On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes Review
An in-depth review of an ultra-comfortable, lightweight hiking shoe for day hikes, travel, and everyday wear
November 19th, 2025
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Our verdict
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof is one of the most comfortable hiking shoes we’ve tested— plush, responsive, and versatile enough to wear everywhere from city streets to light mountain trails.
With over a year of use in the women’s and men’s for cross-training, trail running, and day hiking, it’s shown just how adaptable it is. The CloudTec Phase midsole and Helion superfoam deliver that signature smooth, shock-absorbing “walking on clouds” feel On is known for. Fully waterproof yet still breathable, they’ve been one of our everyday go-tos in the Pacific Northwest’s rainy months.
This hiking shoe is built for hikers and everyday adventurers who want maximum cushion in a lightweight package, not those tackling technical terrain. The protection is mild compared to more built-up traditional hiking shoes, and the soft midsole and shallow lugs prioritize comfort over control. So, it’s not ideal for steep, rocky routes or carrying heavy packs—for that, we think the more robust On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is the better pick from On’s lineup.
But for day hikers, travelers, and anyone seeking a versatile, do-it-all waterproof shoe, the Cloudhorizon Waterproof is an easy pick as a stylish, cushioned hiker that blurs the line between trail performance and everyday wear.
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
men's
Women's
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On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Specifications
Price: $200
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 4 oz (women’s); 1 lb 9 oz (men’s)
Cushion level: Maximum
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 6 mm
Upper materials: Vamp (92% recycled polyester, 8% elastane); quarter panels (100% recycled polyester with 100% polyamide hot melt overlay); tongue and collar lining (100% recycled polyester)
Midsole material: CloudTec Phase technology plus Helion superforam
Outsole material and lugs: MissionGrip rubber outsole with approx. 3mm lugs
Waterproof technology: On’s proprietary 3-layer waterproof/breathable membrane
Available sizes: 5- 11 (women’s); 7- 14 (men’s)
Suitable for vegans: Yes, synthetic build but “vegan-friendly” not explicitly stated
Comparison table
| HIKING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Men's Women's |
$200 | 1 lb 9.2 oz (men's), 1 lb 3.7 oz (women's) | Recycled polyester | On’s proprietary membrane | EVA/Helion superfoam | 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 |
$170 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | Synthetic/textile | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contragrip 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) | Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate | Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| Oboz Hyalite Low Waterproof Men's Women's |
$155 | 1 lb 15.8 oz (men’s), 1 lb 9.4 (women’s) | Suede and nubuck leather | Oboz B-DRY | ACT EVA cushioning | Trail Tread rubber |
Best for
The On Cloudhorizon is a comfortable and capable everyday hiking shoe. Photo by Steve Redmond
Day hikers, travelers, and urban explorers who want a cushioned, waterproof shoe for light to moderate terrain
Comfort-first hikers who value a plush feel underfoot over rigid support
Neutral to slightly wide feet that prefer a forgiving, easy fit rather than a locked-in hold
Anyone who wants a stylish, wear-anywhere hiking shoe that moves effortlessly from city to trail
What we liked
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof has a modern, minimalist look. Photo by Steve Redmond
Exceptionally comfortable, with soft, springy cushioning that makes long days on your feet feel effortless
Lightweight and versatile, performing equally well for day hikes, travel, and everyday wear
Smooth, rolling stride from the CloudTec Phase midsole and Helion superfoam, which help reduce fatigue on hard surfaces
Stylish, modern design that transitions easily from trail to town without feeling like a traditional hiking shoe
What could be better
Stability is lacking on technical terrain
Dirt and debris can collect in the sole’s air pockets
Soft, bouncy sole will wear down faster than firmer-soled hiking shoes
If the outsoles are wet, they will squeak on hard, polished surfaces (AKA most indoor places)
How we tested
Testing the On Cloudhorizon on trails around Squamish and Vancouver, BC. Photo by Ebony Roberts
We tested both the men’s and women’s On Cloudhorizon Waterproof over the course of a full year, covering many of the same wet, coastal Squamish, British Columbia trails we’ve used as testing grounds for our in-depth guides to the Best Women’s Hiking Shoes and the Best Men’s Hiking Shoes. Between us, they’ve been worn primarily for light to moderate hikes, multiple travel trips, trail runs, dog walks, cross-training, and daily errands, as well as long travel days where comfort really matters.
We compared them directly with other cushioned waterproof hikers in our rotation—including the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX, Salomon XA Pro 3D V9 GTX, and On Cloudrock Low Waterproof—to gauge comfort, traction, long-term durability, and performance in the field. This extended wear testing in both men’s and women’s models has given us an understanding of how the Cloudhorizon performs across terrains, climates, and daily life.
Performance in the field
Running-style lacing and a low-cut collar make them feel instantly comfortable. Photo by Steve Redmond
Fit and sizing
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof fits true to size, and much like a trail runner or everyday sneaker, feels comfortable straight out of the box, with no break-in required. The fit leans medium through the midfoot with a roomy toe box that lets your toes splay naturally without feeling sloppy.
Both testers stuck with their usual size and found a secure heel hold. Those with wider feet may find it slightly snug on steeper trails, as the upper is designed more for comfort than that locked-in fit you’ll get in a more performance-oriented technical hiking shoe (like the La Sportiva Spire Low GTX).
The shoe isn’t offered in wide versions, but the flexible upper does accommodate a variety of foot shapes comfortably. Overall, we think most people will find the snug yet forgiving fit deal for all-day wear.
Comfort and support
On is known for making exceptionally cushioned footwear, and the Cloudhorizon is its most cushioned hiking shoe, built for plush comfort and smooth transitions rather than rigid stability. The CloudTec Phase midsole features a series of hollow “clouds” that compress independently with each step, absorbing impact and creating a soft, rolling stride. Paired with Helion superfoam, it delivers excellent shock absorption and rebound that keeps your legs feeling fresh, even after long days on hard terrain.
That said, all that softness comes at a cost: the shoe’s low-profile design and flexible midsole don’t offer much in the way of structure or lateral stability. It’s easy on the joints and great for recovery days or mellow trails, but less confidence-inspiring on uneven ground.
The arch support sits in the neutral to moderate range, and both testers experienced zero hot spots or pressure points, even straight out of the box. We think this is a great hiking shoe for folks who value cushioning over control, but if a solid, planted feel is more your speed, the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is a more suitable pick.
Traction and grip
On categorizes its shoes by traction level—moderate terrain, all terrain, and technical terrain—and the Cloudhorizon Waterproof falls into the most casual “moderate terrain” tier (for reference, the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is rated for all terrain). That distinction shows on the trail.
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof uses the brand’s Missiongrip rubber outsole with low-profile, square-shaped lugs that feels stable and consistent on dry dirt, gravel paths, and well-maintained hiking trails. That said, the shallow lug depth limits its bite, and the grip starts to slip on mud, slick or loose rock, or steep grades, where burlier outsoles like those on the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX perform better.
The outsole is durable enough for hundreds of mellow trail miles without much visible wear, but it’s clearly tuned for comfort and efficiency over aggression and control. For urban-to-trail hikers and casual day trekkers, the balance of traction and smooth ride is right where it should be.
It’s also worth noting that when you head indoors after being out in the rain—say, into a grocery store or coffee shop—the shoes have a definite squeak on smooth floors (one that can be embarrassingly loud at times).
Waterproofing and breathability
Low-profile lugs keep the ride smooth but don’t dig in on loose gravel. Photo by Ebony Roberts
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof uses the brand’s proprietary three-layer waterproof membrane paired with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, and it performed impressively well in the wet coastal conditions we tested in. Through repeated hikes in rain, puddles, and damp trails, water beads off the slick upper material, and the interior stays dry even after prolonged exposure. It easily handles steady rain and wet grass—just don’t expect full protection in deep water since the low-cut collar and non-gusseted tongue allow water to enter from above.
Despite the waterproofing, the shoe still breathes. The mesh upper allows heat and moisture to escape, keeping feet comfortable during long days or warmer weather hikes (we felt totally comfortable hiking in the Cloudhorizon in mid-summer temps).
Drying time is reasonable for a waterproof shoe—overnight in most cases—which makes it practical for daily wear and quick turnarounds between outings.
Durability and construction
For a waterproof shoe, the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes breathe well on warmer hikes. Photo by Steve Redmond
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof is built with a lightweight yet sturdy upper made primarily from recycled polyester with a polyamide hot melt overlay (a thin, heat-bonded layer that adds structure and protection) along the sides and heel. This design boosts durability and water resistance without adding unnecessary weight or bulky stitching. The overall construction feels high quality and well finished, with no signs of separation or material breakdown after extended wear.
Underfoot, the CloudTec Phase midsole and Helion superfoam have shown impressive longevity, maintaining their cushioning and shape even after months of mixed use on trails, pavement, and daily walks.
The Missiongrip rubber outsole holds up well to consistent wear, though the shallow lugs are better suited to moderate terrain than rough, rocky trails. For city-to-trail use and everyday adventures, we think the expected lifespan is strong for a comfort-focused hiker.
Weight and packability
Over a year of wear—and still holding their shape. Photo by Ebony Roberts
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof weighs 9.9 oz per women’s shoe and 11.8 oz per men’s shoe, making it the lightest waterproof hiking shoe we’ve tested in our guides to the Best Women’s Hiking Shoes and the Best Men’s Hiking Shoes.
On foot, it feels more like a cushioned trail running shoe than a traditional hiker. It’s light, smooth, and effortless to wear all day. That low weight makes it ideal not only for day hikes and mixed terrain, but also as a crossover travel shoe you can wear comfortably on planes, city streets, and trails without packing multiple pairs.
While more noticeably lighter than most waterproof models, like the HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX (12.4 oz per women’s shoe), it trades structure and support for its soft, flexible build. For those who value comfort and versatility over rigidity, the Cloudhorizon is a standout.
