On Cloudhorizon 2 Hiking Shoes Review
An in-depth review of On’s lightweight, max-cushioned hiking shoe for day hikes, travel, and trail-to-town wear
July 29, 2026
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Our verdict
The On Cloudhorizon 2 is a lightweight, max-cushion, comfort-first hiking shoe. After roughly 100 miles of testing both the women’s and men’s models on hiking trails around Squamish, B.C., we found it best suited to day hikes, easy to moderate trails, travel, and everyday wear.
The standout feature is the midsole, which uses On’s proprietary Helion superfoam with CloudTec Phase technology. In plain language, Helion is the foam that gives the shoe its cushioned, slightly springy feel, while CloudTec refers to On’s signature cloud-like pods. Those open-air pods are designed to compress when you step down to help soften the landing, and the Phase technology helps the shoe roll more smoothly from heel to toe. The result is a shoe that feels cushioned and comfortable on long walks, easy to moderate trails, and around town.
Other details we liked on the Cloudhorizon 2 included the padded collar that extends through the top of the tongue, the easy-to-tie flat laces, and a toe bumper that added useful protection on rocks, roots, and light scrambling. The mesh upper adds breathability, while extra material along the outside of the upper gives the shoe more structure and stability than you might expect from such a lightweight hiker.
The main limitation of the Cloudhorizon 2 is the traction on loose or technical terrain. The brand’s Missiongrip outsole handled most of our trail conditions well, but we slipped a few times on loose gravel, especially on steeper descents, and had to pay closer attention to our footing. Combined with the shoe’s moderate stability, that makes the Cloudhorizon 2 better for mellow to moderate hikes than technical scrambling, heavy packs, or rough off-trail use (for that, we think the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof or the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX are better bets).
The Cloudhorizon 2 is great if you want a cushioned, lightweight hiking shoe that feels supportive on easier day hikes, long walks, travel days, and around town. It’s a comfort-first, trail-to-town shoe with enough protection for moderate hikes and a smooth ride that makes putting on long miles feel easier.
On Cloudhorizon 2
Men's
Women's
While we tested the non-waterproof models, they are also available in waterproof versions (men’s and women’s). For more on our favorite hiking shoes for every type of hiker, see our in-depth guides to the best women’s hiking shoes of 2026 and the best men’s hiking shoes of 2026.
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On Cloudhorizon 2 Specifications
Price: $180
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 4.3 oz (women’s); 1 lb 9.6 oz (men’s)
Cushion level: Maximum
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 8mm
Upper materials: Recycled polyester
Midsole material: Helion superfoam with CloudTec Phase technology
Outsole material and lugs: Missiongrip outsole with 4mm chevron lugs
Waterproof technology: Waterproof version available
Available sizes: 5-11 women’s; 7-14 men’s
Suitable for vegans: Yes, synthetic materials listed
Comparison table
| Hiking Shoe | MSRP* | Weight (pair) | Upper Material | Waterproofing | Midsole | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| On Cloudhorizon 2 Men's Women's |
$180 | 1 lb 9.6 oz (men's), 1 lb 4.3 oz (women's) | Polyester/ TPU | N/A | Helion | Missiongrip rubber |
| On Cloudhorizon 2 Waterproof Men's Women's |
$200 | 1 lb, 10.6 oz (men's), 1 lb 5.2 oz (women's) | Polyester/ TPU | Proprietary membrane | Helion | Missiongrip rubber |
| On Cloudrock Low Waterproof Men's Women's |
$200 | 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s) | Recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap | On’s proprietary membrane | Helion superfoam, Speedboard plate | Missiongrip rubber |
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low Men's Women's |
$175 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | Synthetic/ textile | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contagrip rubber |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$180 | 1 lb 14.7 oz (men's), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women's) | Nubuck leather/ recycled mesh | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Men's Women's |
$190 | 1 lb 7.6 oz. (men's), 1 lb 4.6 oz. (women's) | Recycled polyester | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | ACT Energy EVA | Trail Tread Eco rubber |
Best for
The Cloudhorizon 2 is a lightweight hiker built for moderate trail days.
Day hikers who want maximum cushioning and a soft ride in a lightweight low hiking shoe
Moderate hikes on forest trails and mixed terrain
Hikers who prioritize comfort over technical precision
Travel, errands, dog walks, and long days on your feet
Trail-to-town wear for people who want one shoe that does it all
What we liked
Our heel stayed locked-in and secure while hiking, with no rubbing thanks to the padded collar.
The bouncy step you get from the max cushioning
Comfortable collar and padded tongue that help keep debris out
Lightweight feel with enough protection for moderate day hikes
Great trail-to-town appeal for hiking, travel, errands, and everyday wear
Clean, modern style for hikers who want to get away from the traditional hiking shoe look
What could be better
Traction struggled on loose gravel, especially on steep descents
Moderate stability, not ideal for technical terrain or heavy packs
Flat laces stay secure when tied tightly, but can loosen if the knot isn’t snug
How we tested
We’ve put on roughly 100 miles of testing around Squamish, B.C.
