Cloudmonster vs Hoka Shoes – Ultimate Comfort Showdown

When it comes to running shoes, two brands that have gained immense popularity in recent years are Cloudmonster and Hoka.

Both brands offer a unique approach to cushioning and support, making them attractive options for runners seeking comfort and performance.

In this article, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of Cloudmonster and Hoka shoes, evaluating various aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Cloudmonster vs Hoka Shoes

The main difference between Cloudmonster and Hoka shoes lies in their cushioning technology and brand philosophy. Cloudmonster uses On’s distinctive CloudTec elements for a unique, responsive feel, while Hoka shoes feature their signature thick, lightweight foam midsoles for maximum cushioning.

Both offer high comfort, but Hoka tends to provide a softer, more pillowy ride compared to Cloudmonster’s firmer, bouncier feel.

Feature	Cloudmonster	Hoka
Brand Origin	Swiss	American
Cushioning Technology	CloudTec elements	Thick foam midsoles
Cushioning Feel	Firm, responsive	Soft, pillowy
Weight	Moderate (275g for men’s US 8.5)	Varies, often lightweight
Stack Height	30mm heel, 24mm forefoot	Generally higher (varies by model)
Heel-to-Toe Drop	6mm	Typically low (usually 4-5mm)
Midsole Material	Helion™ superfoam	EVA or CMEVA foam
Upper Construction	Engineered mesh with recycled materials	Engineered mesh, varies by model
Stability	Neutral	Options for neutral and stability
Outsole	CloudTec rubber pods	High-abrasion rubber
Price Range	Premium	Mid to premium
Best Use	Long-distance runs, recovery runs	Varies by model (long runs, trail, etc.)
Signature Look	Distinct cloud pods	Oversized midsoles
Width Options	Limited	Multiple width options in many models
Sustainability Efforts	Uses some recycled materials	Varies by model

Summary: Cloudmonster and Hoka shoes both cater to runners seeking maximum cushioning, but with different approaches. Cloudmonster offers a unique, responsive ride with its CloudTec elements and Helion™ foam, ideal for long-distance road running. Hoka shoes, known for their oversized midsoles, provide a softer, more cushioned feel and offer a wider range of models for various running conditions, including trail running.

Hoka typically offers more width options and generally has a lower heel-to-toe drop. While both brands are premium-priced, they appeal to different preferences in cushioning feel and running experience. The choice between them often comes down to whether a runner prefers Cloudmonster’s firmer, bouncier ride or Hoka’s softer, more pillowy cushioning.

Also Read: On Cloud vs Allbirds

Which Shoes Perfect for Any Activity

For Running

Both brands offer excellent options for running, but they cater to different preferences:

Cloudmonster

• Ideal for long-distance road running and recovery runs
• Firm, responsive cushioning with CloudTec elements
• 6mm heel-to-toe drop promotes natural running form
• Weight: 275g (9.7 oz) for men’s US 8.5

Hoka

• Excellent for various types of runs, including long distances
• Softer, more cushioned feel with thick foam midsoles
• Typically lower heel-to-toe drop (usually 4-5mm)
• Generally lightweight (varies by model)

For Walking

Hoka

• Generally better for walking, especially models like the Bondi
• Soft cushioning provides comfort for extended periods
• Meta-Rocker technology promotes a smooth walking gait
• Available in wider widths for better comfort

Cloudmonster

• Good for walking, but may feel overly responsive
• Wider platform provides stability for casual strolls
• Recycled materials in upper offer breathability

For Standing All Day

Hoka

• Superior for standing all day, particularly models like the Bondi or Gaviota
• Maximum cushioning reduces fatigue during long periods of standing
• Wider base and supportive fit help with stability
• Available in multiple widths to accommodate different foot shapes

Cloudmonster

• Good for standing, but not as specialized as some Hoka models
• Larger CloudTec elements provide shock absorption
• 30mm heel stack height offers good cushioning for prolonged standing

Durability

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are known for their exceptional durability. The brand uses high-quality materials and advanced construction techniques to ensure their shoes can withstand the rigors of regular running. The outsoles are made from durable rubber compounds designed to provide excellent traction and resist wear and tear, even on rough surfaces.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are also praised for their durability. The brand’s signature lightweight yet robust midsole foam and sturdy outsole materials contribute to the shoes’ longevity. Additionally, Hoka employs reinforced toe bumpers and heel counters to enhance the shoes’ overall durability and protect against premature wear and tear.

Also Read: Cloud Monster vs On Cloudboom Echo 3

Breathing

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes prioritize breathability to keep your feet cool and dry during intense activities. The brand incorporates mesh uppers with strategically placed ventilation holes, allowing for optimal airflow and moisture management. This feature helps prevent excessive sweating and discomfort, especially during long runs or in warmer conditions.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are also known for their breathable design. Many of their models feature lightweight mesh uppers that allow for excellent air circulation, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Some Hoka shoes even incorporate additional ventilation channels or perforations to enhance airflow and prevent overheating.

