On Cloudrock 2 Mid Hiking Boot Review
Updated:
Jan 19, 2025
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Terrain
Easy
Weight
1 lb. 12.6 oz.
Waterproof
Yes
Upper
Synthetic
Pros
Cons
On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof
Note: The On Cloudrock 2 was updated to the Cloudrock Mid WP for 2025. The Cloudrock Mid WP has similar intentions as the "2" reviewed here but offers a number of noteworthy improvements, including an upgraded MissionGrip outsole and a revamped lacing system. For more, see our Cloudrock Mid review.
The Cloudrock 2 follows the recent design trend of fusing the lightweight, flexible, and low-volume build of a trail running shoe with the support and height of a traditional hiking boot. As a result, it excels in comfort: I likened it to a beefed-up trail runner with more support, a short break-in time, and plush underfoot cushioning. The Cloudrock 2’s lightweight build and nimbleness stood out as I scrambled around on the rock formations of New Mexico’s Bisti Badlands and on a steep hike in the Cascades—in contrast, I would have felt much more weighted down and cumbersome with a stiffer boot. All told, it’s a fun and agile companion if you don’t mind the compromises (which we’ll get to below).
While the Cloudrock 2 isn’t as supportive as a full-blooded hiking boot, it’s a noticeable step up from a trail running shoe. The support comes courtesy of a polypropylene shank in the midsole and the boot’s over-the-ankle cuff. The midsole shank offers a decently firm platform both heel-to-toe and side-to-side, granting enough stability to scramble over large boulders as I hoofed a 30-pound pack up 8,751-foot Guadalupe Peak in Texas. That said, this isn’t a heavyweight boot and will feel squirrely on most off-trail terrain. For trips that require a heavier backpack or challenging trails (think snow and mud or a lot of loose rocks), you’ll likely want a boot with more backbone in the form of a stiffer upper and a beefier midsole.
On’s designers fitted the Cloudrock 2 with the company’s proprietary Missiongrip outsole. While the boot’s sole has channels for siphoning off mud and the medium-soft lugs are widely spaced, their lack of depth means they won’t grip that well in slick conditions or loose dirt. (The deeply rockered forefoot also means that—much of the time—less rubber is touching the ground than would be the case with a flatter-soled boot.) Although the Cloudrock 2 performed well while navigating steep, chossy rock, I wouldn’t choose them for routes where I anticipated spending a lot of time on technical terrain or snow. But if you stick to hardpacked trail, they’ll get the job done.
Boots with synthetic uppers have shorter lifespans than their leather brethren, but as synthetic models go the Cloudrock 2 performs well in this category. On is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, displayed in the longevity of their footwear. After wearing this boot for three outings—two backpacking trips and a day hike—in varied terrain, I have yet to see any indicators of wear or tear. However, while the upper material is relatively thick compared to other synthetic hiking boots, I’ve noticed that the sole’s lugs are not quite as durable as harder options, making me wonder how they’ll hold up over time.
As you might expect from a boot that borrows its lower half from a running shoe, the Cloudrock 2 doesn’t offer significant underfoot protection. It sports a small amount of protection up front in the form of a stiff toe cap, which is more than a trail runner might have but less than a heavier-duty hiking boot. A TPU rand also encircles the wearer’s foot right above the midsole, but it’s thin. I did find the cushioning and tread to be thick enough that I didn’t feel every pebble, which is commendable given the Cloudrock 2’s featherweight status. Finally, unlike most of On’s footwear, the Cloudrock closes off the cloud-like holes in the midsole cushioning, so no rocks or other debris will get lodged under your feet.
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Recycled Materials
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PFAS-Free DWR
Durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are used in outdoor gear for their strong resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product uses a PFAS-free DWR, while a red X means the DWR contains PFAS.
PFAS-Free Waterproof Membrane
The membranes used in waterproof products such as rain jackets, ski jackets, and shoes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are valued for their resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product’s waterproof membrane is PFAS-free, while a red X means it contains PFAS.
Bluesign Approved
Bluesign Technologies, based in Switzerland, operates a third-party textile management system that ensures materials are manufactured to strict environmental, chemical, and worker safety standards. A green check mark indicates a product is either a Bluesign Product (contains at least 90% Bluesign-approved fabrics and 20-30% Bluesign-approved accessories) or features a significant amount of Bluesign-approved materials. A yellow check mark means it uses some Bluesign-approved materials but less than the aforementioned category, and a red X means there are no Bluesign-approved materials in the product.
