I’ve been lacing up running shoes for years, chasing miles on city streets, park trails, and the occasional treadmill. When it comes to HOKA, two models always spark debate: the Rincon 3 and the Clifton 8.
Both are stellar neutral trainers, but they cater to different vibes and running goals. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience with both, breaking down their pros and cons, key features, and which might suit you best.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, let’s find the perfect fit for your stride.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | HOKA Rincon 3 | HOKA Clifton 8 |
| Weight | 7.7 oz (M), 6.3 oz (W) | 8.9 oz (M), 7.4 oz (W) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5 mm | 5 mm |
| Stack Height | 29 mm (heel), 24 mm (forefoot) | 29 mm (heel), 24 mm (forefoot) |
| Midsole | Compression-molded EVA | Compression-molded EVA |
| Outsole | Rubberized EVA, strategic rubber lugs | High-abrasion rubber in high-wear areas |
| Upper | Engineered mesh, breathable | Engineered mesh, plush padding |
| Cushioning | Moderate, responsive | Plush, soft |
| Best For | Tempo runs, versatile training | Easy runs, long distances |
| Price | $125 | $140 |
| Durability | 300-400 miles | 400-500 miles |
My Journey With HOKA: Why These Shoes Matter?
As a runner, I’m always on the hunt for shoes that feel like an extension of my feet. HOKA’s Rincon 3 and Clifton 8 caught my attention because they’re both neutral trainers, yet they offer distinct experiences.
The Rincon 3 is like the sprightly, agile cousin, while the Clifton 8 is the dependable, cushy workhorse. I’ve run over 100 miles in each, from slow recovery jogs to tempo sessions, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned.
Let’s break down what makes these shoes tick and how they stack up for runners like you and me.
HOKA Rincon 3: The Lightweight Speedster
When I first slipped on the Rincon 3, it felt like strapping on a feather. At 7.7 ounces for men and 6.3 ounces for women, this shoe is a lightweight dream.
HOKA designed it as a versatile trainer that can handle everything from daily runs to speedwork, and it delivers on that promise.
The compression-molded EVA midsole offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making it feel snappy without being harsh.
I noticed this especially during tempo runs, where the shoe’s 5 mm drop and Meta-Rocker geometry propelled me forward with smooth transitions.
The upper is a standout feature. The engineered mesh is thin and breathable, perfect for hot summer runs. I ran in 85-degree weather, and my feet stayed cool, with no hotspots or blisters. The redesigned upper in the Rincon 3 feels more premium than its predecessors, addressing complaints about scratchy materials in earlier models.
However, the toe box is on the narrower side, which might feel snug if you have wider feet. HOKA does offer a wide version, but you may need to hunt for it.
The outsole has also seen upgrades. HOKA added more rubber lugs in high-wear areas, like the lateral heel and forefoot, improving durability over the Rincon 2. I got about 350 miles out of my pair before noticing significant wear, which is decent for a lightweight trainer but not as robust as some competitors.
The rubberized EVA outsole provides good traction on dry roads, but I found it less grippy on wet surfaces compared to other shoes I’ve tested.
Pros of The Rincon 3
- Lightweight: At under 8 ounces, it’s one of HOKA’s lightest trainers, ideal for speedwork.
- Versatile: Handles everything from easy runs to tempo sessions with ease.
- Breathable Upper: The mesh keeps feet cool, even on warm days.
- Affordable: At $125, it’s a steal for the performance it offers.
- Smooth Ride: The Meta-Rocker and updated midsole make transitions seamless.
Cons of The Rincon 3
- Durability: Lasts 300-400 miles, shorter than some daily trainers.
- Narrow Fit: The standard toe box may feel tight for wide-footed runners.
- Less Stable: Lacks the structure for runners needing extra support.
- Traction: Slippery on wet surfaces, so caution is needed in rain.
HOKA Clifton 8: The Plush Daily Driver
The Clifton 8, on the other hand, feels like sinking into a cloud.
Weighing 8.9 ounces for men and 7.4 ounces for women, it’s heavier than the Rincon 3 but still relatively light for a max-cushioned trainer.
HOKA’s flagship shoe, the Clifton series, is known for its plush ride, and the 8th iteration doesn’t disappoint.
The compression-molded EVA midsole is thicker and softer than the Rincon’s, offering a pillowy feel that’s perfect for long, easy runs or recovery days.