We tested the women’s and men’s non-waterproof versions of the On Cloudhorizon 2 over the past two months, putting on roughly 100 miles on hiking trails around Squamish, B.C., as well as wearing them on dog walks, running errands, and walking on city sidewalks. We took them straight out of the box and onto a 4-mile hike with roughly 1,350 feet of elevation gain. That first hike was a good early test: a steady uphill grind with rocks, roots, mud, light scrambling, and a loose, gravelly downhill walkout.
Testing the Cloudhorizon 2 on Squamish, B.C. trails.
Since then, we’ve hiked in the Cloudhorizon 2 in everything from drizzly, wet trail conditions to warm, sunny days. We have also tested the previous version of the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof, which gave us helpful context for comparing the updated shoe’s fit, comfort, traction, and overall performance. We paid attention to how the shoes felt on climbs, descents, muddy sections, roots, slippery bridges, and hard-packed paths. We also compared the Cloudhorizon 2 against dozens of other hiking shoes we’ve tested for fit, cushioning, stability, traction, comfort, and overall hiking performance.
Performance in the field
Testing grip on wet wood and creek crossings.
Fit and sizing
The On Cloudhorizon 2 hiking shoes fit true to size in length for both testers, but our women’s tester, who has wide feet, felt the toe box was a bit more cramped than the previous version of the Cloudhorizon (and there is no wide option available). It wasn’t uncomfortably tight for us, but it also didn’t have the more relaxed forefoot feel that some hikers may want in a max-cushion hiking shoe (for that, we suggest looking at the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX).
If you’re between sizes, like having extra toe room for descents, or usually wear thicker hiking socks, it may be worth trying a half-size up (but then consider that your heel may not be as locked-in as you like).
Straight from the box and onto a four-mile hike. We recommend a short break-in period before longer hikes.
The heel and midfoot felt secure, helped by the padded collar and tongue design. The shoe has a soft, almost sock-like feel around the ankle without feeling sloppy, and the tongue integrates nicely into the collar design for a comfortable fit that blocks debris.
Both testers felt the Cloudhorizon 2 benefited from a short break-in period before taking them on a moderate trail or longer day (there was some numbing of the toes on that first steep uphill climb and downhill descent). After a few wears, the cushioning, upper, and overall fit feel nicely molded to our feet.
Comfort and support
CloudTec Phase cushioning gives the shoe a smooth ride.
Comfort is one of the main selling points of the Cloudhorizon 2. This is a max-cushion hiking shoe, and we noticed the soft, rolling feel underfoot right away. The midsole uses On’s Helion superfoam with CloudTec Phase technology. Helion is the cushy foam, while the cloud-like pod shapes in the sole are designed to compress when you step down to help soften impact. The “Phase” part means those pods compress in sequence as your foot moves through its stride, creating a smoother transition from heel to toe.
Cloud pods compress in sequence underfoot.
On the trail, that translated to a comfortable ride on hard-packed dirt, rolling trails, and long walking days. The Cloudhorizon 2 doesn’t feel as precise as lower-profile hiking shoes on technical terrain, but they do feel forgiving and are definitely hiking shoes we’ll reach for when comfort matters more than groundfeel.
Support is moderate, which makes sense because it’s a lightweight hiking shoe, not a stiff technical hiker. But the built-up sidewalls, wraparound rand, and added reinforcement along the outside of the shoe give it more support than a casual sneaker. It felt supportive enough for day hikes and full-day use without a heavy pack, but not substantial enough for big technical objectives.
The only notable comfort/fit issue came from the top eyelet. The shoe needs to be cinched fairly tight for stability, but once tightened, the back of the eyelet noticeably pressed into the top of our male tester’s foot. He loosened the laces to relieve the pressure, but felt like he was sacrificing a minimal amount of stability.
Traction and grip
Missiongrip traction handled most moderate trails well, seen here on a steep, rooty climb.
On’s Missiongrip outsole worked well on moderate trails, packed dirt, roots, rocks, and general forest terrain, and it handled most of our test conditions without issue. However, it fell short on loose gravel, especially on steeper descents. We slipped a few times on gravelly downhill sections and found ourselves having to slow down, step carefully, and pay closer attention to our footing.
Our footing felt precise enough for tricky rock sections.
The chevron lugs offer enough grip for mellow to moderate hiking, but they don’t have the aggressive bite of a more technical hiking shoe, like the La Sportiva Spire Low GTX. We had no issue crossing wet logs or moving over damp forest trails, and the Cloudhorizon 2 is plenty capable for most day hikes. But if your routes regularly include steep descents, loose scree, or wet technical terrain, you may be happier in a more technical pick from our guides to the best men’s hiking shoes and the best women’s hiking shoes.