Features
The lightweight build makes the On Cloudhorizon easy to pack for travel. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Lacing system
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof uses a lacing system similar to what you’d find on a running shoe, offering a familiar, easy-to-adjust fit. The flat laces cinch evenly across the top of the foot for a secure hold without pressure points, and they stay tied tight.
Though, after a year of consistent wear, the tension across the bottom lace loops has created some creasing and wrinkling on the upper fabric. It hasn’t affected performance or comfort, but does give the shoe a more worn-in look.
The lace tension on the bottom loop has created faint creases on the upper. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Heel cup and ankle collar
The heel and ankle feel more sneaker-like than structured, with soft padding that wraps comfortably without rubbing or pinching. The collar allows natural movement and flexibility while still keeping the heel secure on uneven ground. It doesn’t block out trail debris like a tighter, suction-style collar (like that on the HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX), but the trade-off is a much more forgiving fit and all-day comfort.
Toe cap protection
The rubber toe cap offers mild protection against bumps and roots but isn’t built for aggressive or rocky terrain. It guards well enough on maintained trails and light rocky scrambles but doesn’t have the reinforced durability of a full hiking boot.
Style and colorways
On makes shoes and apparel with a modern aesthetic and the Cloudhorizon Waterproof is no different. The clean, athletic silhouette pairs just as easily with jeans as it does with hiking gear. The color lineup is a mix of contemporary tones and muted neutrals. And, refreshingly, the women’s options are every bit as appealing as the men’s.
Streamlined, modern styling that pairs just as well with jeans as hiking pants. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Sustainability notes
The Cloudhorizon’s upper is made from mostly recycled materials, including a vamp made from 92% recycled polyester (plus 8% elastane), quarter panels with 100% recycled polyester (along with hot melt overlays for added durability and support), and a tongue and collar lining made entirely from recycled polyester
One notable way that On supports sustainability efforts is through their take-back program Onward, where customers can send in their gently used On shoes for a $30 credit towards new On gear. If you’re interested in how the brand is living up to their sustainability claims, you can read On’s 2024 Impact Report.
Who should buy the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
Great for all-day comfort, not built for full-pack adventures. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Buy if you want a lightweight, waterproof hiking shoe that feels more like a cushioned running shoe than a traditional hiker. It’s ideal for day hikers, commuters, and travelers who value style and comfort over rigid support. If your hikes lean toward well-maintained trails, city paths, and mixed conditions, this shoe hits that perfect blend of versatility and easygoing performance.
Skip if you plan to tackle steep, rocky, or technical terrain, or often hike with a heavy pack. If you need more stability, the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is a better fit.
Where to buy
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof 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.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Similar products
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Price: $200
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s)
Upper materials: Recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap
Midsole material: Helion superfoam, Speedboard plate
Outsole material: Missiongrip rubber
Waterproof technology: On’s proprietary membrane
The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof delivers a sturdier hiking shoe feel with a thick Helion superfoam midsole, a rigid X-shaped Speedboard for underfoot support, and a Missiongrip outsole built for mixed terrain (a slight bump up from the On Cloudhorizon).
In contrast, the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof leans more toward a cushioned, travel and trail hybrid. Its softer mesh upper and roomy fit cater to comfort first, though the lighter lug pattern trades some trail-tech stability for everyday wearability. If you’re looking for performance on uneven ground and value structure and grip, go Cloudrock; if you prefer maximum cushioning and multi-purpose versatility, the Cloudhorizon fits the bill.
On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
men's
Women's
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Price: $170
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's)
Upper materials: Synthetic/textile
Midsole material: EnergyCell
Outsole material: All Terrain Contragrip rubber
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a capable all-around hiking shoe that we love. Where the Cloudhorizon prioritizes plush cushioning and a soft, forgiving feel, the X Ultra 5 is built for precision, control, and confidence on everything from day hikes to technical terrain. Its firmer midsole, stiffer chassis, and locked-in heel create a noticeably more stable platform on steep, rocky trails (which is exactly where the Cloudhorizon starts to feel out of its depth).
Salomon’s Contagrip outsole also delivers far more bite, especially in wet conditions or on uneven terrain, making the X Ultra 5 the stronger choice for rugged hikes, heavier packs, or long days on trail. If you want a cushioned hiker you can also wear everyday, stick with the Cloudhorizon; if you need control, support, and all-condition grip, the X Ultra 5 is the better pick.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
men's
Women's
Why you should trust us / About the Author
I’ve spent nearly a decade testing and reviewing outdoor gear for leading publications including Treeline Review, The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, REI Co-op, and Forbes Vetted. I’ve interviewed dozens of industry experts over the years, and hiked in 50+ pairs of hiking shoes and boots, logging plenty of trail miles in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I understand that there’s no one best pair of hiking shoes for everybody, but there is the best pair for you, and I’m here to help you find it.
You can see all of Ebony’s Treeline Review stories on her author page.
