Mizuno Wave Rider 25
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Overview
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is a running shoe that has been designed to meet the needs of runners seeking a reliable and comfortable daily trainer. Celebrating its 25th iteration, this model continues to evolve, offering a blend of tradition and innovation.
Key Features:
- Full-length Enerzy Foam midsole: Provides a soft and responsive ride from heel to toe.
- Parallel Wave Plate: Delivers a mix of cushioning and stability, enhancing the shoe's propulsion and dynamism.
- Engineered air mesh upper: Offers a breathable and flexible fit, with a focus on eco-friendliness through the use of recycled materials.
- Durable outsole: Features a blend of hard and soft rubbers for traction, grip, and longevity.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is an ideal choice for runners who value a stable platform and a cushioned ride for their daily running sessions. Its updated midsole and upper materials provide a fresh and improved experience, making it a strong contender in the lineup of Mizuno products.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 80%. This puts it rated just below the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just below the median price of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Mizuno Wave Rider 25
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 stands out as a durable and stable option for runners seeking a shoe that can handle the rigors of daily training. The introduction of a full-length Enerzy Foam midsole marks a significant update, offering a softer and more responsive ride. Runners will appreciate the shoe's ability to provide a comfortable experience while maintaining the classic feel that the Wave Rider series is known for. Although it may not be the most versatile shoe for faster paces, its reliable construction and comfortable upper make it a solid choice for those focused on longer, relaxed runs. The shoe's price point is on the higher side, but its durability and quality build could justify the investment for dedicated runners.
Updates to Mizuno Wave Rider 25
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 introduces significant updates, including a full-length Enerzy Foam midsole for a softer ride and a more breathable, eco-friendly upper. These changes mark a departure from the Mizuno Wave Rider 24, which featured a denser midsole and a less refined upper. The Wave Rider 25's evolution reflects Mizuno's commitment to improving comfort and performance while maintaining the shoe's core identity within the Mizuno Wave Rider family.
Comparable Shoes
The Brooks Ghost 14 is aimed at a simar market to the Wave Rider 25, offering a similar level of cushioning and stability. However, the Ghost 14 may provide a smoother transition due to its single-density midsole, whereas the Wave Rider 25 features a dual-density setup with the Wave Plate technology.
Runners comparing the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 to the ASICS Gel Cumulus 23 will notice that the Cumulus offers a slightly softer ride and is a bit lighter, making it potentially more versatile for a variety of paces. However, the Wave Rider 25 excels in durability and stability.
The HOKA Clifton 8 is often compared to the Wave Rider 25. The Clifton 8 is known for its maximalist cushioning and lightweight design, which may appeal to runners seeking a plush ride. In contrast, the Wave Rider 25 provides a more traditional feel with its Wave Plate technology and higher heel-to-toe drop.
6 Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25's upper is crafted from an engineered air mesh that is both soft and flexible, offering a breathable fit. The minimal overlays and gusseted tongue contribute to a secure and comfortable fit, while the internal heel counter ensures excellent heel lockdown. The upper's design also incorporates reflective elements for low-light visibility.
Midsole
The midsole of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is a highlight, featuring the new full-length Enerzy Foam. This foam provides a softer, more cushioned ride compared to previous versions, while the Parallel Wave Plate adds stability and a touch of dynamism to the running experience. The midsole's design caters to both heel strikers and those with a neutral gait.
Outsole
Durability is a key strength of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25's outsole, which is constructed with a combination of hard and soft rubbers. The outsole pattern is designed for full ground contact, offering smooth transitions and reliable traction on various surfaces.
Size/fit
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 fits true to size, with a medium toe box that accommodates a wide range of foot shapes. The shoe is available in multiple widths, ensuring a suitable fit for runners with different foot widths.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25, with a plush collar and tongue providing a snug and secure feel. The shoe's overall construction and materials contribute to a comfortable running experience, even on longer runs.
Cushioning
The cushioning of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is both ample and responsive, thanks to the Enerzy Foam midsole. This cushioning system is designed to absorb impact and provide a smooth ride, making it suitable for runners who prioritize underfoot comfort.
Breathability
The engineered air mesh upper of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 offers good breathability, allowing for air circulation and keeping the feet cool during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who train in warmer conditions.
Stability
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 provides a stable ride, with the Wave Plate technology in the midsole offering support without the need for traditional stability features. This makes the shoe a good option for neutral runners who require a stable platform.
Durability
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is built to last, with a durable outsole and high-quality materials throughout the shoe. Runners can expect to get many miles out of this shoe, making it a reliable choice for regular training.
Grip
The outsole's rubber compounds provide a good grip on both dry and wet surfaces, ensuring confidence during runs. The Wave Rider 25's grip performance is consistent across different terrains, from roads to light trails.
Flex
While the midsole offers a cushioned ride, the forefoot of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 maintains a degree of flexibility that allows for a natural toe-off. This flexibility is balanced with the stability provided by the Wave Plate, resulting in a comfortable and efficient stride.
Who should buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 25?
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is well-suited for runners who prioritize a cushioned and stable ride for their everyday training. It's especially beneficial for those who prefer a shoe with a higher heel-to-toe drop and a durable build. Runners with a neutral gait or mild pronation will find the Wave Rider 25's stability features supportive without being intrusive.
Who should not buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 25?
Runners who prefer a more versatile shoe for faster-paced workouts or races may find the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 less suitable. Its focus on cushioning and stability may not align with the needs of those seeking a lightweight, snappy feel. Additionally, those on a budget might consider other options that offer similar features at a lower price point.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25: What's it good for?
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is ideal for long-distance running and recovery runs, where comfort and cushioning are key. Its stable and cushioned platform also makes it suitable for runners with a heel-striking gait. While it may not be the first choice for speed sessions, it's a reliable workhorse for the bulk of a runner's mileage.
4 Mizuno Wave Rider 25 FAQs
How does the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 fit compared to previous versions?
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 fits true to size with a medium toe box, similar to previous versions. However, the updated engineered mesh upper offers a more breathable and flexible fit.
Is the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 suitable for runners with plantar fasciitis?
Yes, the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 can be a good option for runners with plantar fasciitis due to its cushioned midsole and stable Wave Plate, which provide support for the heel and arch.
Can the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 handle wet running conditions?
The durable outsole with a combination of hard and soft rubbers provides good grip on wet surfaces, making the Wave Rider 25 suitable for running in various conditions.
What type of runs is the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 best for?
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is best suited for daily training runs, long-distance runs, and recovery runs, thanks to its cushioned and stable design.
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| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedApr 2021 | Dec 2023 | Jun 2024 | Apr 2024 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 278 g W: 224 g | M: 269 g W: 232 g | M: 283 g W: 261 g | M: 286 g W: 249 g | M: 266 g W: 241 g | |
| Forefoot | Forefoot24 mm | 24 mm | 25 mm | 27 mm | 22 mm | |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop12 mm | 12 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel | Heel36 mm | 36 mm | 37 mm | 35 mm | 37 mm | 32 mm |
| Brand | BrandMizuno | Brooks | Nike | Nike | Saucony | Nike |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeHeel strike | Heel strike | Heel strike | Heel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Heel strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeMaximalist | Comfortable | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Comfortable | |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable | Sustainable | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
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