Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Rider 26
The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 offers a seamless blend of supportive and energetic cushioning, which makes it one of our favorite neutral running shoes of 2022.
Mizuno Wave Rider 26
Features
Run your best in the Mizuno Wave Rider 26.
The newest version of the Mizuno Wave Rider lives up to its reputation as one of the best running shoes. This reliable workhorse offers more cushion and energy return than ever before. Mizuno added 2 mm of Mizuno’s ENERZY foam for a more propulsive and plush ride. The castor bean, bio-based wave plate in the midsole gives you balance, propulsion and efficiency during your run. Plus, the new wave materials emit 25% less CO2 emissions than normal PEBAX.
A connected forefoot outsole design provides for a snappier, more propulsive toe-off, while the X10 heel rubber increases durability. A jacquard mesh upper with a gusseted tongue hugs the foot comfortably and securely making it one of the best shoes for both walking and running long distances.
Lightweight, propulsive and cushioned, the Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a great all-around daily trainer.
Read more in our Mizuno Wave Rider 26 review.
Tech Specs
Mizuno Wave Rider 26
| Weight |
10.0 oz (M), 8.3 oz (W)
|
|---|---|
| Stack height (heel/forefoot) |
38.5 mm / 26.5 mm
|
| Drop |
12 mm
|
| Use |
Everyday Training
|
| Category | neutral |
What's New
Mizuno added 2mm of their ENERZY foam that provides for more cushion and energy return in the Mizuno Wave Rider 26. They also took the two different uppers (engineered mesh and waveknit) from the Wave Rider 25 and combined them into a jacquard mesh upper that is breathable and hugs the foot. The waveknit upper can be found on Mizuno’s Wave NEO Ultra and Wave NEO Wind.
Who It's Best For
The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a great daily trainer for just about anyone. Whether you are just starting out or are a veteran marathon runner, the Mizuno Wave Rider is a reliable shoe with a bouncy ride.
Why You'll Love It
There is a reason that this is the 26th version of the Mizuno Wave Rider. You will love how versatile and reliable the Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is as you walk, run or workout. The wave plate gives you plenty of pop while the ENERZY foam gives you cushion underfoot.
Star Rating is 1 / 5
Can't rate what you didn't get.
You were out of stock so I didn't get any new shoes. I now think I should check my credit card to see if the charge was refunded.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Huge improvement for my foot and lower leg pain
Making a huge difference with my foot and lower leg pain.Fleet Feet scanned my feet and recommended five excellent models from quality brands (Hoka Brooks Saucony New Balance and Mizuno). All were comfortable and supportive to varying degrees but for my feet the Mizono Wave Rider was clearly the better. Feet are so personal and unique so what is great for me may be only so-so for you but these have been such a significant improvement over what I used to shop for on my own (without the proper guidance and knowledge of brands and models the way the Fleet Feet staff have). And I have to admit to being initially reticent as it was the one brand I had no prior familiarity with. After one week of loving these and feeling a wonderful reduction in discomfort I went back and purchased a second pair in an alternate colour. :)
