From Sidewalks to Switchbacks: On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes Review

I’m a recovering road runner. Over 2 decades ago, I caught the trail bug and haven’t looked back. But, recently, I’ve been hiking a lot more than running, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I laced up my first pair of hiking shoes from the Swiss brand On.

I’ve worn plenty of trail runners and hiking boots, but this was my first time trying a dedicated hiker from On, a brand I’ve always associated more with sleek road shoes than rugged trail gear.

After hiking countless miles on everything from urban paths to steep forest trails, I was impressed. While the shoe provides ample cushioning, it doesn’t feel sloppy. The rocker sole ensures I sustain a smooth, natural stride even on long days. And, although it may not be the most structured option for rugged hikes, it offers solid support for moderate terrain, and the fit remains secure even on uneven ground.

The waterproofing holds up through wet grass and shallow stream crossings. Plus, they are the most comfortable hiking shoes I’ve worn in a while. The On Cloudhorizon strikes a balance I didn’t know I was missing: part plush sneaker, part capable hiker.

In short: The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof is a bold addition to the hiking category from a brand best known for its road and trail running shoes. Designed for comfort over long distances and mild terrain, this hiker blends plush cushioning, weather protection, and a sleek aesthetic that’s just as at home on the trail as in town. For hikers who don’t want to feel weighed down by bulky boots, or city dwellers who regularly transition from pavement to park, or for trips where you need one shoe to do it all, the Cloudhorizons offer a sleek, waterproof option that’s as comfortable on sidewalks as it is on switchbacks.

Compare the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes to other top picks in our Best Hiking Shoes for Women Buyer’s Guide.

On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes Review 

Cushioning

The Cloudhorizon Waterproof is On’s most cushioned hiking shoe to date. When I first put them on, I felt my tired, sore feet rejoice. The plush cushioning enveloped them in a cloud of comfort. This sensation lasted, even while logging mile after mile on trails and urban paths for over half a year.

Thanks to a dual-layer midsole and On’s “super foam,” these shoes are surprisingly cushy without feeling unstable. Their rocker profile means you maintain a natural, efficient stride. The cushioning keeps feet energized on everything from less-traveled trails to gravel paths to pavement.

Fit

The On Cloudhorizon fits true to size. I wear a 9.5, and that size fit perfectly for my average, but funky feet. Sometimes I take a 10 in narrower models like Scarpa or La Sportiva, but the Cloudhorizons have a more forgiving profile.

The fit is spacious in the toe box, snug in the heel, and secure through the midfoot, making them an excellent choice for hikers with average to wide feet. Some hikers with narrow feet report too much wiggle room, but my feet fall on the narrow-to-average scale. I haven’t experienced the sensation of too much room. The light, flexible upper easily adapts to different foot shapes and conditions.

Traction

The Cloudhorizon offers a smooth experience on well-maintained paths, forest trails, and gentle inclines. It provides a quiet ride with excellent shock absorption and a natural forward roll.

The rubber outsole has moderate lugs that grip dirt and gravel effectively, although it struggles on muddy, slick, or rocky surfaces. I discovered this on an off-trail hike to an alpine lake in Grand Teton National Park. The stability and traction I needed weren’t there on slabs, wet rocks, and scree fields.

This hiking shoe prioritizes comfort and consistency rather than aggressive handling. If your hikes are primarily on moderate terrain with light slopes and stable ground, this shoe will ensure a smooth and fatigue-reducing experience. However, for more challenging outings involving scrambling, sharp rocks, or steep descents, consider a model like the Salomon X Ultra 5 Hiking Shoe, which offers more support, rigidity, and traction.

Waterproofing

Living up to its name when it comes to wet weather protection, the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof keeps feet dry on hikes involving shallow puddles, dewy vegetation, and misty mornings. It’s too short for submersion in raging rivers, but it does shed moisture from rain, wet grass, and small stream crossings.

The lightweight engineered mesh upper dries very quickly. They do have a waterproof-breathable membrane. That means they can get a little hot and moist on warmer days.

Performance & Comfort

When I wear these shoes, there is a noticeable spring in my step. They are extremely responsive, and it feels like they propel me forward. The Cloudhorizons offer enough protection and padding so that the shoe absorbs the shock of every step. Despite solid cushioning, I still feel the trail, unlike when I wear the stiffer, clunkier Off Trail Shoes from The North Face.

 The Cloudhorizons have a fairly flexible upper, so I can fully articulate my foot and maintain a natural stride no matter what pace I’m going.

All of these factors — energy return, level of responsiveness, ground feel, fit, and bouncy cushioning make these the most comfortable hiking shoes I’ve tested.

Room for Improvement

The Cloudhorizon excels on smooth trails but struggles on rugged terrain. Its shallow “Missiongrip” lugs provide limited traction on mud, rocks, and steep slopes. A more aggressive tread would enhance versatility.

Breathability is an issue as the waterproof membrane traps heat on warm days. A more breathable or non-waterproof option could improve comfort. Additionally, the plush midsole lacks as much support as the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Low, leading to instability on uneven ground.

True to On’s reputation, the build quality is impressive. The materials exude a premium feel, and heel and toe bumpers provide added protection. However, the mesh upper can wear out relatively quickly, particularly in debris-laden or rocky terrains. Plus, the rubber outsole shows signs of wear, especially if you spend most of your time on pavement or rocky terrain.

With a few small tweaks, the Cloudhorizons could tackle more technical trails while still prioritizing performance and comfort.

Bottom Line

The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof Women’s hiking shoes are designed for comfort-first adventurers who spend more time on gentle trails than rugged peaks. It’s an excellent choice for day hikes, travel, and those transitioning from running shoes to hiking shoes. If you value cushioning, versatility and waterproofing more than rugged durability, the Cloudhorizon delivers.

The On Cloudhorizon also makes an ideal travel partner. It’s our go-to when we need one shoe that can do it all. We took it on a spring trip to Point Reyes National Seashore, where we explored the city streets of Reno and San Francisco en route to our destination.

We also hiked endless miles on and off trail, looking for bobcats, wildflowers, and other natural wonders. Thanks to its stylish, understated design, it performs well under a variety of conditions, and it also looks the part.