Running shoes can make a big difference in how fast, comfortable, and happy you are when running. Today, we’re looking at two popular shoes: the Cloudmonster and the On Cloudboom Echo 3.
These shoes have different features that might make one better for you than the other. Let’s compare them so you can choose the right shoe for your feet and running style.
Contents
- 1 Cloudmonster vs On Cloudboom Echo 3 Shoes
- 2 Design and Style
- 3 Materials
- 4 Comfort and Fit
- 5 Cushioning
- 6 Weight
- 7 Breathability
- 8 Durability
- 9 Stability
- 10 Flexibility
- 11 Water Resistance
- 12 Outsole and Traction
- 13 Best Uses
- 14 Price Comparison
- 15 User Reviews and Ratings
- 16 Conclusion
- 17 Frequently Asked Questions
Cloudmonster vs On Cloudboom Echo 3 Shoes
Cloudmonster and On Cloudboom Echo 3 is their purpose. The Cloudmonster offers plush cushioning for everyday comfort and training runs.
The Cloudboom Echo 3 is a lightweight racing shoe with a carbon fiber plate designed for speed and competition. The Cloudmonster is more durable but heavier, ideal for regular runners wanting comfort.
Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of Cloudmonster vs On Cloudboom Echo 3 Shoes:
| Feature | Cloudmonster | On Cloudboom Echo 3 |
| Weight | Heavier (10.7 oz men’s) | Lighter (8.1 oz men’s) |
| Cushioning | Max cushioning, soft | Moderate, responsive |
| Best For | Daily training, comfort | Racing, speed workouts |
| Price | $170 | $269 |
| Special Features | ZoomX foam midsole | Carbon fiber plate |
| Durability | 300-500 miles | 200-300 miles |
| Fit | Roomy, comfortable | Snug, performance-focused |
| Flexibility | Moderately flexible | Stiffer for speed |
| Breathability | Good | Excellent |
| Best Runner Type | All runners, beginners | Experienced, efficient runners |
In summary: If you want a comfortable shoe for everyday running, choose the Cloudmonster. Its thick cushioning helps protect your feet and joints, making it great for longer runs. If you’re looking to run faster in races, pick the On Cloudboom Echo 3.
Design and Style
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster has a bold look with a thick, chunky sole. Its design stands out with bright colors and Nike’s famous swoosh logo on the side. The upper part (the top of the shoe) is made of a mesh material that looks modern and sporty.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The On Cloudboom Echo 3 has a sleeker design with On’s signature cloud pods on the bottom. These are round cushions on the sole that look like little clouds. The shoe has a more minimal style with clean lines and subtle colors. You’ll notice the On logo displayed proudly on the side.
Materials
Cloudmonster
Nike uses special materials to make the Cloudmonster both light and strong:
- The upper is made of engineered mesh that hugs your foot
- The midsole (middle layer) uses Nike’s ZoomX foam
- The outsole (bottom) is rubber for good grip on different surfaces
On Cloudboom Echo 3
On uses high-tech materials in the Cloudboom Echo 3:
- The upper is made of thin, breathable fabric
- The midsole features On’s CloudTec cushioning
- The outsole has a special rubber pattern for traction
- Carbon fiber plate inside for added speed
Comfort and Fit
| Feature | Cloudmonster | On Cloudboom Echo 3 |
| Toe Box | Roomy and comfortable | Narrower, racing fit |
| Arch Support | Medium to high | Low to medium |
| Heel Fit | Padded and secure | Snug and locked-in |
| Overall Feel | Plush and soft | Responsive and firm |
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster feels like running on a soft, bouncy cloud. The shoe wraps around your foot with a snug but not tight fit. Many runners say it feels comfortable right away, with no need to “break in” the shoe. The tongue and heel collar have extra padding to prevent rubbing or discomfort.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 has a more performance-focused fit. It hugs your foot more tightly, especially in the midfoot area. This shoe might feel a bit firm at first but becomes more comfortable after a few runs. It’s designed to feel fast rather than plush, with a secure heel that prevents slipping.
Cushioning
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster offers maximum cushioning. The thick ZoomX foam midsole absorbs impact when your foot hits the ground, making it easier on your joints. This cushioning helps you feel less tired during long runs. The shoe has a soft, bouncy feel that many runners love for daily training.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 has On’s special CloudTec cushioning with those cloud-like pods on the bottom. When you land, these pods compress to absorb shock, then firm up when you push off. This gives a unique feel that’s both cushioned and responsive. The carbon fiber plate adds extra spring to help you run faster.
Weight
| Shoe | Men’s Weight (Size 9) | Women’s Weight (Size 8) |
| Cloudmonster | 10.7 oz (303g) | 9.2 oz (261g) |
| On Cloudboom Echo 3 | 8.1 oz (230g) | 7.0 oz (198g) |
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster is a bit heavier due to its extra cushioning. You might notice the weight on longer runs, but many runners say the comfort makes up for the extra ounces. The shoe doesn’t feel clunky despite being heavier than some other running shoes.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 is notably lighter, which helps when you want to run fast. The lightweight design makes it easier to pick up your feet quickly. This weight difference becomes more noticeable during speed workouts or races.
Breathability
Cloudmonster
The engineered mesh upper on the Cloudmonster allows air to flow through, keeping your feet cool and dry. This breathability is important during summer runs or when your feet tend to get hot. The material also helps moisture escape so your feet don’t feel sweaty.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 uses an ultra-thin engineered mesh that maximizes airflow. Your feet will stay cooler in these shoes even during intense workouts. The minimal design means less material to trap heat, making these excellent for hot weather running.
