different.
There is plenty of cushioning underfoot, but this is **not a marshmallow-soft max-cushion shoe**. Instead, the Cloudmonster 2 delivers a firmer, more structured ride designed to feel stable and responsive over longer distances.
For runners who want protection without sinking deeply into their shoes, that combination makes the Cloudmonster 2 an interesting daily trainer.
## **What is the On Cloudmonster 2?**
The Cloudmonster 2 is On’s maximal-cushioned road running shoe built primarily for daily training and longer runs.
It uses the brand’s distinctive CloudTec cushioning system alongside a dual-density Helion midsole and a redesigned Speedboard.
Compared with the original Cloudmonster, the second generation increases the amount of cushioning while creating a more stable platform. Independent testing also finds the shoe notably firm despite its substantial stack.
## **Big cushioning, but don’t expect a super-soft ride**
This is probably the most important thing to understand before buying the Cloudmonster 2.
It **looks softer than it feels**.
There is a significant amount of material beneath the foot, giving runners plenty of protection from the road. That makes it particularly useful when mileage starts adding up.
However, laboratory testing by RunRepeat measured its Helion foam considerably firmer than the average running shoe in its database. Running Shoes Guru reached a similar conclusion, describing it as highly cushioned but slightly stiff rather than overwhelmingly soft.
That can actually be a positive for runners who dislike the sinking sensation of very plush max-cushion shoes.
## **How does the Cloudmonster 2 feel while running?**
The ride feels substantial, stable and controlled.
The oversized CloudTec elements compress as the foot lands, while the Speedboard helps move the shoe through the transition towards toe-off.
At easier speeds, the shoe can feel relatively firm. Add a little more force and pace, however, and the CloudTec geometry and Speedboard can create a more energetic sensation.
That does not turn it into a lightweight speed shoe. RunRepeat found its measured energy return relatively modest, while Road Trail Run’s testers were divided on how lively the shoe felt.
So “energetic” here should not be confused with the explosive bounce of a modern carbon-plated racing shoe.
## **Where it performs best: long runs**
Long-distance running is where the Cloudmonster 2 makes the strongest case for itself.
The substantial cushioning protects the legs without feeling excessively mushy, and the firmer platform helps maintain stability as the kilometres accumulate.
Running Shoes Guru found it particularly capable over long distances and even able to handle shorter faster efforts within a long run. RunRepeat similarly rates long runs as one of its strengths.
For marathon training, steady runs and everyday mileage, that versatility can be useful.
## **More stable than you might expect**
Tall running shoes can sometimes feel unstable, but On has given the Cloudmonster 2 a broad forefoot platform.
RunRepeat measured the forefoot at 117.2mm wide and found stability to be substantially improved compared with the original Cloudmonster. Its firmer midsole also contributes to the controlled sensation.
It remains a neutral running shoe rather than a dedicated stability model, but neutral runners who appreciate a planted feeling should find plenty to like.
## **The fit is roomy**
Another defining characteristic is space.
Independent testing found the Cloudmonster 2 particularly roomy through the upper and toe box. RunRepeat measured a generous 98.5mm at the widest part of the upper and reports that the shoe tends to fit slightly large.
Running Shoes Guru also found extra room through the upper, noting that runners with narrow feet or high arches may find achieving a secure lockdown more difficult.
Trying the shoe on before buying is therefore worthwhile.
## **Is it good for running in the UAE?**
There is one potential concern for UAE runners: **breathability**.
RunRepeat gave the Cloudmonster 2 only 2 out of 5 in its laboratory breathability test, specifically noting that the construction could be a drawback during summer running.
For Dubai and Abu Dhabi runners, that makes early-morning treadmill sessions or cooler-season outdoor runs potentially more comfortable than long outdoor summer sessions.
The roomy upper may help slightly, but runners whose feet get particularly hot should keep this limitation in mind.
## **Can you use the Cloudmonster 2 for walking?**
Yes.
The combination of a large cushioning platform, stability and durable construction also makes the Cloudmonster 2 appealing for walking and long days spent standing.
However, it is a substantial running shoe, so someone who simply wants a lightweight everyday sneaker may find it more shoe than necessary.
Its distinctive design also means it crosses easily into casual wear, particularly for people who already like On’s lifestyle aesthetic.
## **Is it a fast running shoe?**
Not really.
You can increase the pace in it, and the Speedboard helps keep the shoe from feeling completely passive, but speed sessions are not its main purpose.
The weight and relatively firm cushioning make it better suited to daily mileage, steady efforts and long runs than racing or serious interval sessions.
RunRepeat rates it much more strongly for daily running than tempo running or racing.
## **Cloudmonster 2 vs original Cloudmonster**
The second generation brings more cushioning and noticeably improved stability, but whether the ride itself is better is subjective.
Road Trail Run’s testers generally found version two firmer and less playful than the original, despite its increased stack. RunRepeat, meanwhile, considers the cushioning improved and the overall ride dynamic and stable.
That difference in opinion tells you something important about this shoe: **your preference for firmness will heavily influence whether you love it.**
If you expect maximum softness simply because it is called Cloudmonster, you could be disappointed.
If you prefer a large amount of cushioning combined with structure and stability, version two makes considerably more sense.
## **What we like**
The Cloudmonster 2 offers substantial underfoot protection, a stable platform, a spacious toe box and good durability.
It works particularly well for long runs and everyday training, while its unusual CloudTec construction provides a ride that feels distinctly different from conventional foam-only trainers.
The styling is another major attraction for runners who want one shoe that can transition reasonably well from running to casual wear.
## **What could be better**
The biggest issue is that the visual promise of huge, cloud-like softness does not entirely match the ride.
The cushioning is noticeably firmer than some competing max-cushion shoes.
It is also relatively heavy, breathability could be better for hot-weather running, and runners expecting dramatic energy return may find the response more restrained than anticipated.
The roomy upper can also be a disadvantage for runners with narrow feet.
## **Who should buy the On Cloudmonster 2?**
The Cloudmonster 2 makes the most sense for runners who:
Want lots of cushioning without an extremely soft feeling.
Regularly run longer distances.
Prefer a stable and structured neutral shoe.
Have medium-to-wide feet or appreciate a roomy toe box.
Want one premium trainer capable of handling most everyday mileage.
Like On’s distinctive design enough to wear the shoe casually as well.
## **Who should skip it?**
Look elsewhere if you want an exceptionally soft recovery shoe.
It is also unlikely to be the best choice if your priority is lightweight speedwork, maximum race-day energy return or exceptional ventilation for UAE summer running.
Narrow-footed runners should pay particular attention to sizing and lockdown.
## **Final verdict**
The **On Cloudmonster 2 is a max-cushioned shoe that doesn’t behave like a stereotypical max-cushioned shoe**.
There is a lot underneath your foot, but On pairs that volume with a firmer, more controlled platform. The result is protective enough for long distances while remaining stable and capable of handling changes in pace.
Its energetic character is more about the CloudTec geometry, Speedboard and rolling transition than super-soft foam or dramatic trampoline-like bounce.
That makes it a particularly interesting option for runners who look at ultra-plush shoes and think: *I want the cushioning, but not all that softness.*
For long runs and everyday kilometres, the Cloudmonster 2 is a durable and distinctive workhorse. For runners chasing featherweight speed or pillowy comfort, there are better options.