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On Cloudmonster Running Shoe

Cloudmonster

Owner Verdictfrom 27 owner reports

The On Cloudmonster delivers a stable, responsive ride for daily miles, but plagues owners with premature wear and a notoriously embarrassing squeak.

Skip it unless you can catch them on a deep discount and are willing to roll the dice on the squeak defect.

Owners consistently praise the On Cloudmonster for offering a firmer, more stable ride than typical max-cushioned shoes, making it surprisingly versatile for both easy recovery runs and surprisingly quick paces. The distinct rocker geometry and speedboard design provide an efficient, forward-rolling stride that many find helps alleviate foot and tendon discomfort.

However, the shoe comes with significant drawbacks that the community frequently highlights. A widespread, highly frustrating defect causes the CloudTec midsole to develop a loud, embarrassing squeak during steps, which has even sparked legal action. Additionally, owners frequently report durability issues, noting that the outsole tread wears down rapidly within a few hundred miles, and the high retail price feels difficult to justify compared to competitors.

Owners Love

  • +Firm, stable platform that handles faster paces well
  • +Effective rocker geometry promoting an efficient stride
  • +Good upper breathability and secure foot wrap

Owners Flag

  • −Midsoles develop a loud, persistent squeak over time
  • −Outsole tread wears down rapidly for many runners
  • −High price point relative to perceived durability and value

"On Cloudmonster shoes produce an 'embarrassing and difficult to stop' squeak with every step."

— Owner report, from owner communities

After 6–12 Months

Over six to twelve months of use, owners frequently report that the outsole tread wears down significantly earlier than expected, sometimes losing grip within a few hundred miles. The notorious CloudTec squeak often emerges after a few months of mileage, and the upper material can show tears if subjected to rough conditions.

Best for

Runners seeking a firmer, stable, max-cushion daily trainer who prioritize a propulsive rocker geometry.

Not for

Runners wanting a plush, marshmallow-soft ride or anyone unwilling to risk premature squeaking and outsole wear.

Verdict based on owner experiences across owner communities. Last updated October 2026. How we build a verdict →

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What owners report, topic by topic

Cushioning & Ride

Owners describe the ride as firmer than typical max-cushion models, delivering reliable stability and a responsive, propulsive rocker feel rather than a plush, soft sink.

Noise & Defects

A recurring and severe complaint involves the CloudTec midsole developing a loud, difficult-to-stop squeak during normal steps after a few months of use.

Durability

Experiences are split; while some owners report reliable performance over a year of training, many others find the outsole tread wears away prematurely within a few hundred miles.

Value

The community widely considers the full retail price excessive for the lifespan offered, with owners strongly recommending purchases only during sales.

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Specifications

Type
Neutral road, max cushion
Listing
Men's

Key Features

  • ✓On's high cushion road shoe
  • ✓Original Cloudmonster, not the Cloudmonster 2 or 3
  • ✓Links to the men's listing; women's sizes are a separate listing

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