Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2

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78%
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Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2: Review

โ€œA unique shoe for runners seeking an energetic and responsive racing experience.โ€

Overview


The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is a running shoe that stands out for its innovative design and targeted functionality. It's part of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro family, which is known for its unique approach to enhancing runner performance.

Key Features:

  • Aggressive heel bevel: Designed to promote a midfoot/forefoot strike (when the middle or front part of the foot makes contact with the ground first), this feature is key to the shoe's quick transitions.
  • Carbon-infused plate: A stiffer update from the previous model, it contributes to a more aggressive and responsive ride.
  • Enerzy Lite+ and Enerzy Lite foams: These materials provide a medium-soft ride with a bouncy feel, suitable for various race distances.
  • G3 rubber outsole: Offers exceptional traction, even in wet conditions, and improved durability over its predecessor.

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a unique, energetic ride for speed workouts and racing. Its updated midsole and outsole offer a combination of stability for overpronators (those who experience excessive inward rolling of the foot) and a fun experience for those with a neutral gait (a natural foot movement with minimal rolling).

With an average review score of 78%, it's in the lowest rated 30% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 10% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2


The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 has garnered attention for its distinctive design and performance. It's a shoe that caters to runners with a midfoot or forefoot strike, offering a ride that's both bouncy and responsive. The updated carbon-infused plate and filled-in midsole gap contribute to a stiffer and more stable experience compared to its predecessor. While the shoe excels in traction and provides a fun running experience, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Heel strikers (runners who land on the heel first) and those requiring high stability might find the shoe's aggressive heel bevel and narrow base challenging. The shoe's breathability and fit have improved, with a wider forefoot and a more accommodating upper. However, the lack of a traditional heel and the shoe's unique demands on running form limit its suitability for long-distance runs. The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is a commendable effort in the super shoe category, but its specialized design and high price point may not justify its value for all runners. For those aligned with its design philosophy, the Wave Rebellion Pro 2 offers a novel and invigorating running experience.

Updates to Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2


The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro. These include a stiffer carbon-infused plate for a more aggressive ride, a filled-in midsole gap for enhanced stability, and a redesigned upper for a roomier and more comfortable fit. The shoe also features a slightly wider base and a more pronounced heel bevel, contributing to its unique running experience.

Comparable Shoes


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The Saucony Endorphin Elite is a strong contender in the super shoe category, offering a more traditional heel and superior energy return compared to the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2. Runners who prioritize a stable and cushioned ride for longer distances may prefer the Endorphin Elite's performance.

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The Hoka Rocket X 2 offers a more secure and stable platform than the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2, catering to runners who require a reliable underfoot feel without sacrificing speed. Its design is more accommodating for a variety of running styles, including heel strikers.

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Runners looking for a super shoe with a focus on stability and sharp turn handling may find the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 to be a more suitable choice over the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2. Its design offers a balanced ride for a wide range of running forms.

8 Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Unique, energetic ride suitable for midfoot/forefoot strikers.
Improved fit with a wider forefoot and breathable upper.
Exceptional traction with G3 rubber outsole, even in wet conditions.
Stiffer carbon-infused plate and filled-in midsole gap for enhanced stability.

4 Cons

Not as propulsive as other super shoes due to heel cutoff design.
May feel unstable and demanding on ankles/calves for some runners.
High price point with limited versatility for different running styles.
Lack of traditional heel may limit suitability for long-distance runs.

In Depth


Upper

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 features an engineered mesh upper that is both thin and breathable, providing a secure fit over the cushioned midsole. The fit has been refined from the previous model, with a wider forefoot for increased comfort. Internal straps and a triple shoelace loop on the tongue ensure minimal movement and a snug fit during runs. While the upper is praised for its breathability, some runners may find the heel slightly loose, as the shoe lacks extra eyelets for a marathon loop lacing technique.

Midsole

The midsole of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is a highlight, featuring a dual-density setup with Enerzy Lite+ and Enerzy Lite foams. This combination delivers a medium-soft ride that is both bouncy and responsive. The updated carbon-infused plate adds to the shoe's aggressive ride, while the filled-in gap on the medial side enhances stability, particularly for overpronators. The unique midsole design, however, may not be suitable for all runners, especially those with a heavy heel strike.

