As we await the Hoka Rincon 4 release date, it’s impossible to ignore the success of its predecessors. The Rincon series has become synonymous with lightweight prowess and dependable performance in the running world.
Did Hoka discontinue the Rincon?
Initially, there were concerns that Hoka was going to discontinue the Rincon series. However, no need to worry! A conversation with a friend at Hoka brings relief – the Rincon series won’t be discontinued just yet.
Related:
Hoka Rincon 4 Release Date
Update:
Hoka has finally released the Rincon 4 in July 2024 and it’s now available on their official website.
Now that the Rincon 4 was released, here’s my initial experience in the shoe…
First off, I’m sending the Hoka Rincon 4 back! Let me explain…
As someone who’s been a fan of the Hoka Rincon series, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of the Rincon 4. I absolutely adored the Rincon 3. I’m still on the hunt for more pairs because the Rincon 3 worked wonders for me. My last pair clocked in at around 150 to 175 miles and still looked great. So, you can imagine my excitement when the Rincon 4 was announced.
But here’s where things take a turn. Hoka tried to address durability issues by adding more material to the outsole for extra protection. Sounds great, right? Well, not exactly. When you place the Rincon 4 next to the 3, the size difference is glaring. The Rincon 4 is much bigger, with a lot more volume, and that’s where the trouble starts.
The fit of the Rincon 4 is just too wide, even for runners with broader feet. If you have a wide forefoot and a narrow heel, you’re not going to appreciate the new fit. The Rincon 3 had this perfect little pocket that hugged your heel just right, but the Rincon 4? The heel is much wider and angled inward, which is a nightmare for anyone with Achilles issues. Anything that bends in like this will rub against your Achilles and cause irritation.
The tongue on the Rincon 3 was short and thin, which some people didn’t like. But instead of just making it a bit longer, Hoka went all out and made a super padded, plush tongue that stretches the length of the shoe. It’s way too much. The thick padded collar foam pushes up against the bone right behind the base of your ankle, and no amount of lacing technique can fix that.
When I put my Rincon 3s back on, none of these issues were there. The Rincon 4 doesn’t remind me at all of the Rincon 3, which was a nice, light, springy shoe perfect for speed work, long runs, and everything in between. The Rincon 4 feels like a kid’s shoe – very stiff, weirdly padded, and it bends into the foot in all the wrong places.
Hoka also got rid of the pull loop in the back, which explains the transition to the tall heel collar. It seems they’re adding this high heel counter to all their shoes, including the Clifton and the Speedgoat. The heel counter on the Rincon 3 was nice and bendy, never bothering my Achilles. But the one on the Rincon 4? It’s rigid and uncomfortable.
Again, if you have Achilles issues, try these on in-store before committing because they’re not nearly as comfortable as their predecessors.
So, unfortunately, the Rincon 4 is a big miss for me. Back to the drawing board, Hoka!Wish List for the Ideal Rincon 4
Related:
Hoka Rincon 3 – Everything You Need to Know
Before diving into the Rincon 3, it’s crucial to note that these shoes were provided for review by Runningwarehouse. I want to emphasize that I’m not under any obligation to present a biased view, whether positive or negative. There’s no financial compensation for my opinions in this review, and everything you hear is straight from my own experiences.
The Hoka Rincon 3 continues the legacy of crafting a low-profile, cushioned, and lightweight road trainer. For context, in Hoka’s lineup, the Rincon stands out as the go-to lightweight daily trainer/tempo-days shoe—a shoe with a reminiscent vibe of the OG Clifton that I’ve appreciated in the past.
While the Rincon 3 may visually resemble its predecessor, the Rincon 2, several robust updates have been made, resulting in an overall enhanced shoe.
If you’re in a hurry, let me quickly walk you through the key updates we see in the Rincon 3…
Quick Review
Featuring a redesigned sandwich mesh upper, the Rincon 3 takes a step forward in breathability. This is complemented by a new lighter and thinner tongue, a thinner heel loop, and reinforced lace holes.
While the midsole maintains a similarity, there’s a perceptible softness underfoot. Notably, the addition of more outsole squares stands out as a much-needed improvement.
In essence, the Rincon 3 retains the successful elements of its predecessors and introduces subtle enhancements.
But in a market flooded with cushioned road trainers and concerns about durability, does the Hoka Rincon 3 measure up?
True to its legacy, the Rincon 3 strikes a balance between cushioning and lightweight design, a claim Hoka proudly asserts. Weighing in at 7.3 oz for my size 9, it impressively trims down the weight compared to version 2, even surpassing the original version, which had a slight weight increase in version 2.
For a shoe delivering Hoka-level cushioning, the Rincon 3 excels in keeping the weight down while ensuring a super springy midsole.
Now, let’s dive into the finer details…
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Pairing Options
Personally, I think having two different shoes in your rotation works well. I particularly enjoyed teaming the Rincon up with the Hoka Bondi, which is ideal for longer mileage and slower-paced runs.
