13 Best Mizuno Running Shoes Reviewed
To help you choose the pair that's best for you we thoroughly reviewed the top 13 best Mizuno running shoes.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

Versatile design
Mizuno Energy midsole
Very durable









Top 13 Mizuno Running Shoes Reviewed
1. Wave Kazan 2


Concave Wave design protects the heel and prevents slippage
Flexible
High-quality, durable materials for hard runs
Graphic toe guard overlay for protection
Patterned outsole for traction on a variety of terrains
Vegan-friendly materials
They run wide
These shoes are a part of our best Mizuno running shoes and they are massively stylish with smooth, winding line patterns and bright, energetic colors.
Read moreWave Kazan 2 are made for the trails with great bounce, support, and protection, but they’re not too heavy for daily training, either. If you’re looking for a running shoe that’s high on durability and protection, go for the Kazan's.
Since they’re made for rugged terrain, they’re built to last, which makes them great shoes for running.
2. Rider 24


Versatile design
Mizuno Energy midsole
Very durable
Short laces
Runs narrow
Want to go fast? The Rider 24 has a sleek design that keeps you light on your feet and is packed with features that helps you shave a few seconds off of your record. We love that it has a wide frame that is perfect for a variety of runners, and it comes in a myriad of sharp colors and design options. It may cost a little bit more than most, but we feel that it is worth every penny.
Read moreThe Rider 24 is made for runners that want the feel of a minimalistic pair of trainers, but still want ample cushioning and support! What makes this design fit that bill perfectly is that it has a sleek and simple upper with smart features in the midsole to keep you supported without weighing you down.
The U4ic midsole is thin and lightweight, and it helps to absorb the shock of each and every step to keep your knees and joints happy. It ditches EVA foam in favor of Mizuno Energy foam which provides a squishy ride that doesn’t break down as quickly over time.
For top speeds and excellent support, you can’t go wrong with the Rider 24. This design is both lightweight and supportive, which makes it an incredibly versatile pair of trainers. Take them out on the sidewalks for a ride, or bring them indoors for some weightlifting or CrossFit.
3. Inspire 16


Heightened durability
Smoothride support
X10 outsole
Expensive
Tight toe box
Need a good stability trainer that is built to last for hundreds of miles before breaking down on you? The Inspire 16 may cost a bit more than many of the other designs on our list, but the added durability and support make it an excellent value. Runners love this option because while it is supportive, it is also lightweight which makes it the perfect companion for long-distance training.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about the Inspire 16 is that it boasts a super lightweight and easy frame. It is composed of a thin layer of mesh that contours to the shape of your foot and helps to move hot air away from your foot. Runners love that the upper provides modest support without hindering your full range of motion.
The addition of the Smoothride support wave helps to provide extra cushion and guide your stride to help correct overpronation. While the midsole provides unmatched support, it is less rigid which offers a little bit more flexibility than stiffer designs. The flexibility in this option makes it more versatile for other types of training, such as weight lifting and cross-training.
If you are in the market for something that is composed of lightweight and flexible materials that won’t hold you back, the Inspire 16 is a great choice for your needs. Our favorite feature of this option is that it has higher durability when compared to other options in the Mizuno line. If your daily runs are over 5 miles, the Inspire 16 is a great value that won’t break down on your as quickly.
4. Wave Catalyst 2
Comfortable
Lightweight
Several color options
Breathable
3d reflective fabric for added safety
The u4ic lightweight top midsole for increased responsiveness and shock absorption
Feels narrow to some users
The Mizuno Wave Catalyst 2 is an upgrade of the Mizuno Wave Catalyst, which was also previously on our list of top Mizuno running shoes. Catalyst 2 brings improvements to its toe box, for added comfort.
Read moreCatalyst 2 uses Mizuno’s Wave energy dispersion technology to help improve stability and comfort. It is one of the most comfortable Mizuno options, thanks to the use the eu41c top midsole foam incorporation. The addition of mesh in the forefoot portion of the shoe, combined with 3d reflective fabric, adds breathability, comfort, and safety features that the previous model did not have. The improved toe box was necessary to push the Catalyst up among the best.
As far as quality and durability, there aren't complaints in this department. The Catalyst and Catalyst 2 both prove this Mizuno model is one of the most popular Mizuno running shoes available options for runners.
5. Wave Enigma 6
Breathable open mesh upper
Midsole unit gives great support
Ortholite sock-liner wicks moisture and keeps the environment bacteria-free
SmoothRide tech for smooth transitions
U4ic tech for shock absorption
Vegan-friendly construction
X10 tech for high-wear area durability
Runs small, so go up to about a half size
Enigmas aren’t easy walking shoes or sprinting shoes – their construction makes them great running shoes for long-distance runners. This is because they’re moderate in weight and well-cushioned.
Read moreThey’ve also got the durability necessary to rack up hundreds of miles. For all of these reasons, these shoes are attractive to more seasoned runners looking for a reliable shoe that works for training and racing alike.
Key features include a brand new redesigned Parallel Wave for incredible softness. New EVA Strobel board. The uppers rank high in fit and luxurious feel.
6. Wave Sonic


