On Cloudmonster 2 Review: 35/29mm High-Cushion Trainer

On Cloudmonster 2 Review: 35/29mm High-Cushion Trainer

Disclosure: TrainingPlan has not hands-on tested this exact model. This research-based review uses On product information and independent exact-model tests. No Amazon US listing is currently verified.

Quick Verdict

On Cloudmonster 2 is a superseded high-cushion neutral trainer built for easy runs, steady mileage, and long road sessions. On's launch sheet specifies a 6mm drop, 300 grams (10.6 ounces) for men's EU 42, 230 grams (8.1 ounces) for women's EU 38, and a MSRP: $180 launch price. Our catalog uses the published 35mm heel and 29mm forefoot geometry reported by RoadTrailRun.

Its large CloudTec elements look extremely soft, but appearance overstates the experience. Dual-density Helion foam and a nylon-blend Speedboard make the platform protective, stable, and rolling rather than pillowy throughout. It is best for runners who accept more shoe in exchange for underfoot coverage and a distinctive transition.

Key Specifications

What Changed

The previous record showed 10.2 and 8.8 ounces. On's launch technical sheet instead gives 300 and 230 grams at explicit gendered reference sizes. Those convert to 10.6 and 8.1 ounces. The old description also called the cushioning “CloudTec Phase,” but On describes dual-density Helion with CloudTec elements and a nylon-blend Speedboard; CloudTec Phase is a different construction used elsewhere in the line.

The prior Amazon URL is no longer published because we have no dated evidence tying its title and ASIN to this exact model. Cloudmonster Hyper and Cloudmonster 3 are not substitutes for Cloudmonster 2.

Why Stack Measurements Differ

RoadTrailRun reports 35/29mm, which is the catalog geometry used here. RunRepeat measured 37.9mm at the heel and 31.3mm at the forefoot, producing a 6.6mm measured difference. Both preserve roughly the same offset; the absolute numbers vary with the measurement method and inclusion of the insole and internal geometry.

That distinction matters. A laboratory measurement is useful evidence, but mixing its heel number with a published forefoot number would create a false drop. The audit records both sets and keeps each pair intact.

Ride and Intended Use

The shoe places a firmer Helion layer above softer material and inserts the Speedboard between them. The large cavities deform under load, then the rocker and board help move the foot forward. Reviewers consistently found it more stable and controlled than the visual “monster” cushioning suggests.

This makes Cloudmonster 2 useful for easy runs, recovery-paced outings, and long steady work when a runner likes a guided roll. It can handle short pickups, but 10.6 ounces and a broad footprint make it less natural for intervals or racing. The forefoot can feel firm at slower cadence, especially to runners expecting a deep sink-in sensation.

Fit and Sizing

Cloudmonster 2 was listed in standard width, with substantial internal volume and a secure engineered upper. Doctors of Running describes a normal-to-slightly-roomy fit, while the heel and midfoot still need to lock down. Start with usual running-shoe size and evaluate the shoe under load, because the tall platform can amplify movement if the upper is loose.

Runners with narrow feet should check heel slip. Runners requiring a labeled wide version should not assume the roomy standard shape equals a true wide last. Use the shoe fit guide and prioritize the correct width over brand familiarity.

What Works Well

The broad base and sidewalls provide a composed neutral platform. There is enough cushioning for long road use, the rocker reduces the need for deep forefoot flex, and outsole coverage is substantial. The shoe offers a distinctive alternative to uniformly soft max-cushion trainers.

Tradeoffs

Weight is the clearest limitation. The ride can also feel blocky, and the firm forefoot will not satisfy runners seeking plush rebound. Standard-only width, a MSRP: $180 launch price, and the unusual underfoot sensation narrow its audience. High stack does not itself make a shoe appropriate for pain or injury; footwear choice should be based on comfort, fit, and intended use.

Monitor outsole wear, foam asymmetry, upper movement, and changes in comfort rather than applying a generic mileage cap. See the shoe replacement guide.

Who Should Consider This Shoe

Consider Cloudmonster 2 for easy and long road sessions if a broad, rolling platform feels natural and shoe weight is secondary to protection. It can anchor the easy-day side of a rotation when a lighter workout shoe handles faster sessions; start with the shoe-selection guide.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Look elsewhere for low weight, flexible ground feel, pronounced softness, or an explicit wide size. Runners uneasy on tall shoes should prioritize a lower platform even if the Cloudmonster name sounds more cushioned.

Cross-Brand Comparison

The Brooks Glycerin 21 feels more conventional and plush, with a 10mm drop. The ASICS Novablast 4 is lighter and springier. Cloudmonster 2 is broader and more mechanically structured than either.

Same-Brand Comparison

Within On, the Cloudsurfer 2 is lighter and more flexible for ordinary daily training. Cloudmonster Hyper is a distinct premium, faster model, and Cloudmonster 3 is the direct generational successor. Shoppers should compare the exact names rather than treating “Cloudmonster” as one interchangeable product.

Value

At MSRP: $180, Cloudmonster 2 was expensive for a daily trainer. Its build can justify the price for runners who value the particular fit and ride, but current clearance value depends on condition, return rights, correct size, and the discount versus newer models.

Final Verdict

Cloudmonster 2 is a 6mm-drop high-cushion trainer with 10.6/8.1-ounce references and a published 35/29mm platform. Its dual-density Helion, CloudTec elements, and nylon Speedboard deliver protection and a rolling transition, but not the uniformly soft feel its appearance implies. It is a strong preference-driven long-run shoe, not a universal maximum-cushion answer.