When you’re looking to do a faster or more spirited run, especially up-tempo sessions that aren’t as long, I would bring out the Rincon.
Ultimately, if you’re on the lookout for a shoe versatile enough for every run during the week, I believe the Rincon 3 fits the bill perfectly. Its lightweight design and the enduring appeal of Hoka’s EVA foam make it a reliable choice for various running scenarios.
Here’s our comparison of the Hoka Bondi and Hoka Clifton.
Midsole
The midsole is where the Rincon 3 truly excels, being exceptionally lightweight and sharing a striking similarity with its sturdier sibling, the OG Clifton—something I find quite positive.
Hoka introduced some changes to the midsole in version 3 of the Rincon, and although it closely resembles the Rincon 2, I sense a bit more squish underfoot in the latest iteration.
Simply wearing them on two different feet and going for a run, you’ll notice that the Rincon 3 offers a bit more give in the midsole compared to the 2.
Whether they revamped the design or tweaked the durometer, the midsole is excellent, managing to keep the weight down, the resilient strong, the responsiveness there for those who need it.
However, if you’re looking for a super plush Hoka shoe, the Rincon might not be the ideal choice. In my opinion, the Rincon feels a bit firmer compared to other more cushioned options.
Is this necessarily a bad thing? Absolutely not, because the Rincon 3 isn’t designed to be your daily trainer for logging long runs and miles. It seems tailored for your shorter-distance days, perhaps at a slightly faster pace.
That’s likely why Hoka didn’t load the Rincon with the plush, marshmallowy, sink-in soft foam found in their more cushioned models.
Personally, I find myself craving more cushion in the Rincon, especially during longer runs. Around mile 15 of a 20-mile run I did, I felt the need for additional underfoot padding.
Despite this, I’m generally pleased with the midsole’s cushioning. It strikes a balance, not trying to overdo it but delivering everything essential for a comfortable run.
In terms of the rocker geometry, along with that more dialed-in midsole, Hoka still maintains their classic meta rocker technology which is going to create a more efficient and naturally flowing ride as you stride through your runs.
Outsole
In comparison to the second version, the Rincon 3 boasts a slightly increased outsole rubber, strategically placed in higher-wear areas.
There is a different cutout in the midsole as well. Instead of that more diamond trapezoid shape, it’s more of a rectangular shape. It still saves that weight of the midsole, but I did feel like it changed the initial stepping when I first got it.
I felt that the heel was a tad softer in the Rincon 3, possibly attributed to this altered cutout shape or the more finely-tuned foam composition.
It’s a little bit softer, but hopefully, as I progress taking this shoe, it’s going to feel more durable as I take it longer and for more mileage.
Ultimately, what that does is contribute to a higher sense of durability, which is good. It’s not a lot of outsole; just very subtle updates and changes in the right places and it’s that focus on detail and improvements of this new version that really does help it stand out from the previous version and continue to make it a shoe that I enjoy.
Versatility
I think that the Rincon 3 stands out for its remarkable versatility, seamlessly transitioning between longer, endurance-focused efforts and shorter, faster runs with unparalleled ease.
The shoe’s unique adaptability, I believe, stems from the lower amount of foam used in comparison to other models within the Hoka lineup, making it able to do a lot more training efforts.
On numerous occasions throughout my training cycle, I found the Rincon 3 to be an ideal shoe on tempo day runs, showcasing its prowess in accommodating a variety of workout intensities.
Its capacity to handle semi longer-ish runs is undeniable, offering a more minimalist and grounded experience, which, I must say, caters to those who appreciate a less cushioned feel.
If you lean towards a touch more cushioning, I would recommend getting the Hoka Clifton 8 or 9.
Next, really my biggest dislike is a carryover from versions one and two and that is the Rincon’s overall durability…
Durability
Undoubtedly, the Hoka Rincon series has made its mark, but durability has been a lingering question. Through versions past, it earned a reputation for flattening out around the 100 to 200-mile mark. The midsole, in particular, seemed to lose its zest prematurely, leaving runners longing for more longevity.
Personally, my Rincon 1 clocked in at around 150 miles before the foam started feeling lifeless. I pushed it with varying paces and distances, but alas, the magic faded after a mere month. The Rincon, it seemed, had a date with wear and tear.
Enter the Rincon 3, and it’s been subjected to the ultimate runner’s test. Surprisingly, it manages to retain that sweet impact absorption, suggesting that Hoka’s subtle tweaks might just be the durability lifeline the Rincon needed. The addition of a bit more rubber to the outsole has infused a hint of sturdiness without tipping the scales on weight.
While the Rincon 3’s durability might not be the Achilles’ heel I once thought, the reality remains—it’s not an eternal flame. The daily grind seems to be molding it into a firmer version of its former self. I do think that the Rincon 3 has more miles left in the tank compared to its predecessors.
Kudos to Hoka for addressing a major concern—the outsole. The strategic placement of additional rubber has shielded the forefoot from the battering of concrete and pavement. The result? I was impressed with the outsole that’s not only more durable but also delivers decent traction, even on wet days.
