8.9
/10
Best Max Cushion Runner (for Travel?)
8.9
/10
Best Max Cushion Runner (for Travel?)
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Best Max Cushion Runner (for Travel?) – On Cloudmonster
Max Cushion, Max Bounce: Can a Running Shoe Conquer Travel?
Originally built for runners, the On Cloudmonster is increasingly appearing on travelers' feet. Why? Its massive cushioning and energetic ride promise fatigue-free exploration. We examine if this running shoe translates well to travel.
☁️
Cushioning
10
Features On's largest Cloud elements for significant impact absorption. Provides a uniquely bouncy and protective ride on hard surfaces.
🚀
Energy Return
9.5
Speedboard® technology creates a noticeable forward-rolling sensation. Reduces perceived effort and adds springiness to your stride.
👟
Comfort
10
Plush interior lining and accommodating upper feel comfortable initially. Unique ride requires a 1-2 week adaptation period for optimal walking comfort.
🎨
Style
8.5
Offers a fashion-forward, maximalist look that stands out. Appeals to those seeking a modern, performance-oriented aesthetic.
Perfect For
🏃
Vacation Runs
☁️
Max Cushion Fans
🚶♀️
All-Day Walking
🎨
Stylish Activewear
🏙️
Urban Exploration
Quality & Comfort
The Cloudmonster boasts On's largest CloudTec® elements ever, delivering substantial cushioning that effectively absorbs impact on hard surfaces. Combined with Helion™ superfoam, it offers a protective ride. However, the real story is the energy return. The embedded Speedboard® creates a distinct forward-rolling sensation that feels propulsive and 'bouncy'. Our testers found this significantly reduced perceived effort and fatigue during 20k+ step days in Paris compared to other cushioned shoes. Initial step-in comfort is good, thanks to a plush interior and accommodating upper. However, the unique ride requires adaptation. Some users find the rolling sensation slightly unnatural or even unstable for walking initially, typically needing 1-2 weeks (or 8-12 miles) to adjust. It's less 'plush' than a Hoka Bondi, more 'energetic'.
Durability
As expected from a premium On running shoe designed for high mileage, the Cloudmonster is built with durable materials. The Helion™ superfoam is known for resisting temperature fluctuations and compression over time, maintaining its performance longer than standard foams. The engineered mesh upper is robust, and the outsole rubber provides good longevity. It's designed as a 'workhorse' shoe capable of handling hundreds of miles. While primarily intended for road running, this durability translates well to the demands of extensive travel walking on various urban surfaces. The main durability 'issue' is the tendency for the large CloudTec® openings to collect pebbles, which is annoying but doesn't affect structural integrity.
Packability
Packability is the Cloudmonster's biggest hurdle for travel use. Its massive CloudTec® elements and substantial midsole make it extremely bulky and resistant to compression. Our packing tests showed it consuming significantly more luggage space (around 30-40% more) than average travel sneakers or even other cushioned shoes like the Hoka Clifton. Minimalist packers should look elsewhere. Including the Cloudmonster in your luggage requires a deliberate allocation of space, acknowledging that its comfort and energy return come at a significant packing cost. Like other bulky cushioned shoes, wearing them during transit is often the most practical approach.
Functionality
Functionally, the Cloudmonster is optimized for cushioned, high-energy return movement over long distances on relatively predictable surfaces (like roads or sidewalks). Its key travel function is reducing fatigue during high-mileage walking days through its unique combination of impact absorption and forward propulsion via the Speedboard®. The outsole grip is excellent, performing well even on wet pavement according to user reports and our tests. The need for an adaptation period to the 'rolling' sensation is a functional consideration. The bold, athletic style functions well within casual or activewear contexts but lacks the versatility of more understated travel shoes. It can also serve effectively as a running shoe during trips. The pebble-collecting outsole remains a minor functional annoyance.
Value
Priced as a premium maximalist running shoe, the Cloudmonster is expensive. Its value for travel depends entirely on prioritizing its specific strengths: massive cushioning combined with high energy return, and accepting its weaknesses (bulk, adaptation period, athletic style). If you love a bouncy, propulsive feel and find it significantly reduces fatigue on long walking days, the cost may be justified, especially if you also plan to run during your trip. However, if packability, versatile style, or immediate walking comfort without adaptation are more important, other options offer better travel-specific value. It appeals most to 'performance-prioritizing travelers' willing to pay and pack for its unique ride characteristics.
The outsole grip of the On Cloudmonster is absolutely amazing for a road running shoe! ...it remained grippy on wet roads and also provided a very confident and stable feel.
- RunRepeat
Did You Know?
On's Helion™ superfoam is designed to blend properties typically found in separate foams – lightness, cushioning, durability, and energy return – while also being more resistant to temperature changes than traditional EVA foams.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Style
8.5
Energy Return
10
Comfort
9
Cushioning
10
Cushioning
10
Energy Return
8.5
Comfort
9.5
Style
8.5
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Massive CloudTec® cushioning ('bouncy')
✓
High energy return / propulsive forward roll
✓
Comfortable upper (after adaptation period)
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Very bulky packing / Heavy / Extremely difficult pack
x
Requires 1-2 week adaptation period unique ride sensation
x
Expensive
x
Outsole frequently catches debris / pebbles
Final Verdict
8.9
Energetic
Max cushion running shoe bounce.
While designed for running, the On Cloudmonster has gained a following among travelers seeking maximum cushioning with a uniquely energetic, bouncy feel. Its large CloudTec® elements and propulsive Speedboard® work together to reduce impact and fatigue during high-mileage walking days on hard surfaces.
