Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Horizon 6

Mizuno’s go-to maximum stability shoe is back with some brand new updates.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon is a popular choice amongst runners who seek extra support, stability and cushioning. The latest version features the same thick Mizuno ENERZY midsole and medial Foam Support Wave as the previous version. The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 is updated with a smooth woven upper and Mizuno ENERZY CORE material in the midsole, making for a more energetic ride.
Fleet Feet reviewers put the Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 to the test during long runs, easy runs and even gym sessions. Here’s what you can expect.
Tech Specs | Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 |
Weight | 9.5 oz (W), 11.2 oz (M) |
Drop | 8 mm |
Category | Stability |
Surface | Road |
Mizuno Wave Horizon Midsole Adds Energy

Energetic and responsive aren’t usually words used to describe maximum cushion stability shoes, but the Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 changes the game.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 features a dual-layer midsole with the same Mizuno ENERZY foam used in the previous version and new Mizuno ENERZY CORE foam. Mizuno says their ENERZY CORE material is the softest and most responsive foam used in their footwear. Reviewers noticed the update.
“This shoe does a good job of blending softness and responsiveness,”Alex says.
Many stability shoes feature a stiff medial post in the midsole, designed to reduce the effects of overpronation. The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 has transitioned away from the rigid post design in favor of strategically placed firm rubber. This feels less obtrusive while still offering increased stability.
This rigid section of foam, placed along the medial edge of the midsole, keeps your stride in check to reduce excessive movement. The result is a smooth ride that feels both supportive and fluid.
“This is a solid, dependable stability trainer. It’s got a firm feel underfoot with enough softness to keep you comfortable on the run,” Kate says.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 also offers a durable X10 rubber outsole that grips the road in all types of weather.
What’s a midsole? Learn about the parts that make up a running shoe here.
Wave Horizon’s Smooth Upper Holds You In

The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 sports a stretchy, woven upper, designed to adapt to the shape of your feet while keeping them in place. This is a change from the previous version, which featured a jacquard mesh upper. The result is a smoother fit that’s more accommodating to different foot shapes.
“The fit of the Wave Horizon 6 is very comfortable and has enough room for my toes to feel free. The material feels really durable and breathable,” Juan says.
The latest version of the Wave Horizon 6 also features a heel collar and shoelaces made with recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Recycled PET is typically made from recycled plastic water bottles and other recyclable materials. Not only is this material eco-friendly, it’s also very breathable.
“I like the fit of the upper. It’s a little bit stretchy while still maintaining a secure shape. The heel collar is just cushy enough, and overall, this is the upper of a traditional stability shoe. The upper holds your foot in place securely,” Kate says.
What are stability shoes and how do they work? Learn more here.
Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 vs Wave Horizon 5

Tech Specs | Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 | Mizuno Wave Horizon 5 |
Weight | 9.5 oz (W), 11.2 oz (M) | 9.7 oz (W), 11.6 oz (M) |
Drop | 8 mm | 10 mm |
Category | Stability | Stability |
Surface | Road | Road |
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 offers the same stable support as previous versions with a few key updates.
The addition of Mizuno ENERZY CORE foam in the midsole makes this shoe more energetic than ever before, and a slightly lower heel-to-toe drop makes for a smoother ride. A fresh new upper adds comfort and breathability to the Mizuno Wave Horizon 6.
Mizuno shaved some weight off the latest version of the Wave Horizon, but some reviewers noticed the shoe still felt heavy.
“This shoe outweighs its equivalent competition by several ounces, and that difference was really noticeable when running. I felt like I had to work a little harder just to keep my feet moving the way I wanted them to,” Alex says.
Final Thoughts
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 is a solid, dependable stability shoe for logging daily miles and cruising through long runs. It has enough cushion to go the distance, and offers a nice blend of softness and support.
“If you’re looking for a stability trainer to carry you through training, the Wave Horizon 6 is a good choice. It’s sturdy, comfortable and protective,” Kate says.
