We’re going to look at two popular shoes from this Swiss company: the Cloudmonster and the Cloudsurfer. Both shoes have fans who love them, but they’re different in many ways. We’ll compare them so you can decide which one might work better for you.
On Running makes shoes with special cloud pods on the bottom that help cushion your steps. The Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer both have these pods, but they’re designed for different types of runners. Let’s see how they stack up against each other!
Cloudmonster vs Cloudsurfer Shoes
Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer shoes is their cushioning. Cloudmonster offers maximum cushioning with larger cloud pods, making it ideal for long-distance running and joint protection. Cloudsurfer provides medium cushioning with a more responsive feel, better for faster runs and those who want more ground connection.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Cloudmonster vs Cloudsurfer Shoes:
| If You… | Choose Cloudmonster | Choose Cloudsurfer |
| Run long distances | Yes | Maybe |
| Want maximum cushioning | Yes | No |
| Prefer a responsive feel | No | Yes |
| Have joint issues | Yes | Maybe |
| Run primarily on roads | Yes | Yes |
| Want a lightweight shoe | No | Yes |
| Run in hot weather | Maybe | Yes |
| Have wide feet | Yes | Maybe |
| Like a roomy toe box | Yes | No |
| Want a versatile shoe | Maybe | Yes |
| Are a beginner runner | Yes | Maybe |
| Are a faster runner | Maybe | Yes |
In summary: The Cloudmonster is perfect if you want super soft cushioning for your runs, especially longer ones. Your feet will feel protected but the shoes are a bit heavier.
The Cloudsurfer is better if you like to feel the ground more and run faster. It’s lighter and more flexible, but doesn’t have as much cushioning. Choose based on what feels most comfortable for your running style and needs.Retry
The Basics: What Are These Shoes?
What Is The Cloudmonster?
The Cloudmonster is On Running’s most cushioned shoe. It has very big cloud pods on the bottom that make it feel like you’re bouncing on soft pillows when you run. People who run long distances often like this shoe because it helps protect their feet over many miles.
What Is The Cloudsurfer?
The Cloudsurfer is made for faster running. It still has good cushioning, but it’s designed to help you push off the ground quickly. The cloud pods on this shoe are shaped to give you a speedy feeling when you run.
Comparing Comfort
When you put on a running shoe, the first thing you notice is how it feels. Both the Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer try to be comfortable, but in different ways.
Cloudmonster Comfort
The Cloudmonster feels like walking on a soft, springy mattress. The cushioning is very thick and makes each step feel bouncy. If you have sore feet or joints, this extra padding can make running more comfortable. The inside of the shoe has soft fabric that feels nice against your foot.
Cloudsurfer Comfort
The Cloudsurfer is comfortable too, but in a firmer way. It feels more responsive, which means you can feel the ground better. Some runners prefer this because it helps them know exactly where their foot is landing. The inside is well-padded but not as plush as the Cloudmonster.
Cushioning Differences
Cushioning is what protects your feet from the hard ground when you run.
Cloudmonster Cushioning
The Cloudmonster has the most cushioning of any On Running shoe. The cloud pods are extra large and provide a lot of protection between your foot and the ground. This makes it great for:
- Long runs
- Running on hard surfaces like concrete
- People who need extra impact protection
Cloudsurfer Cushioning
The Cloudsurfer has medium cushioning. It’s enough to protect your feet, but not so much that you feel disconnected from the ground. The cushioning is designed to compress and then spring back quickly, helping you run faster. This makes it good for:
- Faster training runs
- People who like a balance of cushion and ground feel
- Shorter to medium distance runs
Shoe Fit Comparison
How a shoe fits can make a big difference in how comfortable it is to wear.
Cloudmonster Fit
The Cloudmonster has a roomier toe box, which means there’s more space for your toes to spread out. The middle of the shoe hugs your foot to keep it in place. The heel has good padding to prevent rubbing.
Many people find they can wear their normal shoe size in the Cloudmonster, though some people with narrow feet might want to go down a half size.
Cloudsurfer Fit
The Cloudsurfer has a more snug fit overall. Your foot feels more locked in, which is good for faster running when you don’t want your foot sliding around. The toe box is a bit narrower than the Cloudmonster.
Some runners find they need to go up a half size in the Cloudsurfer to get the best fit, especially if they have wider feet.
Material Quality
The materials used in running shoes affect how they feel, how long they last, and how they perform.
Cloudmonster Materials
The Cloudmonster uses recycled materials in its upper, which is good for the environment. The mesh is thick and durable but still lets air flow through. The cloud pods are made from a special foam that keeps its bounce even after many miles.
The laces are flat and stay tied well. The insole is removable if you need to use your own special inserts.
Cloudsurfer Materials
The Cloudsurfer also uses eco-friendly materials. Its upper mesh is a bit thinner than the Cloudmonster’s, which makes it more breathable but possibly less durable. The cloud pods use a slightly firmer foam that helps with faster takeoffs.
