Attention Runners! Confused by On’s recent explosion of cushioned daily trainers? Wondering which shoe is right for you: the Cloud Monster, Cloud Surfer 7, or the brand-new Cloud Eclipse? We’ve got you covered! We’ve pounded hundreds of miles in all three shoes and are here to break down their strengths, weaknesses, and who they best suit.
Quick Specs
Stack Height:
• Cloud Surfer 7: Lowest stack height, offering a closer-to-the-ground feel and maximum flexibility. Ideal for runners who prefer a natural, nimble ride.
• Cloud Monster: Medium stack height, providing a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. Suitable for those who want both protection and a bit of ground feel.
• Cloud Eclipse: Highest stack height, delivering the most cushioning and shock absorption. Best for runners who prioritize comfort and protection, especially over longer distances.
Price:
• Cloud Surfer 7 and Cloud Monster: Both priced at £150 UK ($160 US), offering a more budget-friendly option.
• Cloud Eclipse: Priced slightly higher at £170 UK ($180 US), reflecting its premium cushioning and overall versatility.
Weight:
• Cloud Surfer 7: Lightest of the three, making it a great choice for speed workouts or those who value a lightweight feel.
• Cloud Monster: Moderately weighted, offering a good balance of cushioning and weight.
• Cloud Eclipse: Heaviest of the three, but its weight is well-distributed and doesn’t feel cumbersome on runs.
Additional Considerations:
• Midsole Technology: The Cloud Surfer 7 and Eclipse feature softer Helium foam and the “Cloud Phase” midsole for smoother transitions. The Monster and Eclipse have speed plates for added responsiveness and stability, positioned differently in each model.
• Upper Construction: All shoes have inner bootie linings and dual-layered mesh uppers, but breathability and support levels vary.
• Fit: The Eclipse and Monster fit true to size, while the Surfer may feel slightly more snug. Wider-footed runners may want to consider a half-size up in the Surfer.
Midsole Musings
Helium Foam Variations:
• Cloud Surfer 7 & Eclipse: Sink into pure plushness with the softer Helium foam, perfect for absorbing impact and delivering cloud-like comfort. The “Cloud Phase” midsole adds a unique domino effect, seamlessly guiding your foot through the transition phase with each stride.
• Cloud Monster: Experience a firmer, more responsive side of Helium. The additional CloudTec pods in the midsole provide targeted cushioning and support, while the embedded Speedboard adds a touch of bounce for a snappy feel.
Rocker Profiles:
• Cloud Eclipse: Embrace a smooth, rolling ride with the most aggressive rocker profile. This design encourages a natural gait and effortless transitions, making it a joy for long runs and varied tempos.
• Cloud Surfer 7: Glide effortlessly with a gentle rocker profile that promotes a lightweight, efficient stride. Ideal for shorter distances and those seeking a more natural, barefoot-like feel.
• Cloud Monster: Strike a balance with a moderate rocker profile. It offers a comfortable, stable platform for everyday runs while still allowing for some snappiness when you pick up the pace.
Speed Plate Strategies:
• Cloud Eclipse: The Speedboard sits low in the midsole, providing subtle guidance and stability without compromising the plush cushioning. This makes it ideal for runners who want a comfortable yet responsive ride.
• Cloud Monster: The Speedboard acts like a sandwich layer, sandwiched between two layers of Helion foam. This creates a more dynamic feel, propelling you forward with each step while still offering sufficient impact absorption.
Ultimately, the choice of midsole comes down to your personal preferences:
• Crave pure comfort and a smooth ride? Glide on the Cloud Surfer 7 or Eclipse.
• Seek a balanced blend of cushioning and responsiveness? The Cloud Monster has your name on it.
• Want a supportive platform with a touch of bounce? The Cloud Eclipse’s Speedboard is your secret weapon.
Upper Insights
Breathability Bonanza:
• Cloud Surfer 7: Bask in the airy embrace of the most breathable upper. Its thinner mesh channels airflow like a champion, keeping your feet cool and dry even on scorching runs.
• Cloud Monster: This denser, stiffer upper prioritizes structure and support over ultimate breathability. It’s still comfortable, but for intense summer runs, the Surfer might be your cooler companion.
• Cloud Eclipse: Strikes a middle ground with a moderately breathable mesh that balances comfort and structure. Ideal for most weather conditions, it keeps your feet feeling fresh without sacrificing support.
Heel & Tongue Haven:
• Cloud Surfer 7: Pamper your feet with the plushest heel collar and tongue in the trio. Imagine sinking into soft pillows—that’s the Surfer’s hug.
• Cloud Eclipse & Cloud Monster: Offer a medium-plushness option, providing ample comfort without feeling bulky. They deliver a secure, supportive hold while keeping your feet happy.
Lacing Lowdown:
• Cloud Surfer 7 & Cloud Eclipse: Climb higher with narrower laces that wrap snugly around the midfoot and ankle. This provides a locked-in feel, ideal for faster paces and technical terrain.
