On Cloudmonster Hyper Review
Make Every Run a Monster Run with the On Cloudmonster Hyper
Likes
- Plush and responsive forefoot cushioning
- Premium fit & feel
- Stylish design
Dislikes
- Not enough Helion HF
- Slightly harsher landings when heel striking
What's New
Building upon the success of the original Cloudmonster, the Cloudmonster Hyper is designed to deliver a more responsive underfoot experience while retaining the max-cushioned comfort runners love. What differentiates the Cloudmonster Hyper from its monster siblings, is the dual-density midsole, featuring Helion HF hyper foam in the top layer for superior impact absorption and Helion super foam in the bottom layer for maximum energy return. This combination ensures a balance of plush, protective cushioning, and peppy responsiveness, ideal for confidently tackling any distance.
In addition to its advanced midsole technology, the On Cloudmonster Hyper boasts an enhanced outsole engineered for optimal traction and stability. The Grip rubber compound with an updated traction pattern provides traction on various surfaces, allows runners to maintain control and confidence in every stride. Complementing the performance-driven midsole and outsole is the meticulously crafted microfibre upper, which delivers lightweight breathability and a secure lockdown that moulds around the foot. This ensures that runners can push their limits without compromising comfort or support, making the On Cloudmonster Hyper the ultimate companion for runners seeking versatility with a taste of speed.
Whether you are embarking on short-tempo runs or conquering the challenge of a full marathon, the On Cloudmonster Hyper is designed to elevate your running experience to new heights. With its cutting-edge technologies and refined design, this shoe promises to enhance your performance and help you easily achieve your running goals. Say goodbye to compromise and hello to unwavering comfort, responsiveness, and protection with the On Cloudmonster Hyper.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know what the Cloudmonster Hyper is all about, in terms of design and tech, let's dive into what our testing team had to say about this premium max stack trainer and its unique design. Starting with the upper, per usual reviewers had nothing but positive things to say about the Hyper's stylish aesthetic, but what really stole the show was the upper's premium fit. Despite offering a roomier fit, it maintains a snug lockdown, ensuring stability and security during every running session.
The midsole was another show stopper and testers praised On's unique blend of Helion HF and Pebax foam technologies. The midsole is responsive and protective, which allowed our team to enjoy long miles and uptempo paces. The only suggestion moving forward would be to give us more PEBAX, as testers would have loved the plush, bouncy cushioning to extend throughout the entirety of the midsole to heighten the protection in the heel to better compliment the awesome forefoot.
In terms of the outsole, testers gave the Cloudmonster a thumbs up for its durability and reliable traction. Was it the best outsole compared to other running shoes? Maybe not, but it delivered on its promise, ensuring that our team was always in control of their run regardless of weather conditions or surface type. Overall, the Cloudmonster Hyper is a high-performing running shoe that is an upgrade over the original monster and its evolution the Cloudmonster 2 that runners can utilise however they please, regardless of whether that is for long arduous efforts or a simple daily runabout.
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Jon: "The upper of this shoe worked impressively well for me. I found it both comfortable and durable, an ideal combination for a premium daily trainer like this, especially for me and my fit preferences. The engineered woven material breathes well, and the tongue is very soft with a healthy level of padding. This is all while maintaining a slim and stylish profile.
In terms of fit, the upper is very accommodating in the midfoot through the toe box. I thought it ran a bit long for me, but definitely not as long as the Cloudmonster 2's were on-foot, but long enough to where I would likely go down half a size"
Kaleb: "I really liked the upper on the Cloudmonster Hyper, but admittedly, I wish it was geared more towards comfort. The fit was true to size with a secure wrap that had no difficulty holding my foot in place, making for irritation-free testing runs. The toe box is spacious with a fair amount of width and volume, allowing for more than enough room for toes to splay, especially on those longer efforts. I was confused about whether On was prioritising comfort or performance.
Truthfully, the upper packs a balance of both, but I wish On leaned one way or another, either by making the upper lighter and more breathable or by adding more padding for a plusher on-foot experience. Again, I liked the upper and thought it performed well throughout the testing period. I was left wanting a little bit. And the aesthetic, this is an On shoe, so you already know it has style."
Liz: "On shoes are known for their stylish design, and I cannot tell you how many compliments I received while testing the new Cloudmonster Hyper. These shoes look great and stand out with any outfit, always making a bold statement. That said, those who have worn On shoes before can attest that the brand’s upper fits are as comfortable as they are stylish. The upper of the Cloudmonster Hyper is no exception. It has a premium feel that is both lightweight and breathable. The fit is on the roomier side, but I had no issues with lockdown and appreciated the extra toe room during long runs."
