Mizuno History and Overview

Mizuno is a Japanese sports equipment and sportswear company founded in Osaka in 1906 by Rihachi Mizuno. Today Mizuno is recognised worldwide in baseball, golf, volleyball, rugby and running. They operate facilities across the Americas, Oceania and Europe in addition to Japan. Although initially focused on baseballs and gloves, Mizuno now produces everything from tennis rackets to yoga mats to performance footwear. But quality craftsmanship remains at the heart of the brand over 115 years later.

Known for their craftsmanship and innovation, Mizuno is now a global brand that manufactures and sells a wide range of sports equipment, footwear and apparel. While they are still best known for baseball gloves and golf clubs, Mizuno has become popular for their performance running shoes and sneakers as well.

Key Mizuno Technologies

Mizuno incorporates several proprietary technologies into many of their shoes to enhance fit, comfort and performance. Here are some of the most important Mizuno technologies:

Wave Plate

The Wave Plate is Mizuno’s most recognisable technology - a thermal plastic wave placed in the midsole which disperses impact force, provides a smooth rocking feel and adds spring. First debuted in the running line in 1997, Mizuno has since tailored wave plates in different shapes, sizes and materials across their shoes.

U4ic and U4icX

Mizuno’s signature midsole foams replace typical EVA foam with material that bounces back to its original shape without packing down over time. U4ic is lightweight, flexible and durable with shock dissipation for comfort. U4icX amps up resiliency and softness for increased bounce back and energy return during performance.

X10 Outsole and Carbon Rubber

X10 is Mizuno’s most durable, grippy outsole compound designed specifically for trail running shoes and stability trainers. The carbon rubber plus aggressive lug pattern maintains top notch traction over rough terrain and through demanding training.

Dynamotion Fit

Mizuno Dynamotion Fit utilises carefully engineered panels, eyestays and straps tailored to different parts of the foot. These components stretch and move with the foot through every phase of a gait cycle, stride or quick lateral motion for a totally customised fit.

Mizuno Enerzy

Enerzy foam debuted recently in running shoes like the Wave Rebellion Pro. Their softest midsole material yet, Enerzy foam maintains durability and response while providing supreme bounce back similar to basketball shoes for energetic performance.

These technologies allow Mizuno to optimise fit, comfort, support and responsiveness in purpose-built sports footwear ranging from volleyball shoes to trail runners. Quality craftsmanship backed by athlete driven innovation remains paramount at Mizuno.

Mizuno Running Shoes

Mizuno is highly regarded for their supportive and lightweight performance running shoes geared towards neutral pronators. Here are some of their most popular road running shoe models:

Wave Rider 26

The Wave Rider is Mizuno’s flagship high mileage training and long distance racing shoe. Now on its 26th iteration since debuting in 1997, the Wave Rider 26 continues the trusted lineage of support, breathability and bounce in a lightweight package.

This version clocks in at 9.3 oz for men and 8.1 oz for women with a 10mm heel to toe drop. The midsole utilises Mizuno’s U4icX foam which stands up to high mileage with smooth, resilient cushioning aided by the Wave Plate in the heel and midfoot. Dynamotion Fit in the upper adapts to the foot for personalised lockdown.

Additional Wave Rider 26 features:

• Airmesh Upper: Single layer breathable airmesh throughout the upper, no added overlays
• SmoothRide Engineering: Rocking sole design encourages smoother transition from initial impact through toe-off
• Blown Rubber Outsole: Air incorporated rubber in forefoot balances flexibility with cushioned traction
• Gender Specific Options: Designed on a gender specific last to optimise fit and feel

Ideal for:

• Long, easy mileage runs
• Half and full marathons
• Gym workouts or short runs on recovery days
• Neutral runners needing lightweight, flexible cushioning

The Wave Rider 26 upholds trusted Mizuno technologies that serve mile after mile while dropping weight. A workhorse for training, racing and daily miles.

Wave Inspire 19

The Wave Inspire is Mizuno’s go-to option for runners needing moderate arch support and stability. Now in its 19th iteration since 2001, the Wave Inspire continues to utilise Mizuno’s signature Wave Plate to gently guide overpronators to neutral.

This edition comes in at 10.6 oz for men and 8.8 oz for women with a 12 mm heel to toe drop. The U4icX midsole runs the full length of the shoe, absorbing shock and rebounding with each step. The integrated stability Wave Plate and SmoothRide engineering prevent excess rolling of the foot for a more efficient gait cycle.

Additional Wave Inspire 19 features:

• AeroHug Upper: Lightweight breathable mesh wraps the midfoot via eyestays for secure lockdown. Adds ventilation.
• U4icX Strobel Liner: Delivers an extra layer of plush shock absorption closest to the foot.
• X10 Outsole: Durable carbon rubber in high abrasion areas to stand up to mileage.
• Dynamotion Fit: Fan shaped laces and moulded eye-stays move naturally with the foot.

