Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Review
Mizuno Gets Another Gold Star for Durability
Likes
- Comfortable upper fit
- Consistent ride
- Durable
Dislikes
- Firm underfoot feel
- Bulky heel
What's New
While it doesn't veer far from previous versions with big, flashy alterations, Mizuno has made some notable updates to the Wave Rider in its 25th iteration. The latest model of this daily trainer features additional Enerzy foam, a more breathable and eco-friendly upper, a new eco-friendly Wave Plate, and an even more durable outsole (in a shoe already known for excellent durability). Up top, the new soft knit upper offers improved comfort. Underfoot, a modified outsole pattern adds to the overall reliability of the shoe.
The Bottom Line
If you're looking for a running shoe that will last for miles and miles and miles, then try out the Mizuno Wave Rider 25.
Durability is the main highlight of the Wave Rider 25, but this daily trainer has no shortage of other great qualities. Though it's classified as a neutral shoe, the Wave Rider offers a very stable platform thanks to the Wave Plate in the midsole. It also makes a good first impression with its soft step-in feel. That said, these trainers firm up to provide a dose of responsiveness once out on the road. And with a 36-mm stack of cushioning in the heel, there is enough protection underfoot to keep runners comfortable during their daily training runs. Runners seeking a plusher daily trainer should check out the ASICS Gel Cumulus 23 or the HOKA Clifton 8, which are also a good deal lighter than the Wave Rider. Unfortunately, the Wave Rider 25 is more expensive than most other daily trainers, but the highly durable outsole will last for a very long time, which for some is worth a few extra dollars at checkout.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 9.4 oz (size 9) | Women's: 7.9 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 36 mm (Heel), 24 mm (Forefoot), 12mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
David: "The step-in feel was soft and comfortable, but once I got running, the shoe firmed up for a responsive ride. Even though the Mizuno Enerzy foam felt soft, the Wave Plate added rigidity throughout the heel and midfoot."
Ride/Energy Returni
David: "The energy return felt neutral. There was not much bounce, but the shoe wasn't sapping my responsiveness either."
Underfoot Protectioni
David: "From the Wave Plate to the high-stacked heel, there is a lot of underfoot protection for heel strikers, but forefoot strikers won't receive the same benefits. Additionally, the outsole offers a lot of rubber coverage, so there is plenty of traction, and it should increase the durability of the shoe as well."
Flexibilityi
David: "While most of the heel and midfoot remain relatively rigid throughout the gait cycle, there is still a slight flex in the forefoot which allows for a smooth toe-off."
Upper Supporti
David: "The upper feels comfortable and accommodating. The heel collar and tongue are highly cushioned and supportive, while the forefoot material allows for some stretch so my toes can splay. I took this shoe out for an 8-mile run in warm weather, and it remained comfortable and breathable the entire time."
Mizuno Men's Wave Rider
Mizuno Women's Wave Rider
Individual Thoughts
I have run in quite a few of the Wave Rider series shoes over the years, and I enjoyed the revised upper and underfoot protection in the 25th version. The fit was spot on and true to size. The heel collar and tongue offered lots of padding for a comfortable feel, while the forefoot provided space for my toes to splay. As a heel striker, I was able to benefit from the high heel-toe offset (12 mm) and felt it offered a smooth transition with each stride, but forefoot strikers will not get the same benefits. Rather than sinking into the shoe and losing momentum, the Enerzy and U4ic midsole, in combination with the Wave Plate, provided a firm and consistent ride. Overall, the Wave Rider 25 continues to deliver a similar feel to the last few versions, and I enjoyed the comfortable fit and underfoot protection. This shoe will retain a similar ride throughout its lifespan, as opposed to much softer shoes that tend to get mushy or dead over time. I would recommend it for the runner who wants to get a lot of miles out of their shoe and prefers a firm ride over a soft one.
