Mizuno Wave Inspire 15

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90%
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Mizuno Wave Inspire 15: Review

“A stability shoe for overpronators.”

Overview


The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is a running shoe designed to provide stability and support for runners with overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running). This model is part of the Mizuno Wave Inspire family, known for its reliable performance and durability.

Key Features:

  • Wave Plate Technology: Offers enhanced stability and support for overpronators.
  • U4ic and U4icX Midsole: Provides a responsive and cushioned ride.
  • Breathable Mesh Upper: Ensures comfort and ventilation during runs.

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize stability and support for daily running. Its advanced midsole technology offers a responsive ride, making it suitable for long-distance training.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 90%. This puts it in the highest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15


The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is a reliable choice for runners seeking stability and support. Its Wave Plate technology and U4ic midsole provide a firm yet responsive ride, making it suitable for long-distance runs. The shoe's breathable mesh upper ensures comfort, while the durable outsole offers excellent traction. However, some users may find the shoe bulky and requiring a long break-in period. Overall, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is a solid option for overpronators looking for a stable and supportive shoe for their daily training. Its durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious runners.

Updates to Mizuno Wave Inspire 15


The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 features a few key updates from its predecessor. The most notable changes include a redesigned mesh upper for improved breathability and a more anatomical Wave Plate for enhanced comfort and support. Additionally, the shoe's weight has been reduced, making it lighter and more dynamic than previous versions.

5 Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Incredibly comfortable and versatile ride.
Remarkably durable.
Wave plate and midsole compounds give a nice amount of stability and support.

2 Cons

Long break-in period.
Looks and feels bulky.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is made from a breathable mesh material, which ensures good ventilation and comfort during runs. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry, making it suitable for long-distance training. The mesh upper also features stitched overlays that provide additional support and structure, enhancing the overall fit of the shoe. The toe box is spacious, allowing for natural toe splay, which is beneficial for runners with wider feet.

Midsole

The midsole of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 features a combination of U4ic and U4icX foam, providing a responsive and cushioned ride. The U4ic foam is lightweight and offers high energy return, while the U4icX foam adds an extra layer of softness and comfort. This dual-density midsole helps absorb impact and provides a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it ideal for long-distance running.

Outsole

The outsole of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is made from durable X10 carbon rubber, which offers excellent traction and grip on various surfaces. This material is known for its high wear resistance, ensuring the shoe's longevity even with regular use. The outsole design caters to heel strikers (runners who land on their heels first), with an abundance of foam in the heel area to provide additional cushioning and support.

Size/fit

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 offers a comfortable and secure fit, thanks to its well-designed upper and lacing system. The heel counter locks the foot in place, preventing any slipping or movement during runs. The toe box is spacious, providing ample room for natural toe splay, which is beneficial for runners with wider feet. The shoe fits true to size, and there is no need to size up or down.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15, with its cushioned midsole and breathable upper. The U4ic and U4icX foam provide a responsive and comfortable ride, while the mesh upper ensures good ventilation. The shoe's padded tongue and collar add to the overall comfort, making it suitable for long-distance runs and daily training.

Cushioning

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 offers excellent cushioning, thanks to its dual-density midsole. The U4ic foam provides a responsive and lightweight feel, while the U4icX foam adds an extra layer of softness and comfort. This combination helps absorb impact and provides a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it ideal for long-distance running.

Breathability

The breathable mesh upper of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 ensures good ventilation and comfort during runs. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry, making it suitable for long-distance training. The mesh material also repels cold water and snow, making it a versatile option for various weather conditions.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15, thanks to its Wave Plate technology. This plastic plate extends to the ball of the foot, providing support and preventing overpronation. The shoe's dual-density midsole also contributes to its stability, making it a reliable choice for runners with overpronation.

Durability

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is known for its durability, with a robust outsole made from X10 carbon rubber. This material offers excellent wear resistance, ensuring the shoe's longevity even with regular use. The upper's stitched overlays also add to the shoe's durability, making it a reliable option for long-distance running.

Grip

The outsole of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 provides excellent grip and traction on various surfaces, thanks to its X10 carbon rubber material. This design ensures a secure footing, even in wet or slippery conditions, making it suitable for road running and light trails.

Flex

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 offers a good balance of flexibility and support, thanks to its midsole and outsole design. The plastic Wave Plate extends to the ball of the foot, providing support while allowing for natural foot movement. The shoe's flexible forefoot ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe, making it comfortable for long-distance running.

Who should buy the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15?


The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is ideal for runners who need stability and support for their daily training. It is particularly suitable for those with overpronation, as the Wave Plate technology helps prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning for long-distance runs will also benefit from this shoe. Its durable construction makes it a reliable choice for high-mileage training.

Who should not buy the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15?


Runners who prefer a lightweight and minimalistic shoe may find the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 too bulky and heavy. Those with a forefoot striking stride might not benefit from the shoe's 12 mm drop, which is more suited for heel strikers. Additionally, runners looking for a quick break-in period may be disappointed, as the shoe requires some time to feel comfortable.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15: What's it good for?


The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is great for daily running and long-distance training. Its stability features make it suitable for runners with overpronation, while the cushioned midsole provides comfort for high-mileage runs. The shoe's durable construction ensures it can handle the demands of road running and light trails. Overall, it is a versatile option for various running activities.

5 Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 FAQs


Is the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 suitable for overpronators?

Yes, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is designed for overpronators. Its Wave Plate technology provides stability and support, helping to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot.

How does the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 compare to the Asics Kayano?

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 and the Asics Kayano both offer excellent stability and support for overpronators. The Kayano is known for its plush feel and luxurious comfort, while the Wave Inspire 15 is slightly lighter and provides a more responsive ride.

Is the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 good for long-distance running?

Yes, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is suitable for long-distance running. Its cushioned midsole and durable construction make it a reliable choice for high-mileage training.

Does the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 have a long break-in period?

Some users may find that the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 requires a longer break-in period. It may take around 50 miles for the shoe to feel comfortable and perform at its best.

Is the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 suitable for heel strikers?

Yes, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 is designed with a 12 mm drop, making it suitable for heel strikers. The shoe's cushioning and support help absorb impact and provide a smooth transition from heel to toe.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 alternatives



Mizuno Wave Inspire 15
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Mizuno Wave Inspire 15
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released
Released
Nov 2018
Dec 2022Jun 2024
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Weight
Weight
M: 289 g
W: 238 g
M: 272 g
W: 232 g
M: 437 g
W: 349 g
M: 275 g
W: 235 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
18 mm
18 mm
28 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
12 mm
10 mm
12 mm
10 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
30 mm
30 mm
40 mm
36 mm
Brand
Brand
Mizuno
New BalanceNikeNew BalanceASICSASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalist
Maximalist
MaximalistComfortableMaximalistComfortable
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
ASICS GelOrthoLiteOrthoLite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan Ⓥ
Sustainable
0

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15: what the experts say (1 review)

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15: 4 Expert video reviews

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15: 1 Manufacturer video

Mizuno Wave Inspire 15 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandMizuno (+89)
Support TypeStability (+209)
Pronation TypeOverpronation (+195)
Strike TypeHeel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeLow arch (+201)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Maximalist (+428)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)
Environmental CharacteristicsVegan Ⓥ (+250)
ColorwaysBlack / Dark Shadow, Blue / Blue, Grey Sky Gray Silver Fiery Coral 03, Purple / White, White
Specificationsvs Average
Model
15
Released
Nov 2018
Measurements
Weight
M: 289 g
W: 238 g
Heel to toe drop
12 mm
Heel
30 mm
Forefoot
18 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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