For over 100 years, Mizuno has been providing innovative products in the sporting space, and in particular they’ve been producing some of the best running shoes available today.
Whether you need support, stability or cushioning you will be able to find a pair of Mizuno shoes that are suitable to you. We’ve compared some of their top products and reviewed them below. Check it out.
Best Mizuno Running Shoes Compared and Reviewed
Comfort / Stability
Mizuno Wave Horizon 5
Good Cushioning
Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
For Long Runs
Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 4
Neutral Shoe
Mizuno Wave Rider 24
Very Breathable
Mizuno Wave Creation 20
1. Mizuno Wave Horizon 5
Key Features
- Nylon mesh upper
- U4ic midsole
- Mizuno Wave technology
- Dynamotion fit
Reasons to buy
- Offers great comfort and stability
- Commendable durability
- Plush and stable
- Has an innovative midsole design
Reasons to avoid
- Might be too firm for others
- Might also be too heavy for others
Mizuno released the plush and table Wave Horizon 5 running shoes earlier this year with a few exciting upgrades. Runners who were fans of the Horizon line from Mizuno will surely be thrilled. This stable pair has features such as a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, a mesh upper, a midsole built with their innovative foam and a carbon rubber outsole. Customers can get a pair of the Wave Horizon 5 with 3 different color variations with available sizes for both men and women.
The Wave Horizon 5 has been admired by runners due to its upgraded responsiveness and stability. The upper is designed with a jacquard mesh that offers excellent breathability for the wearer. It also features a structured heel to help pronators on their run. Some reviewers have tested this product to be great on almost any type of terrain even on wet and slippery surfaces.
The Wave Horizon 5 is also designed with an innovative midsole with Mizuno Enerzy foam for a bouncier and softer feel. The midsole also has a layer of material made from PU-based U4icx foam that aids in absorbing shock every step of the way.
The outsole on the other hand has near full coverage of X10 carbon rubber that gives the shoes great traction on any type of surface even slick and wet terrains. These upgrades add up to create a pair of running shoes that is best for daily and long distance runs, even for recovery training.
The Wave Horizon 5 will be a great addition to any runner’s collection who seeks a pair that gives both stability and comfort on the run. However, some reviewers find the newly designed midsole to be a bit too firm especially when running long distances. Some runners might also find this pair to be a bit on the heavier side.
Some reviewers have also noted that even though the Wave Horizon is a solid pair of running shoes, there are still other pairs in the market that offer the same features and support with a lower price. However, for runners who are prone to heavy pronation and want to try out the newest on the Horizon line that would help them with their speed and stability, this product could be worth a try.
2. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
Key Features
- Dynamotion Fit
- U4ic midsole
- Mizuno Wave technology
Reasons to buy
- True sizing
- Provides great lockdown
- Excellent cushioning
Reasons to avoid
- Some runners might find it heavy
Mizuno’s Wave Inspire 17 has been released this year with a fresher look and upgraded features. This responsive and stable pair of running shoes emphasized its heel cushioning on this update. With features including a 12mm drop, a lace-up closure, an upper with nylon mesh and synthetic leather, a copolymer midsole, and a rubber outsole. Runners can get this with different color variations and sizes that are available for men and women.
The moderately stable Wave Inspire 17 is a supportive and durable pair of shoes that are best worn by runners who go for miles after miles that do not give any blowouts. This product features a nylon mesh upper with synthetic leather overlays for added ventilation and breathability, particularly on hot days.
The midsole has a light cushioned U4ic material and Mizuno Wave technology for light cushioning. The inside of the shoe provides more room on the toe box and has a thicker tongue for better security. Moreover, the heel collar for these running shoes is claimed by some runners to be secure and comfortable. These running shoes also have nylon linings to keep moisture away from the feet during runs.
The outsole is made from blown rubber that has deep flex grooves that add more cushioning and flexibility to the shoes. It also helps increase traction in being able to perform on just about any surface. The Wave Inspire 7 is built with Dynamotion Fit that enables the insides of the shoes to follow every movement of the feet. Aside from being true to its sizing, the laces for this product have a great system that creates a snug feel on the feet. Truly, a tough pair of shoes that has enough bounce and lightweight for such decent pricing.
