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
original price $140
sale/discounted price$105
Star Rating is 4.6 / 5
New Model Available
Tech Specs
- Weight
- 8.3 oz (W), 10.0 oz (M)
- Heel-to-Toe Drop
- 12 mm
- Stack Height
- 38.5 mm / 26.5 mm
- Cushion
- 4 out of 5
- Shoe Ride
- 4 out of 5
- Shoe Energy
- 3 out of 5
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.
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 5 / 5
Great shoe
Shoes fit great and look great! I am very pleased! I have used Brooks for years and was just looking to make a change - these are an excellent choice!
Star Rating is 3 / 5
So so
They are not as comfortable as my prior sneakers. They ride high on the sides by the side bone.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Been wearing Wave Riders for over a decade
I’ve been wearing Mizuno Wave Riders for over a decade. As someone with a wider foot and a mid to low arch these have been so comfortable and supportive over the years. This model has been my favorite yet. I just got a second pair for half-marathon training. The 26s had some great color options. Great mid-weight shoe. Mizuno remains my running shoe brand of choice.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Light and easy
Comfortable fit from the moment I slip in my feet. Soft landings with every step with a very light weight. After 6 years it’s still my favorite shoe.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
My go to running shoe
The Wave Rider 26 is a consistent stability shoe with fun colors.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Love Mizunos!
Super comfy and supportive and no break in needed at all. This is my new work shoe. I’m in healthcare and am on my feet 4-4.5 miles per day with patients. I’ve had other Mizuno shoes that have also been fantastic. They are well made and hold up for many miles. In addition I have osteoarthritis in my knee so for me to be able to have comfortable feet all day is a true lifesaver!!
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Mizuno Wave Rider
Great shoes especially for a narrower foot. Always provide great support. Great for a long run or a short run for my pace of 9.5 for each mile.
Star Rating is 2 / 5
Poor quality
I brought this for long distance running. Unfortunately very uncomfortable. There’s no cushion on ball of feet especially on pavement. I’m disappointed I used to buy Brooke’s all the time but lately I feel quality has change. I’m looking for different brands that more comfortable.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Awesome place
We absolutely love Fleet Feet. Everyone there always are so friendly and helpful. We will always buy our shoes here from now on.
