Friday, November 18, 2016

Neutral Runner? Check out my Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Shoe Review


Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Shoe Review
This post is sponsored by Mizuno in partnership with Fitfluential. All opinions are my own.

Mizuno has come out with their 20th edition of its best selling shoe, the Wave Rider 20. I have tried Mizuno's once before, trying the Enigama 5's and thought they were a decent shoe to add to the rotation but they were heavier and I just did not stick with them. So when I was given the opportunity to try out these 20th Anniversary Wave Riders, I couldn't resist since I heard these were lighter weight shoes.

When I received the shoes, I was impressed by the fancy looking box it came in. It's a nice way to celebrate the 20th edition. My first impression of the shoes were they looked great! I loved the grey and pink color combo.
Mizuno Wave Rider 20's
The shoe is designed for neutral runners. If you aren't sure what type of shoe you should be wearing, I definitely recommend going to a running store and finding out your gait. They will usually have you run on a treadmill and see how you run. Don't these shoes look great?

Mizuno Wave Rider 20's
Some key features of these shoes:
- New cloudwave technology that provides an overall softer, smoother ride
Articulated U4icX heel wedge creates more cushion
- New U4ic foam that makes this version more responsive and durable than previous models
- New engineered mesh increases breathability, movement, and hold.

My first run in them went well. Having run in my Altra Olympus shoes for my last marathon, I noticed a big difference in feel. I was so used to the cushion in my Altra's that it took a little adjusting to the Wave Riders. 

Running with Mizuno Wave Rider 20's
I did like that the shoes were lightweight. They felt comfortable and the ride is smooth and my feet felt supported. However I see myself using these for shorter runs 5K's and 10Ks since they are less cushioned than what I've been using and used to. I feel I need a bit more cushion for longer distances so I will stick with my other shoes for half marathons and marathons. 
Running with Mizuno Wave Rider 20's
I feel the Wave Riders are lightweight and responsive for short distances. I think they would be great for speed work too. I ran 3 miles with 7 year old in them and they were great. I plan on wearing these for the 5K Turkey Trot this weekend. I am happy to have these shoes in my rotation. Don't be surprised if you see them on walks with my kiddos or during my playground strength training workouts. I love the look of them! 
Have you tried Mizuno's? Do you have more than one pair of shoes in your training rotation?

Have a great weekend!

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