The Wave Inspire 7 is pretty much the ideal running shoe for neutral runners. A responsive, stable, and supportive shoe, the Wave Inspire 7 is a versatile pair of running shoes that can be used on any type of terrain. However, some runners have noted that it can be heavy especially when running long distances and it might not be the best pair for runners who look for shoes that offer high stability.
3. Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 4
Key Features
- Mizuno Wave
- Xpop
- Waveknit upper
- X10 outsole
Reasons to buy
- Plush
- Cushioned enough to be comfortable
- Knit design of the upper
Reasons to avoid
- Might be heavy to some
Regarded as the plushest pair in the line, the Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 4 will surely be a catch for the runners out there. These running shoes promise comfort while offering an efficient ride. With features including a 10mm drop, a traditional lace-up closure, a knitted upper, a thick midsole, and an outsole made from rubber. Runners can purchase this with different color combinations and sizes available for both men and women.
The Wave Sky 4 Waveknit, from the name itself, features a unique knit upper that gives the shoes the best structure and fit to anyone who is wearing it. This results in adding a smooth look and feel to the shoes due to the knitted fabric. It features a slim tongue that is easily adjusted with minimal padding that wraps around the top of the foot, adding to that snug and perfect fit.
The distinctive midsole for the Mizuno Wave Sky 4 Waveknit is designed to have 3 different materials in it; an Enerzy formulation, a springy Xpop, and Ui4cx materials. Combining these three results in the complete protection of the feet and as well as giving it that sturdy feel.
Some runners might find it too much for the feet, but to some, it gives the best plush underfoot feel on their runs. The carbon rubber outsole is built to offer great traction of the shoes particularly on roads and smoother surfaces, be it for short or long-distance running. Runners should also take note that this is a pair of neutral shoes that is advisable to be used by runners with a normal gait.
This product also features a minimally padded ankle collar to aid in the hugging of the foot. However, some customers have noted that the heel section tends to loosen up. The Mizuno Wave Sky 4 Waveknit feels very easy on the feet, however, a few customers have noticed that it feels a bit heavy after some time in the long run. Mizuno has merged comfort and cushion and turned it into this product that could have its best performance upon being used in long runs or even marathon training.
4. Mizuno Wave Rider 24
Key Features
- Midsole made with U4ic material and Mizuno Enerzy
- Mizuno Wave technology
- X10 carbon rubber outsole
Reasons to buy
- Cushioned
- Firmness
- Great traction on any surface
Reasons to avoid
- High heel drop
The Mizuno Wave Rider 24 is a versatile pair of running shoes that seems to be the perfect pair for heel striking runners. For runners who seek a stiff ride and do not mind speed that much, this product offers upgrades suited to their needs. The Wave Rider 24 has a 12mm heel drop, a mesh upper, a dual compound midsole, and an outsole made with blown rubber. Anyone can snatch a pair of this version with different color combinations and sizes that are available for men and women.
The Wave Rider 24 features a lightweight mesh upper with a waveknit design that gives any wearer complete breathability. The dual-compound midsole is designed with a combination of U4ic and Mizuno Enerzy. The U4ic material aids in the shock absorption of the shoes while the Mizuno Enerzy helps improve its performance by combining versatility and softness in one material.
However, Mizuno has not been known for its softness. Most of the time, softness for Mizuno is equivalent to stiffness, making this product the best fit for heel strikers. The outsole is made with X10 carbon rubber making it extremely durable especially against early wear. It also provides premium traction on almost any surface be it on wet pavement, gravel, grass, or even asphalt. This product features the Mizuno Wave technology that provides enough cushioning and shock dispersion along with the shoes.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 24 is a neutral daily running shoe best utilized by runners who run heel first, hence, overpronators should think twice before buying this shoe. It also features a springy heel that might only be appreciated by heel strikers. However, some reviewers have noted that the Mizuno Wave Rider 24 has a high heel drop and runners who use lower drops might need some time to adapt and adjust to these shoes.
