On Cloudrock Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe Review
We didn’t expect a brand like On—best known for sleek road runners and city-ready sneakers—to deliver such a capable hiking shoe, but the Cloudrock ($200) genuinely surprised us. The tank-like shoe excels on steep, rocky, and uneven terrain, exuding premium quality from the heel to the toe. If you’re looking for a sleek, modern hiking shoe that doesn’t skimp on support or durability, this one’s a strong contender.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Weight
1 lb. 7.5 oz.
Waterproof
Yes
Upper
Synthetic
Outsole
Missiongrip
Pros
Cons
On Cloudrock Low WP
For this season's top models, see our guide to the Best Hiking Shoes.
The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof ($180) is a relatively comfortable hiking shoe, thanks to On’s signature CloudTec air pockets that help absorb impact, as well as a well-padded tongue and collar that gently lock the heel in place to prevent slippage. I took these straight from the box to the trail with zero break-in period—no hot spots, pressure points, or discomfort to report. That said, the ride isn’t exactly plush: the stiff rubber outsole and firmer Helion foam give the shoe a clunkier, more rigid feel than your average trail runner. If you’re used to featherweight hiking shoes with soft cushioning, this might feel like a step backward—but for those prioritizing stability and support, it’s a worthwhile tradeoff.
When I think about a shoe’s support and stability, I think about how tank-like it feels when tiptoeing across roots, boulder hopping, or navigating loose terrain. Does it offer a sturdy, trustworthy platform—or does it flex and conform to the ground beneath me? The On Cloudrock Low leans firmly toward the former. With a stiff rubber outsole, a surprisingly firm Helion midsole, and an added X-shaped plate underfoot, it delivers a stable and supportive ride across technical trails. It also features a noticeably rigid heel counter that provides great structure for steep descents or plunge-stepping in snow.
I went into testing with the impression that On shoes were all soft, plush, trail-runner-adjacent designs—but the Cloudrock Low surprised me. It’s noticeably more rigid underfoot than a lightweight hiking shoe like the Keen Zionic and more comparable to the Merrell Moab 3 in terms of structure. That rigidity translates to confidence on uneven terrain—whether you’re traversing rocky ridgelines, climbing steep, leaf-covered hills, or navigating root-filled trails. That said, more casual hikers might find it overbuilt for their needs. It’s definitely not a nimble or lightweight feel, and you won’t be tempted to break into a jog. But for stability and control, it delivers.
The Cloudrock Low uses On’s Missiongrip outsole, and while it doesn’t deliver best-in-class grip, it got the job done in a wide range of conditions. I felt secure while rock hopping and found the traction reliable on hard-packed dirt, sandy rock, and loose trail. The sharp lugs offered enough bite on softer terrain, while their flatter profile ensured decent ground contact and stability on rock.
That said, the outsole can’t quite match the sticky, confidence-inspiring feel of Vibram Megagrip—like what you’ll find on the Merrell Moab Speed 2 or La Sportiva TX4 Evo. It’s a serviceable all-rounder that performs well on most trails but might feel out of its depth on slick or technical alpine terrain. For general day hiking, though, it’s a solid step up from On’s more casual trail shoes (many of which feature sections of exposed foam).
The On Cloudrock Low feels impressively sturdy for a lightweight hiker, thanks to its robust construction and materials that inspire confidence. The Helion midsole foam is dense and supportive—not the kind that threatens to chip or compress quickly—and it extends well into the upper for added structure. While the mesh upper isn’t particularly eye-catching or rugged on the outside, it’s backed with an internal layer that gives it a tougher, more hardwearing feel than most mesh designs.
Around the base of the shoe, a TPU wrap adds a welcome layer of defense in high-abrasion zones—especially the outer foot and toe area where most scuffs and impacts occur. As a whole, the shoe exudes the premium quality On is known for, with a tight design, clean stitching, and high-end materials. The Cloudrock isn’t a tank like the Merrell Moab 3 or La Sportiva TX4 Evo, but for a synthetic hiking shoe that keeps weight in check, it’s more durable than it looks and should hold up well for regular trail use.
The On Cloudrock Low offers solid protection for a synthetic hiking shoe, making it a great pick for hikers who venture onto rough or rocky terrain. The toe cap is present and functional, though it’s more supple than the thick rubber bumper you’ll find on burlier models like the Keen Targhee IV. That said, the upper does have a noticeable layer of internal structure that isolates your foot from trail hazards better than most trail runners—including models like the Hoka Speedgoat, Brooks Cascadia, or even On’s own Cloudhorizon.
