In the latest episode of Ryan's Running Reviews, aired on the Road Runner Sports channel, the spotlight falls on Mizuno's Wave Rider 26, a well-regarded staple amongst the brand's lineup. This premium neutral daily trainer is designed to be versatile, featuring robust materials and a legacy of satisfying Mizuno enthusiasts with its consistent updates and enhancements. Priced at $140, the Wave Rider 26 has experienced a moderate increase in weight, now tipping the scales at 10 ounces. Despite this, there is a noticeable improvement in stack height, adding an additional two millimeters for a total of 38.5 millimeters in the heel and 26.5 millimeters in the forefoot. The shoe's midsole volume has also grown, boasting a 17% increase, now exclusively employing Mizuno's energy foam, simplifying the previous dual-density setup.
The trademark of the Wave Rider series, the wave plate, remains a central feature. This plastic plate runs from the heel to the midfoot, visible on the lateral side and through the cut-out in the heel. It's designed to evenly disperse impact across the midsole for a more stable running experience, differing from other plated shoes that often extend through the forefoot to aid a rocker-like motion. However, reviewers articulated that this year's thicker midsole yielded a firm sensation, contrary to what might be expected with nearly 40 millimeters of cushioning. The diminished flexibility is partially due to the removal of flex grooves and the addition of more rubber coverage beneath the forefoot. When combined with the wave plate, the shoe offers a more controlled ride, leaning towards a moderately cushioned profile rather than an ultra-plush feel, appealing to those preferring a stable yet neutral running shoe.
Further exploration into the shoe's upper revealed a new Jacquard mesh material, bringing both comfort and impressive airflow. However, it was noted that the fit might be snug, recommending buyers to scale half a size up from their usual shoe size for optimal comfort. A snag, though, was mentioned concerning the plastic toe guard which could potentially rub against the toes uncomfortably. Overall, the width was deemed ideal, residing in that "Goldilocks zone"—neither too wide nor too narrow—with ample space for the toes to spread, an appreciated attribute given Mizuno's tendency towards slimmer toe boxes. The comprehensive analysis concluded with an affirmation of the Wave Rider 26's standing as a stable, reliably neutral shoe, with a few caveats regarding its sizing and toe guard design.
Attribution: Road Runner Sports channel (https://www.youtube.com/@roadrunnersports)
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