Midsole
Jon: "The midsole of the Cloudmonster Hyper is boosted by a layer of Helion HF Pebax foam that runs from the midfoot to the toe box. The Pebax cushioning offers a very nice, responsive underfoot experience, especially at toe-off.
The problem I have with the midsole is that the Helion HF does not run the length of the shoe. Based on how great the toe-off feels, it made me really wish there was more PEBAX foam in the midsole so that the full heel-to-toe transition would feel as bouncy and lively as the toe-off does. The CloudTec cushioning in the heel simply does not compare to the Helion HF. Finally, despite the absence of a Speedboard, I still found the Cloudmonster Hyper to be very stable with a decent amount of responsiveness for a premium trainer."
Kaleb: "One of the first runs I completed with the Hyper was a 13.1-mile marathon race pace effort, and I was surprised by how responsive the forefoot was, as well as the protection the shoe delivered late in the run. For a premium trainer, I think the Cloudmonster Hyper is right in the mix with the best in the category when analysing performance. I could do long runs without worrying too much about protection, and if I was feeling speedy, then I could knock out tempo paces with no problem.
Similar to my thoughts on the upper, I just do not know if this shoe dazzled enough to weasel its way into my shoe rotation. For longer runs, I have more protective shoes, and though the Cloudmonster Hyper is protective, I really started noticing my foot strikes late in runs as I began tiring and started striking more toward the heel. In other words, like my fellow testers, I wish there was more protection in the heel, or that On extended the Pebax foam the length of the midsole. For faster efforts, I want a lighter, more nimble shoe. Personal opinions aside, the Cloudmonster Hyper is a solid option for those who like running long distances with a shoe that injects a nice bounce into each stride."
Liz: "The On Cloudmonster Hyper sports a unique midsole that blends the On’s traditional Helion foam with a new lightweight and responsive PEBAX foam insert in the forefoot. The Helion HF Pebax insert offers a plusher underfoot experience that still feels responsive when picking up the pace. The ride of the Cloudmonster Hyper is unlike any other shoe from the brand. The Cloudtec pods in the heel and underlayer of Helion foam provide a touch of springiness while also helping deliver a very stable and composed ride. Meanwhile, the Helion HF foam in the forefoot delivers a sinking in softness that you do not get from other On running shoes. This adds to the shoe’s comfort over longer distances, while the responsiveness of the foam keeps the shoe feeling fast and efficient when you want to pick up the pace."
Outsole
Jon: "I had the opportunity to wear the Cloudmonster Hyper in both dry and wet conditions and had no issues with traction. That said, I ran most of my testing miles at an easier pace and probably would not want to go full speed on a wet track."
Kaleb: "The Hyper's outsole has held up well after 30+ testing miles, with no abnormal signs of wear and tear. The traction was also substantial, and despite the higher stack, I felt I was in full control while running in the Cloudmonster Hyper."
Liz: "The Cloudmonster Hyper features durable rubber coverage in high-wear areas of the outsole with exposed EVA in the midfoot. I had no issues with traction, even on wet roads, and I was pleasantly surprised by the outsole’s durability."
Comparable Shoes
On Cloudmonster Hyper vs. On Cloudmonster 2
Jon: "With an all-new Cloudmonster 2 on the loose, it is only natural to wonder what the differences are between these two shoes. Cutting right to the chase, the On Cloudmonster Hyper delivers a better running experience over the Cloudmonster 2 in almost every way. It is an ounce lighter, has a better-fitting upper, and delivers a more responsive and protective ride thanks to the layer of Pebax foam in the forefoot. For these reasons, it makes sense that the Cloudmonster Hyper is $50 more than the Cloudmonster 2."
Liz: "Most people will be curious about the differences between the standard On Cloudmonster 2 and the Cloudmonster Hyper, especially given the $50 price difference.
The Cloudmonster Hyper is a great option for those who enjoy running shoes with a more plush underfoot experience. The superfoam in the midsole delivers a premium underfoot feel that is soft and responsive. Meanwhile, those who want a highly cushioned running shoe with a slightly firmer and more springy-feeling responsiveness will enjoy Cloudmonster 2. I prefer the Cloudmonster Hyper for longer runs when I want a bit softer ride, while the Cloudmonster 2 is a favourite choice for daily runs where I want a fun and spring yet still cushioned ride."
On Cloudmonster Hyper vs. ASICS ASICS Superblast
Jon: "Looking at the premium daily trainer category, another interesting comparison to the Cloudmonster Hyper is the ASICS Superblast. If there is one thing I am known for around the office, it is my love for the ASICS Superblast, which I think is the perfect shoe for me. I love how lightweight and versatile it is. It performs well as a recovery, daily training, and fast-day shoe. Furthermore, I am sure the Cloudmonster Hyper would also be a capable race-day shoe! the Superblast can truly do it all. So how does the Cloudmonster Hyper stack up to it?