Ideal for:

• Overpronators needing mild support
• Long distance road running
• Marathon and half marathon training
• Gym workouts on treadmills/ellipticals

The Wave Inspire 19 provides the signature Mizuno fit, feel and support in a breathable and comfortable package. Stability without the bulk - ideal for mild overpronators.

Wave Rebellion Pro

The Wave Rebellion series represents Mizuno’s line of fast-paced lightweight trainers and racing flats built for competition. The Wave Rebellion Pro specifically targets road runners seeking a responsive shoe for tempo runs, speed work and races up to a half marathon.

This edition weighs 7.7 oz for men and 6.5 oz for women with a 6mm drop. The midsole combines Mizuno’s new Enerzy foam with their Wave Sonic technology to deliver soft, springy cushioning tuned for faster paces. The engineered mesh upper features Dynamotion Fit eyestays, an articulated midsole in the forefoot and a secure heel hold.

Additional Wave Rebellion Pro features:

• PebaxR Plate: Lightweight Pebax plate provides a propulsive toe-off tuned for midfoot strikers.
• X10 Wet Grip Outsole: Wet traction carbon rubber in a grippy sole pattern provides traction even in wet conditions.
• Enerzy Foam: Softer, livelier foam compound developed specifically for performance trainers and racers.

Ideal for:

• Faster paced road running and racing
• Tempo runs, speed work, race paced training
• Half marathons, 10Ks or ambitious 5Ks
• Neutral runners with efficient gaits

If you want a lightweight neutral shoe to add turnover and efficiency to faster days, the Wave Rebellion Pro delivers on the promise of speed.

Wave Skyrise

The Wave Skyrise debuts as Mizuno’s plushest neutral trainer yet for supreme comfort on recovery days and long slow runs. Although designed for cushioning, Mizuno still engineered the Skyrise to maintain support and versatility across training paces.

This maximally cushioned edition comes in at 11.3oz for men and 9.3oz for women with a 12mm drop. Full length Cloudwave Foam runs the length of the extended Wave plate for soft landings without a bulky feel. The wider platform allows for smooth heel to toe transitions.

Additional Wave Skyrise Features:

• AirMesh Upper: Lightweight single layer mesh enhances ventilation as miles add up.
• Cloudwave Foam: Mizuno’s softest foam yet maintains cushioning and bounce over time.
• Full Ground Contact: Wide platform outsole provides a smooth rockered feel.
• Foamed Comfort Collar: Plush interior padding around the ankle opening prevents rubbing and hotspots.

Ideal For:

• Recovery days and long, easy runs
• Marathon training at slower paces
• Heavy mileage neutral trainers
• Runners wanting max cushion without the bulk

The Wave Skyrise brings elite Marathon race day comfort to daily mileage. Mizuno steps into the max cushion category while upholding support, premium fit and feel.

Mizuno Trail Running Shoes

In addition to road running models, Mizuno makes durable trail running shoes outfitted with deep lugs and rugged materials:

Wave Mujin 6

The Wave Mujin series represents Mizuno’s fast and responsive trail racing line. The Wave Mujin 6 provides a secure ride over technical terrain geared for mountain runs or obstacle course races.

This edition weighs 8.7 oz for men and 7.4 oz for women with a 4mm drop to keep you nimble on uneven terrain. The midsole uses Mizuno’s Wave Sonic technology with added Enerzy foam to maintain a propulsive toe-off even when fatigued. The Vibram Megagrip outsole plus rock plate provide all-condition traction.

Additional Wave Mujin 6 features:

• Dynamotion Fit: Strategically placed overlays adapt to the changing shape of your foot on rugged trails.
• Energy Saving Support Wave: Wave plate extended for continuous contact and smoother transitions.
• AirMesh Upper: Lightweight mesh design reduces weight and debris while increasing breathability.

Ideal For:

• Technical trail racing and runs
• Up-tempo off-road training
• Obstacle course racing
• Neutral trail runners wanting responsiveness

If you want a lightweight trail racing shoe ready to pick up the pace over roots and rocks, the Wave Mujin 6 brings speed for technical terrain and tricky obstacles.

Wave Hayate 3

The Wave Hayate series represents Mizuno’s fast and race-ready off-road models built for uptempo trail runs. The Wave Hayate 3 provides a grippy, responsive ride on dirt, gravel or grass surfaces.

This edition comes in at 8.8oz for men and 7.4oz for women with a 4mm heel to toe drop to encourage midfoot striking. The Wave Sonic midsole/plate delivers energetic cushioning and the X10 outsole bites into soft ground for traction. The upper uses Dynamotion Fit technology to adapt on the fly.