Durability
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster is built to last for many miles. The rubber outsole protects high-wear areas, and the ZoomX foam keeps its bounce longer than some other foams. Most runners get 300-500 miles from a pair before noticing significant wear.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 is designed more for speed than long-term durability. The lightweight materials may wear out faster, especially if used for daily training. The cloud pods on the bottom might show wear after 200-300 miles, particularly if you run on rough surfaces.
Stability
Cloudmonster
Despite its thick cushioning, the Cloudmonster offers decent stability. The wide base helps prevent wobbling, and the snug upper keeps your foot in place. It’s not designed specifically for overpronators (people whose feet roll inward too much), but neutral runners will find it stable enough.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 provides moderate stability through its secure fit rather than supportive features. The carbon plate helps keep your stride efficient, which can improve stability. However, runners who need extra support might find this shoe too minimal.
Flexibility
| Area | Cloudmonster | On Cloudboom Echo 3 |
| Forefoot | Moderately flexible | Less flexible due to carbon plate |
| Midfoot | Structured with some flex | Rigid for better energy return |
| Heel-to-Toe | Natural bending at toe-off | Engineered rocker for smooth transitions |
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster allows your foot to move naturally while still providing structure. The shoe bends where your foot needs to bend, especially at the ball of your foot when you push off. This flexibility helps the shoe feel comfortable during your entire stride.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The carbon fiber plate in the Cloudboom Echo 3 makes it less flexible by design. Instead of bending with your foot, it creates a springboard effect to propel you forward. This intentional stiffness helps with speed but might feel uncomfortable if you prefer a more natural running feel.
Water Resistance
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster isn’t waterproof, but the mesh upper sheds light rain reasonably well. Your feet will eventually get wet in heavy rain or puddles. The good news is that the materials dry relatively quickly after getting wet.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 offers minimal water resistance. The thin upper prioritizes breathability over keeping water out. These shoes will soak through quickly in wet conditions, though they also dry faster than many other running shoes.
Outsole and Traction
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster’s rubber outsole has a pattern of grooves and lugs that grip the road well. You’ll feel secure running on pavement, light trails, and even wet surfaces. The durable rubber is placed strategically where most runners need extra traction and wear protection.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 features On’s CloudTec outsole design with rubber only in high-wear areas to save weight. The unique pod structure provides good grip on smooth surfaces but might be less effective on loose gravel or mud. The traction is designed mainly for road racing rather than all-surface running.
Best Uses
Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster works best for:
- Daily training runs
- Long, slow distance running
- Recovery runs after hard workouts
- Runners who want maximum cushioning
- People who stand or walk all day
On Cloudboom Echo 3
The Cloudboom Echo 3 shines during:
- Race days (especially 5K to marathon distances)
- Speed workouts and tempo runs
- Track sessions
- When you’re trying to set a personal best
- Efficient runners with good form
Price Comparison
| Shoe | Regular Price | Sale Price (Average) |
| Cloudmonster | $170 | $120-140 |
| On Cloudboom Echo 3 | $269 | $200-230 |
The Cloudboom Echo 3 costs significantly more than the Cloudmonster. The higher price reflects the carbon plate technology and racing-specific design. Think about how often you’ll use the shoes and what you need them for when deciding if the extra cost is worth it for you.
User Reviews and Ratings
Cloudmonster
★★★★☆ (4.2/5 – Based on 1,247 user reviews)
“These shoes feel like walking on pillows! My knees don’t hurt anymore after long runs.” – Sarah T.
“The Cloudmonster has become my go-to shoe for easy days. So comfortable but still feels responsive.” – Miguel R.
“A bit heavy compared to my last shoes, but the cushioning is worth it. Great for recovery runs.” – Jamie K.
On Cloudboom Echo 3
★★★★½ (4.5/5 – Based on 892 user reviews)
“I set a new personal record in my marathon wearing these! The carbon plate makes a real difference.” – Thomas W.
“Super light and fast feeling. Not for everyday training but perfect for races.” – Aisha M.
“Expensive but worth it if you’re serious about improving your times. Best racing shoe I’ve owned.” – Carlos F.
Conclusion
Both the Cloudmonster and On Cloudboom Echo 3 are excellent running shoes, but they serve different purposes. The Cloudmonster offers exceptional comfort and cushioning for everyday training and longer runs. It’s like a reliable friend who’s always there to support you.
The Cloudboom Echo 3 is more like a special tool you bring out when you want to perform at your best. Its lightweight design and carbon plate technology help you run faster, but it might not be as comfortable for daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which size to order in these shoes?
Both Nike and On tend to run true to size, but there are small differences. The Cloudmonster offers a roomier toe box, so if you have wider feet, these might be more comfortable.
Can I use these shoes if I’m just starting to run?
The Cloudmonster would be better for beginners due to its comfort and cushioning. The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is designed for experienced runners looking to race faster, and the carbon plate might feel uncomfortably stiff if you’re not used to it.
How long will these shoes last?
Most runners get 300-500 miles from the Cloudmonster before the cushioning starts to compress significantly.
Are these shoes good for people with flat feet or high arches?
The Cloudmonster provides better support for different foot types, including those with flat feet or high arches. The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is designed more for neutral runners with good biomechanics and may not provide enough support for runners with significant pronation issues.
Can I use these shoes for walking or standing all day?
The Cloudmonster would be much better for all-day wear due to its cushioning and comfort. The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is specifically designed for running fast and might feel too firm and stiff for comfortable all-day walking or standing.