I was excited to try the Mizuno Wave Rider 28. For those who don’t know, the Mizuno Wave Rider has long been a staple for runners seeking a neutral training shoe with a high drop and a slightly firmer ride.
Known for being one of the few remaining 12mm drop trainers, the Wave Rider’s consistent feel has earned it loyal fans. With the latest release of the Wave Rider 28, Mizuno has introduced ENERZY NXT foam for a cushioned yet responsive ride while staying true to its roots.
Before trying the Mizuno Wave Rider 28, I had a few questions:
Does the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 feel the same?
It feels much softer compared to previous versions, but the core feeling of the Wave Rider is still there.
What is the big update in the Mizuno Wave Rider 28?
The ENERZY NXT foam has been added, making the Wave Rider feel softer. It’s not a soft shoe by any means, but it does feel softer than previous versions.
Does the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 fit true to size?
Mizuno has always run on the narrower side, and the Wave Rider is no exception. I’ve also found it to run a bit short, so it’s important to try the size first. You may need a larger size than usual.
Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Quick Facts
- Price: $139.95
- Weight: 9.5 oz (Men’s), 8.0 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height: 41mm (heel) / 29mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 12mm
Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Fit
The upper of the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 features a comfortable, breathable mesh material with a moderate amount of stretch, providing both comfort and security.
The best running shoes disappear on your feet, and honestly, I don’t feel that way with this year’s Wave Rider. There are small parts I feel. The toe guard offers protection but can feel a bit snug, especially over longer distances, so if you have sensitive toes, consider sizing up. The heel collar is cushioned but sits a bit high. I wear higher socks, so it hasn’t been a problem, but you shouldn’t need to wear a special sock with a shoe.
In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10-11. In Mizuno shoes, I’ve found the size 11 is always the better fit, and the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is no different. It’s starting to even feel snug at 11, so maybe next time I’ll get an 11.5 (if they make it?) or probably a women’s size 12.
Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Ride
The midsole of the Wave Rider 28 is where the magic happens and has been upgraded with Mizuno’s ENERZY NXT foam. This adds a bit more softness while maintaining the firmness and snappiness the Rider series is known for. This high-drop trainer has a noticeable 12mm drop, giving a slightly “clunky” feel on the heel for some runners, but it smooths out after a few runs as the foam compresses. The wave plate under the heel keeps the transition smooth and adds stability by centering the foot, making it feel secure throughout each stride.
I, for one, like the 12mm drop and have usually done better in higher-drop shoes. During my first run in the Wave Rider 28, I immediately felt how much softer the ride is. It’s not a soft shoe by any means, but it is a softer ride. I was able to pick up the pace, but it still excels best as a daily trainer. The Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is a great option if you’re looking for a daily trainer. It can handle faster paces, but there are better shoes for that.
Outsole
The outsole offers excellent durability and traction, typical for Mizuno’s Wave Rider series. Mizuno is well known for building durable shoes! I’ve never had a Mizuno running shoe last under 400 miles, and the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is no different. I’ve now put about 100 miles on it with no signs of slowing down.
With its good outsole coverage, this shoe handles most surfaces well, though it’s primarily a road running shoe. If you’re tempted to take it on trails, be aware that rocks can get stuck in the sole. Why do running shoe brands still make these deep crevices that pick up rocks?
Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Conclusion
The Wave Rider 28 stays true to its reputation as a durable and consistent daily trainer. With the addition of ENERZY NXT foam, it’s slightly softer yet still responsive and versatile enough for uptempo runs. Although the heel can feel clunky at first, the high-drop design makes it ideal for runners who want a traditional running shoe feel.
Who Should Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 28
- Runners looking for a neutral training shoe with a firmer ride
- Those who prefer a high-drop shoe with a consistent and durable design
- Runners who want a more narrow-fitting shoe
Who Should Not Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 28
- Those looking for a lower drop
- Runners who prefer softer, more cushioned rides
- Runners with wider feet
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Wave Rider 28, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
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:
What is your favorite daily trainer?
Are you training for anything right now?