Additional Wave Hayate 3 Features:

• SmoothRide Engineering: Rockered geometry encourages a smoother stride from impact through toe-off.
• Quicklace System: Simple tightening/loosening of the lacing structure.
• Breathable Mesh Upper: Allows airflow to feet while preventing debris and moisture.

Ideal For:

• Fast-paced trail runs or races
• Mixed surface running - dirt, gravel, grass
• Obstacle course races and mud runs
• Neutral runners wanting a lightweight, nimble trail shoe

If you want a grippy shoe to help you pick up the pace on trails, the Wave Hayate 3 provides a smooth, dynamic ride to go the off-road distance.

Mizuno Sports Shoes and Sneakers

In addition to performance runners, Mizuno makes sports shoes and sneakers for training, tennis, volleyball and casual wear:

Wave Tornado X Volleyball Shoes

The Wave Tornado has long been Mizuno’s flagship volleyball shoe franchise built for lateral quickness, explosive power and comfort. The Wave Tornado X represents the highest performance Tornado iteration yet - redesigned specifically for aggressive volleyball play.

This edition comes in at 11.3 oz with a flat heel design to optimise balance and low to the court stability. The midsole features Mizuno’s AP+ performance foam and integrated Fraze Plate to mimic natural volleyball footwork. The upper utilises mesh with synthetic overlays and a padded tongue/collar.

Additional Wave Tornado X Features:

• Dynamotion Groove: Forefoot articulation zone that flexes naturally with volleyball moves and direction changes.
• Duo Soft Ankle Collar: Plush padding around ankle opening combined with comfort collar for fit.
• Solid Back Quarter Panel: Reinforced back section for lateral support when blocking or digging.
• Available in SG soccer cleat style or indoor court options.

Ideal For:

• Competitive volleyball play including hitting, digging, blocking
• Volleyball specific training and drills
• Hard court or grass/sand surfaces

If you want a volleyball shoe ready for elite play with the agility and cushioning to go the distance - the Wave Tornado X is it.

Wave Stealth 7 Tennis Shoes

Part of Mizuno’s advanced Wave Stealth series designed with input from pros, the Wave Stealth 7 represents premium lightweight stability for aggressive lateral cuts on hard courts. Utilises the signature parallel Mizuno Wave plate through the arch for smoother transfers between quick moves.

This updated tennis edition comes in at 13.1 oz for men and 11.6 oz for women with a 6mm drop. The full length AP+ midsole foam provides continuous cushioning from heel strikes during serves to toe-offs when changing direction at the net. The upper features flexible textile with breathable Airmesh lining.

Additional Wave Stealth 7 Features:

• XtaRide Midsole: Lightweight Pebax material in heel for increased durability and energy transfer.
• Dynamotion Fit Pro: Strategically reinforced panels adapt naturally to the bending foot.
• Michelin Rubber Outsole: Premium rubber outsole for optimal traction, especially laterally, on hard courts.

Ideal For:

• Tennis players that rely on speed and aggressive cuts
• Singles and doubles matches
• Hard court surfaces like acrylic or asphalt

If you want a tennis shoe that can keep up with fast paced play, the Wave Stealth 7 brings lightweight stability to elevate quick feet on the court.

Wave Creation Trainer

The Wave Creation Trainer takes the ultra-comfortable Wave Creation running shoe DNA and adapts it into a versatile cross trainer ready for multi-directional classes and short runs. Designed for lightweight breathability during studio workouts.

This training version comes in at 9.3oz for men and 8.1oz for women with a 12mm drop to facilitate heel striking during rowing or floor work. Features a broad forefoot base and extended wave plate through the heel/midfoot for multi-plane stability. Breathable airmesh upper reinforced by Dynamotion Fit technology.

Additional Wave Creation Trainer Features:

• U4icX Foam Midsole: Durable, resilient cushioning tuned for lateral moves and short runs.
• Smooth Ride Engineering: Rocking geometry encourages smooth transitions side to side or front to back.
• X10 Outsole Rubber: Hard wearing carbon rubber in high impact zones for traction and durability.

Ideal For:

• High intensity interval training classes
• Short recovery runs or treadmill sessions
• Multi-directional gym workouts
• Dynamic warm ups and cool downs

If you want a versatile trainer ready for a spin class today and a 5K tomorrow, the Wave Creation Trainer brings stability and support with breathability across disciplines.

That covers some of the most popular Mizuno performance shoes. They also have a wide selection of cleats, spikes, turf shoes and after sport slides. For casual wear, check out classic models like the Wave Rider Trail, Wave Sky 4 Slip On and Wave Hayama 5. Mizuno crafts premium, comfortable and durable shoes equipped for all sports and active lifestyles.