Womens On Running Cloudmonster 2

Description The Cloudmonster 2 represents On Running’s most ambitious rethinking of maximum cushioning. Where the original Cloudmonster pioneered oversized CloudTec elements, this second generation introduces dual-density Helion foam construction — firmer compressed foam in the forefoot, softer standard Helion underfoot. The result is a 300g (men’s) daily trainer with 35mm heel stack that delivers controlled energy return rather than mushy sink. The nylon-blend Speedboard provides structure through the platform, while the pronounced rocker geometry keeps you moving forward despite all that foam. On has also addressed the original’s narrow fit complaints with increased forefoot volume and a redesigned upper featuring more eyelets for dialled-in lockdown. �� Compare Prices — Womens On Running Cloudmonster 2 Retailer Price Stock Action Pace Athletic Best Price $168.00 $280.00 -40% ✓ In Stock Buy Now → Intersport $199.99 $279.99 -29% ✓ In Stock Buy Now → On Running AU $280.00 ✓ In Stock Buy Now → JD Sports $160.00 $270.00 -41% ✗ Out of Stock Check Stock → Prices from 4 Australian retailers. Last updated: 8 hours ago. Prices may vary. Click through to retailer for final price. �� Price History Here’s the honest verdict: the Cloudmonster 2 succeeds as a protective daily trainer for runners who want cushion without losing ground feel. The dual-density construction prevents the dead feeling common in max-cushion shoes, while the 6mm drop and rocker shape encourage a smooth heel-to-toe transition. However, at 300g for men’s sizes, it’s notably heavier than competitors like the Novablast 5 (260g), and the firm ride won’t suit runners expecting pillowy softness from a max-cushion shoe. The recycled mesh upper breathes well but runs narrow through the midfoot — On recommends sizing down half a size, but runners with wider feet might still find it restrictive. Who It’s For Daily mileage runners logging 30-60km weekly who want maximum protection without sacrificing responsiveness — the dual-density foam prevents energy drain on longer runs Heel strikers transitioning to more cushioning — the 35mm heel stack and pronounced rocker guide smooth transitions while protecting joints Runners returning from injury who need extra impact protection — the CloudTec elements and Helion foam work together to reduce landing forces Those who find traditional max-cushion shoes too soft — the firmer forefoot platform and Speedboard deliver actual energy return rather than pure absorption Who Should Skip It Wide-footed runners — even with the roomier toe box update, the midfoot remains narrow. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 offers similar cushioning in 2E and 4E widths Runners seeking ultra-plush cushioning — the dual-density construction creates a firm, responsive ride. The HOKA Bondi 9 delivers the marshmallow softness you’re after Budget-conscious buyers — at $160 minimum, it’s pricey for a daily trainer. The ASICS Novablast 5 provides bouncy cushioning for $40 less Minimalist runners — the 35mm stack and structured platform are the opposite of ground feel. Look elsewhere in On’s range or consider lighter alternatives Key Specs Weight 230g (women’s) / 300g (men’s) — heavier than most daily trainers but lighter than traditional max-cushion shoes Stack Height 35mm heel / 29mm forefoot — maximum protection without extreme platform heights Drop 6mm — moderate drop suits most running styles, lower than typical max-cushion shoes Midsole Dual-density Helion superfoam — softer underfoot, compressed firmer foam in forefoot for propulsion Upper 92% recycled polyester mesh — eco-friendly construction with good breathability Outsole CloudTec elements — On’s signature pods provide cushioning and grip on dry surfaces Price Intelligence The Cloudmonster 2 currently hits its lowest AU price at $160.00 from JD Sports — a substantial 41% discount from the $270 RRP. This aggressive markdown suggests end-of-season clearance as the Cloudmonster 3 approaches. Pace Athletic offers it at $230 (18% off), while Intersport maintains near-full price at $289.99. At $160, this represents excellent value for a premium max-cushion trainer. The original Cloudmonster rarely dropped below $200, making this a genuine opportunity. Given the clearance pricing and limited colourways remaining, serious buyers should act quickly — these prices won’t last once current stock depletes. How It Compares Model Price (AU) Key Difference Best For ASICS Novablast 5 $199.99 40g lighter with bouncier FF Blast Max cushioning Runners who want energetic cushioning without the weight penalty New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 $169.99 Softer ride, available in wide widths, similar stack height Comfort-first runners needing accommodating fit HOKA Bondi 9 $260.00 Maximum 40mm stack, ultra-plush cushioning, wider platform Runners seeking ultimate impact protection over responsiveness Value