On Cloudmonster 3 vs Brooks Glycerin 23

Cloudmonster 3 or Glycerin 23? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want a firm, snappy ride with On’s signature feel? Get the Cloudmonster 3.

Want plush, pillowy comfort? Get the Glycerin 23.

Get the Cloudmonster 3 if

• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You’ll use it for tempo runs and workouts
• You have slimmer feet and like a snug fit
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward

Get the Glycerin 23 if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You want more foam underfoot (3mm more at the heel)
• You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
• You need a roomier fit

On the run

Cloudmonster 3: Firm, snappy, unmistakably On. The firmest shoe here in lab tests, with a stiff plate and a rocker that give it a snappy feel at faster paces. It isn’t the shoe for soft recovery runs.

Glycerin 23: The plush luxury cruiser. Deep, plush cushioning with a soft heel. It’s built for comfort, not speed, and the forefoot needs a couple dozen miles to loosen up.

Specs side by side

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Cloudmonster 3. Snug heel and midfoot. The toebox is narrower than the Cloudmonster 2’s, and it can run a touch long, so if you’re between sizes, try both. Standard width only.

Glycerin 23. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Roomy forefoot with more toe height than the 22; the stretchy upper can feel loose on narrow feet. Wide available.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Cloudmonster 3 · Shop the Glycerin 23 · Compare other running shoes