Responsible Manufacturing
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Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
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Resale and/or Recycling Services
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Carbon Footprint Tracking
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Annual Impact Report
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At just over 1 pound per boot, the Cloudrock 2 is admirably lightweight given the level of support it provides. While it’s not quite at the pinnacle of the hybrid running shoe/hiking boot category—the Altra Lone Peak Hiker reviewed here is lighter at 1 pound 5.2 ounces, although it’s noticeably lacking in support and protection—the Cloudrock 2 will weigh you down a lot less than a traditional hiking boot (these generally start around 2 lb. 8 oz.). The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX falls into a very similar weight class at 2 pounds 1.6 ounces, and it's overall a more capable boot than the Cloudrock 2 (see our versus section for more). Of course, none of those models are expected to handle expedition-worthy pack weights (around 40 pounds and up), but they can easily tackle loads meant for overnights and even three-day trips.
The advantage of having a boot as light as the Cloudrock 2 is its versatility: You can wear it backpacking, but it won’t be overkill for day hikes. If you’re heading out for an afternoon and want some extra ankle support or underfoot stability, you won’t be punished for wearing this boot rather than a trail running shoe. In this respect, the Cloudrock 2 has a clear advantage over heavier hiking boots.
Waterproof Liner
The Cloudrock 2 has a proprietary waterproof liner designed by On. While I unfortunately didn’t get to test the boot in wet conditions, the breathability of the membrane impressed me: Despite warm hiking conditions, my feet didn’t overheat. (While many proprietary membranes are sufficiently waterproof, they often fall short in breathability—especially compared to Gore-Tex.) You can still expect to get hot while working hard in the summer—a near-universal truth of waterproof hiking boots—but the Cloudrock 2 runs cooler than most.
Lacing System
This boot’s lacing system features four hooks at the ankle to keep the laces snug. Compared to most trail running-inspired boots, which feature only a single set of hooks at the top, this represents a nice upgrade in security. While in use, the laces boosted stability and I never needed to retighten after tying them at the beginning of each day.
I wear a street shoe in a women’s size 10, and usually size up to 10.5 for hiking boots. I tested the Cloudrock 2 in a size 10.5, and found that it fit me well. I usually have issues with heel slippage due to my narrow heels, but I didn’t experience that while wearing this snug-fitting boot—a major win.
In terms of foot shape, I have an average-to-slightly-wide midfoot, as well as an average toe box width, and generally wear hiking footwear on the wider end of the range. As I tested the Cloudrock 2, the only place I got a hot spot was at the top-middle of the boot, where it met my skin. (I formed a blister here during the break-in period, but only on one side.) Finally, the toe box had plenty of space for my toes to splay.
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX ($240): More Cushion for the Trail
The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX costs $20 more than the Cloudrock 2 and checks in at a similar weight (2 lb. 1.6 oz.), but this boot sets itself apart with an uber-thick, ultra-cushy midsole. The Kaha 3 is made for maxing out comfort over long trail miles, and will offer a smoother ride than the Cloudrock 2. It lags behind the trail runner-inspired Cloudrock in nimbleness, though, and is probably a bit overbuilt for a day hike. We’ve found that the Kaha 3 can handle a slightly heavier pack—up to 40 pounds—and it employs higher-performing materials: Its Vibram Megagrip outsole has long been the category standard-bearer, and it has Gore-Tex waterproofing as well. For more, read our review of the Hoka Kaha 3 GTX.
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX ($180): Less Style But More Capable
We’ll start by saying that we want to like the On Cloudrock—we have worn the Swiss brand’s shoes for around-town use and the comfort and cushiness are undeniable. But the lightweight hiking boot market has become competitive of late, with brands like Hoka, Adidas, and even Merrell stepping up with modern and well-built designs. The Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX is one the leaders: The boot weighs 1 pound 12.2 ounces for the pair (about three ounces less than the Cloudrock), is $40 cheaper, and has better traction. It’s true that the ride isn’t quite as cushy as the Ons, nor do the Merrells look as cool (again, we are big fans of On styling), but realistically they are lighter and more capable. For more, read our review of the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX.
This unique hiking boot is a comfortable and stylish option for non-technical trails, with more stability than you’d expect. However, they aren’t particularly lightweight, and traction falls short of the competition.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
If comfort is your end all and be all but you want the stability to back it up, it’s tough to beat the Kaha 3. A premium Vibram Megagrip outsole and Gore-tex membrane round out the list of high-end features. However, durability falls short of traditional leather models from brands like Lowa.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Merrell goes modern with the Moab Speed 2, combining lightweight design, plush cushioning, and unexpectedly strong support. You sacrifice some protection and durability, but it’s hard to beat this boot’s comfortable and athletic feel.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Is the Cloudrock 2 Mid for You?
The Cloudrock 2 Mid is a serviceable enough hiking boot, but it falls somewhere in the no-man’s land between trail running shoes and true hiking boots. Hikers who primarily get out on day hikes or shorter-distance overnights will appreciate its support, stability, and comfort in a lightweight package; however, folks ripping off miles will most likely want something lighter or more cushioned, and those schlepping packs above 30 or so pounds into the backcountry will need a beefier boot. With no truly standout qualities, and at a relatively high price for a synthetic model, we think you’re better off getting a more specialized trail running shoe or hiking boot—or at least a more wallet-friendly option.
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