Cushioning

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are renowned for their innovative cushioning system. The brand’s signature CloudTec® technology features strategically placed “clouds” or cushioning elements that compress and expand with each step, providing exceptional shock absorption and energy return. This unique approach to cushioning helps reduce impact forces and promote a smoother, more efficient stride.

Hoka

Hoka is widely recognized for its exceptional cushioning. The brand’s signature midsole foam, known as HOKA EVA, offers superior cushioning and impact protection. Hoka shoes feature a thick and responsive midsole that absorbs shock and provides a plush, cushioned ride, making them an excellent choice for runners seeking maximum comfort and support.

Shoe Fit

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are designed to offer a snug yet comfortable fit. The brand utilizes a combination of precision-engineered lasts and supportive uppers to ensure a secure and customized fit. Additionally, many Cloudmonster models feature adjustable lacing systems or straps, allowing you to fine-tune the fit to your specific foot shape and preferences.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are known for their roomy toe box and wider platform, which can accommodate various foot shapes and sizes. The brand’s unique midsole geometry and strategically designed uppers provide a comfortable and secure fit, reducing the risk of blisters and hotspots. Some Hoka models also offer customizable lacing systems for a personalized fit.

Stability

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes prioritize stability to provide a solid and balanced ride. The brand incorporates various technologies, such as reinforced heel counters and medial posting, to enhance stability and prevent excessive foot motion. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners prone to overpronation or those seeking additional support during their runs.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are renowned for their inherent stability due to their unique midsole geometry and wide platform. The brand’s signature “rocking” design, which features a low heel-to-toe drop and a curved midsole shape, promotes a smooth and stable transition from heel strike to toe-off. Additionally, many Hoka models incorporate stability features like firmer foam densities or guide rails to further enhance support and control.

Also Read: Cloudmonster vs Cloudeclipse

Comfort

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are designed with comfort in mind. The brand’s CloudTec® cushioning system, combined with plush and breathable uppers, ensures a comfortable ride throughout your runs. The shoes also feature antimicrobial linings and moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and fresh.

Hoka

Comfort is a hallmark of Hoka shoes. The brand’s generous midsole cushioning and roomy toe box provide exceptional comfort, even during long runs or high-mileage training sessions. Additionally, Hoka shoes are known for their lightweight construction, reducing fatigue and enhancing overall comfort.

Quality

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster is committed to delivering high-quality products. The brand uses premium materials and employs advanced construction techniques to ensure their shoes meet the highest standards. Cloudmonster shoes are designed and manufactured with attention to detail, resulting in durable and reliable products.

Hoka

Hoka is renowned for its commitment to quality. The brand utilizes innovative materials and technologies to create shoes that are both lightweight and durable. Hoka’s rigorous testing and quality control processes ensure that their shoes meet the highest standards and can withstand the demands of various running environments.

Style

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are known for their unique and eye-catching design. The brand’s signature CloudTec® cushioning elements give their shoes a distinctive look, while the sleek and modern uppers add a touch of style. Cloudmonster offers a range of color options, allowing runners to express their personal style.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are instantly recognizable for their chunky and heavily cushioned silhouette. While their design prioritizes function over form, the brand has made strides in offering more stylish and visually appealing options. Hoka’s color palettes range from bold and vibrant to more subdued and understated, catering to various personal preferences.

Size

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes. The brand offers both standard and wide widths, ensuring a proper fit for various foot types. Additionally, Cloudmonster provides sizing charts and fit guides to help customers find the perfect size for their feet.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are known for their generous sizing and roomy toe box. The brand offers a comprehensive size range, including both standard and wide widths, to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes. Hoka also provides detailed sizing information and fit recommendations to ensure customers can find the right size for optimal comfort and performance.

Also Read: Cloudgo vs Cloud 5

Material

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are crafted from high-quality materials designed for durability and performance. The brand utilizes lightweight yet durable mesh uppers, reinforced with synthetic overlays for added support. The midsoles feature proprietary cushioning compounds, while the outsoles are made from durable rubber for excellent traction and grip.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are constructed using a combination of innovative and high-performance materials. The brand’s signature midsole foam, HOKA EVA, provides exceptional cushioning and responsiveness. The uppers feature breathable mesh and synthetic overlays for support and structure. Hoka also incorporates durable rubber compounds in the outsoles for enhanced traction and durability.

Weight

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are designed to be lightweight, reducing fatigue and improving overall performance. The brand’s use of lightweight materials and strategic placement of cushioning elements contribute to the shoes’ overall low weight, making them a popular choice for runners seeking a responsive and agile ride.

Hoka

Despite their generous cushioning, Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight. The brand’s innovative foam compounds and advanced construction techniques allow for a lightweight yet highly cushioned design. This balance of cushioning and lightweight construction makes Hoka shoes a popular choice for runners seeking maximum comfort without sacrificing performance.

Flexibility

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes are designed with flexibility in mind. The brand’s CloudTec® cushioning system allows for natural foot flexion and movement, promoting a smooth and efficient stride. Additionally, the use of flexible materials in the uppers and outsoles further enhances the shoes’ overall flexibility.

