The On Cloudsoma Hike reimagines hiking footwear with adaptive cushioning, natural movement and precise ground feel—built for hikers who want to connect with the trail, not disconnect from it.
## On Cloudsoma Hike: A New Way to Feel the Trail
For decades, hiking shoes followed a familiar formula: thicker midsoles, more cushioning and maximum protection from the terrain beneath your feet. The new On Cloudsoma Hike challenges that philosophy with a completely different idea—one that prioritises movement, adaptability and a closer connection to the trail.
Instead of isolating hikers from the ground, On has developed a shoe that encourages natural motion and responsive feedback. Drawing on years of experience in performance running, the Swiss brand combines lightweight construction with hiking-specific features to create a shoe that feels agile without sacrificing confidence on uneven terrain.
At the heart of the Cloudsoma Hike is the new CloudTec Connect™ platform powered by Helion™ foam. Unlike conventional midsoles that remain relatively rigid, this system is engineered to flex together with the foot, delivering responsive cushioning while maintaining a remarkably precise feel for the ground. Rather than simply absorbing impact, it allows hikers to better read the terrain beneath every step.
That philosophy continues through the outsole. Missiongrip™ rubber works together with a segmented midsole and outsole construction that adapts independently to rocks, roots and uneven surfaces. Instead of resisting the terrain, the shoe follows it, improving grip, stability and overall control.
The upper keeps things equally focused. An abrasion-resistant, quick-drying mesh is paired with a protective toe cap, mudguard and a padded tongue for long-lasting comfort. The result is a lightweight hiking shoe that feels ready for everything from forest trails to technical singletrack, while remaining breathable enough for long days on the move.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Cloudsoma Hike isn't a single technology—it's the philosophy behind it. As hiking continues to evolve, more people are moving faster, carrying lighter packs and looking for footwear that feels natural rather than overbuilt. Instead of competing with traditional hiking boots, the Cloudsoma Hike embraces this shift and offers a modern alternative for hikers who value efficiency, versatility and freedom of movement.
It won't replace a heavy-duty alpine boot for technical mountaineering or multi-day expeditions with a fully loaded backpack. But for day hikes, fast hikes and everyday adventures, it represents a refreshing new direction in hiking footwear.
### ZONTRAC Verdict
The Cloudsoma Hike isn't trying to be the most rugged hiking shoe on the market. Instead, it introduces a new way of experiencing the trail. By combining adaptive CloudTec Connect™ cushioning, dependable Missiongrip™ traction and a naturally flexible construction, On has created a hiking shoe that rewards movement rather than restricting it. For hikers who prefer feeling the trail instead of simply walking over it, the Cloudsoma Hike is one of the most compelling new releases of the year.