Abstract: Disclosed is a conditioning composition comprising by weight: (a) from about 0.01% to about 5% of a cationic crosslinked thickening polymer; (b) from about 0.1% to about 10% of a surfactant selected from the group consisting of a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, and mixtures thereof; and (c) an aqueous carrier; and wherein the composition is substantially free of a water-insoluble high melting point oily compound. The conditioning composition of the present invention has a suitable rheology for conditioning compositions, and provides conditioning benefits. The composition is especially suitable for hair care products such as hair conditioning products for rinse-off use.