• Cloud Monster: Wider laces and a lower-riding lacing system prioritize comfort and ease of adjustment. Great for those who prefer a less constrictive fit or wider feet.
Fit Forecast:
• All three shoes fit true to size in UK size 8, offering good room in the toe box and secure holds.
• The Surfer may feel slightly more snug, especially for wider feet. Consider a half-size up if a looser fit is desired.
Remember, your upper preference boils down to:
• Prioritize airflow and a lightweight feel? Choose the Surfer’s breezy mesh.
• Need maximum comfort and plushness? The Surfer’s heavenly heel collar awaits.
• Seek a balance between breathability and support? The Eclipse hits the sweet spot.
• Prefer a less constrictive fit or wider feet? The Monster’s lacing system has you covered.
Fit Finale
Foot Fantasy or Frustration? Demystifying the Fit:
Choosing the right shoe size often feels like a cryptic quest – will your toes sing or scream? Fear not, fellow runners! Let’s delve deeper into the Fit Finale of our On shoe showdown.
True to Size, True to Comfort:
• Both Cloud Eclipse and Cloud Monster shine with a true-to-size fit, offering ample room in the toe box and a secure midfoot/heel hold. Size up? Only if you prefer a truly spacious feel.
Surfer Serenade or Snug Symphony?
• Cloud Surfer 7 presents a slightly snugger embrace, especially for wider feet. Don’t panic! Size up half a size if you crave a plusher, sock-like experience or have broader toes.
Width Woes? We’ve Got You Covered:
• No need to squeeze into the wrong fit! All three shoes cater to various widths. The Eclipse and Monster offer a medium width, while the Surfer leans towards a narrower fit.
But Hold On, It’s Not Just Numbers:
Fit isn’t just about size; it’s about personal preference! Consider these questions:
• Do you love a close-to-the-foot feel or prefer a roomier ride?
• Do your feet swell during runs? Factor in some wiggle room!
• Do you have any bunions or hammertoes? Choose a shoe with a wider toe box.
Remember, the perfect fit is like a second skin:
• Your toes should have wiggle room (think thumbnail length);
• The midfoot should hug comfortably without pinching;
• The heel should feel secure, with no slippage.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
• Love a snug, streamlined fit? Go true to size in Eclipse or Monster.
• Crave a plush, sock-like hug? Consider half a size up in Surfer.
• Wider feet? Opt for the Monster’s generous toe box.
Ultimately, the best way to find your fit soulmate is to try them on! Head to a running store, hit the treadmill, and let your feet do the talking. They’ll guide you to the shoe that sings with comfort and propels you towards running bliss.
Run Test Revelations
Cloud Monster: The Stable Veteran Embraces Comfort and Control
• Ride Feel: Expect a firmer, more grounded feel compared to the other two. It’s not the softest option, but it provides a stable and supportive platform for your runs.
• Best Suited For:
• Long runs where comfort and stability are paramount.
• Runners who prefer a firmer underfoot feel and enjoy a sense of control.
• Those seeking a shoe that excels on smooth pavement and can handle some light trails.
• Standout Features:
• Excellent traction thanks to its grippy outsole.
• Durable construction that can withstand high mileage.
Cloud Surfer 7: The Plushness King Rules Easy Runs and Comfort
• Ride Feel: Pure plushness reigns supreme! It’s like running on clouds, offering a soft, smooth ride that’s ideal for easy runs and shorter distances.
• Best Suited For:
• Runners who prioritize maximum comfort and cushioning.
• Those who enjoy a more natural, barefoot-like feel.
• Recovery runs and low-impact workouts.
• Standout Features:
• The most breathable upper of the trio, keeping feet cool and dry.
• The plushest heel collar and tongue for ultimate comfort.
Cloud Eclipse: The All-Around Ace Blends Comfort, Versatility, and Speed
• Ride Feel: A Goldilocks blend of comfort and responsiveness! It offers a comfortable cushioning with a touch of firmness, along with a snappy, responsive ride.
• Best Suited For:
• Varied paces, from easy jogs to tempo runs and even some uptempo efforts.
• Runners seeking a versatile shoe that can handle most distances and terrains.
• Those who appreciate a blend of comfort and performance.
• Standout Features:
• The most aggressive rocker profile, promoting a smooth, rolling ride.
• Good grip and a weight that feels well-distributed on the run.
Additional Considerations:
• Transition Feel: The Cloud Surfer 7 offers the most seamless transition, thanks to its gentle rocker profile and softer foam. The Eclipse follows closely behind with a smooth, rolling transition. The Monster’s transition is less pronounced but still efficient.
• Toe-Off Sensation: The Eclipse delivers the most energetic toe-off, propelling you forward with each stride. The Monster provides a solid toe-off, while the Surfer offers a more relaxed feel.
• Durability: All three shoes are expected to provide good durability, but the Monster’s denser construction and grippy outsole may make it the most durable option for high mileage.