How do you compare Hoka Mach 4 vs. Rincon 3?

The Hoka Mach 4 and Rincon 3 are well-known for their versatility. Both pairs offer slow, cushioned runs up to race day. They may look similar in many ways while having a few differences.

The Mach 4 is more responsive, but the Rincon 3 is lighter. Moreover, the outsole has exposed foam in Mach 4, making it less durable than the Rincon 3.

Hoka Mach 4 vs Rincon 3: comparison of the specifications

ParameterHoka Mach 4Hoka Rincon 3
Weight7.8 oz.7.3 oz
PronationNeutral pronation, Underpronation, and supinationNeutral pronation, Underpronation, Supination
CushioningBalancedBalanced
TerrainRoadRoad
Toe BoxMediumMedium
Arch TypeHigh ArchHigh Arch
MaterialMesh veganMesh
Heel Height29 mm29 mm
Forefoot Height24 mm24 mm

Hoka And Rincon: Upper

With a traditional engineered mesh upper with built-in breathability, the Mach 4 feels comfortable. The upper is more relaxed, providing excellent lockdown. Also, the upper is not thin and transparent, leaving a lightweight feel.

Jacquard mesh upper is used in the Rincon 3, making it stiff. Moreover, the footwear only stretches a little. Such a combo makes the shoe a blister magnet for people with wider feet. Even normal-width feet tend to swell up when running for long distances. However, impressive breathability makes the pair a great training partner on summer days.

Hoka Midsole Vs Rincon Midsole

Hoka designed the Mach 4 with speed in mind. So, they used upgraded PROFLY in the midsole. The material gives a cushioned landing and a propulsive toe-off. You will experience a softer and firmer feel when standing due to the dual-density foam, especially under the heel.

The Rincon 3 can handle comfortable daily rides with its responsive midsole. It is a protective shoe because of the midsole cushioning. Also, the midsole feels reactive and doesn’t provide reactive bounce. Besides, the curved design encourages people to run faster.

Outsole

Rubberized ground contact EVA foam in the Mach 4 outsole gives a lightweight feel. Hoka used flex elements in the forefoot to get maximum grip and traction. However, the rubber is thin; you may feel like running on the exposed foam. Thus, the outsole lacks durability.

The outsole of the Rincon 3 is harder than that of its competitor. It maintains a good balance between durability and traction. A few users found wear and tear in the outsole after running around 400 miles. Meaning that the footwear offers worry-free durability. Besides, the subtle tread bites asphalt or wet surfaces and lets you run at high speeds.

Cushioning

The Mach 4 features a low-profile cushion bed, keeping your feet closer to the ground. A firmer material is designed to provide an efficient push. In my opinion, this pair performs well as a half-marathon or marathon shoe for people who need a responsive feel.

Many runners appreciated the Rincon 3’s cushioning. They experienced less impact and shock when running on various terrains. The cushion absorbs impact effectively when landing. Moreover, the shoe provides a protective feel with cushioning in the most frigid runs.

Comfort

Being lightweight and nimble, the Mach 4 is comfortable enough for daily runs. Even if you push the pace on it, you will feel cozy. More softness underfoot and zero hot spots during long-time wearing allow you to wear them wherever you want. I wear them around my home, grocery shopping, and daily running.

The Rincon 3 is remarkably comfortable for its excellent breathable features. Nevertheless, it is less breathable than Mach 4 as you may get blisters from long-term wearing in the hot summer days.

Durability

As said, exposed foam in the outsole makes the Mach 4 less durable. The outsole wears down quickly. Also, there is no real rubber, causing longevity issues. I saw a few minor wear and tears after a few runs. However, the upper withstands average damage efficiently.  

You will get decent durability from the Rincon 3. The upper, outsole, and midsole act together to give an average of 450 miles of durability. This pair handles daily runs effectively.

Weight

Hoka designed the Mach 4 with exposed foam in the outsole, making it lighter than its competitor. The shoe weighs 7.87 oz., which can help you during medium/fast days.

One of the key appeals of the Rincon 3 is its lightweight design. With 7.3 oz., the footwear is lighter than everyday training shoes.

Fit & Feel

The Mach 4 fits like a glove in my feet. Though I found it a bit narrow initially, it broke in perfectly after running a few miles. As a result, I felt comforted. It is manufactured for people with a bit wider feet. Also, the semi-gusseted tongue locks down the midfoot perfectly.

Rincon 3’s toe box measures 97.2 mm, making it suitable for normal or narrow-feet wearers. Also, it features a moderate-to-wide heel with a snugger midfoot and forefoot. The forefoot is a little snappy to ride faster and smoother.

Hoka Mach 4 vs. Rincon 3: Which One to Buy?

So, it is clear by now which pair to choose. I comprehensively shared the feature comparison to help you pick the correct one for your feet.

Still want my opinion?

I Suggest You Buy Hoka Mach 4 IfI Suggest You Buy Hoka Mach 4 If
Preference is a solid shoeYou look for a lightweight daily trainer
You need a shoe for fast/medium daysLong distances Run
Your priority is breathabilityPerforms well regardless of the weather

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