Hoka Rincon 4

The Rincon 4 features an engineered jacquard upper that provides excellent breathability, making it ideal for hot weather. The upper includes ventilation holes across the toe-box, enhancing airflow and keeping feet cool. Reflective panels at the eyelets and toe-box improve visibility in low-light conditions. However, the upper is quite snug, which may not be suitable for runners with wide feet. The lack of a gusseted tongue is a minor drawback, but the lace loop helps keep it in place.

The midsole of the Rincon 4 is made from injected EVA foam, offering a firm ride that is less lively than the supercritical midsole of the Mach 6. The increased stack height provides substantial cushioning, making it suitable for longer runs. The midsole's density contributes to its responsiveness, although it may not offer the same energy return as other models. The shoe's MetaRocker (a design that promotes a smooth transition from heel to toe) is subtle, providing a natural ride without being overly pronounced.

The Rincon 4's outsole is made from rubberised EVA, which is thicker than standard outsoles to enhance durability. While this design offers a smooth ride, it may not provide the best traction on wet surfaces. The outsole's durability is a concern, as it tends to wear down quickly, especially for runners who are hard on their shoes. Despite this, the outsole is an improvement over previous Rincon versions, with less exposed midsole foam.

The Rincon 4 has a snug fit with a narrow forefoot and toe-box, typical of Hoka shoes. Most runners may need to go up half a size or opt for the wide version if available. The shoe is slightly shorter in length compared to other running shoes, which may affect fit for some. The toebox tapers more than usual, which could be uncomfortable for those with larger feet.

The Rincon 4 offers a comfortable ride with its increased stack height and cushioning. The tongue padding is ideal for a daily trainer, providing comfort without adding unnecessary weight. The shoe's straightforward lacing system ensures a secure fit, while the removable insole allows for customization with orthotics. However, the firm ride may not be suitable for those seeking a plush feel.

The Rincon 4 features increased cushioning with a heel stack height of 36 mm and a forefoot stack height of 28 mm. This provides ample cushioning for heel strikers and a balanced feel for forefoot and midfoot strikers. The cushioning is firm, offering stability and responsiveness, but may not provide the same level of comfort as softer models.

The Rincon 4 excels in breathability, thanks to its engineered jacquard upper with ventilation holes. This design ensures excellent airflow, making it suitable for hot weather. The perforated insole further enhances breathability, a feature typically found in premium models. The shoe's breathability is a standout feature, providing comfort during long runs in warm conditions.

The Rincon 4 offers moderate stability with subtle design features like midsole sidewalls and a slightly rockered design. These elements provide a natural form of stability without traditional mechanisms. The shoe's torsional rigidity and heel counter stiffness contribute to its stability, making it suitable for runners needing mild support.

Durability is a concern with the Rincon 4, particularly with its rubberised EVA outsole. The outsole tends to wear down quickly, especially on the outer lateral heel areas. The upper's thin material also raises durability concerns, as it may not withstand heavy use. Despite these issues, the Rincon 4's durability is an improvement over previous versions.

The Rincon 4's outsole provides decent grip on dry surfaces but struggles on wet, smooth surfaces. The rubberised EVA material offers a softer composition, which may affect traction. While the grip is adequate for most conditions, runners should be cautious on wet surfaces.

The Rincon 4 offers good flexibility, making it suitable for various activities beyond running, such as walking or daily wear. The shoe's flexibility is enhanced by its lack of a stiffening device in the midsole, providing a natural ride. This flexibility makes the Rincon 4 a versatile option for different uses.

The Rincon 4 is best suited for short to middle distance runs due to its firm ride. However, if you're accustomed to firm shoes, it can handle longer distances as well.

The Rincon 4 offers a firmer ride with less energy return compared to the Mach 6, which features a supercritical midsole for better compression and rebound.

The Rincon 4 has a heel-to-toe drop of 5 mm, providing a balanced feel for various running styles.

The Rincon 4 has a narrow fit, especially in the toe-box, which may not be suitable for runners with wide feet. Consider going up half a size or opting for the wide version if available.

Yes, the Rincon 4 features a removable insole, allowing for customization with orthotics or other footbeds.

The Rincon 4's midsole becomes firmer in cold temperatures, which may affect comfort. Its highly ventilated upper also makes it less suitable for harsh winter conditions.

The Rincon 4 is designed for runners who prefer a lightweight, firm shoe for steady-paced runs. It's suitable for those seeking moderate stability and breathability.