On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper Review: The Long Run Shoe That Could Replace My Superblast

Finding the perfect long-run shoe isn't easy.

As I head into another marathon training block, I'm always looking for shoes that can handle those big weekly miles without beating up my legs. For the last couple of years, the ASICS Superblast has been one of the benchmark options in this category, but I've never completely fallen in love with it for longer runs.

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That's where the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper comes in. After several runs and a successful first test over 10 miles, this shoe has quickly become one of the strongest contenders for my upcoming marathon training block.

Key Specs

• Price: £210

• Weight: 278g (UK 9.5)

• Stack Height: 39mm heel / 33.5mm forefoot

• Drop: 6mm

• Midsole: Helion HF PEBA foam + Helion EVA chassis

• Plate: None

• Upper: Engineered mesh

• Fit: True to size

What Is the Cloudmonster Hyper 3?

The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper sits firmly in the super trainer category. Think ASICS Superblast, New Balance SC Trainer, Mizuno Neo Vista and other premium, high-stack training shoes designed for marathon preparation and long runs. What makes the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 different is its dual-foam construction. On combines a layer of Helion HF PEBA foam on top with a firmer Helion EVA chassis underneath. The result is a shoe that delivers cushioning and energy return while maintaining a stable, controlled ride.

Importantly, there's no carbon plate.

For many runners, including myself, that's a huge positive. During the base-building phase of marathon training, I don't necessarily want a plated shoe for every long run. Sometimes I just want something comfortable, protective and efficient that lets me tick off miles without forcing the pace.

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Ride and Performance

This is where the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 impressed me most.

The longest run I've completed in the shoe so far is 10 miles, but that was enough to tell me it deserves a place in the marathon training rotation. I have a habit of testing potential long-run shoes over a mid-distance run before committing them to those crucial 18-22 mile sessions. The Cloudmonster Hyper 3 passed that test with flying colours.

The PEBA foam isn't overly soft, and that's exactly why it works so well. One of my issues with the Superblast is that it can feel a little too soft when fatigue starts to set in. As my form breaks down during longer runs, I prefer something with a bit more structure underneath me. The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper delivers that through its firmer EVA chassis, which helps smooth out the ride and provides a reassuring level of stability.

It's not a stability shoe by any means, but it's a very stable neutral shoe.

The combination of softness and firmness feels exceptionally well balanced. There's enough cushioning to keep things comfortable, but not so much that the shoe becomes unstable or sloppy during the later stages of a run.

Stability Without the Bulk

Despite not being particularly wide, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper feels remarkably stable.

Much of that comes from the firmer lower chassis, which keeps the shoe composed throughout the gait cycle. For runners like me who don't enjoy overly soft midsoles, this setup makes a lot of sense. The shoe also transitions smoothly through the forefoot. There's a noticeable rocker geometry that helps keep momentum moving forward, particularly when cruising through easy and steady paces. I've comfortably run in the shoe at everything from relaxed easy pace to around 7:30 per mile, and it feels equally at home throughout that range.

Upper and Comfort

The lockdown is excellent. The lacing system works well, there's plenty of padding around the heel, and the overall fit feels secure without being restrictive. However, the upper is probably my biggest criticism. The engineered mesh feels quite coarse compared to other premium shoes in this category. It's not uncomfortable, but it lacks the refined feel you might expect from a a premium shoe. It's also a little warmer than I'd like, particularly during summer running. Not unbearably hot, but definitely warmer than some of its competitors.

Durability and Outsole

One area where On has faced criticism over the years is durability. Thankfully, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper looks much improved. The outsole features generous rubber coverage throughout the high-wear areas, and early signs suggest it should hold up well over marathon training mileage. It's too early to make any definitive conclusions, but the initial signs are promising.

How Does It Compare to the Superblast?

This is the obvious comparison. For me, the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 offers a firmer, more controlled alternative to the Superblast. If you love the Superblast 2 and want maximum softness, you'll probably stick with ASICS.

However, if you've found the Superblast a little too soft during longer runs, particularly when fatigue starts creeping in, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper could be exactly what you're looking for. It also reminded me at times of the New Balance SC Trainer, albeit in a slightly firmer and more stable package.

Value for Money

This is where things get tricky. At £210, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is expensive. Very expensive. While it performs well enough to justify being in the premium super trainer conversation, it's difficult to ignore the price tag. If On could bring this shoe closer to the £150-£160 range, I think it would appeal to a much wider audience. That said, premium running shoes are becoming increasingly expensive, and the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 sits alongside other high-end options in the category.

Verdict

The On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper has surprised me. I've had a bit of a love-hate relationship with On Running shoes over the years, but this is one of the best they've produced. The dual-foam setup delivers a ride that feels stable, controlled and efficient without sacrificing comfort. It's become a genuine contender for my upcoming marathon training block and, right now, I'd reach for it ahead of the Superblast for longer runs. The upper could be improved and the price is undeniably steep, but if you're searching for a premium super trainer that prioritises stability and control over maximum softness, the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 deserves serious consideration.

Rating: 8.8/10 - A surprisingly excellent long-run shoe that may finally give me the Superblast alternative I've been searching for.

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