Shoe Of The Week: Mizuno Wave Rider 18

Mizuno’s flagship neutral cushioned trainer gets a few upgrades for the latest model.

In the Wave Rider 18, Mizuno improved its flagship neutral trainer while also fixing the some of the things runners didn’t like with the previous version. This version is lighter, more agile and offers a better fit, making it the best Wave Rider yet. The biggest changes are the return of the Wave Plate in the midsole to the Pebax material from previous versions and a few minor tweaks (more blown rubber, narrower flex grooves) to increase forefoot flexibility and toe spring. The result is a firm but responsive ride that runners have been accustomed to for many years, only with a more nimble ride. (It feels slightly softer in the forefoot during toe-off.) This version also features a revamped two-piece upper that creates an adaptable fit with just enough support from the overlay built into the brand’s logo. It remains one of the lighter high-mileage neutral trainers, which is great for long-distance runs and faster, shorter workouts like tempo runs and fartleks.

This shoe is for you if … you want a lightweight shoe that with a very firm and responsive feel.

Price: $120
Weights: 9.0 oz. (men’s size 9.0); 7.8 oz. (women’s size 7.0)
Heel-Toe Offset: 12mm
Info: mizunorunning.com

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