Lightweight upper
U4icX Wave construction
Flexible
Affordable
Minimal arch support
If you need something light as a feather and fast, look no further! What runners love most about this design is that it is composed of lightweight materials that feel like you aren't wearing anything at all. Not only are they lightweight, but they are also very flexible which makes them perfect for a myriad of exercises while still providing excellent support.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it boasts a pretty basic mesh upper. The basic design is lacking any seam lines or points that may cause hot spots or blisters from developing on your foot as you train. The simple laces help to promote lockdown so you can take tight corners with ease, reducing the risk of injury.
We also like that this design also has an updated U4icX Wave midsole construction that cushions each and every step of your gait. You can feel the squish of this material simply by standing on them. While it provides excellent cushioning, the midsole is also lightweight and flexible so you can clock in at some pretty high speeds without stiff foam weighing you down.
As the name implies, this design is made for those that want to have off a few seconds off of their time. It is composed of materials that are lightweight and breathable to keep your feet cool and dry. Plus, it comes in at a price point that won't break the bank!
7. Prophecy 7


Excellent impact reduction
Infinity Wave Plate
Unique design
Runs narrow
Smaller than expected
One look at these slick sneakers and you’ll be itching to lace them up and take them for a ride! What we love most about this option is that it is composed of super-lightweight materials that make you feel like you are running on a cloud. From the mesh knit upper to the negative space found in the outsole, there is nothing quite like the Prophecy 7.
Read moreIt’s hard not to notice the unique design of the outsole. It uses negative space and responsive rubber to create an extra spring in your step as you run. It also boasts an Infinity Wave Plate that provides a little extra cushioning while it helps to naturally correct your gait to take the pressure off of your knees and joints.
The synthetic mesh upper offers a lightweight and easy fit that doesn’t hinder your full range of motion. It has key vented areas that remove hot air away from your foot to keep them cool and dry as you train. It also boasts an anatomical sock liner to help promote lockdown when taking tight corners.
If you are in the market for something that gets you excited about hitting the road, Prophecy 7 is a great choice. We love that it is made from quality materials that provide a lot of support without weighing you down. The design of this option is versatile enough to take out of the roads or use for training at the gym as well.
8. Wave Sky
Cloudwave technology combined with u4icx foam midsoles, for added cushioning, comfort, and stability
Several color options
True to size
High cost
Narrow toe box
The Mizuno Wave Sky is one of the highest rated 2018 Mizuno running shoes. They came in a variety of stylish colors and was developed to replace the previous Mizuno Enigma running shoe and introduce the Mizuno's new Cloud Wave technology. These running shoes will provide runners with additional cushion, comfort, and support, which makes them a great addition to this Mizuno shoe list.
Read moreThis newly introduced shoe, by Mizuno, features newly developed Cloud Wave technology. The Cloud Wave plate, combined with a u4icX foam mid-sole, will guarantee and smooth and comfortable run for both long and short distance runners. This running shoe is best for neutral runners, but its standard 10mm drop makes ideal for almost any runner. This lightweight, comfortable, and cushioned running shoes are sure to provide you with a plush and relaxed run---no matter what terrain you are running in.
Although it is the Mizuno Wave Sky's debut year, it has already proven to be a durable and long-lasting shoe. There have been no complaints in regards to its comfort, quality, or durability.
9. Ultima 8