5. Mizuno Wave Creation 20
Key Features
- DynamotionFit
- Premium Insock
- AIRmesh
Reasons to buy
- Great cushioning system
- Breathable mesh uppers
- Innovative features
Reasons to avoid
- Tight toe box
For runners who are looking for a great pair of running shoes that would assist and help them on their long runs, the Mizuno Wave Creation 20 will be a great fit for their needs. With combined responsiveness and quality support, this product will be highly acknowledged by neutral runners.
Aside from innovative technology incorporated in the design, this product features a 12mm heel-to-toe drop, a mesh upper, and a blown rubber outsole. Runners can avail of this with different color variations and sizes for both men and women.
The Wave Creation 20 has a DynamotionFit technology in a breathable mesh upper with multiple layers of stitched overlays that helps in hugging the shape of the feet. This technology also follows any wearer’s foot’s gait cycle. The upper also has ventilation pore details to provide more comfort and breathability to the feet.
Many runners have lauded the generous cushioning on the Wave Creation 20 which ultimately helps with pain even with plantar fasciitis. The midsoles for these running shoes have U4ic full-length foam that acts as the primary support of the model. The back part of the foam has the combined power of Infinity Wave and Pebax plates to keep the feet steady and helps with shock attenuation.
The inside also features two layers of thermoplastic called Infinity Wave Plate to also hold the feet steady on the run. However, some runners find the toe box to be a bit tight and cramped.
The main feature behind the durability of the Wave Creation 20 is its X10 rubber outsole. Its unique open design under the feet is from the Infinity Wave support system. These features resulted in the superior shock absorption and responsiveness of the shoes while maintaining a lightweight.
The outsole also aids in the steady traction of the shoes on almost any surface. Aside from all these features, the Wave Creation 20 also has Premium Insock, providing a premium grade insock to add comfort. Another great feature for these shoes is the Mizuno Wave technology for better cushioning and added stability.
6. Mizuno Wave Horizon 5
Key Features
- XPOP foam
- Mizuno Enerzy
- U4ic and U4icx materials
- X10 carbon rubber outsole
Reasons to buy
- Pillowy soft
- Offers sufficient stability
- Provides comfort during longer runs
Reasons to avoid
- Overbearing heel height
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 5 is a stable pair of running shoes best advised to be used by overpronators. Combining its power of being responsive and stable, this product is a must-buy for runners with feet that roll inwards as they move. Featuring a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, a mesh upper, a U4icx midsole, and a carbon rubber outsole. The Wave Horizon 5 is available in different color variations and sizes for both men and women.
Mizuno has boasted some of the upgrades on the upper of Wave Horizon 5 but to some reviewers, it is still the same classic jacquard mesh upper. With that said, it still never fails to offer a good amount of breathability for any wearer. Along with this, it also features a sock liner and a padded tongue that work well together to provide the most comfortable fit. This product also has the Aerohug technology that enables the running shoes to hug the feet better.
However, some customers noted that the height of the heel collar can be overbearing. The midsole for the Wave Horizon 5 is built with three different foams. The first layer has the U4ic base that helps absorb shock but struggles with energy return. The second layer has the Mizuno Enerzy to give the shoes that bounce and responsiveness.
Lastly, the third layer is built with U4icx to create a lighter, softer, and more cushioned feel on the run. The outsole on the other hand has the X10 carbon rubber that enables the premium durability of the shoes and is designed to go for miles. This outsole design provides the shoes good traction on almost any type of surface.
Aside from the features and details above, this product also has a few interesting technical features. Instead of the Wave Plate, Mizuno has replaced a Foam Wave technology that serves the same purpose but with added stability. A strip of XPOP foam is also merged in the running shoes to supply runners with a well-cushioned and responsive feel on their runs.
The Wave Horizon 5 is best for easy and long-distance running, but for runners that go into quick-paced training, this might not be suited for them.
7. Mizuno Wave Sky 5
Key Features
- Stretch woven mesh upper
- Enerzy Core
- Wave Foam
- Enerzy Foam
Reasons to buy
- Premium comfortability
- Very stable and easy
- Great neutral running shoes
Reasons to avoid
- Some might find it too expensive
For entry-level runners who look for an easy but highly stable pair of running shoes on their runs, the Mizuno Wave Sky 5 will be the perfect buy for them. For seasoned runners who are a fan of the Wave Sky series, this model has a few upgrades that would excite them.
