Asics Novablast 3 vs On Cloudmonster: Which Daily Trainer Deserves Your Miles?

Introduction

The Asics Novablast 3 and the On Cloudmonster sit in a similar corner of the running shoe market: high-stack, well-cushioned daily trainers that can still pick up the pace. They overlap enough that choosing between them comes down to fit, ride feel, and personal preference rather than a clear winner on paper.

Two High-Stack Daily Trainers

Both shoes are daily trainers you can run fast in, with generous cushioning underfoot. Interestingly, the Novablast 3’s stack grew significantly compared to the Novablast 2, pushing it into what many would call max-cushion territory alongside Asics’ own Glideride. The Cloudmonster, meanwhile, was built to compete with shoes that might have even more cushioning, layering extra cloud technology and Helion foam for a more cushioned ride than usual for the brand.

Both shoes handle long runs comfortably, and both can be pushed when you want to go faster.

Fit and Upper Comparison

The uppers tell a different story for each shoe. The Cloudmonster’s upper runs a bit baggier and wider, which makes it the better pick if you have a wider foot. The Novablast 3’s upper is more sculpted and arguably better shaped, though the shoe runs slightly longer with a touch more toe room than usual.

Around the midfoot and heel collar, the Novablast 3 locks down really well, while the Cloudmonster does not offer the same lockdown. That may come down to both a lacing system that is not as strong and an upper structure with fewer elements giving it support.

Midsole and Ride Feel

The Novablast 3 moves from the Novablast 2’s FF Blast to FF Blast Plus in the midsole. On uses its signature cloud technology with Helion foam, simply adding more of it rather than fundamentally changing the design.

The ride character is where these two truly separate. The Novablast 3 delivers a more controlled, smoother ride. The Cloudmonster offers a firmer ride with a segmented feel: the distinct sole pods create a rippling effect through your stride. The Cloudmonster is also noticeably less flexible, and the speedboard’s rigidity is something you feel while running.

Which Shoe Should You Choose?

If you are grabbing one shoe to put miles in, the Novablast 3 earns the pick here. It is the exciting shoe of the year, and Asics has been doing a great job lately. That said, the Cloudmonster is far from a bad shoe. It is a great choice if you love On, and it was the first On shoe that won over everyone who tested it.

If your priority is a smooth, controlled ride with excellent lockdown, the Novablast 3 is the safer bet. If you prefer a firmer, more rigid feel, run wider in the foot, or simply enjoy the On aesthetic, the Cloudmonster remains a genuinely fun daily trainer.

Conclusion

Both the Asics Novablast 3 and the On Cloudmonster are excellent high-cushion daily trainers. The Novablast 3 takes the edge thanks to its smoother ride, better sculpted upper, and improved midsole foam, while the Cloudmonster stays a strong option for wider feet and fans of On’s signature segmented ride. Choose based on which ride character fits your running style.