On Cloudmonster Hyper LightSpray 3

Best for: Runners who liked the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 and want a lighter, more locked-down option

Reviewers call the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper a stunner and a potential shoe-of-the-year contender — a fun, light, well-cushioned do-it-all trainer held back only by an unstructured Achilles collar and premium price.

Best for: A do-it-all super trainer for runners who want one shoe for easy miles, tempo, long runs, and even non-plated racing.

The tester's performance trainer of the year, used for everything from track workouts to long runs, with the outsole and upper still intact after 200 miles despite the $280 price.

Best for: A cross-training performance shoe that can also double as a longer-distance race shoe.

David's preferred pick of the Cloudmonster Hyper 3 pair — a lightweight, stable-neutral trainer that can handle long runs and faster efforts, though the high medial sidewall may be an issue for some runners.

The LightSpray upper transforms the Cloudmonster platform into something that feels genuinely fast and versatile, though the $280 price is steep and long-term upper durability is an open question the reviewers flagged as critical before recommending.

Best for: Runners wanting a stable neutral high-stack trainer that feels light enough to open up pace when desired

Closest thing to a stability racing shoe available — unexpectedly versatile, very light, and durable, though expensive and unforgiving for easy runs or narrow/wide feet.

Best for: Runners with medial stability needs seeking a fast, lightweight trainer-racer for tempo, long runs, and half marathon+ racing

Dave is a fan of the LightSpray version, calling it the weird but lively member of the lineup whose 2 oz weight drop unlocks meaningful versatility on top of the Hyper's structured rocker platform.

Best for: Runners who want a very light, structured max-stack trainer that can flex into long runs or even recreational racing duty, if they can stomach the price and limited release.

The LS is the livelier, more versatile shoe and one of On's best performance shoes, but the laceless upper is a dealbreaker for some feet and the price is very high.

Best for: Runners wanting a versatile lightweight super trainer for tempo and steady efforts, if the laceless upper fits

An exceptional super trainer ride that is let down by a polarizing LightSpray upper that simply does not work for all foot shapes, and a price that is hard to justify against cheaper rivals. For those who can get the fit right, it is one of the best super trainers on the market; for those who cannot, it is a non-starter.

Best for: Runners with narrow or low-arched feet who can get the fit right and want a versatile, extremely lightweight super trainer for tempo and long runs