Very durable
U4ic X cushioning
Dynamotion Fit
Runs slightly narrow
Ultima 8 is a neutral trainer that is designed to accommodate a wide variety of runners. If you are unsure of the features you need in your trainers, Ultima 8 is a great place to start because it has a little bit of everything. It has a lightweight frame and easy fit that cushions your gait from start to finish. It may cost a little bit more, but we feel it is well worth it for a great pair of trainers as well as race-day shoes.
Read moreThe most important feature to note is the overall fit of this design. It boasts a Dynamotion Fit system that contours to the shape of your foot. Not only does it fit like a glove when standing still, but this system also works to adapt to the shape of your foot throughout all points of your gait cycle.
The midsole is also packed with features to keep your foot supported and protected. It has Mizuno Wave Technology that naturally guides your foot into a more even gait. This design is perfect for heavy-steppers, or for those that overpronate. It also has U4ic X cushioning in the midsole which is super responsive while still allowing runners to maintain their full range of motion.
If you are in the market for something that is lightweight and easy, the Ultima 8 is a great choice. Many runners feel that this is a perfect race-day shoe because it has an incredibly durable midsole and outsole that won’t break down into a pancake when race day rolls around!
10. Wave Paradox 3


Extended Wave Plate in midfoot for support
Mizuno Wave along the heel to midfoot for bounce and support
Ortholite tech in sock-liner is anti-microbial for fresh and odor-free foot environment
U4ic midsole for shock absorption
X10 outsole is durable with strong traction over various types of terrain
A bit heavier than they look
These shoes are stylish and all-around good to go when it comes to daily training and short to moderate runs. They’re a bit heavy, but the added weight is worth it for plenty of runners because there are just so many pros to the Paradoxes. In particular, Paradoxes appeal to neutral runners looking for a healthy amount of support over moderate distances.
Read moreMizuno’s Double Fan Wave technology with articulated forefoot Wave Plate works well to significantly reduce impact. That, combined with SmoothRide flex grooves and the shoe’s wide forefoot gauge all help to provide exceptional comfort and support to the user.
There are a few consistent customer reviews that complain about the top lacing eyelets tearing through pretty easily after just a short time of use, suggesting that there could be a quality issue with this portion of the shoe.
11. Creation 20


Unmatched cushioning
Premium sock liner
Breathable mesh upper
Runs small
Feels a little clunky
Want to feel like you are running on a cloud? If maximum cushioning and energy feedback is what you are after, Creation 20 is your ticket to get there. What runners love most about this design is that it utilizes Mizuno’s best cushioning materials to provide you excellent support without weighing you down. Plus, it boasts a wider frame and toe box which allows for a more natural toe splay.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about the Creation 20 is that it utilizes a new and improvised Infinity Wave midsole that absorbs the impact of each and every stride. If you run on hard and unforgiving surfaces that are murder on your back and joints, this design is built to absorb much of the impact to keep your joints healthy and happy.
We also like that this design boasts a lightweight and breathable mesh upper. It has key vented areas that help to remove hot air away from your foot to keep it cool and dry on those hot summer days. Plus, an updated premium sock liner helps to wick away moisture and promotes lockdown as well.
If you are in the market for ultimate comfort and support, Creation 20 is one of your best options. It may not be the lightest or most versatile option in the Mizuno line, but it is one of the most comfortable.
12. Wave Shadow 3
Cloud Wave technology combined with U4icX Strobel lining for additional cushioning, comfort and stability
Several color options
Lightweight
Sizes run small
Need to be broken in
The Mizuno Wave Shadow 3 is one of the best Mizuno running shoes this year. It incorporates Wave technology and comes to a variety of color selections for both men and women.
Read moreThe Mizuno Wave Shadow 3 incorporated the same Cloud Wave technology as the Mizuno Wave Sky. The Cloud Wave technology, combined with the U4icX Strobel sole lining, provides runners with added stability and support.
Its lightweight and cushioning features provides runners with a "barely there" feeling during their short and long distance runs.
13. Wave Horizon 3


