The ON Cloudmonster 2 is the successor to the brand’s highly-rated, maximum-cushioned daily trainer. This shoe caters to runners seeking a plush, comfortable ride for logging high mileage or those prioritizing impact absorption during everyday activities. Let’s delve deeper into the Cloudmonster 2’s design, performance, and whether it lives up to the hype.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Cloudmonster 2 boasts a sleek and contemporary design. The upper utilizes a breathable engineered mesh with a more padded heel collar compared to the original. The lacing system is also refined, offering a secure and comfortable fit. Our initial impression was positive – the shoe felt incredibly plush and lightweight for its category.
Upper: Comfort Reigns Supreme
The engineered mesh upper is breathable and keeps your feet cool during long runs. The noticeable upgrade is the padding in the heel collar, which significantly improves comfort and reduces heel slippage. The new lacing system provides a snug and secure fit without any pressure points. Overall, the upper delivers a sock-like feel that prioritizes comfort above all else.
Midsole: The Cloudmonster Lives Up to Its Name
The core of the Cloudmonster 2 lies in its Helion™ superfoam midsole. This material offers exceptional cushioning, absorbing impact effectively and providing a soft, pillowy feel underfoot. The softer foam in the forefoot helps with a more responsive toe-off, and the embedded Speedboard propels you forward with a subtle rocker design. This combination creates a smooth and efficient ride, ideal for accumulating high mileage.
Outsole: Durability Meets Grip
The Cloudmonster 2 features a durable rubber outsole with strategically placed traction pods. It provides good grip on various surfaces, including roads, sidewalks, and light trails. While not designed for aggressive off-road running, the outsole delivers ample traction for confident strides throughout your training runs.
Performance: A Smooth Operator
The Cloudmonster 2 excels in providing a comfortable and fatigue-reducing platform for long runs. The abundant cushioning protects your joints from the impact of repetitive strides, making it a great option for runners prone to shin splints or other overuse injuries. While not the fastest shoe on the market, the rocker design and responsive forefoot maintain a decent pace without sacrificing comfort.
Who Should Consider the Cloudmonster 2?
- Neutral runners seeking a maximally cushioned daily trainer
- Runners with high mileage or those prioritizing impact protection
- Runners recovering from injuries
- Walkers who desire a comfortable shoe for everyday wear
Conclusion: The Comfort King Retains its Crown
The ON Cloudmonster 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering an even more comfortable and protective ride for long runs. While some might crave a touch more responsiveness, the shoe excels in its core strength: plush cushioning and a smooth, fatigue-reducing experience. If you prioritize comfort above all else and rack up the miles, the Cloudmonster 2 is a strong contender for your next daily trainer.