I wore the Clifton 8 for a 15-mile run, and my legs felt fresh afterward, thanks to the generous cushioning. The stack height matches the Rincon 3 (29 mm heel, 24 mm forefoot), but the Clifton’s midsole feels more forgiving, absorbing impact like a sponge.
The Meta-Rocker is less aggressive than in the Rincon, giving a smoother, more relaxed roll through each stride. This makes it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort over speed.
The upper is where the Clifton 8 shines for long-distance comfort. The engineered mesh is sturdier and more padded than the Rincon’s, with a plush tongue and heel collar that hug the foot.
I found the toe box slightly wider, accommodating my average-width feet comfortably, even after miles when my feet swelled. However, like the Rincon, the standard fit is narrow, so wide-footed runners may need the wide version.
Durability is a strong suit. The Clifton 8’s outsole uses high-abrasion rubber in key areas, and I got close to 500 miles out of my pair before the cushioning started to feel flat. It’s not the most responsive shoe, though.
During faster runs, I felt it lacked the pop I got from the Rincon 3, making it less suited for speedwork.
Pros of The Clifton 8
- Max Cushioning: Plush midsole absorbs impact, ideal for long runs.
- Durable: Lasts 400-500 miles, outpacing the Rincon 3.
- Comfortable Upper: Plush padding and a roomier toe box enhance long-distance comfort.
- Stable: Wider platform and padded upper offer more support than the Rincon.
- Versatile for Beginners: Great for new runners or those prioritizing comfort.
Cons of The Clifton 8
- Heavier: At nearly 9 ounces, it’s less nimble than the Rincon 3.
- Less Responsive: Lacks the bounce needed for fast-paced runs.
- Pricey: At $140, it’s more expensive than the Rincon 3.
- Narrow Fit: Standard version may feel snug for wider feet.
How HOKA Rincon 3 And Clifton 8 Compare?
Running in both shoes back-to-back revealed their distinct personalities. The Rincon 3 feels like a sports car—light, quick, and ready to zip through tempo runs or intervals.
Its responsive midsole and minimal upper give it a nimble, almost racing-flat vibe, though it still has enough cushioning for longer runs.
I loved it for 5K and 10K efforts, where I could push the pace without feeling weighed down.
However, its lighter structure and narrower fit made it less stable, especially on uneven surfaces or during fatigue-induced sloppy strides.
The Clifton 8, by contrast, is like a luxury SUV—comfortable, reliable, and built for the long haul.
Its plush cushioning and sturdy upper make it a go-to for easy runs, recovery days, or marathon training.
I felt confident wearing it for 10+ miles, knowing my joints would thank me later. But when I tried to pick up the pace, the softer midsole felt sluggish, lacking the snap I craved for speedwork.
Both shoes share HOKA’s signature 5 mm drop and Meta-Rocker geometry, which promote a smooth, forward-rolling gait. However, the Rincon’s rocker is more pronounced, enhancing its speed-oriented feel, while the Clifton’s is subtler, prioritizing comfort.
The weight difference—1.2 ounces for men, 1.1 for women—might seem minor, but it’s noticeable during fast runs. The Rincon’s lighter build gives it an edge for responsiveness, while the Clifton’s extra heft adds stability and durability.
Price is another factor. At $125, the Rincon 3 is a budget-friendly option for a high-performance trainer. The Clifton 8, at $140, reflects its premium cushioning and durability but might stretch the wallet for some.
If you’re a value-driven runner, the Rincon 3 offers more bang for your buck, especially for shorter, faster runs.
Fit and Feel: What It’s Like to Run in Them
Fit is where personal preference comes into play. Both shoes run true to size, but their standard widths lean narrow, a hallmark of HOKA’s design. The Rincon 3’s toe box felt snug on my average-width feet, especially after long runs when my feet swelled.
Switching to the wide version solved this, but availability can be an issue. The Clifton 8’s toe box is slightly more accommodating, and the plush upper felt like a warm hug, even after 12 miles.
The Rincon 3’s upper is minimal and breathable, almost like a second skin. It’s great for ventilation but lacks the lockdown of sturdier shoes, which I noticed during sharp turns or trail sections.
The Clifton 8’s upper, with its thicker mesh and padded tongue, feels more secure but less airy, making it better for cooler weather.
On the road, the Rincon 3’s ride is soft yet snappy, with a slight bounce that makes 8-minute miles feel effortless. The Clifton 8’s ride is softer and more cushioned, perfect for 10-minute-mile recovery runs but less engaging at faster paces.