However, this performance comes with trade-offs: the shoe is very bulky and difficult to pack, the distinctive 'rolling' ride requires an adaptation period for walking, and the athletic style isn't versatile. If you prioritize a springy, fatigue-reducing ride, don't mind the packing challenges, and potentially plan to run on your trip, the Cloudmonster offers a compelling, albeit unconventional, travel comfort solution.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
On Cloudmonster
$
Max CloudTec®
Helion™ superfoam
Speedboard® technology
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
You Might Also Like
Best for Max Cushion City Travel
HOKA Bondi 8
$
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for High-Mileage Walking
Adidas Ultraboost 22
$72
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for Active Mixed-Use Travel
Hoka Clifton 9
$150
View Full Review
View Full Review
Best for Breathable Comfort (Hot & Dry ONLY)
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
$
View Full Review
View Full Review
Max Cushion Runner (for Travel)
On Cloudmonster
Max Cushion, Max Bounce: Can a Running Shoe Conquer Travel?
8.9
SCORE
Max cushion running shoe bounce.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Originally built for runners, the On Cloudmonster is increasingly appearing on travelers' feet. Why? Its massive cushioning and energetic ride promise fatigue-free exploration. We examine if this running shoe translates well to travel.
✓
Strengths
Massive CloudTec® cushioning ('bouncy')
High energy return / propulsive forward roll
Comfortable upper (after adaptation period)
Distinctive bold modern style
X
Consider
Very bulky packing / Heavy / Extremely difficult pack
Requires 1-2 week adaptation period unique ride sensation
Expensive
Outsole frequently catches debris / pebbles
View Current Price
Compare
☁️
Cushioning
10
🚀
Energy Return
8.5
👟
Comfort
9.5
🎨
Style
8.5
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
🏃
Vacation Runs
☁️
Max Cushion Fans
🚶♀️
All-Day Walking
🎨
Stylish Activewear
🏙️
Urban Exploration
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The Cloudmonster boasts On's largest CloudTec® elements ever, delivering substantial cushioning that effectively absorbs impact on hard surfaces. Combined with Helion™ superfoam, it offers a protective ride. However, the real story is the energy return. The embedded Speedboard® creates a distinct forward-rolling sensation that feels propulsive and 'bouncy'. Our testers found this significantly reduced perceived effort and fatigue during 20k+ step days in Paris compared to other cushioned shoes. Initial step-in comfort is good, thanks to a plush interior and accommodating upper. However, the unique ride requires adaptation. Some users find the rolling sensation slightly unnatural or even unstable for walking initially, typically needing 1-2 weeks (or 8-12 miles) to adjust. It's less 'plush' than a Hoka Bondi, more 'energetic'.
Durability
As expected from a premium On running shoe designed for high mileage, the Cloudmonster is built with durable materials. The Helion™ superfoam is known for resisting temperature fluctuations and compression over time, maintaining its performance longer than standard foams. The engineered mesh upper is robust, and the outsole rubber provides good longevity. It's designed as a 'workhorse' shoe capable of handling hundreds of miles. While primarily intended for road running, this durability translates well to the demands of extensive travel walking on various urban surfaces. The main durability 'issue' is the tendency for the large CloudTec® openings to collect pebbles, which is annoying but doesn't affect structural integrity.
Packability
Packability is the Cloudmonster's biggest hurdle for travel use. Its massive CloudTec® elements and substantial midsole make it extremely bulky and resistant to compression. Our packing tests showed it consuming significantly more luggage space (around 30-40% more) than average travel sneakers or even other cushioned shoes like the Hoka Clifton. Minimalist packers should look elsewhere. Including the Cloudmonster in your luggage requires a deliberate allocation of space, acknowledging that its comfort and energy return come at a significant packing cost. Like other bulky cushioned shoes, wearing them during transit is often the most practical approach.
Functionality
Functionally, the Cloudmonster is optimized for cushioned, high-energy return movement over long distances on relatively predictable surfaces (like roads or sidewalks). Its key travel function is reducing fatigue during high-mileage walking days through its unique combination of impact absorption and forward propulsion via the Speedboard®. The outsole grip is excellent, performing well even on wet pavement according to user reports and our tests. The need for an adaptation period to the 'rolling' sensation is a functional consideration. The bold, athletic style functions well within casual or activewear contexts but lacks the versatility of more understated travel shoes. It can also serve effectively as a running shoe during trips. The pebble-collecting outsole remains a minor functional annoyance.
Value
Priced as a premium maximalist running shoe, the Cloudmonster is expensive. Its value for travel depends entirely on prioritizing its specific strengths: massive cushioning combined with high energy return, and accepting its weaknesses (bulk, adaptation period, athletic style). If you love a bouncy, propulsive feel and find it significantly reduces fatigue on long walking days, the cost may be justified, especially if you also plan to run during your trip. However, if packability, versatile style, or immediate walking comfort without adaptation are more important, other options offer better travel-specific value. It appeals most to 'performance-prioritizing travelers' willing to pay and pack for its unique ride characteristics.
The outsole grip of the On Cloudmonster is absolutely amazing for a road running shoe! ...it remained grippy on wet roads and also provided a very confident and stable feel.
- RunRepeat
You Might Also Like
Energetic
Max cushion running shoe bounce.
8.8
While designed for running, the On Cloudmonster has gained a following among travelers seeking maximum cushioning with a uniquely energetic, bouncy feel. Its large CloudTec® elements and propulsive Speedboard® work together to reduce impact and fatigue during high-mileage walking days on hard surfaces.
However, this performance comes with trade-offs: the shoe is very bulky and difficult to pack, the distinctive 'rolling' ride requires an adaptation period for walking, and the athletic style isn't versatile. If you prioritize a springy, fatigue-reducing ride, don't mind the packing challenges, and potentially plan to run on your trip, the Cloudmonster offers a compelling, albeit unconventional, travel comfort solution.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited