Cloudmonster vs Saucony Triumph 20 Shoes

The Cloudmonster and Saucony Triumph 20 are two popular choices that many runners love. Let’s look at both shoes to help you decide which one might work better for your feet and your runs.

Cloudmonster vs Saucony Triumph 20 Shoes

Cloudmonster and Saucony Triumph 20 shoes is their cushioning technology. Cloudmonster features distinctive cloud-like pods that create a bouncy, energetic feel, while the Triumph 20 offers consistent, evenly distributed PWRRUN+ foam cushioning throughout.

This affects how each shoe feels during runs, with Cloudmonster providing more spring and Triumph delivering reliable comfort.

Feature	Cloudmonster	Saucony Triumph 20
Cushioning	CloudTec pods (bouncy, springy feel)	PWRRUN+ foam (consistent, smooth feel)
Weight	10.6 oz (men’s size 9)	10.1 oz (men’s size 9)
Fit	Runs large (consider sizing down)	True to size
Width Options	Standard only	Standard and wide
Durability	300-500 miles	400-600 miles
Best For	Daily runs, people who like energy return	Long distances, consistent comfort
Price	$169.99	$159.95
Style	Modern, distinctive look	Traditional running shoe appearance
Breathability	Good airflow, dries quickly	Good ventilation, slightly warmer
Stability	Moderate support from wide base	Good inherent stability, firm heel

In summary: choose Cloudmonster if you want a bouncy, energetic shoe with a unique look and feel. Pick the Saucony Triumph 20 if you prefer consistent cushioning, better durability, and more width options.

The Cloudmonster feels more exciting with each step, while the Triumph provides reliable comfort for longer distances. Your personal preference for cushioning feel should guide your choice. Also choose Saucony Triumph 21 shoes.

What Makes These Shoes Special?

The Cloudmonster is made by a company called On, while the Triumph 20 comes from Saucony. Both shoes are known for being comfortable for long runs, but they feel different on your feet. Let’s explore what makes each shoe unique.

The Cloudmonster Experience

The Cloudmonster gets its name from the big cloud-like cushions on the bottom of the shoe. These cushions feel bouncy when you run, almost like you’re jumping on little springs with each step. The shoe has a curvy bottom that helps roll your foot forward when you run.

The Triumph 20 Feel

The Saucony Triumph 20 has soft cushioning that feels more like running on a smooth, even layer of foam. The shoe doesn’t have the same bouncy feeling as the Cloudmonster, but many runners like how it provides consistent softness under their feet.

Comfort: Which Shoe Feels Better?

Cloudmonster Comfort

The Cloudmonster has a plush feel but in a unique way. The cloud pods compress when you step down, giving you a soft landing. The shoe has good padding around the heel and tongue. The inside feels smooth against your foot.

Some runners say the Cloudmonster feels better for people with wider feet. The toe box (where your toes go) has decent room so your toes can spread out naturally when you run.

Triumph 20 Comfort

The Triumph 20 offers a different kind of comfort. The cushioning feels more even throughout the shoe. The upper part hugs your foot more than the Cloudmonster does. The inside of the shoe has soft fabric that feels nice against your foot.

The Triumph 20 has extra padding in the heel area that cradles your heel and keeps it from slipping. This might feel better if you have narrow heels.

Cushioning: The Heart of Running Shoes

Cloudmonster’s Special Cushioning

The Cloudmonster uses something called CloudTec cushioning. This means the bottom of the shoe has hollow pods shaped like clouds. When your foot hits the ground, these pods squish down and then spring back up, giving you energy for your next step.

This cushioning feels most noticeable in the heel area. If you land on your heel when you run, you might really like how the Cloudmonster feels. The cushioning is softer in the heel and firmer in the front of the shoe.

Triumph 20’s PWRRUN+ Cushioning

The Triumph 20 uses Saucony’s PWRRUN+ cushioning throughout the whole shoe. This foam feels soft but also bounces back quickly. The cushioning thickness is more even from heel to toe.

The Triumph 20 cushioning absorbs shock well but doesn’t have the same distinct bouncy feeling as the Cloudmonster. Some runners say this makes the Triumph better for longer distances because the cushioning feels more consistent.

Fit: How They Shape To Your Feet

Cloudmonster Fit

The Cloudmonster tends to run a bit large. This means you might want to try a half size smaller than your normal shoe size. The shoe has a wider toe box that gives your toes room to spread out.

The middle part of the shoe has good support that keeps your foot from sliding around. The heel has enough padding to keep your heel in place without feeling too tight.

Triumph 20 Fit

The Triumph 20 fits true to size for most people. This means you can usually order your regular shoe size. The shoe has a medium width toe box that fits most feet well.

The Triumph 20 has a more snug fit throughout the shoe. The upper material stretches slightly to shape to your foot. The heel cup is deep and well-padded to prevent your heel from slipping.

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

Cloudmonster Durability

The Cloudmonster uses tough rubber on high-wear areas of the sole. The cloud pods are made from a durable material that holds up well over time. Most runners get between 300-500 miles from a pair of Cloudmonsters before the cushioning starts to wear down.

The upper part of the shoe is made from recycled materials that resist tearing and hold their shape well. The stitching is strong and doesn’t come loose easily.

Triumph 20 Durability

The Triumph 20 is built to last. The outsole uses Saucony’s XT-900 rubber that resists wear even on rough surfaces. Many runners report getting 400-600 miles from their Triumph 20 shoes.

The upper material on the Triumph 20 is slightly thicker than the Cloudmonster, which helps it keep its shape longer. The reinforced areas around the toe and heel prevent early breakdown in these high-stress areas.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

Cloudmonster Breathability

The Cloudmonster has an engineered mesh upper that allows good airflow. The mesh has different densities, with more open areas on the top of the foot where heat builds up. Your feet can get warm in the Cloudmonster on hot days, but the shoe doesn’t trap moisture.

The shoe dries fairly quickly if it gets wet from rain or sweat. The inner lining wicks moisture away from your foot.

Triumph 20 Breathability

The Triumph 20 uses a knit upper that has good ventilation. The material is slightly thicker than the Cloudmonster’s upper, which means it might feel a bit warmer on hot days but provides more protection in cooler weather.

The Triumph has moisture-wicking properties inside the shoe that help keep your feet dry. The padding around the ankle and heel can hold a bit more sweat than the Cloudmonster.

Stability: Keeping You Balanced

Cloudmonster Stability

The Cloudmonster is not marketed as a stability shoe, but it does have features that help keep your foot aligned. The wide base created by the cloud pods gives you a stable platform. The shoe has a plastic piece in the middle that prevents too much twisting.

If you overpronate (roll your foot inward too much), the Cloudmonster offers some mild support but isn’t designed specifically for stability needs.

Triumph 20 Stability

The Triumph 20 is a neutral running shoe but has good inherent stability. The wide base and supportive upper keep your foot centered. The shoe has a firm heel counter (the back part that cups your heel) that helps control excessive movement.

The Triumph doesn’t have specific technology for overpronation, but its balanced cushioning helps many runners maintain good form.

Weight: How Heavy Are They?

Cloudmonster Weight

The Cloudmonster weighs about 10.6 ounces (301 grams) for a men’s size 9. This puts it in the medium-weight category for cushioned running shoes. The weight comes mostly from the cloud pods on the bottom.

The shoe feels lighter than it actually is because of how it propels you forward. You might not notice the extra weight during your runs.

Triumph 20 Weight

The Triumph 20 weighs approximately 10.1 ounces (286 grams) for a men’s size 9. This makes it slightly lighter than the Cloudmonster. The weight is distributed evenly throughout the shoe.

The Triumph feels substantial on your foot but not heavy or clunky. The weight helps the shoe feel stable during longer runs.

Flexibility: How They Bend

Cloudmonster Flexibility

The Cloudmonster has interesting flexibility. The shoe is quite stiff through the middle but flexes well at the forefoot where your foot naturally bends. The stiffness helps with the forward propulsion feeling.

The cloud pods add to the unique flexibility. When they compress, they create a rolling effect that helps move you forward with each step.

Triumph 20 Flexibility

The Triumph 20 has more consistent flexibility throughout the shoe. It bends more naturally with your foot’s motion. The forefoot has good flexibility that allows your foot to push off naturally.

The midsole foam is designed to flex without losing its cushioning properties. This makes the shoe work well with your foot’s natural movement.

Material Quality: What They’re Made Of

Cloudmonster Materials

The Cloudmonster uses recycled polyester for much of the upper. The mesh is lightweight but durable. The cloud pods are made from a material called Helion superfoam that provides both cushioning and durability.

The shoe has high-quality laces that stay tied and don’t stretch out over time. The insole is removable if you want to use your own orthotics.

Triumph 20 Materials

The Triumph 20 uses premium materials throughout. The upper is a durable FORMFIT mesh that shapes to your foot. The midsole is made from Saucony’s PWRRUN+ foam, which is their top-tier cushioning material.

The outsole uses high-quality rubber that grips well on different surfaces. The shoe has an orthotics-friendly footbed that can be removed.

Style: How They Look

Cloudmonster Style

The Cloudmonster has a unique look that stands out. The cloud pods on the bottom make the shoe instantly recognizable. The shoe comes in several color options, from subtle to bright.

The Cloudmonster has a chunky, modern look that works well for both running and casual wear. The distinctive wavy sole catches people’s attention.

