On Cloudmonster 3 Preview | Back to It’s Roots With More Cushion

The wait is over, we have a new On Cloudmonster 3 coming! So many of us are still running in the original model that it’s pretty exciting to see them ready to improve on what went sideways with the 2.We haven’t yet run in this shoe, so right now you’re getting the technical preview of what we know and what to expect when the shoe is released. Here is what we learned from talking to the team at The Running Event (TRE), an annual conference where brands showcase what’s coming and what’s new.

On Cloudmonster 3 Specs

Here’s the nitty gritty, but once we get the shoes in for testing we will give you full feedback on fit, comfort and what’s changed.

• Heel Drop: 6mm
• Stack: 35mm
• Weight: 10.8 oz men’s, 8.5 oz women’s
• Will be available in wide
• $190
• Available March 5, 2026
• See our On Cloudmonster 2 review
• See our On Cloundmonster updated review (after many many miles of use)

What’s New with the On Cloudmonster 3

As noted in the title, we are excited for this to return to more of the original monster feel through the Upper. The Cloudmonster 2 was best described as baggy pants. I’m not sure I’ve said that about many shoes, but the upper just felt like extra fabric flapping around, so while the underfoot was ok that shoe just wasn’t worn.

In fact, it was so obviously NOT a win that the original monster has remained on their site getting new color ways every year and selling!

The 3 is changing the entire upper for an entirely different fit, better breathability and fit. We can’t wait to get our hands on this. You’ll also notice the small elastic band for anyone who wants a place to tuck in laces. These are little things that can make a shoe work better for so many.

Now what we really want to know, is the underfoot going to change? With an additional 5mm of cushion and a slight change to the pods, the answer is yes. Take a look at these two images and you’ll see the change from the original to the 3. The 3 has a triple layer of Cloudtec which should create a softer landing and yet while keeping the Helion foam we shouldn’t lose any of the ability to pick up the pace. This is going to be a key for us because we love that the Cloundmonster can be a single shoe for many athletes that carries them through a lot of paces.

BUT we also think the additional of a little more foam is going to make it more comfortable for marathon distances.

For those who like the Cloudmonster, but want a little more speed they will also be releasing the On Cloundmonster 3 Hyper. You can checkout our review of the current On Cloudmonster Hyper (it’s a mixed bag for us) and yes they skipped a version 2.

How Does it Compare to Other On Running Shoes?

I’ve now run in just about every model of On shoe, so let’s see what the line up looks like:

• On Cloudsurfer 2 – Also low stack, much softer cushion, better for shorter runs or walking
• On Cloudsurfer Max – This will be a big plush running shoe with a big stack height
• On Cloudsurfer Next – Closest to the Cloudmonster, higher heel toe drop, useful if you have achilles issue or lack ankle mobility
• On Cloudboom Max – Considered their average runner race day shoe, cushion with a plate

Who is This For?

If you liked the On Cloudmonster, right now we think this is still going to be a winner. It’s not moving to the max cushioned options that we see with the Cloudboom Max and they didn’t add any kind of speed board, so it’s still a daily trainer.

• Wide Feet: Not overly wide, but not narrow. Opt for the wide version if you want more in the midfoot, but it does have a more comfy toebox than average.
• Heavier Runners: The additional foam should have more comfort without any sacrifice in durability or stability.
• Long Runs: It’s not the super soft long run shoe some use now, but it’s a great moderate cushion that can easily work for the marathon.
• Front of the Pack: Daily trainer that can pick up the pace, but no plate or top end bouncy foam.

Looking for other running shoes??

• On Cloud vs Brooks Running
• On Cloud vs Hoka
• Best Beginner Marathon Shoes