Running shoes Mizuno WAVE RIDER 28

The Mizuno WAVE RIDER 28 is a neutral daily training shoe designed for road running. It serves as a versatile workhorse for runners seeking a moderately firm, stable platform for easy runs, long runs, and daily training sessions, with particular appeal to heel strikers thanks to its high 12mm drop.

The midsole combines two foam technologies: ENERZY NXT foam positioned in the heel for improved cushioning and bounce, and the firmer ENERZY foam extending through the forefoot and majority of the midsole. A PEBAX Wave Plate embedded in the heel and midfoot provides structure and mild stability while enhancing the shoe's characteristic firm, controlled ride. The Mizuno WAVE RIDER 28 delivers moderate cushioning with good ground feedback rather than plush softness, making it well-suited for daily training paces and easy runs. The ride requires a brief break-in period of a few kilometers before the foam fully settles. Energy return is present but moderate, positioning this shoe more toward reliable, durable training rather than high-energy tempo work.

The jacquard mesh upper is lightweight and breathable, with a seamless construction that reduces weight compared to previous versions. The well-gusseted tongue locks down the midfoot securely without excess pressure. The Wave Plate and firmer foam provide inherent stability features that keep the foot centered, particularly at the heel, making the WAVE RIDER 28 a neutral shoe with a stability lean. The toe box tends toward a tapered fit, and some runners may find it runs slightly small. The heel counter offers moderate stiffness with generous padding and a flared collar design for comfortable entry.

The outsole features X10 carbon rubber with generous coverage from heel to toe, delivering reliable grip on both wet and dry road surfaces. The waffle-like tread pattern provides good traction on pavement and can handle light dirt road use, though the Mizuno WAVE RIDER 28 is primarily designed for road running. Durability is a standout feature, with thicker rubber layering that extends the shoe's lifespan through high-mileage training cycles.

Weight: 269g (EU 42.5)
Drop: 12mm
Stack: 39mm heel / 27mm forefoot
Terrain: Road
Pronation: Neutral