On Cloud Eclipse vs On Cloud Monster 2: Which Max Cushion Daily Trainer Wins

Introduction

On is known for distinctive looks, but its recent trainers are starting to earn credit for performance too. Two shoes sit in the same daily trainer category while feeling very different underfoot: the On Cloud Eclipse, a favorite softer-riding option, and the On Cloud Monster 2, a roomier, firmer-riding daily trainer. Both come in at the same $180 price, so the choice comes down largely to how you like your cushioning.

On Cloud Eclipse: A Softer Surprise from On

The Cloud Eclipse removes the traditional full speedboard On places under the foot, which historically made its shoes feel firm. Instead of a full plate, there is a single piece of plastic underfoot, which On still calls a speedboard but which functions more like a midfoot shank. The result is a much softer ride than we are used to from On.

The shoe uses new CloudTec Phase cushioning, essentially a new elliptical shape for the midsole pods, along with a dual-density foam setup. It is a comfortable max cushion shoe and a genuine surprise for anyone expecting the firm feel of older On models. It looks a lot like the Cloud Surfer, but the midfoot shank adds a bit of stability and a less mushy feel, so it held up better over time.

On Cloud Monster 2: A Roomier, Firmer Cruiser

The Cloud Monster 2 keeps a firmer ride than the Eclipse and has an interesting sensation as you roll through your stride, almost like a beaded taxi-cab seat gently massaging the foot. It is the heavier of the two: around 8 oz for a women’s US 7.5 on the Eclipse versus roughly 8.5 to 8.8 oz for the Monster 2 in the same size, and in men’s US 10.5 the Monster 2 tips over 11 oz.

It is an easy shoe to run in, though. Even with the extra weight, the miles seemed to fly by, and there is something genuinely fun about the way it rolls through each step.

Fit and Upper: Two Different Stories

The Cloud Eclipse has a fairly simple breathable mesh upper with a slightly more intricate lacing system. It fit true to size, offered solid lockdown for a roomy On fit, and handled heavy mileage without complaint.

The Cloud Monster 2 runs long and wide, so it needs a half size down. Even then, the upper is very roomy, which is great for wider feet but can feel sloppy otherwise. The upper looks a bit more modern than the original Monster, but it still lacks the structural elements and lockdown some runners were hoping for.

Which One Should You Pick?

If you want a slightly firmer ride and can handle the weight, the Monster 2 is the more versatile pick for days when you might pick up the pace. If you prefer a softer, sinking-in feel for easy daily miles, the Eclipse is the clear cruiser. Both are daily mile gobblers rather than speed shoes.

The Verdict

Both reviewers picked the On Cloud Eclipse as the winner between the two. It still feels good over time, the CloudTec Phase cushioning comes through nicely, and the softer ride matched personal preferences, at the same $180 price. That said, if firmer cushioning appeals to you, the Monster 2 remains a solid, fun shoe to run in.

Conclusion

The Cloud Eclipse and Cloud Monster 2 share a price and a daily trainer mission but deliver opposite personalities: soft and stable versus firm and roomy. For most runners deciding between the two, the On Cloud Eclipse is the safer, more comfortable bet.