Rating �������� (4/5) At the current clearance price of $160, the Cloudmonster 2 delivers exceptional value. You’re getting On’s premium technologies — dual-density Helion foam, Speedboard, signature CloudTec — at mainstream trainer prices. The original $270 RRP was steep for a daily trainer, but $160 positions it competitively against the Novablast 5 and undercuts the 1080v14. The shoe loses a point for its narrow fit limiting appeal and the 300g weight being heavy for modern standards. But for runners who fit the profile — seeking protective cushioning with energy return rather than pure softness — this clearance pricing makes it a compelling purchase. Just don’t expect this deal to last long. The Technical Deep Dive The Cloudmonster 2’s dual-density midsole construction deserves closer examination. On positions compressed Helion foam in the forefoot while using standard density underfoot. This creates a firmer landing platform up front — addressing the common max-cushion complaint of energy loss during toe-off. The nylon-blend Speedboard runs the full length, adding torsional rigidity without the harsh feel of carbon plates. The CloudTec elements themselves have evolved from the original. While maintaining the signature pod design, On has refined the compression characteristics to work with the dual-density foam. The result is more consistent cushioning across different paces — the pods don’t bottom out as easily under heavier impacts. The upper redesign focuses on fit refinement. Beyond the expanded toe box, On added extra eyelets for better midfoot lockdown and increased padding around the heel collar. The 92% recycled mesh maintains good breathability while providing more structure than the original’s minimal upper. However, the environmental credentials don’t excuse the persistently narrow midfoot — a design choice that limits the shoe’s appeal. Performance Across Distances The Cloudmonster 2 shines brightest in the 10-25km range where its protective cushioning prevents fatigue without the weight becoming a burden. The dual-density construction maintains energy return better than uniform max-cushion designs, making it viable for progression runs and tempo efforts despite the 300g weight. For marathon training, the shoe’s protection appeals but the weight and narrow fit become limiting factors over 30km. The rocker geometry helps maintain efficiency when form degrades, but runners tackling 3 hour efforts might prefer the lighter Novablast 5 or wider-fitting 1080v14. Recovery runs reveal the shoe’s sweet spot. The substantial cushioning reduces impact stress while the firmer forefoot prevents the sluggish feeling common in ultra-cushioned shoes. The 6mm drop and rocker shape encourage natural turnover even at easy paces. Durability Expectations On’s CloudTec pods have historically shown good durability, maintaining cushioning properties beyond 600km. The dual-density Helion foam construction should theoretically improve longevity — the firmer forefoot foam resists compression better than single-density designs. The outsole rubber coverage focuses on high-wear areas while exposing foam in lower-impact zones. This reduces weight but means concrete runners will see faster wear than those mixing surfaces. The upper’s reinforced areas and additional structure suggest better long-term shape retention than the minimal original. The Sustainability Angle On prominently features the 92% recycled upper materials, part of their broader sustainability push. While commendable, the dual-density midsole construction and Speedboard make end-of-life recycling complex. The environmental benefit primarily comes from extended usable life rather than recyclability — choose this shoe if you’ll genuinely use it for 600 kilometres. Final Verdict The Cloudmonster 2 succeeds as a protective daily trainer for specific runner profiles. The dual-density midsole elevates it above generic max-cushion options, delivering actual energy return alongside impact protection. At $160 clearance pricing, it’s genuinely competitive with lighter, less protective alternatives. However, the narrow fit and 300g weight limit its appeal. Runners needing accommodation or prioritising lightweight feel should look elsewhere. But for those who fit On’s last and want maximum protection without sacrificing responsiveness, the current pricing makes this an opportune purchase — just act before clearance stock disappears. Further Reading Cloudflow 5 vs Cloudmonster 2 — The Differences That Matter for Runners On Running Cloudsurfer Australia Review On Cloudmonster Australia Review 2026 Related Products to Consider ASICS Novablast 5 — Lighter, bouncier alternative with FF Blast Max cushioning New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 — Softer cushioning with wide width options HOKA Bondi 9 — Maximum stack height for ultimate impact protection On Cloudsurfer — On’s alternative with softer cushioning and wider fit