When it comes to daily trainers, the Hoka Rincon 4 pulls off something pretty rare: it’s crazy light, a bit firmer than you might expect, and clearly made for runners who just want to lace up and move. We’ve clocked plenty of miles in it across all kinds of runs, and here’s the lowdown before you hit the road.
Featherweight feel, everyday function
If you’re into shoes that feel stripped-down but still handle your daily grind, the Rincon 4 fits the bill. It’s seriously light—around 227–231 grams for men—and that’s not just «light for a trainer,» that’s just plain light.
But don’t let the weight fool you. The dual-layer midsole and bump in stack height give it enough cushioning to protect your legs, without tipping over into that ultra-soft, sink-in feel some Hokas have.
That combo makes it great for midweek mileage or moderate tempo runs. It never feels like it’s slowing you down. Instead, it disappears underfoot and lets you get into your rhythm without overthinking.
A Firmer ride that delivers stability
Slip it on, and you’ll notice right away—this isn’t your typical squishy Hoka. It leans firm, like a pared-down tempo shoe. It’s smooth, sure-footed, and drama-free. No bounce-house vibes here, just a clean, snappy transition.
And that’s a big part of its charm. It doesn’t feel dead underfoot, just efficient. It helps you find a groove and stick with it. Whether you’re logging steady miles or cruising through a progression run, the Rincon 4 holds its own.
We’ve found it great for building weekly mileage. From five-mile lunch runs to pushing pace on longer efforts, it stays consistent and keeps your stride feeling sharp, not sluggish.
Upper fit
The upper? Super airy and stripped down—just how you’d expect on a shoe built for speed. But it runs snug. Folks with wider feet or those who like some breathing room in the toe box might find it a bit too tight, especially through the midfoot and forefoot.
Step-in feel is solid, and lockdown is dependable. But don’t go in expecting a roomy or plush fit. This upper is performance-minded: engineered mesh that stays put and breathes well, especially during quicker runs.
The tongue is thin but gusseted, so no slipping around, and it adds to that sock-like vibe. Heel lockdown is locked in—no sliding, even through turns. It’s minimal, but it nails the essentials.
Outsole grip and improved durability
The grip? Surprisingly good. Dry roads, damp pavement—the outsole holds its own. The rubber zones are smartly placed for both traction and wear resistance, and the new layout boosts durability over previous versions.
Still, it’s worth noting that the EVA midsole gets noticeably firmer in cold weather. So if you’re pounding frosty pavement in the dead of winter, it may feel harsher than ideal.
But for most conditions, especially in mild climates, the outsole delivers consistent grip and feels secure on everything from sidewalks to smooth trails. During wet tempo sessions, it stayed planted.
That revamped dual-layer setup also helps the cushioning go the distance. You’re probably looking at 500–600 km depending on how and where you run.
Who it’s for (and who it’s not)
The Rincon 4 hits its stride with runners who want a featherweight daily trainer that can handle tempo work and even sub in for race day. It’s got more cushioning than your average speed shoe but keeps things sleek and focused.
That said, it’s not going to win over folks chasing pillowy softness or max comfort. If your dream shoe feels like a mattress underfoot, the Clifton or Bondi are probably more your speed.
It’s also not ideal for freezing temps. That EVA foam tightens up in the cold and loses some of its give, making it less forgiving on slow days when you want more plushness.
But if you train in decent weather and like a shoe that feels quick, responsive, and fuss-free, this one’s a solid choice.
Final verdict
In a sea of overbuilt running shoes packed with tech and features, the Rincon 4 keeps it refreshingly simple. Light, nimble, and zero fluff—it’s all about helping you move efficiently without stealing the spotlight.
What you see is what you get. And what you get is a sleek, dependable trainer that just works. No gimmicks, no distractions.
It’s not trying to be everything to everyone. But for runners who love a low-profile, get-it-done kind of shoe, the Rincon 4 might just be your new favorite training partner.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely lightweight for a daily trainer | Too firm for recovery runs or very long distances |
| Improved cushioning with dual-layer midsole | Narrow fit; not suitable for wide feet |
| Responsive and smooth ride | EVA midsole firms up in cold weather |
| Excellent for steady pace and tempo sessions | Not bouncy enough for high-intensity speedwork |
| Durable outsole with good traction | Less plush and comfortable than other Hoka models |
| Breathable, secure-fitting upper | Not ideal for harsh winter climates |
| Reliable lockdown and heel hold | Low volume upper can feel tight on high arches |
| Suitable for 10K to half-marathon distances | Limited versatility for those seeking maximum comfort |
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