The On Cloudmonster has become one of the most recognisable max-cushioned running shoes on the road, known for its oversized CloudTec pods, forward-rolling ride, and energetic feel underfoot. Built for runners who want high cushioning without losing responsiveness, the Cloudmonster quickly found its place as a go-to daily trainer for long runs, easy mileage, and everything in between.

With the release of the Cloudmonster 3, On takes the Monster concept further with a new cushioning construction designed to deliver more rebound, smoother transitions, and a more dynamic ride. The latest version brings back the max-cushion feel the series is known for, now featuring a triple-layer CloudTec system paired with Helion superfoam and a Speedboard, creating a shoe that feels softer on landing but more energetic through toe-off.

The Cloudmonster 2 delivered a stable, protective platform for everyday running, but the Cloudmonster 3 adds more cushioning, smoother flow, and more energy return — making it the most lively and versatile version of the shoe so far.

Here’s how the Cloudmonster 3 compares to the superseded Cloudmonster 2.

What’s New in the Cloudmonster 3

The Cloudmonster 3 introduces the biggest update the series has seen, with a new midsole construction designed to increase both comfort and responsiveness. At the centre of the change is a triple-layer CloudTec cushioning system, working together with Helion foam and a nylon-blend Speedboard to create a smoother, more energetic ride.

The updated setup allows the shoe to compress more on landing while still snapping back quickly, giving the Cloudmonster 3 a more dynamic feel across different types of runs. The rocker geometry has also been refined to help the shoe roll forward more naturally, while a redesigned upper improves comfort and lockdown for longer runs.

Key updates include:

  • Triple-layer CloudTec cushioning for increased rebound
  • Helion midsole for high energy return
  • Speedboard for a snappy, forward-rolling ride
  • Updated rocker geometry for smoother transitions
  • Redesigned upper for better breathability and fit
  • Improved flexibility through the forefoot

Upper — Lighter, More Comfortable, More Secure

The Cloudmonster 3 introduces a redesigned engineered mesh upper that feels lighter and more breathable while improving overall comfort. The material wraps the foot more naturally, with better structure through the midfoot to create a secure lockdown without adding stiffness.

Padding around the heel collar has been refined, giving the shoe a more comfortable step-in feel and better support on longer runs. The updated upper also feels less bulky than the previous version, helping the shoe feel lighter on foot despite the high stack height.

Compared to the Cloudmonster 2, which used a more structured mesh with a slightly higher-volume fit, the Cloudmonster 3 feels more dialled-in while still keeping the roomy comfort the series is known for. The result is a cleaner, more secure fit that feels comfortable straight out of the box and holds the foot well through longer runs.

Midsole — Triple-Layer CloudTec, More Cushion, More Energy

The biggest change in the Cloudmonster 3 comes underfoot, where On has introduced a new cushioning setup designed to deliver both higher comfort and more energy return. The midsole now uses a triple-layer CloudTec construction combined with Helion superfoam and a Speedboard, creating a ride that feels softer on landing but more responsive as you move through the stride.

The extra CloudTec layer allows the midsole to compress more on impact, helping absorb shock on longer runs, while the Helion™ foam keeps the ride lively rather than overly soft. The Speedboard works together with the rocker shape of the shoe to keep the transition feeling quick and forward-moving, giving the Cloudmonster 3 the ability to handle everything from easy recovery runs to steady daily training.

Compared to the Cloudmonster 2, the ride feels smoother and less rigid, with a more natural roll from heel to toe. The cushioning feels more forgiving on slower runs, while still having enough snap to keep the shoe feeling energetic when the pace increases.

The result is a max-cushion trainer that stays comfortable over long distances but still feels responsive enough to keep the run flowing, combining high cushioning with strong energy return in a way that makes the Cloudmonster 3 easier to run in day after day.

Outsole — Durable Grip with a Smoother Roll

The outsole keeps the familiar CloudTec layout, with rubber placed in high-wear areas and exposed foam through the midfoot to keep weight down. The updated design works more naturally with the refined rocker, allowing the shoe to flex slightly more and roll forward more smoothly.

The Cloudmonster 2 used a slightly firmer, more rigid outsole platform, which added durability but could make the ride feel a little stiff. The revised layout in the Cloudmonster 3 keeps the durability expected from the series, but improves flexibility and overall flow.

Where the Cloudmonster 3 Fits in the On Cloudmonster Family

The latest Cloudmonster release also introduces a full lineup, with each model built for a slightly different type of run. While all share the Cloudmonster identity of oversized CloudTec cushioning and a forward-rolling ride, the Cloudmonster 3, Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, and Cloudmonster 3 Lightspray use different constructions and sit in different roles within the range.

Cloudmonster 3 — The Everyday Max Cushion Trainer
The Cloudmonster 3 is the most versatile option, designed for daily training, long runs, and general mileage. With its triple-layer CloudTec® cushioning, Helion™ foam, and Speedboard®, it delivers a smooth, energetic ride that works across a wide range of paces.

Cloudmonster 3 Hyper — The Long Run Trainer
The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is the most responsive model in the range, featuring Helion™ HF hyper foam and increased cushioning for high-mileage training. Developed with On athletes, the plateless design helps keep legs fresh over long runs while delivering the high energy return the Cloudmonster series is known for.

Cloudmonster 3 Lightspray — Lightweight High-Stack Performance
 The Cloudmonster 3 Lightspray pairs the high-cushion Cloudmonster platform with On’s LightSpray™ upper, creating the lightest and most performance-focused model in the range. The seamless sprayed upper reduces weight while maintaining structure, delivering maximum cushioning with a faster, more efficient feel for long runs, workouts, and performance training.

Final Verdict

The On Cloudmonster 3 builds on the foundation of the Cloudmonster 2 but brings a more energetic and more cushioned ride thanks to the new triple-layer CloudTec system. With a smoother rocker, improved upper, and more responsive feel underfoot, the latest version feels more natural across a wider range of runs while still delivering the high-stack comfort the series is known for.

Runners who liked the stable feel of the Cloudmonster 2 will still find plenty of protection here, but the Cloudmonster 3 adds more life to the ride, making it a better choice for everyday training, long runs, and steady efforts alike.

It keeps the Monster feel — but makes it smoother, softer, and more fun to run in.

Find Your Perfect Fit at The Running Company

A shoe like the On Cloudmonster 3 is built to handle everything from easy kilometres to long training runs — and getting the right fit makes all the difference.

At The Running Company, our expert team can help you compare the Cloudmonster range side-by-side and find the best option for your running style, training goals, and comfort preferences.

With 16 stores across Australia, genuine advice, and our signature in-store fitting experience, we’ll help you find the right shoe for your next run.