New Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Rider 21

The Mizuno Project Zero running shoes

UPDATE OFFERS SUBTLE ADVANCEMENTS IN COMFORT AND DURABILITY

THE DEETS

  • Weight (men’s size 9, women’s size 7) 9.6 oz., 8.3 oz.
  • Heel to toe drop: 12mm
  • MSRP: $120
  • Shop Men's | Shop Women's

FIT

True to size and with a wider toe box than former models.

Several self-proclaimed wide-footed testers find ample wiggle room in the toe box and narrow-footed Mizuno devotees still feel at home in the shoe, saying that the wider toe box is far from sloppy and, actually, quite comfortable. Plus, the newly-revamped heel collar holds the foot snuggly in place without hot spots.

RIDE

Mizuno wins—in a big way—with a firm, plush, and responsive cushioning system (difficult feat!). Sarah Harriman of Fleet Feet Sports Summerville says, “The Mizuno Wave Rider 21 is unlike any other running shoe I’ve worn. It's perfect for the runner who likes to feel cushioned and supported without feeling like they're landing on marshmallows.”

Plus, Mizuno’s proprietary wave plate is designed to guide the foot smoothly and efficiently from cushioned heel-strike to toe off.

CONCLUSION

The Mizuno Wave Rider 21 is a dependable, lightweight trainer that’s well-designed for logging long miles on the roads and. Harriman adds: “Its responsiveness makes it stand out in the tempo run.”

All around, we give it two thumbs up. Shop the all-new Wave Rider 21 here!