Why is my website slow to load when I have implemented a .lottie animation on scroll in Webflow?

A slow-loading Webflow website using a .lottie animation on scroll is often caused by large file sizes, excessive animation complexity, or inefficient rendering. Here’s how to troubleshoot and improve performance:

1. Optimize the .Lottie File

• Reduce the file size by using vector-based assets where possible and minimizing unnecessary animations.
• Use a compressed .lottie file export from After Effects or LottieFiles.
• Avoid overly detailed paths and too many shape layers in animations.

2. Check Render Mode

• In the Webflow Lottie animation settings, set the "Render as Canvas" option instead of SVG if the animation has too many paths, as Canvas can improve performance.

3. Adjust Animation Trigger

• If it's set to "Scroll into view", try switching to "Only play once" instead of continuously replaying during scroll.
• Limit the animation scope (e.g., avoid animating the entire page on scroll).

4. Use Lazy Loading

• Ensure the "Lazy Load" option is enabled for the Lottie animation, so it only loads when needed.
• Keep background animations offscreen from immediately loading.

5. Enable Webflow's Asset Optimization

• Compress other assets such as images to reduce total load times for the page.
• Avoid multiple autoplay Lottie animations running simultaneously.

6. Test Performance

• Use Google Lighthouse or Webflow’s Performance tab to analyze bottlenecks.
• Test in Incognito Mode to eliminate slowdowns caused by browser extensions.

Summary

Slow page loads with .lottie animations on scroll are often caused by overly detailed animations, inefficient rendering, or unnecessary continuous playback. Optimize your file size, render mode, animation triggers, and enable lazy loading to improve Webflow performance.