Excellent stability
Cloudwave midsole plate
SmoothRide technology
Not very stylish
While the Wave Horizon 4 may look like a walking shoe, it is built with lightweight and flexible materials to keep you light on your feet and protected. Runners love that this design is perfect for beginners, overpronators, or heavy heel strikers. It may not be the most attractive option in the Mizuno lineup, but it comes in at a price point that makes it work checking out.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it provides the highest level of cushioning offered in the entire line of trainers. It uses a layer of squishy EVA foam in conjunction with Cloudwave. This fan-shaped plate helps to guide the foot naturally to promote an even stride and correct overpronation.
The upper of this design is a little more structured and stiff and some of the other designs that we have seen so far. It is composed of textile and synthetic mesh that contours to the shape of your foot while providing a good deal of breathability. Detailed laces also help to promote lockdown.
If you are on the market for a great pair of stability trainers that are built to be heavy and boxy, this is a great option. We love that it is packed with features in the midsole that not only provides unmatched support, but that also help guide your foot to correctly distribute weight evenly throughout your gait to help protect knees and joints.
Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features
There are many great features you can enjoy with the Mizuno brand and we made sure all of the shoes on our list have the most sought after as well as the most beneficial features available!
Casual and beginner runners may not know Mizuno running shoes by name, but they most likely have seen the logo time and time again. Mizuno can be considered specialty footwear, but it’s extremely popular in the track and performance training world. Mizuno was first founded back in 1906, and they’ve been focused on design and technology ever since.
The strengths of the Mizuno brand are pronation control, uneven terrain control, minimalist design, and speed. Let’s break down the pros and cons of the best running shoes they have to offer, and ensure that you make the selection that’s just right for you.
Mizuno is well known for its footwear technology. In fact, most of their shoe-tech is exclusive to their designs and take many forms. They have Wave, U4ic, X10, Dynamotion, Intercool, and Flex Controllers just to name a few. We know this can get confusing, so our buying guide breaks it down and explains what all this technology means and what you can expect it to do for your running game. We wanted to take the guesswork out of choosing the best Mizuno running shoes for you.

Stability
It is important that you are able to keep your balance and that your feet are stable while you run, which is part of the reason why the best Mizuno running shoes are so popular and why we made this list for you!
Mizuno has designed running shoes for those who need to correct their overpronation. The best Mizuno running shoes can also help runners with flat or fallen arches as well. An inward rolling when you land can be quite common, and stability shoes will correct this rolling in order to help prevent injury. Runners who do not need pronation correction and have neutral pronation will probably want to steer clear of these types of stability best Mizuno running shoes.
Runners with high arches will want to check out Mizuno shoes that provide additional arch support and cushioning.

Support
The best Mizuno running shoes are designed to be comfortable and supportive with a good inner and outer sole design that protects your feet keeps them comfortable, and gives support where you need it most!
Runners who have flat or fallen arches or experience pronation issues may need additional support and should look for a shoe that will provide arch support and/or motion control to help prevent injury and discomfort.
Luckily, Mizuno has designed best Mizuno running shoes that provide support as well as stability, especially for runners with overpronation. Knowing your arch type and your pronation is necessary in order to make sure you choose the right model for you.
You can read more about pronation here.

Value
It is important to think about the price tag on the shoes you are considering as well as the overall value that they present; the best Mizuno running shoes really shine as they are a great investment for all runners!
Mizuno’s sport the highest in the latest shoe technology. Make no mistake, they are a performance line of running shoes, they have an above average combination of comfort, durability, and style. However, they are also a tad more expensive than other brands. We are always careful to take price into consideration when making the best Mizuno running shoe selections, as we take pride in providing our readers with running shoes for every budget.
The fact is that Mizuno’s cost is a bit more because of the level of performance; not because of hype.

Style
Runners enjoy being stylish while they are out and about and the best Mizuno running shoes are available in a range of styles, designs, and colors so it is easy to find something that fits your wardrobe!
If you’re the type of runner that enjoys expressing themselves through their footwear and apparel, you have found the perfect brand for you. The best Mizuno running shoes come in a wide variety of color patterns and flashy styles, so you are sure to find a shoe that matches your own unique personality and style preference.
There is no mistaking one of their products; it’s refreshing to have an awesome blend of style and technology.
Expert Interviews & Opinions

Simply put, you'll get much more from your shoes if you put style last on your must-have list, and focus on the support, stability and overall function.
The first priority should be focused on finding a shoe that fits your needs appropriately, including proper support and fit. Then, after you find that, start paying attention to those cool extra features.
Talk with your health care provider about what shoes are best for your unique needs and what you can do to help treat your unique foot issues. Working with your doctor will ensure you protect your feet and that you also get the best pair of shoes possible to take care of your unique needs and consider.
It is the best way to ensure you can enjoy your runs and maintain a healthy lifestyle while also making a smart choice about your running shoes!
Other Factors to Consider

Terrain
Like many running shoe companies, Mizuno designs running shoes for different types of terrain, so we compartmentalized feedback scores and features into specific running surface categories. For hikers and trail runners, having a selection of running shoes with rugged outsoles and sticky grip that can handle dust, debris, and rain is necessary.
Feedback from reviewers reflected their need for a durable, well-constructed shoe that would work on the trails, so we took that into consideration for the trail running shoes on this list. For road and treadmill runners, we choose the highest-rated running shoes that would perform well on a variety of smooth running surfaces. No matter what terrain you run on, we have the Mizuno model that fits you best.