With features such as an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, a mesh upper, a luxurious midsole made from different materials, and a carbon rubber outsole. Runners can avail of this with different color combinations and sizes available for both men and women.
Mizuno has impressed many runners by upgrading the upper for the Wave Sky 5. It now features a stretch woven mesh upper versus the knit upper from the past model. The upper is created from an eco-friendly material which is recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and customers have lauded its smoothness in comparison to the former upper design. It also features a gusseted tongue that adds to a snugger fit.
Mizuno also added holes on the upper to provide ventilation on the feet. The midsole has three different layers that are composed of Enerzy Core, Wave Foam, and Enerzy Foam to provide runners that cushioned and stable feel on their runs. The past model had the wave plate which is now replaced with the Foam Wave feature. Many customers have commented that it is much softer than the past model without compromising the level of responsiveness it offered.
The outsole of the Wave Sky 5 has the X10 carbon rubber as well that adds up to the top-level durability of the shoes. Aside from this, it also helps with the great traction of the shoes, and even when running long distances, some reviewers were impressed by the durability of the outsoles. The Wave Sky 5 is advisable to be used for slow runs from short to long distances. Runners who experience mild to moderate overpronation will surely benefit from purchasing this pair of running shoes.
How to Choose the Best Mizuno Running Shoes
To pick up the best pair of running shoes, runners should know what features and support it offers. One main thing to look for is a shock-absorbing pair of running shoes that would protect them mostly from injuring themselves on their runs. Aside from this, let’s get on to most of the features that runners should understand and look for in choosing the best running shoes:
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Almost all of the running shoes provide their respective heel-to-toe drop on their specifications. Runners should be aware of what it is and how it works. It refers to the height difference of the heel from the toe. To understand which heel drop is appropriate for the runners, they should undergo a gait analysis.
For heel strikers, they should get a pair with a higher heel drop to get better support on their heels with cushioning and shock absorption. For runners who have their forefoot or midfoot striking first when they run, a lower drop is more suitable for them.
Foot Arch Types
Determining the foot arch types is pretty much simple, runners should conduct a wet test on their own by simply standing on a paper bag with wet feet. Runners with normal arches should have a print with the middle portion of their feet halfway filled in with a noticeable curve along the arch.
Runners who have high arches should have a footprint with pretty much just the ball of their feet and their toes and almost nothing in the middle of the arch. Lastly, runners with low arches or also known as having flat feet should have the entirety of their feet imprinted on the paper bag.
Gait Type
Runners can easily determine their gait type after knowing their foot arch type. Runners with severely low arches tend to have severe overpronation as well, wherein their heels strike first on the ground and roll inward excessively. Runners who overpronate should choose a pair of running shoes that offer motion control.
Mild overpronation is common to runners with low to medium arches wherein the outside of their heels strike first when running. Runners who experience this should seek a pair that offers stability. Lastly, runners who have high arches suffer from supination, wherein the outside of their heels strike the ground first and then stay on the outside of the foot, should opt to buy neutral cushioned running shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Runners who have had their plantar fasciitis treated should still make an effort to strengthen their feet such as slowly walking barefoot in the grass or along the beach and once they feel a bit of discomfort, they should start wearing their running shoes.
This kind of exercise will aid the plantar fascia by working the small muscles in the foot. For choosing the next pair of running shoes after being treated, runners should look for a pair of running shoes that offers stability and a great fit in the arch and heel.
This is simply answered by the runner’s sensation. The wearing and tearing of the shoes are not universal since all runners have different styles and treatments when it comes to their shoes.
Running shoes also have their respective life span. However, generally speaking, the baseline for determining the life span of a pair of running shoes is between 300 to 500 miles.
Runners also have different foot strikes and it depends upon them on how hard they land each strike. As mentioned above, runners should have their awareness on when to replace their running shoes.
If the running shoes do not perform as well as they did before and it has noticeably worn down, it might be time for them to be replaced.
Marko Rakic is a trail runner and fitness enthusiast from Sydney, Australia. He is the lead writer for The Ultimate Primate and believes the best way to live a happy life is through constantly challenging yourself.