Hoka

Hoka shoes strike a balance between cushioning and flexibility. While the brand’s generous midsole cushioning might suggest a lack of flexibility, Hoka employs strategic flex grooves and midsole segmentation to allow for natural foot motion and flexibility. This combination of cushioning and flexibility provides a smooth and responsive ride.

Sole

Cloudmonster

Cloudmonster shoes feature a unique sole design that sets them apart from other brands. The brand’s signature CloudTec® technology incorporates strategically placed “clouds” or cushioning elements on the outsole. These clouds compress and expand with each step, providing exceptional shock absorption and energy return. The outsoles are also made from durable rubber compounds, ensuring excellent traction and grip on various surfaces.

Hoka

Hoka shoes are renowned for their distinctive sole design, which is a key component of the brand’s cushioning and stability systems. The brand’s signature midsole foam, HOKA EVA, is combined with a curved “rocking” geometry that promotes a smooth and efficient transition from heel strike to toe-off. The outsoles are constructed with durable rubber compounds and feature strategically placed lugs or grooves for enhanced traction and grip on various surfaces.

User Reviews and Ratings

To provide a comprehensive understanding of how these shoes perform in real-world scenarios, let’s take a look at some user reviews and ratings for both Cloudmonster and Hoka shoes:

Cloudmonster User Reviews

User	Rating	Review
John D.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I’ve been using Cloudmonster shoes for my daily runs, and I’m impressed with their cushioning and responsiveness. The CloudTec® technology really helps reduce impact and provides a smooth ride. However, I wish they had a bit more stability for my overpronation.”
Sarah M.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“These shoes are game-changers! The cushioning is unbelievable, and I can run for hours without any discomfort. The breathability is also great, keeping my feet cool and dry. Highly recommended for long-distance runners.”
Mike T.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“While the cushioning is decent, I found the fit to be a bit too snug for my wider feet. The toe box felt a bit cramped, and I experienced some rubbing on longer runs. Might not be the best option for those with wider feet.”

Hoka User Reviews

User	Rating	Review
Emily K.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“Hoka shoes have been a game-changer for my knees and joints. The cushioning is incredible, and the rocker sole design makes for such a smooth and efficient stride. I can run longer distances without any discomfort.”
Alex R.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“While the cushioning is fantastic, I found the shoes to be a bit too bulky and heavy for my liking. They also felt a bit unstable on technical trails, but that might be due to their maximalist design.”
Jessica L.	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I love the plush, cushioned ride of Hoka shoes. They’ve helped alleviate some of the impacts on my joints. However, I wish they had a bit more flexibility in the forefoot for a more natural foot motion.”

Price Comparison

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the pricing for these shoes, here’s a table comparing the average prices for popular models from both brands:

Brand	Model	Average Price
Cloudmonster	Cloudmonster Swiss Engineering	$180
Cloudmonster	Cloudmonster Skypath	$160
Hoka	Hoka Bondi 7	$165
Hoka	Hoka Clifton 8	$140

Please note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the retailer and any promotions or discounts.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Cloudmonster Shoes

• Unique, responsive cushioning with CloudTec elements
• Excellent for long-distance road running
• Firm, bouncy ride that many runners enjoy
• Distinctive aesthetic with visible cloud pods
• Uses recycled materials in the upper
• Good energy return for a max-cushioned shoe

Cons: Cloudmonster Shoes

• Limited width options
• May feel too firm for some runners used to softer cushioning
• Less versatile across different running terrains
• Higher price point
• Heavier than some competing max-cushion models
• Less suitable for those needing stability features

Pros: Hoka Shoes

• Offers maximum cushioning with a soft, pillowy feel
• Wide range of models for different needs (road, trail, stability)
• Generally lightweight despite high cushioning
• Available in multiple width options
• Meta-Rocker technology for smooth transitions
• Good for both running and all-day wear

Cons: Hoka Shoes

• Oversized midsoles may feel unstable for some users
• Some find the soft cushioning less responsive
• Distinctive chunky look may not appeal to everyone
• Can be expensive, especially for premium models
• May feel too cushioned for runners who prefer ground feel
• Some models can wear out quickly in high-stress areas

Also Read: On Cloud vs ASICS

Conclusion

Both Cloudmonster and Hoka offer exceptional cushioning and comfort for runners, but they approach these attributes in distinct ways. Cloudmonster’s CloudTec® technology provides a unique cushioning experience with its responsive “clouds” on the outsole, while Hoka’s heavily cushioned midsoles and curved “rocking” geometry offer a plush and smooth ride.

When it comes to durability, breathability, and overall quality, both brands are highly regarded and use premium materials and construction techniques. However, Cloudmonster may have a slight edge in terms of flexibility and responsiveness due to its innovative cushioning system.

Ultimately, the choice between Cloudmonster and Hoka will depend on your personal preferences and running needs. If you prioritize a responsive and flexible ride with unique cushioning, Cloudmonster might be the way to go. But if you seek maximum cushioning and a smooth, stable ride, Hoka’s shoes could be an excellent option.

It’s always recommended to try on different models from both brands and assess the fit, comfort, and overall feel before making a purchase decision. Additionally, considering factors like your gait pattern, pronation tendencies, and intended use (e.g., road running, trail running, or long distances) can help you make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions