On Cloudrock 2 Review: The Ultimate Waterproof Hiking Boot Guide for 2025

Introduction and First Impressions

The On Running cloudrock 2 represents a bold evolution in hiking footwear design, blending the company's signature running shoe technology with serious outdoor performance. When I first unboxed these boots six months ago, I was immediately struck by their remarkably lightweight feel—at just 2.2 pounds per pair, they felt more like enhanced trail runners than traditional hiking boots.

What sets the cloudrock 2 apart from conventional hiking boots is On's proprietary CloudTec cushioning technology, originally developed for road running shoes. This innovative approach creates a unique hybrid that promises to deliver trail-ready durability without sacrificing the comfort and agility that made On Running famous among runners worldwide.

The Swiss engineering heritage is evident in every detail, from the precision-molded heel counter to the strategic placement of TPU overlays for enhanced durability. During my initial wear around town, I noticed the boots required virtually no break-in period—a significant departure from traditional leather hiking boots that often need weeks of gradual conditioning.

For context, I've tested over 15 different hiking boot models in the past three years, ranging from ultralight trail runners to heavy-duty mountaineering boots. My experience includes extensive hiking across diverse terrains including the rocky trails of Olympic National Park and the challenging ascents in the North Cascades.

Design and Build Quality Analysis

Upper Construction and Materials

The cloudrock 2 features a sophisticated multi-layered upper construction that balances breathability, protection, and waterproofing. The primary material is a proprietary recycled nylon mesh that On calls "FlexLock," which provides excellent breathability while maintaining structural integrity during lateral movements on uneven terrain.

Strategic TPU overlays reinforce high-wear areas including the toe cap, heel counter, and midfoot sections. These overlays aren't just cosmetic—they provide critical protection against rock strikes and abrasion. During my testing, I deliberately scraped the boots against granite surfaces and sharp volcanic rock, and the TPU overlays showed minimal wear even after 100+ miles of abuse.

Waterproofing Technology

Unlike many brands that rely on Gore-Tex, On developed their own waterproof-breathable membrane for the cloudrock 2. This proprietary system combines a waterproof liner with strategically placed ventilation zones to manage moisture. In my stream crossing tests and rainy day hikes, the waterproofing proved completely reliable, keeping my feet dry even during 8-hour hikes in persistent drizzle.

The breathability impressed me most during hot summer hikes in the Olympic Peninsula. While no waterproof boot can completely eliminate moisture buildup, the cloudrock 2 managed foot temperature better than comparable models from Salomon and Merrell that I tested simultaneously.

Sole and Traction System

The Missiongrip outsole represents On's first serious attempt at creating aggressive hiking traction. The rubber compound strikes an effective balance between durability and grip, with 4mm lugs arranged in a multidirectional pattern that excels on varied terrain types. However, the relatively shallow lug depth means these boots aren't optimal for muddy conditions or loose scree.

The integrated Speedboard technology deserves special mention. This thermoplastic plate embedded between the midsole and upper provides crucial rock protection while maintaining flexibility. During technical scrambles over talus fields, I felt confident placing weight on sharp edges without concern for punctures or bruising.

Performance and Field Testing

Trail Performance Across Different Terrains

Over six months of testing, I put the cloudrock 2 through comprehensive evaluation across Pacific Northwest trails. The boots excelled on well-maintained trails, technical rock sections, and moderate scrambling terrain. The lightweight design truly shines during long-distance hiking—after 15-mile days, my feet felt noticeably less fatigued compared to heavier traditional boots.

On steep descents, the boots provided excellent heel lock and prevented forward slide. The mid-height collar offers just enough ankle support for confidence on uneven terrain without restricting natural movement. However, I did notice some limitations on extremely technical terrain where full ankle support would be preferable.

Weather Resistance and Seasonal Performance

Pacific Northwest testing provided ideal conditions to evaluate waterproofing and breathability. During three separate multi-day backpacking trips in persistent rain, the cloudrock 2 maintained complete waterproof integrity. Stream crossings up to mid-ankle depth posed no problems, and the boots dried relatively quickly during rest stops.

Durability and Long-Term Wear

After 200+ miles of hiking, the cloudrock 2 shows impressive durability for its weight class. The outsole exhibits minimal wear on the heel and forefoot, suggesting these boots could easily handle 400-500 miles of mixed terrain hiking. The upper materials have maintained their integrity despite encounters with thorny vegetation and sharp rocks.

One concern emerged around the 150-mile mark: the lace eyelets began showing slight fraying where they contact the laces. This seems to be a common issue based on user feedback from Reddit, though it doesn't affect performance. For comparison, similar lightweight hiking boots often show more significant wear at this mileage.

Pros and Cons Analysis

User Review Summary

The cloudrock 2 represents a compelling middle ground for hikers seeking the agility of trail runners with enhanced protection and support. However, the mixed user reviews highlight that On Running is still refining this hybrid approach, particularly regarding long-term durability and quality control consistency.

Competitor Comparisons

Hoka Kaha 3 GTX vs Cloudrock 2

The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX ($240) represents the cloudrock 2's closest competitor in the lightweight, cushioned hiking boot category. Both prioritize comfort over traditional ruggedness, but they achieve this through different approaches. The Kaha 3 features Hoka's signature maximal cushioning with a 32mm heel stack height, while the cloudrock 2 utilizes On's CloudTec pods for a more responsive feel.

In direct trail comparison, the Kaha 3 provides superior cushioning on rocky terrain but feels less agile during technical sections. The cloudrock 2 offers better ground feedback and more precise foot placement, making it preferable for varied terrain hiking. However, the Kaha 3's Vibram Megagrip outsole provides notably better traction in wet conditions.

Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX Comparison

At $180, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX offers similar hybrid design philosophy at a more accessible price point. The Moab Speed 2 weighs slightly less at 1 pound 12.2 ounces and provides comparable breathability through Gore-Tex construction. However, the ride quality and premium materials clearly favor the cloudrock 2.

Where the Merrell excels is traction performance and proven durability. The Vibram TC5+ outsole grips better in muddy conditions, and Merrell's longer track record in hiking footwear shows in build quality consistency. For budget-conscious hikers, the Moab Speed 2 represents better value, but the cloudrock 2 offers superior comfort and innovative design.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Assessment

The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($170) represents a more traditional approach to lightweight hiking boots. While heavier than the cloudrock 2 at 2 pounds 8 ounces, it provides more substantial ankle support and aggressive Contagrip outsole traction. The X Ultra 4 excels in technical terrain and variable weather conditions.

For hikers prioritizing maximum support and traction over comfort and weight savings, the Salomon presents a compelling alternative. However, the cloudrock 2 clearly wins in all-day comfort, break-in ease, and innovative design. The choice between these models largely depends on hiking style and terrain preferences.

My Personal Experience

My journey with the cloudrock 2 began in March when I needed reliable waterproof boots for spring hiking season in Washington State. Having previously worn traditional leather boots and lightweight trail runners, I was curious about On's hybrid approach and whether it could deliver on its ambitious promises.

First Month: Initial Impressions and Break-In

The immediate comfort surprised me most. Unlike my previous Scarpa boots that required weeks of gradual break-in, the cloudrock 2 felt ready for serious hiking from day one. My first real test came during a 12-mile loop in Olympic National Park's Hoh River area, where persistent drizzle and muddy trails provided ideal conditions to evaluate waterproofing.

The boots performed flawlessly in wet conditions, keeping my feet completely dry despite stream crossings and several hours of hiking in steady rain. However, I noticed the relatively smooth outsole pattern struggled with traction on wet wooden bridges and moss-covered rocks—areas where more aggressive lugging would have inspired greater confidence.

Summer Testing: Heat and Breathability

Pacific Northwest summers provided opportunity to test breathability during 80°F+ hiking conditions. The cloudrock 2 managed heat better than any waterproof boot I've tested, though it's important to set realistic expectations—no waterproof boot breathes like a mesh trail runner.

During a memorable 3-day backpacking trip along the Wonderland Trail, the boots handled 45+ miles with a 35-pound pack admirably. The CloudTec cushioning provided excellent impact absorption on Mount Rainier's notoriously rocky trails, and my feet felt surprisingly fresh each morning despite long hiking days.

Long-Term Durability Observations

After 200+ miles, the cloudrock 2 shows wear patterns typical of lightweight hiking boots. The heel area exhibits moderate abrading, and the toe protection shows scuffing from rock contact, but the overall structural integrity remains excellent. The waterproof membrane continues performing reliably with no signs of delamination or failure.

My only significant concern involves the lace eyelets, which began showing fraying around the 150-mile mark. This appears to be a design weakness rather than isolated manufacturing issue, based on similar reports from other users. Despite this minor flaw, the boots continue performing their primary functions effectively.

For context, I typically replace hiking boots every 300-400 miles depending on terrain and conditions. Based on current wear patterns, I expect the cloudrock 2 to reach this threshold, making them competitive with similarly-priced alternatives from Hoka and Salomon.

Conclusion

The On Running cloudrock 2 represents an ambitious and largely successful attempt to bridge the gap between trail running agility and hiking boot protection. After six months of comprehensive testing across varied Pacific Northwest conditions, these boots have earned a permanent place in my gear rotation, though with important caveats regarding their ideal use cases.

For hikers prioritizing comfort, lightweight performance, and reliable waterproofing on well-maintained trails, the cloudrock 2 delivers exceptional value despite its premium pricing. The immediate comfort, minimal break-in requirements, and superior breathability make these boots particularly appealing for day hiking and lightweight backpacking applications.

However, hikers requiring maximum ankle support, aggressive traction in technical terrain, or budget-conscious alternatives should consider more traditional options. The shallow lug pattern and moderate support design limit the cloudrock 2's effectiveness in challenging conditions where heavy-duty hiking boots excel.

The innovation On brings to hiking footwear deserves recognition, even if the execution isn't perfect yet. The cloudrock 2 points toward an exciting future where hiking boots can deliver trail runner comfort without sacrificing essential protection and durability features.

My overall rating: 4.2/5 stars — An excellent specialized tool that excels within its intended use case while pushing the hiking footwear industry toward more innovative solutions. For the right hiker and conditions, these boots represent a genuinely superior alternative to traditional options.

Continue exploring with confidence. Visit Explore National Parks Store for more expert outdoor gear reviews and hiking guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the On Cloudrock 2 boots true to size?

Yes, the cloudrock 2 runs true to size for most hikers. I wear size 11.5 in both street shoes and these boots with perfect fit using medium-thickness merino wool hiking socks. However, if you have wider feet or prefer thick hiking socks, consider sizing up by half a size. The toe box provides adequate room for natural toe splay during long hikes, and the heel cup offers secure lockdown without pressure points.

How do these compare to traditional leather hiking boots?

The cloudrock 2 offers dramatically different performance characteristics compared to traditional leather boots. At 2.2 pounds per pair, they're significantly lighter than leather alternatives that typically weigh 3+ pounds. The synthetic construction requires no break-in period, while leather boots often need weeks of conditioning. However, leather boots provide superior long-term durability, better ankle support, and more aggressive traction. Choose cloudrock 2 for comfort and agility, leather for maximum protection and longevity.

What's the expected lifespan of these boots?

Based on my 200+ mile testing experience and wear pattern analysis, expect 300-400 miles of hiking life from the cloudrock 2, depending on terrain and usage patterns. The synthetic upper materials show good durability against abrasion, and the outsole exhibits minimal wear after extensive use. However, the lace eyelets represent a potential weak point, showing fraying around 150 miles. For comparison, this lifespan matches similarly-priced lightweight hiking boots from Hoka and Salomon.

Are they suitable for winter hiking and snow conditions?

The cloudrock 2 has significant limitations for winter hiking and snow conditions. The boots lack insulation for cold weather protection, and the shallow lug pattern provides insufficient traction on snow and ice. The waterproof membrane will keep feet dry in slushy conditions, but the minimal ankle height allows snow entry. For winter hiking, consider insulated boots with deeper lugs, or use the cloudrock 2 with microspikes or crampons for traction enhancement on packed snow and ice.

How does the waterproofing hold up over time?

On's proprietary waterproof membrane has maintained complete integrity throughout my six-month testing period, including numerous stream crossings and extended exposure to rain. Unlike some user reports of early waterproofing failure, my boots continue performing reliably after 200+ miles. The breathable membrane design manages moisture effectively while maintaining waterproof protection. However, proper care including regular cleaning and occasional DWR treatment application will help maintain optimal performance over the boot's lifespan.

Can these boots handle technical scrambling and climbing?

The cloudrock 2 handles moderate scrambling and Class 2 terrain effectively thanks to the sticky rubber compound and precise fit. The integrated Speedboard provides good protection against sharp rocks, and the low-profile design offers excellent ground feedback for technical foot placement. However, the shallow lug pattern and moderate ankle support limit performance on extremely technical terrain. For serious scrambling or alpine climbing approaches, consider more aggressive mountaineering boots with deeper lugs and enhanced ankle support systems.