Where the Cloudrock really shines is in the rear: the stiff heel counter locks the foot in place and provides excellent protection, especially in scenarios like plunge-stepping in snow or navigating steep, uneven trails. While the Cloudrock doesn’t offer the bombproof shielding of a leather hiking shoe, it’s about as protective as a lightweight synthetic model gets.
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Longevity
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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
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Responsible Manufacturing
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Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
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Resale and/or Recycling Services
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Annual Impact Report
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The women’s On Cloudrock Low WP weighs in at 1 pound 7.5 ounces, which puts it on the heavier end of the spectrum for a synthetic hiking shoe. For comparison, the all-around favorite Merrell Moab Speed 2 is noticeably lighter at 1 pound 3.4 ounces—it’s not as stiff or protective as the Cloudrock (nor is it waterproof), but it’ll get the job done for most hikers tackling day hikes and overnights. On the other hand, the Cloudrock undercuts burly leather models like the Keen Targhee IV (2 lb. 1.3 oz.) or La Sportiva TX4 Evo (1 lb. 12.4 oz.), both of which offer more toe protection and long-term durability.
My takeaway from being boots on the ground (literally)? The Cloudrock does feel a bit heavy, and its stiff personality adds to that perception. Personally, I’d reach for a lighter, more flexible shoe for casual trail days. But for those who want the underfoot support and protection of an approach shoe or leather hiker without fully committing to the weight, the Cloudrock hits a nice middle ground.
I’m typically between a women’s size 8.5 and 9, and I tested the On Cloudrock Low in a size 8.5. It fit well right out of the box, but I’d recommend sizing up if you plan to wear them on long days when your feet are likely to swell. The toe box feels average—not especially wide or narrow—which should suit most foot shapes; however, individuals with extra-wide feet may want to look elsewhere.
The lightly padded tongue and collar help create a secure, comfortable fit without adding unnecessary bulk, and I had no issues with heel slip or pressure points. One small gripe: the laces are round and slightly thick, which makes them feel a little bulky. That said, On added a smart elastic loop to tuck the laces away once tied, which keeps them neatly out of the way while hiking.
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof ($200): A Softer, Lighter Alternative
If the Cloudrock Low feels too stiff or overbuilt for your needs, the On Cloudhorizon offers a softer, lighter alternative. It ditches the full rubber outsole and firm midsole in favor of plush cushioning and a more flexible, forgiving ride. At 1 pound 3.8 ounces for the women’s version, it’s noticeably lighter than the Cloudrock and excels on mellow trails, city walks, and long travel days. You’ll sacrifice some protection and technical performance, but for comfort-focused hikers sticking to moderate terrain, the Cloudhorizon delivers a smoother, more casual experience. For more, read our On Cloudhorizon Waterproof review.
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Gore-Tex ($170): A Better All-Rounder
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX strikes a more balanced middle ground than the On Cloudrock Low, with a lighter weight (1 lb. 5.2 oz.) and a bit more cushion and flex underfoot. It’s stiffer and more supportive than a trail runner—making it a great fit for most on-trail adventures—but doesn’t feel nearly as rigid or overbuilt as the Cloudrock. That translates to a smoother, more forgiving ride that casual hikers and weekend warriors will appreciate. For general hiking, we give the nod to the Moab Speed 2, but for off-trail travel or max protection, the Cloudrock is the better tool for the job. For more, read our review of the Merrell Moab Speed 2.
The tank-like Cloudrock is On’s most capable hiking shoe, designed for stability and protection in technical terrain. It’s relatively comfortable, but don’t expect On’s signature cushion and flexibility.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
The Cloudhorizon is a plush and comfortable hiking shoe characterized by an airy CloudTec midsole. However, the soft cushioning detracts from stability, the midsole holes collect debris, and the thin outsole isn’t very durable. We only recommend the Cloudhorizon for easy frontcountry trails.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
An approachable design, the Moab Speed 2 combines hiking-shoe-like stability and support with the low weight and rockered style of a trail running shoe. It's comfortable out of the box and adept both on and off-trail. However, it lacks the performance fit and agility you’d get with a trail runner.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Is the Cloudrock Low for You?
The On Cloudrock Low is a surprisingly capable choice for hikers who want more structure, protection, and support than you’d typically expect from a modern low-cut hiking shoe. It’s a great fit for those who want the stability of a traditional hiking shoe without committing to a full boot, all while maintaining modern styling and underfoot comfort. That said, it may feel like overkill on smooth, well-groomed trails—especially if you’re aiming for speed or covering big miles. But if your routes often involve rocky climbs, loose footing, or technical terrain, and you don’t mind a stiffer, more substantial feel, the Cloudrock Low is absolutely worth a look.
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