Looking ahead, as thoughts inevitably drift to the Rincon 4, a collective plea arises. Hoka, let’s dial in on durability. Make it the unsung hero for faster runs, up-tempo training, and those joyous efforts where the Rincon truly shines.
In the meantime, hats off to Hoka for the strides made in improving the Rincon’s outsole. It’s a step in the right direction, and as runners, we appreciate a shoe that not only runs well but lasts well too.
Upper
I think, in the previous iterations, we had a super lightweight mono mesh upper. Then, Hoka made a switch to a more mesh upper, and it added a bit of weight. However, with the Rincon 3, we’re back to a simpler mesh upper. The 3 now has some slits in the lining, giving you a more breathable feel and an overall more comfortable experience.
I’ve been running in the Rincon 3 in hotter and colder days and I would definitely say I feel that breathability even more with that freezing wind passing right through that forefoot. So the Rincon 3 is a shoe that’s going to give you that breathability no matter what the season is.
If you’re after a substantial upper with overlays providing a bit more protection, I think you might want to turn your attention to the Clifton.
However, if you’re aiming to trim down the fat on your upper and just get what you need, then I think this could be the right choice for you. I don’t think this upper is flimsy in any way, and I think, for a more lightweight upper, it does pretty well.
Overall, I think the upper has held up well, and I think it still feels great on foot.
In terms of fit, initially, I thought the Rincon 3 would fit a bunch of different foot types, and I still kind of feel that way, although I will say this definitely leans on the narrow side of things.
Tongue
I personally don’t like the tongue on the Rincon 3 and I find it a bit lacking. It’s cut shorter and thinner, and I don’t think it provides nearly as much cushioning as the second version.
While the reduction in weight is notable, I think the new asymmetrical design and thinner profile allow the tongue to slip down a little too far on some of my runs.
This, coupled with the lacing system sitting a bit higher than the tongue, results in an inconsistent fit that I’m not particularly fond of.
I think many people could likely overlook that aspect and still find the fit comfortable. However, for me, I did notice on days where I needed to secure the shoe tightly or during particularly long runs, there is added pressure along the top of the foot, extending towards the top of the tongue.
I wish they would consider incorporating a gusseted tongue on the Rincon 4 and elevate it slightly. This adjustment would save me the hassle of consistently thinking about the tongue and lacing, allowing me to concentrate more on the run itself.
Pull Tab
The Rincon 3 retains the pull tab at the back, but instead of the more substantial webbing strap from versions 1 and 2, there’s now a string or a little lace.
This update shaves off a bit of weight, and it still maintains a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with the overall aesthetic of the shoe.
Surprisingly, I’ve grown to really like this pull tab. Initially, it struck me as a bit odd, but it won me over because it’s still easy to grab, highly efficient, and accomplishes its intended purpose quite well.
Looks
When I first got the new Rincon 3, I was genuinely impressed by the array of colorways they introduced. The grain green, while one of the more understated options, contributes to the fantastic aesthetic that Hoka has aimed for with the Rincon.
They’ve truly perfected the blend of oranges, yellows, greens, and grays in a captivating manner that has resonated well with runners. I think the attention to detail in the color palette adds a distinct allure to the shoe.
Price
The Hoka Rincon 3 was priced at $119.95 a while back, but as of now, it stands at $125. I think, considering its attributes, it remains a genuinely fair price.
As a lightweight daily trainer, it may not have the extended durability of some more beefed-up and pricier models, so I believe the $125 tag is reasonable for what it offers.
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up my experience with the Hoka Rincon 3, I must say it has easily claimed its spot as a favorite in my shoe lineup.
The combination of aesthetic appeal, new colorways, and notably improved foam performance set it apart. The enhanced durability of the foam opens the door to more extended runs and workouts, making it a versatile choice.
While I anticipate the arrival of the Hoka Rincon 4, I can’t help but suggest an exciting upgrade—perhaps infusing a touch of peppy or bouncier foam, like the ProFly X, to elevate both speed and enjoyment.
The prospect of Hoka experimenting with this in the future is intriguing, offering potential benefits to both performance and durability.
The Rincon 3, with its dynamic capabilities, caters to those seeking a multi-functional shoe without cluttering their rotation. It may not be my go-to for an all-encompassing 20-mile run, but it certainly earns a well-deserved spot in the rotation.
Despite my initial enthusiasm, a few concerns emerged over time—specifically, the durability factor and a midsole that leaned towards firmness. However, the Rincon 3 remains a fun and versatile companion that many will appreciate.
One gripe I must mention—the tongue of this shoe leaves something to be desired.
In conclusion, the Rincon 3 stands out as a great shoe with room for refinement. I’m eagerly awaiting Hoka’s next move with the Rincon 4, confident that they can build upon its roots while introducing fresh innovations. The journey with the Rincon has been an exciting one, and I’m optimistic about the strides Hoka can make in the future.