Bottom Line
The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is a beefy, waterproof shoe perfect for muddy, wet conditions. Its reliable waterproof material, sturdy build, and supportive comfort make it one of our favorite men’s hiking shoes. Built more like a climbing approach shoe than a lightweight hiker, the Cloudrock features a toe cap and a TPU rand around the entire shoe, offering impressive durability. Built with On’s signature pods, the Cloudrock offers a firm yet supportive ride.
We tested the Cloudrock on muddy forest trails and rain-soaked grass, and in variable coastal and mountain conditions. The waterproof membrane held up well in steady rain and shallow water crossings, keeping feet consistently dry. The cushioning feels firm yet responsive, but may feel a little too firm for those who prefer a plush ride. Running on the hot side of our shoe lineup and one of the heaviest, the Cloudrock is best suited for cold, damp conditions. While on the expensive end, the Cloudrock is a durable and high-quality shoe that will last for many days and trail miles.
Quick Specs
Men’s On Cloudrock Low Waterproof
Best Hiking Shoes for Cold & Damp Conditions
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $200
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 14.3 oz.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm
Pros
- Supportive
- Strong waterpoofing
- Durable
- Rubber rand
Cons
- Warm
- Expensive
- Heavy
Comfort
On is renowned for its signature pods underfoot that offer legendary support and bounciness. The Cloudrock also features this signature construction, albeit with a slightly different feel than expected. This is a decidedly firm shoe with a feel more resembling that of a lightweight boot. We found that its stiff, firm feel was less comfortable on packed or firm trails, and it was more comfortable on softer surfaces or off the beaten track.
The overall fit is neutral, with a comfortable toe box that hits a sweet spot of being narrow enough for a slightly performance fit without being restrictive. However, the rounded laces, combined with the stiff outer material, did not quite cinch the shoes down as much as we would have liked; we were able to kick them off without untying them.
One of the biggest impacts on comfort for the Cloudrocks is their heat retention. These thick, burly shoes are one of the warmest in our lineup. Even at rest in room temperature, we experienced sweaty feet. Best suited for colder climates or seasons, the Cloudrocks are similar to other waterproof shoes in their ability to retain excess amounts of heat.
Traction
For a shoe built for wet conditions, the Cloudrock sports a unique outsole. It features wide, flat, rectangular lugs that are relatively shallow for a shoe built for the mud. For shoes in softer conditions, we usually prefer deeper lugs, but the wide spacing on the Cloudrock offers great shedding and declumping.
We did experience some slipping on steep and muddy trails, which we chalk up to the relatively shallow lugs. But one area where the Cloudrock excels is on wet rocks. The high-surface-area lugs work well on wet and smooth surfaces, making it a great shoe for crossing shallow creeks and clambering over muddy roots.
Weight
Weighing just shy of 2 pounds for a pair, the Cloudrocks are the heaviest shoes in our lineup. More resembling the weight of a light hiking boot, this burly shoe is not our top pick for moving fast and light. If you’re someone more used to heavier footwear, you will feel right at home in these. But if you are expecting lightweight trail runners, the Cloudrock is not that. Their hefty weight is due in part to their extreme durability, a worthy trade-off for those prioritizing that aspect of these shoes.
Durability
We have been impressed with the durability of the Cloudrock. They feature a burly toe cap and a full wraparound TPU mudguard that keeps feet sheltered from bumps and stubbed toes. The upper material is thick, resembling canvas. Strong, round laces have resisted all forms of laceration, even while pounding through talus and scree. The firm outsole has resisted all chips and has not worn down noticeably during our multiple months of use, besides a little rounding of the hard edges of the lugs. For a shoe with the durability of a boot, the Cloudrock is a top choice for lasting many miles.
Weather Resistance
On a mucky spring day during Alaska’s “breakup season” (named for the ice thawing and breaking up in rivers, not your ex), we squelched along the trails wearing the Cloudrocks. Standing in mud puddles up to just below the collar of the shoes, we were impressed to find our feet completely dry. While not constructed with GORE-TEX, On’s proprietary waterproof membrane offers excellent weather resistance. These quickly became our go-to shoes on muddy spring hikes, where they kept our feet dry every time.
Should You Buy The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof?
The On Cloudrocks are a heavy-duty shoe made for heavy conditions. On’s proprietary waterproof membrane does an excellent job of keeping the mud and water out. Built with a thick, almost canvas-like material and a wrap-around rubber rand, the Cloudrock is extremely durable.
But this durability and strong weather resistance come with a few tradeoffs. These shoes are one of the heaviest in our lineup, weighing almost a pound each. They are also very warm, making them a better choice for cooler temperatures. If you’re someone who frequently recreates in cool, damp conditions, the Cloudrock has got you covered.
What Other Men’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
Curious about our other favorite hiking shoes? Head over to our best men’s hiking shoes gear guide to check out all our top picks.
Saucony Peregrine 16 Review: If the Cloudrocks were a little too hot and heavy for you, the Peregrine 16 is the perfect breathable choice.
HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Review: Similarly waterproof, but more breathable, these are another great choice for wet days.
Merrell Moab 3 Review: One of our Budget Buy winners, the Moab 3 is the perfect choice for anyone shopping on a budget.
