On Cloudrock Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe Review
An in-depth review of the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof: a low-cut hiker built for stability and protection
October 20th, 2025
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Our verdict
The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof hiking shoes are made for hikers who want structure, stability, and protection more than a soft, springy ride. They shine on technical day hikes, rocky trails, and wet coastal terrain, offering excellent heel security, plenty of support, and surprisingly grippy Missiongrip rubber.
We tested the On Cloudrock in Squamish, British Columbia, on a mix of dirt and rocky trails, where the shoe’s firm midsole and burlier build stood out. What sets the Cloudrock apart is how boot-like it feels for a low-cut shoe, delivering stability that most modern lightweight hikers can’t match.
The tradeoff is higher weight and a firmer ride. If you’re expecting On’s signature bounce, you won’t find it here.
Bottom line: this is a great pick for hikers who want a protective, structured shoe, but those seeking soft cushioning and all-day plushness may be happier in something lighter and more flexible.
For more of our favorite hiking shoes, check out our Best Men’s Hiking Shoes and Best Women’s Hiking Shoes guides.
Men's
Women's
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On Cloudrock Low Waterproof Specs
Price: $200
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 14.3 oz (men’s), 1 lb 7.4 oz (women’s)
Cushion level: Medium/Supportive
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Upper materials: 100% recycled polyester, with TPU mudguard and toe cap
Midsole material: Helion superfoam and Speedboard plate
Outsole material and lugs: Missiongrip rubber; short/square lugs, moderate spacing
Waterproof technology: On’s proprietary membrane
Available sizes: 7–14 (men’s), 5–11 (women’s)
Suitable for vegans: Yes; synthetic materials listed but not specially stated
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| On Cloudrock 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 |
| 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 |
| HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$220 | 2 lbs 2.3 oz (men's), 1 lb 11.8 oz (women's) | GORE-TEX | Leather and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit, recycled polyester | EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| Danner Trail 2650 Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 11 oz (men's), 1 lb 5 oz (women's) | Suede, textile | N/A (mesh) | Vibram 460 |
Best for
Technical day hikes on rocky, rooty, or uneven terrain where stability matters more than speed
Hikers who prefer a structured, supportive ride over soft cushioning
Wet, coastal, or shoulder-season conditions, thanks to the reliable waterproofing and sticky Missiongrip outsole
Hikers with average to slightly wide feet who want a secure fit with a locked down heel
Side profile of the women’s On Cloudrock. Photo by Steve Redmond
What we liked
More structure than most low-cut synthetic hikers, which makes them supportive and stable underfoot
Durable construction will have them lasting for many trail miles
Reliable waterproofing keeps feet dry during rainy hikes and creek crossings
Boot-like protection in a low-cut shoe, without committing to a full hiking boot
What could be better
The stiff midsole and firm underfoot feel prioritize stability over cushion—a surprise if you’re used to On’s signature plush ride
A bit heavy and clunky for mellow trails
Pricey for a low-cut hiking shoe
How we tested
We tested the men’s and women’s On Cloudrock Low Waterproof hiking shoes in Squamish, B.C., on everything from coastal paths to rocky ridgelines and root-covered forest trails. Conditions ranged from damp spring mornings and wet grass to dry, hardpacked dirt and loose rock.
For context, I wore the On Cloudrock alongside several other lightweight hiking shoes—including the On Cloudhorizon, Merrell Moab Speed 2, Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, and Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX—to compare cushioning, traction, durability, comfort, water resistance, and overall trail feel. Testing included both casual day hikes and more technical routes with elevation gain and loose rock.
The stable and supportive On Cloudrock on the left, next to the much cushier and trail-runner-like On Cloudhorizon on the right. Photo by Steve Redmond
Performance in the field
Fit and sizing
Our men’s and women’s testers found that the On Cloudrock fits true to size overall. I typically fall between a women’s 7.5 and 8, and tested a size 7.5. The fit was secure and didn’t feel too short, but given my wide, high-volume feet, I may prefer the extra room of the size 8, especially with feet swelling on hot days. The toe box has a fairly standard shape: not especially roomy, but not tapered either, so most foot types should find it comfortable.
Our men’s tester, who has average-width feet and is usually between sizes 11.5 and 12, found his size 11.5 to be spot on, with no pressure points or slipping.
Compared to softer On models we’ve tested like the Cloudhorizon, the Cloudrock feels noticeably firmer underfoot. If you’re expecting the cushy, springy sensation typical of On’s road and trail running shoes, this is a different experience. Though it’s more structured and supportive, there is still almost no break-in required.
Comfort and support
After testing the On Cloudhorizon waterproof hiking shoes (read about them in our Best Hiking Shoes for Men and Best Hiking Shoes for Women guides), we were ready for the bounce that On is known for, but the Cloudrock doesn’t have that feel.
The cushioning here is firm and dense, giving a much more grounded, boot-like sensation underfoot. It dampens impact well, but doesn’t rebound or spring the way the Cloudhorizon does. That’s partly due to the shoe’s CloudTec midsole, which uses On’s signature hollow pods for impact absorption, paired with a TPU Speedboard plate that adds structure and limits flex. The result leans more toward stable and steady rather than plush and bouncy. (Side note: debris can enter the open holes on the outsole, but we never found that to cause an issue.)
Because it’s a low-cut shoe, you don’t get rigid ankle locking, but with the firm heel counter and structured upper, you still feel secure in the heel without any side-to-side wobble. The Cloudrock provides enough flexion in the ankles for a normal gait, but with a nice sense of control you don’t always get from a low-cut hiking shoe.
For all-day wear, they’re OK, but they don’t have the same easy, cushy feel as shoes built more like trail runners. These aren’t shoes we reach for if we’re running errands. We didn’t get hot spots, and the tongue and collar padding was comfortable without feeling bulky. That said, in hotter conditions, the waterproof upper shows its limits: we noted that our feet felt warm after hoofing in the heat.
The arch support is moderate, and for most foot shapes, it should feel solid without pushing up too much. If you prefer stronger arch lift, the shoe’s removable insole allows you to swap in a higher-support insert.
We experienced zero rubbing, pinching, or pressure zones during our test hikes. The ankle was a bit stiff early on, but quickly softened and never became bothersome.
The Cloudrock has On’s signature sole style, but it’s a lot more stiff than other On shoes we’ve worn. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Traction and grip
I tested the On Cloudrock on some of Squamish’s most well-traveled trails, where slick roots, slabs, and packed dirt are the norm. In wet coastal conditions—think mossy boulders and rain-soaked boardwalks—the Missiongrip outsole held impressively well. The short, square lugs gave stable ground contact on rock, while the rubber compound felt reliably sticky without that feeling like you need to tread carefully.
Even on those steep descents that mix loose rock and wet forest floor, we felt in control of our footing. It’s not Vibram Megagrip, but for a proprietary outsole, Missiongrip performs better than expected and gives you the kind of confidence you want when making your way down a slippery trail section.
The Missiongrip outsole on the Cloudrock. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Waterproofing and breathability
The waterproof membrane performed well in testing—our two-minute river dunk kept feet completely dry with no water seeping through the upper. Breathability is solid for a waterproof shoe in typical coastal conditions, but on hot, dry days we noticed our feet warming up inside. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but for mid-summer hikes we’d likely reach for something lighter and more breathable.
The heavier, textured upper also means these take longer to dry than many synthetic hikers once wet, so they’re best suited for cooler, wetter conditions rather than scorching summer days.
If you don’t plan to hike in wet conditions often, we recommend going with the non-waterproof version (available in women’s and men’s sizes).
On’s signature “cloud” outsole sits below a burly upper. Photo by Steve Redmond
Durability and construction
From the first look and feel, the On Cloudrock stands out as a well-built and solid shoe. The upper is made from a dense, textured, recycled polyester that feels substantial in hand, with a full TPU rand wrapping all the way around the shoe for extra protection in high-abrasion zones. It’s a detail that sets it apart from many synthetic hikers, especially for rocky, rooty terrain where scuffs are inevitable.
There are also TPU reinforcements at the lower eyelets to reduce wear from lacing tension. It’s a nice touch, but we’ll be keeping an eye on these over time since they’re potential stress points, especially with thicker laces. The padded collar is well built and gusseted right to the top, helping keep debris out while adding structure around the ankle.
The TPU rand runs all the way around the Cloudrock for added protection. Photo by Ebony Roberts
The midsole feels dense and supportive, and based on testing so far, it should hold its shape well over many miles without packing out quickly. The outsole rubber is equally solid, showing only light wear after mixed trail use.
One downside to the upper material is its texture. The “Mineral” color we tested (a light green) made it very clear how easily dirt clings to the fabric. Unlike sleeker, smoother materials that can be wiped clean, this fabric picks up trail grime quickly and shows it. Within an hour of testing, I had visible dirt spots that are hard to wipe off. This wasn’t an issue on our men’s tester’s darker colored shoes. If you like your hikers looking fresh, darker colorways are the better choice.
The texture on the Cloudrock’s upper does make it easier for dirt to stick. Photo by Steve Redmond
Weight and packability
With a listed weight of 15.2 ounces per men’s shoe and 12.3 ounces per women’s shoe, the On Cloudrock sits on the heavier end of the spectrum for a synthetic low-cut hiker. For comparison, the Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX and the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX are much lighter, and many trail-runner-inspired models are lighter still.
That extra weight is noticeable, not in a fatiguing way, but in the shoe’s overall personality. The denser midsole, full rand, and structured heel give the Cloudrock a more deliberate, boot-like feel than a lightweight day hiker. On mellow trails, this can feel like overkill, but on rocky or uneven ground, the added stability is a plus.
They’re not especially packable—the stiff heel counter and firm midsole don’t compress much, so they’ll take up more space in a pack than a softer, more flexible shoe. This isn’t the pair you’d throw in your pack as a “just in case” backup, but for primary trail use, the tradeoff makes sense.
Features
Lacing system
Round, slightly thick laces run through standard eyelet layout and an elastic lace keeper tucks ends away neatly. They cinch securely but can feel a bit bulky through the lower eyelets. As noted, we are keeping our eye on the longevity of the TPU overlays on the bottom eyelets.
Heel cup and ankle collar
A firm heel cup locks the foot in place, while the padded, gusseted collar adds structure and keeps out debris without feeling overly bulky.
Toe cap protection
We were impressed by the On Cloudrock’s protection for a synthetic low-cut shoe. A sturdy rubber toe cap and full TPU rand provide solid protection from rocks and roots.
A hearty toe cap offers great protection on the Cloudrock. Photo by Steve Redmond
Reflective elements
Subtle reflective hits integrated into the upper—a reflective branded logo on the tongue and thin strip running up the back—offer a bit of low-light visibility. If you’ll be hiking in the dark, check out our Best Headlamps guide. You can also find more be-seen solutions in our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
Style and colorways
Like most On shoes, the Cloudrock leans sleek and modern, with muted, outdoorsy colors. We tested the women’s “Mineral” (light green) version, which looks sharp but shows dirt quickly.
As usual, the men’s colors win. Our tester’s brownish-green “Hunter” color with black accents looks sharp, with an all-black outsole and TPU rand that makes it look like the shoe is dipped in paint. It’s a clean, modern look that’s a lot more fashion forward.
Our testers were fans of the dipped look on the men’s version of the Cloudrock. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Sustainability notes
The upper on the On Cloudrock is made from 100% 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.
Similar Products
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Price: $170
Weight: 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's)
Upper materials: Synthetic/textile
Midsole material: EnergyCell
Outsole material and lugs: All Terrain Contragrip rubber
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX
Compared to the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, the On Cloudrock feels heavier and more structured, with a firmer midsole and a boot-like sense of stability. The Salomon is the more well-rounded, all-terrain option. It’s lighter underfoot, a bit more forgiving over long days, and better suited to a wider range of hiking styles. The Cloudrock, on the other hand, offers more underfoot protection and a sturdier platform, making it the better pick for rougher, more technical terrain, or someone who wants a very locked-in and boot-like feel.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
men's
Women's
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
Price: $200
Weight: 1 lb 9.2 oz (men's), 1 lb 3.7 oz (women's)
Upper materials: Recycled polyester
Midsole material: EVA/Helion superfoam
Outsole material and lugs: Missiongrip rubber
Waterproof technology: On’s proprietary membrane
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof sits at the opposite end of the spectrum from the On Cloudrock: it’s much lighter, more flexible, and built with On’s signature bouncy cushioning. It feels more like a trail runner than a hiker, excelling on mellow trails, travel days, and casual hikes. Compared to that, the Cloudrock trades softness and agility for structure, protection, and stability, making it better suited to challenging terrain where a firmer, more supportive feel matters.
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
Men's
Women's
Who should buy the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof hiking shoes?
Buy if you want a low-cut hiking shoe with the stability and protection of a boot. The On Cloudrock is ideal for hikers tackling technical day hikes or wet and rocky trails. It’s for the person who values structure, support, and a secure fit over plush cushioning. It’s a great match for anyone who prefers a firm, grounded ride and appreciates durable construction that can handle rough use.
Skip if you’re after a lightweight, highly cushioned shoe for hot summer hikes or fast-moving days on mellow terrain. The On Cloudrock runs firmer and heavier than many of its trail-runner-inspired competitors, and its waterproof upper can run warm in hot, dry conditions. If weight, breathability, or a “cloud-like” feel are top priorities, there are better options.
Where to buy
The On Cloudrock Low 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.
Backcountry
Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent
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 stories on her author page.
