You’ve been warned: The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 has undergone significant changes since the previous version. Is it bad? No.
Is it different? Yes.
Are these the updates that usually cause Mizuno fans to panic? Yes. The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is updated with the softer full-length Erezy Foam midsole. Plus, it’s more flexible. Personally, I think it’s felt great.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Quick Facts:
Weight: 9.4 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 12 mm
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Introduction:
The Mizuno Wave Rider is actually one of the oldest neutral trainers out there. The Pegasus is slightly older, but the Wave Rider has built a loyal fan base over the years. Recently, Mizuno has updated their Wave Rider more than usual.
Usually, I can say: the Wave Rider is an identical shoe, different year, but that hasn’t been the case for the last two versions. The Wave Rider 24 had the wave plate filled in and began Mizuno’s transition into the Enerzy foam. Another notable difference is the $5 increase in price. The Wave Rider 25 is now one of the most expensive daily trainer shoes.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Fit:
The Wave Rider 25 has been given a brand new plus fit, which is good as it’s also become a more expensive shoe. It features an engineered mesh upper that is soft and flexible. There are minimal overlays.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and the Wave Rider 25 does just that. I haven’t had any issues with the Mizuno Wave Rider 25. The guessed tongue features light padding and doesn’t irritate anything. Mizuno has always been a long and more narrow brand, and it fits like previous years.
Both the heel collar and heel tab are plush but not as much as you might expect in a $135 shoe.
Typically in running shoes, I wear between a size 10-11 wide. In Mizuno, I’ve been most comfortable in a size 11, and the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is no different. Size 11 fits well.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Ride:
The Wave Rider 25 is much less clunky and stiff than previous versions. The Enerzy Foam in the forefoot makes the overall fit softer. It feels softer in the forefoot with a slightly firmer heel. Very few daily trainers have kept at a 12 mm heel-to-toe drop, but the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 does.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is the first version of the wave rider to have a full-length Enerzy Foam midsole. There is also a separate wedge of Enerzy under the Wave Plate in the heel. This also helps make it softer than the top layer of compression-molded Enerzy. As you can see, it’s definitely softened up from years prior.
What is Enerzy Foam? It’s relatively soft but with little “spring.” If you like the Nike React Foam, you’ll probably appreciate the Enerzy foam in the Wave Rider 25. If you like the Ererzy foam and want something fast, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion is an awesome option.
It’s interesting because the combination of wave plate and Enerzy foam makes it feel like two different shoes. The back is extremely firm, while the forefoot is soft. This makes for a lot of cushion in the heel, and if you prefer that, you may prefer this.
Durability and Traction: Both durability and traction have always been strengths for Mizuno, and the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is no different. The blown rubber on the outsole allows you to keep contact with the ground without worrying you’ll slip. I’ve used it on many sandy trails with no issues.
As far as durability, I’ve logged over 100 miles in the Wave Rider 25, and it has no signs of wearing down. I’ve never had a Mizuno shoe that hasn’t lasted at least 400 miles, and I don’t think the Wave Rider 25 will be any different.
I’ve used the Wave Rider 25 in several different runs, including easy runs, workouts, and long runs. I prefer it as an easy run. I find it hard to “run fast” in the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 but it’s great for easy runs and recovery days. All shoes serve their purpose and that seems to be it for me.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Conclusion:
The update in the Wave Rider 25 is significant, but I think it’s a step in a good direction. The Mizuno Wave Rider has been around forever, and many shoes are lighter and faster. In order to keep up with evolving trends, Mizuno does need to update their shoes. That being said, and playing devil’s advocate, the shoe has worked for so many people for so long…why change it?
While it isn’t as versatile as many trainers, including the Saucony Ride 14 or New Balance 1080, it is a great option, especially if you want a 12 mm drop or firmer heel.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Wave Rider 25, Brooks Aurora, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Hoka Bondi 7, Brooks Levitate 5
Speed Work: 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, New Balance Fuelcell TC Shoe Review, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,
Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge, Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3
Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 11, North Face Flight VECTIV
Races: Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the Mizuno Wave Rider 25?
What is your current favorite trainer?