While not quite as versatile as the Superblast, the Cloudmonster Hyper is still versatile and can be the only shoe in your running rotation, if you are not into having multiple running shoes or rotating shoes throughout the week at once. It has the comfort to eat up tons of training miles, it has the bounce to pick up the pace for faster efforts thanks to the layer of Pebax foam, and it has the protection to handle your longest efforts."
Liz: "The ASICS Superblast is a premium daily trainer at a comparable price point to the Cloudmonster Hyper. The ASICS Superblast is lighter with a softer ride while still feeling responsive enough to pick up the pace whenever you want. Meanwhile, the Cloudmonster Hyper is firmer underfoot, especially through the midfoot and heel, and has a more traditional feeling ride with a touch of softness. The ASICS Superblast will be a better option for those who want a full-length bed of supercritical foam, and the Cloudmonster Hyper will be a better option for runners who need a roomier fit and are looking for On’s signature style and feel."
Individual Thoughts
There is much to like about the Cloudmonster Hyper, especially if you are a fan of On running shoes. It sets a new bar for premium training shoes in the On running shoe line by adding super foam in the midsole and creating a unique running experience. Hopefully, they continue on that trajectory, and we see even more Pebax featured in On Shoes moving forward. I also enjoyed the upper of this shoe, it was relatively lightweight and breathable, but still structured enough to handle longer efforts.
The biggest downside of this shoe for me is the $320 price point. Even though this is a solid shoe that could serve as the only running shoe in your closet, there are several other running shoes around this price point that I would recommend over the Cloudmonster Hyper; more specifically, I would recommend the ASICS Superblast over the Cloudmonster Hyper because it is not only cheaper but better performing in my opinion. Moreover, there is a new shoe from HOKA that I cannot talk about right now (but you will likely know about it by the time you are reading this) that is amazing, and one that I would recommend over the Cloudmonster Hyper. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference, and I know there are plenty of runners who are going to love running in this shoe.
Having put the Cloudmonster Hyper through its paces, I can confidently say that On has crafted a shoe that sits comfortably in the premium trainer category, with some unique features that set it apart from its counterparts.
After logging over 30 miles, the outsole of the Cloudmonster Hyper shows no signs of premature wear, a testament to the shoe's quality construction. The traction is reliable, providing a secure grip on various surfaces, and instilling confidence with each stride.
Midsole-wise, the Cloudmonster Hyper impressed me, particularly the forefoot which featured the Pebax insert. I appreciated the forefoot's responsiveness, which smoothly propelled me forward. Moreover, the shoe maintained its protective qualities, cushioning my feet even as fatigue set in. However, late in runs, when heel strikes became more pronounced, I wanted more heel protection, which I believe could be solved by extending the Pebax foam the entire length of the midsole.
The upper of the Cloudmonster Hyper strikes a balance between comfort and performance. True to size, it offers a secure fit without sacrificing room for toe splay. The spacious toe box is well-matched with longer efforts, but I could not shake the feeling that the upper could lean more decisively towards either comfort or performance. While it performed well, I found myself yearning for either a lighter, more breathable upper or added padding for a plusher feel.
In the realm of premium trainers, the Cloudmonster Hyper holds its own. It's blend of responsiveness, protection, and style makes it a solid choice for runners seeking a versatile option for daily training and even faster workouts. However, personal preferences may sway some towards alternatives that better cater to specific needs. However, for those who appreciate On's signature blend of performance and style, the Cloudmonster Hyper will definitely delight.
The On Cloudmonster Hyper is a very unique shoe for the brand. With the slab of supercritical Helion HF foam in the forefoot, this daily trainer delivers a plush underfoot experience with a more sinking-in softness when compared to the compressive softness offered by the Cloudtec pods in other On running shoes. This makes the Cloudmonster Hyper a great choice for those who want to try an On shoe but are looking for a softer, yet still premium, feeling ride.
The shoe has a composed and stable ride thanks to the Cloudtec pods in the heel and the underlayer of traditional Helion foam in the forefoot. The firmer foam works with the softer superfoam under the forefoot to deliver a smooth and efficient heel-to-toe transition.
Along with the shoe’s stylish design, the upper has a premium fit and feel that is comfortable from the first moment you put it on. The fit is roomier through the forefoot, which worked well for my wider feet. That said, those with narrow feet may struggle to get an ideal lockdown. Overall, the Cloudmonster Hyper delivers a comfortable ride that works well for daily training but has enough pep for faster workouts as well.