Speed
If you are an experienced runner and are thinking about stepping into the fast-paced world of Mizuno running shoes, we are just as excited as you are. There’s nothing like gaining speed and time from your running shoes. This comes after you’ve put in the hard work of getting your fitness goals achieved and muscles used to consistent running.
When you add a top-notch runner to the mix, you notice measurable bonuses that can be extremely rewarding. If this sounds like you, we would suggest picking from the models we classified as lightweight racers. They are sure to make you smile!

Outsole
It is important to consider the outsoles of the shoes that you are considering for your running gear collection. The outer sole is where the tread of the shoe is and this can have a big impact on your running performance and your safety as well. Good tread helps you keep your footing in wet or slippery conditions and helps you great traction when you run so your feet stay stable and you can maintain your balance.
There are many different ways the tread can be designed and the amount of tread, type of tread, and the depth of the tread will affect how well it will perform. All Mizuno shoes have good tread design and are perfect for any type of running that you may have planned! We made sure to find the very best shoes to present to you here on our top ten list.

Visibility
Mizuno shoes are made to be supportive and comfortable while at the same time offering many stylish and attractive options for runners who want to look great while out on their runs. The shoes on our list feature great visibility in two main ways. First is with reflective strips and features that some of the shoes have. This makes them more visible in low light conditions and increases safety and visibility. Second is with bright, stylish colors that are easy to see in low visibility conditions. Vibrant colors can be seen from far away and show up brighter in low light conditions which helps keep you safe while out on the run.
Our goal with our buying guide is to help you find a pair of running shoes that meet your needs for comfort and stability while also keeping you safe and visible to drivers and other pedestrians when you are out for a run. Be sure to check out the shoes we featured here to find the one that is right for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are Mizuno running shoes really worth the price? Where can I get the best deal?
In a word, yes. We make our selections based on user reviews and performance feedback. We run this information through rigorous comparable metrics on other brands. The result? The best Mizuno running shoes have features that are simply not found on other running shoes, and when we match up common materials, they are tougher and more durable.
Take the outsoles of the best Mizuno running shoes for example. The X10 outsole is the highest ranking outsole on the market in terms of durability and performance. Luckily, we partner with Amazon to bring you the absolute lowest retail prices you can find. Most of the time a full 20% less than department stores.
q: How do I decide which running shoe will help me run better?
We all know runners are always trying to improve their running, whether by increasing their speed or by having a more efficient running form. The best Mizuno running shoes will not “make” you a better runner. However, a running shoe that is tailored to your needs and your foot type will assist you in achieving your running goals.
Depending on your goal, your shoe choice will vary. For example, those looking to get faster would probably want to consider a lighter weight running shoe. That is why the factors we provide in this guide will help you choose the best Mizuno running shoes for you and your running goals.
q: How can I make sure my running shoes last a long time?
Here are some tips to keep your running shoes in good shape and prolong their lifespan: Remove rocks and pebbles that may get stuck in the outsole or other areas. Cleaning off mud or other debris that could take away from the shoe’s breathability. Rotate the shoe with another pair to allow for sweat to dry and the cushioning to recover before running in the best Mizuno running shoes again.
q: I want to run on light, non-technical trails. What type of running shoe should I look for?
Look for a running shoe that is durable, protects the foot and provides good grip and traction. Though some runners use their road running shoes on smooth, buffed out trails, it is still advisable to use a trail running shoe specifically designed for that type of terrain.
However, you probably want to avoid trail running shoes that have overly aggressive lugs that are designed to work best on tough, technical terrain.
q: Do I have to break in my running shoes?
It’s a good idea that the first few runs are shorter in the distance so that you (and your feet) can adjust to your new pair of Mizuno running shoes. Using brand new shoes for a long run may lead to injury. Each running shoe is different.
Take your time to adjust to the new support and fit of the shoe and you’ll be running in them regularly in no time!
q: Are these shoes good for people with foot problems like over pronation or fallen arches?
Mizuno shoes are made to be supportive and durable which makes them a good choice for any runner who needs a high-quality pair of running shoes. The best Mizuno running shoes on this list are good for a range of foot problems and can provide the support and stability you are looking for.
However, it is always best to consult with your doctor as they can recommend specific shoes for your unique condition and also give you ideas on how to improve your shoes even more!
Sources
- Mizuno, Running Blog ,
- REI, Running Website ,
- Runner’s World, Running Magazine ,