Outsole

The outsole of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is equipped with G3 rubber, known for its exceptional traction and durability. This material provides a reliable grip on various surfaces, even in wet conditions. The outsole's design contributes to the shoe's overall stability and is a significant improvement over the previous version.

Size/fit

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 offers a fit that is true to size, with a wider forefoot compared to the original model. The engineered mesh upper and flexible heel counter contribute to a comfortable fit, although some runners may find the heel to be slightly loose. The shoe's unique design may require a period of adjustment for those accustomed to a more traditional fit.

Comfort

Runners will find the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 to be comfortable for short to mid-distance runs, thanks to the bouncy midsole foams and responsive ride. The upper's breathability adds to the comfort, keeping feet cool during intense runs. However, the shoe's aggressive design may limit comfort during longer distances or for runners with specific stability needs.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is characterized by its medium-soft feel, providing a bouncy and responsive ride. The dual-density midsole foams work in tandem with the carbon-infused plate to deliver energy return and propulsion, making the shoe suitable for races and speed workouts.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 ensures excellent breathability, allowing for ample airflow and keeping feet cool during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who prioritize ventilation and a lightweight feel in their racing shoes.

Stability

While the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 offers improved stability over its predecessor, it remains one of the more unstable racers on the market. The unique heel design and narrow base may challenge runners who require a high level of stability, especially during long-distance runs.

Durability

The durability of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is enhanced by the G3 rubber outsole, which shows minimal wear even after extensive use. The shoe's construction and materials are built to withstand the demands of racing and speed training, making it a durable option in the super shoe category.

Grip

The grip on the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is exceptional, thanks to the G3 rubber outsole. This material provides reliable traction on a variety of surfaces, ensuring runners can maintain their pace confidently, even in wet conditions.

Who should buy the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2?


The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is best suited for runners who are looking for a racing shoe with a unique design that encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike. It's ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy, responsive ride and are comfortable with the shoe's aggressive heel bevel. Runners who excel in speed workouts and shorter races will appreciate the shoe's design and performance characteristics.

Who should not buy the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2?


Runners who prioritize energy return and stability, especially heavy heel strikers and overpronators, may not find the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 to be the best fit. Those looking for a shoe that offers a more traditional heel and a stable underfoot feel for long-distance runs should consider alternatives such as the Saucony Endorphin Elite or the Hoka Rocket X 2.

Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2: What's it good for?


The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is good for short to mid-distance races and speed training sessions. Its unique design and responsive cushioning make it suitable for runners who prefer a midfoot or forefoot strike and are looking for a shoe that stands out in both performance and aesthetics. The shoe's excellent grip and bouncy ride are particularly beneficial for 5K to half marathon distances.

4 Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 FAQs


Is the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 suitable for marathon distances?

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is designed for speed and responsiveness, making it suitable for shorter races. However, due to its aggressive design and the demands it places on running form, it may not be the ideal choice for a full marathon, especially for runners who require a more traditional heel and higher stability.

How does the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 fit compared to other running shoes?

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 fits true to size with a wider forefoot than the previous model. The engineered mesh upper provides a secure fit, although some runners may find the heel slightly loose. It's recommended to try the shoe on to ensure the best fit for your foot shape.

What type of runner would benefit most from the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2?

Runners who have a midfoot or forefoot strike and are looking for a bouncy, responsive shoe for speed training and racing will benefit most from the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2. Its unique design is tailored to enhance forward momentum and provide an energetic ride.

Can the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 be used for daily training?

While the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 can be used for occasional speed training sessions, its specialized design is primarily intended for racing and may not be the most comfortable or stable option for daily training runs.

Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 alternatives

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Weight
Weight
M: 215 g
W: 179 g
181 g
M: 261 g
W: 221 g
249 g
M: 215 g
W: 184 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
37 mm
35 mm
31 mm
37 mm
30 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
3 mm
5 mm
6 mm
8 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
38 mm
40 mm
37 mm
45 mm
35 mm
Usages
Usages
RacingSpeed training
Speed trainingRacingSpeed trainingRacingSpeed trainingDaily runningSpeed training
Brand
Brand
Mizuno
New BalanceASICSBrooksASICSASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strike
Breathable
Breathable
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCell
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
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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. Heโ€™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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