Triumph 20 Style

The Triumph 20 has a more traditional running shoe appearance. It looks athletic but not as unusual as the Cloudmonster. The shoe comes in various colors that tend to be more conventional than the Cloudmonster options.

The Triumph has clean lines and a sleek profile that many runners prefer. It doesn’t attract as much attention but looks professional and sporty.

Water Resistance: Handling Wet Conditions

Cloudmonster Water Resistance

The Cloudmonster is not waterproof, but the upper material sheds light rain fairly well. The mesh does allow water to enter during heavy rain or puddle splashes. The shoe drains and dries quickly once wet.

The cloud pods have channels between them that can clear water away when running on wet surfaces. This helps maintain traction in rainy conditions.

Triumph 20 Water Resistance

The Triumph 20 offers similar water resistance to the Cloudmonster. The upper mesh repels light moisture but isn’t waterproof. The denser knit material might keep your feet slightly drier in light rain compared to the Cloudmonster.

The Triumph takes a bit longer to dry than the Cloudmonster due to its thicker materials and more substantial padding. Both shoes perform similarly in wet conditions.

Sole Construction: What’s Underfoot

Cloudmonster Sole

The Cloudmonster sole has three main parts:

• The outsole with rubber patches for grip
• The CloudTec pods that provide cushioning
• The Speedboard (a plastic plate) that helps propel you forward

The combination creates a distinctive ride that feels soft on landing and firm on push-off. The sole is more curved than the Triumph 20, which helps roll your foot through each step.

Triumph 20 Sole

The Triumph 20 sole also has three layers:

• The XT-900 rubber outsole for durability and grip
• The PWRRUN+ foam midsole for cushioning
• A comfortable insole on top

The Triumph sole is more traditional in design but uses advanced materials. The sole is fairly thick but feels responsive rather than mushy. The bottom has flex grooves that help the shoe bend naturally with your foot.

Size Options: Finding Your Fit

Cloudmonster Sizing

The Cloudmonster comes in men’s sizes 7-14 and women’s sizes 5-12. The shoe is available in standard width only, but since it runs slightly wide, it fits a range of foot widths.

As mentioned earlier, many runners find they need to go down a half size in the Cloudmonster compared to their usual running shoe size.

Triumph 20 Sizing

The Triumph 20 offers men’s sizes 7-15 and women’s sizes 5-12. The shoe comes in both standard and wide widths, making it more versatile for different foot shapes.

Most runners find the Triumph 20 fits true to size, so you can usually order your regular running shoe size.

Price Comparison

Shoe Model	Regular Price	Sale Price (Average)
Cloudmonster	$169.99	$119-139
Saucony Triumph 20	$159.95	$109-129

The Cloudmonster typically costs about $10 more than the Triumph 20 at regular price. Both shoes often go on sale when newer models come out, so you might find good deals if you don’t need the very latest version.

User Ratings and Reviews

Shoe Model	Overall Rating	Cushioning	Durability	Fit	Style
Cloudmonster	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	★★★☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Saucony Triumph 20	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5)	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Users particularly praise the Cloudmonster for its unique cushioning and bounce. The Triumph 20 gets high marks for its overall comfort and durability. Both shoes have their fans, with the Triumph scoring slightly higher in overall satisfaction.

Best Activities for Each Shoe

Shoe Model	Daily Runs	Long Distance	Speed Work	Trail Running	Walking	Gym Use
Cloudmonster	Excellent	Good	Fair	Poor	Very Good	Fair
Triumph 20	Excellent	Excellent	Fair	Fair	Good	Good

The Cloudmonster excels at daily training runs and feels good for walking. The Triumph 20 is particularly strong for long-distance running and versatile enough for various activities.

Which Shoe Is Right For You?

After comparing all these features, you might wonder which shoe would work better for you. Here’s a simple way to decide:

Choose the Cloudmonster if:

• You like a bouncy, energetic feel when running
• You have wider feet
• You want a shoe that stands out visually
• You prefer a more pronounced heel-to-toe transition

Choose the Triumph 20 if:

• You want consistent cushioning throughout the shoe
• You run long distances regularly
• You need width options (narrow, standard, or wide)
• You prefer a more traditional running shoe feel and look

Conclusion

Both the Cloudmonster and Saucony Triumph 20 are excellent cushioned running shoes, but they offer different experiences. The Cloudmonster provides a unique, bouncy ride with its cloud pod technology and stands out visually.

The Triumph 20 delivers reliable, consistent cushioning with proven durability and comes in more width options.

Your choice should come down to your personal preferences about feel, fit, and style. Both shoes will serve you well for many miles of comfortable running.

If possible, try both on at a local running store to see which one feels better on your feet. Remember that the best shoe is the one that feels most comfortable to you when you run.

Frequently Asked Questions