The Cloudsurfer’s heel collar uses softer material to prevent irritation, and the tongue is thin but padded enough to protect your foot from lace pressure.
Weight Comparison
The weight of your running shoes can affect how fast and how far you can run comfortably.
Cloudmonster Weight
The Cloudmonster is the heavier shoe of the two. A typical men’s size 9 weighs about 10.6 ounces (301 grams). This extra weight comes from the additional cushioning. While not the lightest shoe, many runners feel the extra cushioning is worth the weight.
Cloudsurfer Weight
The Cloudsurfer is lighter, with a men’s size 9 weighing approximately 9.8 ounces (278 grams). This makes it easier to move quickly, which is why speed-focused runners often prefer it. The weight difference might seem small, but you can feel it after running for a while.
Stability Features
Stability refers to how well a shoe keeps your foot from rolling inward or outward too much when you run.
Cloudmonster Stability
The Cloudmonster has a wide base that helps with stability. The cloud pods are arranged to support your foot and prevent excessive movement. However, because the cushioning is so high, some runners feel less stable on uneven surfaces.
The shoe includes a plastic piece in the middle that helps keep your foot aligned properly.
Cloudsurfer Stability
The Cloudsurfer offers good stability with a more connected-to-the-ground feeling. The lower stack height (distance between your foot and the ground) makes it naturally more stable. The cloud pods are positioned to guide your foot through a proper running motion.
For runners who tend to roll their ankles, the Cloudsurfer might feel more secure than the taller Cloudmonster.
Breathability
How well air flows through your shoe affects how hot your feet get when running.
Cloudmonster Breathability
The Cloudmonster’s upper is made of engineered mesh that allows decent airflow. However, because the material is thicker for durability, it doesn’t breathe quite as well as some other running shoes. On hot days, your feet might get warmer in these shoes.
Cloudsurfer Breathability
The Cloudsurfer has better breathability thanks to its lighter, more open mesh design. Air circulates more freely around your foot, helping to keep it cooler during runs. This makes the Cloudsurfer a better choice for hot weather running.
Durability Comparison
How long your running shoes last is important, especially if you run a lot or if you’re spending good money on shoes.
Cloudmonster Durability
The Cloudmonster is built to last. The thick cloud pods resist wearing down, even after hundreds of miles. Runners report getting 300-500 miles out of a pair before needing to replace them. The upper material is tough and resists tearing.
Areas that typically wear out first include:
- The outer edges of the cloud pods
- The heel area where it contacts the ground
- The toe box if you drag your toes
Cloudsurfer Durability
The Cloudsurfer has good durability for a performance-oriented shoe. The cloud pods are designed to be resilient, though they might wear slightly faster than the Cloudmonster’s due to the different foam composition. Most runners get 250-400 miles from a pair.
The lighter upper material might show wear sooner than the Cloudmonster, especially if you run on trails or rough surfaces.
Flexibility
How a shoe bends and moves with your foot affects your running comfort and efficiency.
Cloudmonster Flexibility
The Cloudmonster is moderately flexible. The thick cushioning makes it less bendy than some shoes, but the specially designed flex grooves in the sole help it move with your foot. The shoe bends mostly in the forefoot area where you push off.
Cloudsurfer Flexibility
The Cloudsurfer offers more flexibility throughout the shoe. It bends more easily with your foot’s natural motion, which helps for faster running. The cloud pods are designed to flex independently, giving you a more natural feel when your foot rolls from heel to toe.
Water Resistance
Getting caught in the rain happens to every runner eventually!
Cloudmonster Water Resistance
The Cloudmonster’s thicker upper provides some protection from light rain and puddle splashes. The material doesn’t absorb water quickly, so your feet stay drier in brief wet conditions. However, in heavy rain or deep puddles, water will eventually get through.
Cloudsurfer Water Resistance
The Cloudsurfer’s lighter mesh drains well if you do get wet, but it doesn’t keep water out as effectively as the Cloudmonster. Water can seep in more quickly through the breathable upper. The advantage is that if the shoes do get wet, they dry faster than the Cloudmonster.
Sole Construction
The sole is perhaps the most important part of any running shoe.
Cloudmonster Sole
The Cloudmonster sole features:
- Extra-large cloud pods for maximum cushioning
- Helion™ superfoam that provides both soft landings and energy return
- A rocker shape that helps roll your foot forward
- Durable rubber in high-wear areas for longer life
- A wide base for stability
The sole is designed to absorb impact first, then provide a springy push-off. This helps protect your joints while still giving you some energy back with each step.
Cloudsurfer Sole
The Cloudsurfer sole includes:
- Medium-sized cloud pods arranged for faster transitions
- Helion™ foam tuned for responsiveness
- Strategic rubber placement for grip and durability
- A more pronounced rocker shape for quicker heel-to-toe movement
- A slightly narrower base for a speedier feel
The sole focuses on converting your landing energy into forward momentum more quickly than the Cloudmonster.
