It feels like just yesterday we were marveling at the initial On Cloudmonster, a shoe that really shook things up with its bold design and that signature CloudTec® system promising a unique rolling sensation and energetic rebound. It was a shoe that dared to be different, and for many runners, it delivered. Then came the Cloudmonster 2, building on that foundation and pushing the cushioning even further. Now, On is back with the third generation, and they've really expanded the family.
March 5th marked the arrival of the Cloudmonster 3 series, and it's not just one shoe anymore – it's a trio of high-performance trainers designed to meet a wider range of running needs. We're talking about the Cloudmonster 3, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, and the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper. The goal here is to blend that initial rolling propulsion and rebound with the enhanced cushioning we saw in the second iteration, injecting even more energy into your daily training and boosting your overall performance. What's exciting is how they're using different technologies to cater to various running styles and training demands, all while keeping that strong energy return at the core.
The Hyper-Charged Long-Distance Companion
For those who log serious miles, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is positioned as a pinnacle of cushioning and responsiveness. This shoe wasn't just designed in a lab; it's the product of extensive athlete testing and close collaboration with members of the On Athletics Club (OAC). The aim? To help runners train harder, recover faster, and keep their legs feeling fresh when it counts. You'll notice the midsole, featuring a combination of Helion™ and Helion™ HF foams, has been increased in volume compared to its predecessor, offering a more substantial feel underfoot and that sought-after bounce. The forefoot has also been re-engineered with a more pronounced curve, pushing you forward with a more aggressive feel. And for those high-mileage, high-pace sessions, the board-free design helps keep your legs feeling light, while an optimized heel structure enhances comfort and stability.
Feather-Light Speed with LightSpray
Then there's the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, a shoe specifically crafted for long runs and tempo efforts. This is where On's groundbreaking LightSpray™ upper technology truly shines. They've managed to elevate the Cloudmonster series to new heights, creating what is arguably On's lightest Cloudmonster ever, without sacrificing that premium feel. It’s a marvel of engineering, consisting of just eight components: one upper, two midsole pieces, and five small rubber elements. The result? A mere 205 grams for a men's size 42. Even with this incredible lightness, it still utilizes the board-free Helion™ and Helion™ HF foam combination in the midsole. It’s a powerful combination of an ultra-light upper and a high-performance midsole, designed to empower runners with elite-level training capabilities.
The Versatile Cloudmonster 3
Rounding out the trio is the Cloudmonster 3 itself. This model also benefits from a dual-density Helion™ (EVA) midsole, continuing the lineage of strong cushioning and energy return. While the Hyper versions push specific boundaries, the standard Cloudmonster 3 offers a well-rounded experience that builds upon the series' strengths, making it a reliable choice for a wide array of training runs. It’s about finding that sweet spot between comfort for the long haul and responsiveness for when you want to pick up the pace.
It’s clear that On isn't just iterating; they're innovating across the board with this Cloudmonster 3 series. Whether you're chasing marathon goals, looking for a reliable daily trainer, or seeking that feather-light feel for speed work, there seems to be a Cloudmonster designed to help you conquer your next run.
