Hoka Rincon vs Clifton: Which Is Faster Hoka Running Shoe for You?
This article compares two popular lightweight and neutral Hoka running shoes: the Hoka Rincon vs Clifton.
The Clifton is Hoka’s most popular running shoe. It is a highly cushioned daily trainer and suitable for a wide range of users.
When the Rincon arrived on the market, it became popular since it is clearly lighter than the Clifton. It is a versatile trainer that can handle short, fast, and long runs.
But which one should you buy? In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the features of both the Hoka Rincon and Clifton.
- Rincon has a good combination of lightness and cushioning.
- It is a fast and rolling running shoe.
- It has good value for money.
- Clifton is Hoka’s most popular model
- It is a comfortable running shoe suitable for a wide range of users.
- It also has a highly cushioned midsole, which works well with easy runs.
In this article, we compare them to help you choose which one to buy.
Which One To Buy – Rincon or Clifton?
These trainers are designed for very different users and purposes.
Rincon is more for runners that go short distances at high speeds, while Clifton is designed for long-term use across long distances and at slower speeds.
Your decision between the two will depend on what you intend to use the shoes for.
Clifton is our recommendation for general use. They are slightly more durable and more versatile for different users.
Rincon is our recommendation if you want lighter shoes for more speed.
Hoka Rincon – Lightweight Shoe for All Distances
Hoka Rincon was a popular running shoe right when it came on the market because it was clearly lighter than the Clifton.
Rincon is among the faster models of Hoka. Despite the thick midsole Hoka is known for, the ground feeling is quite snappy and good.
It is a lightweight shoe that performs well for short distances and races. The shoe is also ideal for treadmill running indoors. As long as you have good running technique and are an experienced runner, you can also run longer distances.
1. How Is Rincon Different From Other Shoes?
Rincon is one of the most cushioned lightweight shoes you can buy. It is the kind of light general footwear used for almost any type of running.
2. Who Is It Intended For?
This shoe is best suited to runners who want a lightweight, fast shoe with comfortable cushioning.
It’s like the speed-training counterpart to the Clifton, as the Rincon is almost 2 ounces lighter.
3. What Kind of Runs Can You Do With It?
It is suitable for interval training and racing. For the lighter and more experienced runner, it can also be used for volume training.
4. For What Distances and Terrains Is It Suitable?
Depending on your experience level, it can be used for anything from short intervals to marathons. It would be best to have a good running technique for longer races.
The shoe can be used on asphalt, gravel, track, and dry terrain (but not on trails). Additionally, it is an ideal shoe for treadmill intervals.
Hoka Clifton – a Versatile Running Shoe That Fits Most Runners and Distances
Hoka Clifton is Hoka’s most popular model. It balances soft shock absorption, lightweight design, and style.
That makes it the best choice for the majority of runners regardless of distance (but is not intended for trail running). It is very light, like most Hoka shoes.
1. How Is Clifton Different From Other Shoes?
Clifton is one of the most versatile models on the market and is suitable for most runners. It is, therefore, a safe purchase.
2. Who Is It Intended For?
Clifton is suitable for a wide range of runners.
It is ideal for the beginner who wants a comfortable, easy running shoe. It is relevant for the elite runner looking for a light and fast shoe with plenty of cushioning to avoid excessive wear.
3. What Kind of Runs Can You Do With It?
It is suitable for everyday runs! Clifton is also perfect for races. For example, for half-marathoners who want to stay healthy even when running on hard surfaces.
4. For What Distances and Terrains Is It Suitable?
Clifton is suitable for all distances, from short to long runs, thanks to its perfect balance and light material.
It goes well on tarmac, gravel, and dry terrain (but it is not intended for trail running).
Hoka Rincon vs Clifton – Comparisons
Let’s take a closer look at these Hoka shoes to better understand how they differ.
| Shoe | Rincon | Clifton |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (gr) men/women | 210/176 | 250/215 |
| Weight (oz) men/women | 7.4/6.2 | 8.8/7.5 |
| Stability | neutral | neutral |
| Cushion | balanced | balanced |
| Drop (mm) | 5 | 5 |
| Sizing | true to size | true to size |
| Width options | regular/wide | regular/wide |
Weight
Running shoes typically weigh 185 to 350 gr (6.5 – 12.5 ounces). You can call running shoes lightweight when they are less than 250 gr (9 ounces). So Rincons very clearly fall into that category as they weigh 210 gr (women model 176 gr).
The Clifton is heavier with 250 gr (8.8 oz). That 40 gr (1.4 oz) extra can make a difference to your pacing.
Clifton compensates for its weight by being durable enough to wear every day.
Both Rincon and Clifton are road running shoes and are ideal for the average runner.
Appearance
In terms of appearance, they look very similar and they have a familiar Hoka rocker platform. Both come in multiple colors.
Drop
They have the same 5 mm drop, which isn’t too steep, so they both offer more stability for runners.
What Makes Hoka Shoes Popular?
Hoka shoes have a wider toe section than many other popular running shoes.
They allow for a more relaxed fit if you have a wide forefoot. It also minimizes various nail-related problems that runners often face.
Note that you can change how you tie your running shoes to fit them better for a wider foot.
The Bottom Line
Getting the right shoes is crucial to having a successful run. Both of these shoes are great daily trainers to run with.
But what if you only buy one shoe, which should it be of these two? Well, it depends on what you want to accomplish.
Suppose you are training for a 5K, and your weekly mileage is not high (15 – 20 miles per week). Then Rincon is an excellent option because you can train and race with the same shoes.
It’s light but not the most durable shoe from Hoka. You may not get as many miles on them as you will with the Clifton.
Suppose you are training for a half-marathon, and you put in a lot more miles on weekly bases, and you generally do longer runs. Then Clifton is an excellent option as it has more cushioning and is really comfortable. It holds up well also on those longer runs.
But how does Clifton compare to even more cushioned Hoka Bondi for your long easy runs? Our article Hoka Clifton vs. Bondi compares the two.
