Lightness and cushioning from another era.
Let us specify immediately: for other times we refer to 2014, the year of the release of the first historic Clifton, the model destined to revolutionise the running world over the following years.
That first ‘pioneering’ edition inspired the new Rincon (whose name originates from the famous beach in Puerto Rico, paradise for surfers, as if to evoke its soft waves).
While weight (218g and 179g), drop (5mm), fit (generous) and cushioning (excellent) are directly inspired by the five-year-old model, the innovation and progress made in the meantime undoubtedly change the Rincon experience in a positive way, thanks to its durability and endurance. The old Clifton rarely lasted more than 500 km, while the new Hoka creation can easily reach 800 km.
Merit also goes to the new upper, with its lightweight, breathable and elastic mesh, which, with an asymmetrical profile free of annoying seams, adapts well to the shape and movement of our feet.
The cushioning, as anticipated, is exceptionally good, especially in relation to the very low weight and, more importantly, does not betray the expectations of the most purist of the French brand, guaranteeing the classic Hoka fit with soft and plush rolling.
A feature, the latter, that minimises ground contact time and favours, when necessary, a greater drive in search of good chronometric performance in races (but is also excellent for long slogs).
With the new Rincon, in short, we can say that we have finally rediscovered one of the most appreciated and regretted shoes of the Hoka production, revisited in a very opportune modern key capable of conferring greater durability and comfort to make up for what in the past had been the weak points of the ‘old’ Clifton 1.
A must for long-standing Hoka aficionados and an excellent entry model for new admirers of the French brand, who will certainly appreciate the fairly low retail price of the Rincon (€120).
Discover them in shop and online.