The chevron lugs are best for mellow to moderate terrain.
Waterproofing and breathability
Mesh through the forefoot helps with breathability.
We tested the non-waterproof version of the Cloudhorizon 2, which is a good pick for mixed use, warmer hikes, and everyday wear. The mesh through the forefoot and tongue adds some breathability, and after a couple of grueling hikes, our feet felt warm but not overly sweaty, and our socks were still dry at the end of the day.
A waterproof version of the Cloudhorizon 2 is also available in women’s and men’s, and we’re just starting to test that model now (though you can still read our review of the previous version of the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof). For hikers who regularly deal with rain, mud, wet grass, or shoulder-season conditions, the waterproof version will likely be the better pick. But for dry summer hikes, travel, and everyday use, the non-waterproof version offers better breathability.
Durability and construction
Testing the toe protection of the Cloudhorizon 2 on an uphill rooty section.
The Cloudhorizon 2 is one of On’s hiking-specific shoes, sitting as the lighter, more cushioned option next to the slightly burlier Cloudrock Low. It still has some protective trail features, including a wraparound rand around the toe and sidewalls, plus exterior reinforcement along the outside of the shoe for added structure and lateral support. The upper combines breathable mesh through the front and tongue with more substantial material along the sides, which keeps the shoe from feeling hot or overbuilt while still squarely positioning it in the hiking shoe category.
After roughly 50 miles in each pair, we’re starting to see some compression forming in the midsole, but the uppers and outsoles are holding up well so far. If you want a shoe with a more built-up upper, more support, and better protection from On, the Cloudrock Low is the better choice, while the Cloudhorizon 2 is the lighter, softer, more trail-to-town option.
Weight and packability
The Cloudhorizon 2 is very much a lightweight hiking shoe. The women’s size 7.5 pair we tested weighed 1 lb 5 oz, and our men’s size 11.5 weighed 1 lb 10 oz. They feel noticeably lighter on foot than a traditional leather or heavily reinforced hiking shoe. This makes the Cloudhorizon 2 appealing for travel, day hikes, and everyday wear, but the trade-off is that it doesn’t feel as planted or protective as a heavier, more structured hiking shoe on rougher terrain.
For people who want a light shoe that still has cushioning, protection, and a hiking-specific outsole, the weight is a major plus. For hikers carrying heavier packs or moving through technical terrain, the lightweight build may feel less secure.
Features
Flat laces are simple, easy to tie, and secure—if you cinch the knot tight enough.
Lacing system
The Cloudhorizon 2 uses flat laces that are easy to tie and generally stay put well. We liked the simple, traditional lacing setup and found it easy to adjust tension across the top of the foot. The one caveat is that the laces need a tight knot. If you tie them loosely, they can loosen or come undone.
Heel cup and ankle collar
The padded collar adds comfort around the ankle.
The padded collar extends onto the top of the tongue, creating a soft, secure fit around the ankle and top of the foot. It adds comfort, helps reduce rubbing, and does a good job keeping small debris out.
Toe cap and sidewall protection
A protective rand wraps the toe and sidewalls.
The Cloudhorizon 2 has a protective rand around the toe and sidewalls, plus extra reinforcement along the outside of the shoe for added structure. It offered enough protection for roots, rocks, and moderate scrambling, but we wouldn’t choose it for sustained technical terrain.
Style and colors
If you want something that can go from trail to town without looking too outdoorsy, the Cloudhorizon 2 fits the bill. The aesthetic is clean and modern, the colors are neutral and subdued, and the overall look works just as well for travel, errands, and everyday wear as it does after a hike.
Sustainability
The upper on the Cloudhorizon 2 is made from recycled polyester. Beyond that, On also has broader sustainability initiatives around circularity, renewable materials, and material innovation, including its Cyclon program and CleanCloud technology, which are worth noting even though the Cloudhorizon 2’s product-specific sustainability details are limited.
Should you buy the On Cloudhorizon 2?
The Cloudhorizon 2 has a max-cushion hiking feel.
Buy the On Cloudhorizon 2 if you want a lightweight, cushioned hiking shoe for day hikes, travel, errands, and everyday trail-to-town wear. They’re a good fit for hikers who prioritize comfort and a smooth ride over technical precision. They’re also a great option for people who spend long days on their feet and want a shoe that can handle moderate trails without feeling (or looking) like a stiff, traditional hiker.
Skip the On Cloudhorizon 2 if you need a locked-in, technical hiking shoe for steep descents, loose gravel, scrambling, heavy packs, or rough off-trail terrain. The cushioning is excellent, but the traction and stability are better suited to moderate use than aggressive mountain days. Also skip it if you need a roomy toe box, since we found the forefoot a bit narrower than expected, and it doesn’t come in wide sizes.