Style and Appearance
While performance matters most, most of us also care about how our shoes look!
Cloudmonster Style
The Cloudmonster has a unique, chunky appearance due to its oversized cloud pods. It comes in several color options, from subtle to bright. The thick sole gives it a distinctive look that stands out from other running shoes. Some people love this bold style, while others find it too attention-grabbing.
Cloudsurfer Style
The Cloudsurfer has a sleeker, more traditional running shoe look. Its cloud pods are visible but not as prominent as the Cloudmonster’s. Color options tend to be a bit more understated. If you prefer a shoe that doesn’t scream “look at me,” the Cloudsurfer might be more your style.
Size Considerations
Finding the right size is crucial for comfort and performance.
Cloudmonster Sizing
The Cloudmonster generally runs true to size, though some runners with narrow feet find going down a half size works better. The shoe accommodates wider feet well due to its roomier toe box. If you wear orthotics or special insoles, the Cloudmonster has enough space to fit them comfortably.
Cloudsurfer Sizing
The Cloudsurfer tends to run slightly small. Many runners need to go up a half size from their usual size. The narrower fit works well for people with slim feet but might feel tight if you have wider feet. The shoe stretches very little with wear, so getting the right size from the start is important.
Price Comparison
| Model | Regular Price | Sale Price (Average) | Where to Buy |
| Cloudmonster | $169.99 | $135-149 | On Running Website, Running Specialty Stores, Some Sporting Goods Stores |
| Cloudsurfer | $159.99 | $130-145 | On Running Website, Running Specialty Stores, Some Sporting Goods Stores |
User Ratings
| Feature | Cloudmonster Rating | Cloudsurfer Rating |
| Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Cushioning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Breathability | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Weight | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Style | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Overall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
User Reviews
Cloudmonster User Reviews
Mark T. – Long Distance Runner ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I switched to the Cloudmonster after dealing with knee pain in my old shoes. The cushioning is amazing! I can run 15 miles now without my knees hurting. They’re not the lightest shoes, but the comfort is worth the extra weight.”
Sarah J. – Marathon Runner ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ “The Cloudmonster got me through my first marathon without any foot pain. I love how soft they feel, though they do get a bit warm on hot days. The look is distinctive – I get lots of questions about them from other runners.”
David L. – Casual Runner ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ “These shoes have great cushioning, but I found them a bit bulky for my taste. They’re well-made and comfortable, just not as responsive as I’d like for my shorter, faster runs. Great for recovery days though!”
Cloudsurfer User Reviews
Aimee P. – Speed Trainer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The Cloudsurfer is my go-to shoe for tempo runs and intervals. They’re responsive but still have enough cushion to protect my feet. I like how connected to the ground I feel in these.”
Michael B. – Road Runner ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ “I’ve put about 300 miles on my Cloudsurfers and they’re holding up great. They’re versatile enough for different types of runs, though I do switch to something more cushioned for runs over 10 miles. The breathability is excellent.”
Tanya R. – Fitness Enthusiast ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ “I like these shoes for both running and gym workouts. They’re comfortable and stable. I had to size up, which was annoying, and I wish they had more color options. Good shoes overall though!”
Conclusion
After comparing the Cloudmonster and the Cloudsurfer in detail, it’s clear that both shoes have their strengths. Your best choice depends on what you need most from your running shoes.
Choose the Cloudmonster if you want maximum cushioning, comfort for long distances, or if you have joint issues that benefit from extra padding. The Cloudmonster excels at protecting your feet and providing a plush, comfortable ride, even if it’s a bit heavier and less nimble than other options.
Go with the Cloudsurfer if you prefer a more responsive, connected feel and want a versatile shoe that can handle both daily training and faster workouts. The Cloudsurfer gives you a good balance of cushioning and ground feel, with better breathability for hot weather running.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Cloudmonster shoes typically last?
Most runners get between 300-500 miles from a pair of Cloudmonsters. The exact lifespan depends on your weight, running style, and the surfaces you run on. The outsole rubber and cushioning are quite durable compared to many other running shoes.
Are Cloudsurfers good for beginners?
Yes, Cloudsurfers can work well for beginners, especially those who prefer a more responsive feel. However, some new runners might prefer the extra cushioning of the Cloudmonster while they build strength and proper form.
Can I use the Cloudmonster for walking?
Absolutely! The Cloudmonster’s excellent cushioning makes it a great walking shoe, especially if you spend long hours on your feet or walk on hard surfaces like concrete.
Do Cloudsurfers work for people with flat feet?
The Cloudsurfer offers good stability that can help some people with flat feet. However, if you need specific arch support, you might want to use custom insoles or consult with a podiatrist about the best shoe options for your feet.