If you’re a heel striker, both shoes work well, thanks to their Meta-Rocker and moderate drop. Midfoot and forefoot strikers might prefer the Rincon’s lighter, more responsive feel.
Who Should Choose The Rincon 3?
The Rincon 3 is your shoe if you’re a runner who loves versatility and speed. It’s perfect for:
- Tempo and Interval Training: The lightweight build and responsive midsole shine at faster paces.
- Short to Medium Runs: Ideal for 5K to half-marathon distances.
- Budget-Conscious Runners: At $125, it’s a high-value option.
- Runners with Narrow Feet: The standard fit suits slimmer feet, though wide options exist.
I’d recommend it for runners averaging 7-9 minute miles who want a shoe that can handle both daily training and occasional race days. However, if you need stability for overpronation or plan to log 500+ miles, you might want a more durable or supportive shoe.
Who Should Choose The Clifton 8?
The Clifton 8 is your go-to if comfort and longevity are your priorities. It’s best for:
- Long Runs and Recovery: The plush cushioning excels for marathon training or easy days.
- Beginners: Its forgiving ride is ideal for new runners building mileage.
- Runners Needing Durability: Lasts longer than the Rincon 3, up to 500 miles.
- Slightly Wider Feet: The toe box is more accommodating than the Rincon’s.
If you run 9-11 minute miles and prioritize joint protection over speed, the Clifton 8 is a dream. It’s less ideal for runners seeking a lively, race-ready feel or those with very wide feet who can’t find the wide version.
Real-World Testing: My Runs with Both
To give you a clear picture, I tested both shoes in varied conditions. For the Rincon 3, I did a 6-mile tempo run at 7:30 pace on a flat road. The shoe felt light and responsive, with the Meta-Rocker pushing me forward.
My only gripe was slight slippage on a wet patch, confirming its weaker traction. On a 10-mile trail run, the lack of stability was noticeable on uneven terrain, so I’d stick to roads with this one.
For the Clifton 8, I ran 15 miles at a 9-minute pace on a mix of pavement and gravel. The cushioning absorbed every step, and my knees felt great afterward. I tried a 5K at 7-minute pace, but the shoe felt heavy and lacked the pop I wanted. It’s clearly built for comfort, not speed.
Durability and Value: Which Lasts Longer?
Durability is a key differentiator. The Rincon 3’s lighter construction sacrifices some longevity. After 350 miles, the midsole started feeling flat, and the outsole showed wear in high-impact areas.
The Clifton 8, with its robust outsole and thicker midsole, lasted closer to 500 miles, making it a better investment for high-mileage runners. The $15 price difference feels justified when you consider the Clifton’s extra mileage and plush ride.
Style and Aesthetics: Do They Look Good?
Looks aren’t everything, but they matter. The Rincon 3’s sleek design and vibrant colorways (like the pink-and-green watermelon vibe) give it a fun, modern edge.
The Clifton 8’s bulkier silhouette is less flashy but still clean, with neutral tones that appeal to traditionalists. I got compliments on both, but the Rincon’s bold aesthetic turned more heads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your needs. The Rincon 3 is better for speed and versatility, ideal for tempo runs and shorter distances. The Clifton 8 excels for long runs and recovery, offering plush cushioning and durability.
The Clifton 8 is great for long runs, recovery days, and beginner runners. Its plush cushioning and durable outsole make it ideal for high-mileage training and comfort-focused runs.
HOKA discontinued the Clifton 8 to introduce newer models like the Clifton 9 and 10, which feature updated midsoles and lighter designs. It’s a natural progression for evolving technology.
The Rincon is used for versatile training, excelling in tempo runs, speedwork, and shorter races (5K to half-marathon). Its lightweight, responsive design suits faster paces.
Final Thoughts: Which Shoe Wins For You?
Choosing between the HOKA Rincon 3 and Clifton 8 depends on your running style and goals. If you’re chasing speed, versatility, and value, the Rincon 3 is your pick—its lightweight build and responsive ride make every run feel lively.
If comfort and durability are your priorities, the Clifton 8’s plush cushioning and longer lifespan make it a reliable companion for long miles. You can’t go wrong with either, but understanding your needs will lead you to the right choice.
Lace up, hit the road, and let these HOKAs carry you to your next PR.