Where to buy
Testing the On Cloudhorizon 2 on a mossy forest trail.
The On Cloudhorizon 2 hiking shoes are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Backcountry
Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent
Zappos
Pros: 365-day free shipping on returns, fast delivery with free VIP program
Dick's Sporting Goods
This major sporting goods retailer is starting to sell more specialized outdoor gear. You can get free store pick up and some locations have same day delivery. It also offers free shipping over $49.
Returns and advice on where to buy
In general for shoes, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI or Zappos. Trying on shoes is an important way to get the sizing right. With both those retailers, if your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.
Similar hiking shoes
On Cloudhorizon 2 vs On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Price: $200
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s)
Upper Material: 100% recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap
Midsole material: Helion superfoam and Speedboard plate
Waterproofing: On’s proprietary membrane
Outsole: Missiongrip rubber; short/square lugs, moderate spacing
The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is the better On model if you want more structure and support for hiking. It has a more substantial hiking-shoe feel, stronger underfoot support, and better protection, but it’s heavier and less casual than the Cloudhorizon 2. Choose the Cloudrock if you want a sturdier shoe for rougher trails; choose the Cloudhorizon 2 if you want more cushioning, comfort, and trail-to-town versatility.
Read more about these hiking shoes in our in-depth review of the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof.
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Men's
Women's
On Cloudhorizon 2 vs Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low
Price: $175
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 10.8 oz (men’s), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women’s)
Upper Material: Matryx textile reinforced with Kevlar yarn and a breathable lining
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX PFC-free membrane (waterproof and breathable)
Midsole Material: EnergyCell EVA (high-performance foam)
Outsole: Aggressive and grippy All Terrain Contagrip rubber
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low is our favorite hiking shoe for women and men, and while it’s also a lightweight hiking shoe, it feels more connected to the trail than the Cloudhorizon 2. The Salomon has a firmer, more precise underfoot feel, and in our testing, its traction outperformed the Cloudhorizon 2 on steeper, looser, and more uneven terrain. The Cloudhorizon 2 is softer, smoother, and more comfortable for mellow hikes, long walks, and trail-to-town wear, while the X Ultra 5 GTX is the better pick if you want more grip and ground feel and plan to tackle rougher trails.
Read more in our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX hiking shoes.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low
Men's
Women's
On Cloudhorizon 2 vs HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Price: $180
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 14.7 oz (men’s), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women’s)
Upper Material: Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate
Midsole Material: Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane)
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip rubber
The HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX is another max-cushioned low hiking shoe, but it feels more trail-focused than the Cloudhorizon 2. While the Cloudhorizon 2 is lighter, sleeker, and more casual, the Anacapa 2 Low GTX has a more substantial outsole, a more protective upper, and a more traditional hiking-shoe feel.
Read more in our in-depth review of the HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX hiking boots (we tested the mid version).
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX
Men's
Women's
On Cloudhorizon 2 vs Oboz Katabatic LT Low GORE-TEX
Price: $190
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 7.6 oz/669 g (men’s), 1 lb 4.6 oz/584 g (women’s)
Upper Material: 100% recycled polyester mesh with TPU Hotmelt Overlays, TPU-reinforced toe cap
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit (waterproof and breathable)
Midsole Material: ACT Energy cushioning system (compression-molded EVA)
Outsole: Trail Tread Eco outsole rubber
The Oboz Katabatic LT Low GORE-TEX is a lightweight, waterproof hiking shoe, and the better choice if you want less squish, more ground feel, and stronger stability on uneven terrain. The Cloudhorizon 2 is more cushioned and comfortable for long walking days, but the Katabatic feels more stable and supportive on rougher trails.
Read more in our in-depth review of the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GORE-TEX hiking shoes.
Oboz Katabatic LT Low GORE-TEX
Men's
Women's
Why you should trust us / About the Author
The On Cloudhorizon 2 has comfortable cushioning for long trail days.
I’ve spent the past decade testing outdoor gear and writing about it for publications including The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, REI Co-op Journal, Forbes Vetted, and The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, along with years of in-depth gear coverage here at Treeline. I’ve also written Treeline Review guides to the best women’s hiking shoes and best men’s hiking shoes.
Over that time, I’ve talked with many outdoor experts about what actually matters when choosing the right footwear. I've tested hiking shoes, water shoes, recovery shoes, hiking boots, trail runners, and winter boots across every season in the coastal mountains of British Columbia (and beyond). My goal is always the same: to provide honest, real-world insights so you can find the right gear that suits the way you enjoy the outdoors.
You can see all of Ebony’s Treeline Review stories on her Treeline author page.
