Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 Review (2024): Fastest Racer?

Julien Guyod

Published on 01/11/2025

Mizuno took its time before offering its first carbon plate model. The result of lengthy research, the Wave Rebellion Pro left no one indifferent in 2023. Its radical design didn’t please everyone, with some runners noting some instability. But others (myself included) fell in love with it.

Therefore, this second version was eagerly awaited, especially as the category is heating up with more and more models being released.

Does this v2 suit your profile and your goals?

Let’s find out in this in-depth review.

In a Nutshell

Cushioning

The midsole features the famous Wave nylon plate, which is infused with carbon on this model. It’s sandwiched between two layers of foam: Mizuno Enerzy Lite and the new Mizuno Enerzy Lite+.

The combination of these two cushioning materials provides a balanced underfoot feel, meaning neither too firm nor too soft. As such, it should please everyone.

The first version took a long time to emerge from the Smooth Speed Project. The project continues, and version 2 is the result. To explain all its subtleties would take several pages. In a nutshell, it’s the geometry of the midsole (Smooth Speed Assist technology) which, according to the brand, helps to reduce fatigue, reduce stress on the calves and maintain an efficient stride, especially towards the end of the run when your lugs may start to buckle from the effort.

In an effort, to make the Rebellion Pro more accessible, the design is less radical than v1.

Nonethless, the deep heel bevel means that the shoe remains very demanding.

This bevel allows the brand to “cheat” on dimensions. Officially, they are 38 mm at the heel and 36-36.5 mm below the metatarsal.

But the middle of the shoe is well over 40 mm.

This unique design (and also you can understand why it leads to instability by just visualizing it), offers great shock absorption, allowing you to confidently extend your distance up to the marathon.

Conversely, the heel-to-toe drop is only 2 mm on paper, but in reality it feels very standard (i.e. 8 mm) due to the aforementioned design: your foot pivots on the heel “bump”.

Energy return

As with the V1, the extreme geometry induces a very strong forward rocker with an impressive propulsion.

Weight remains stable at around 215 g/7.6 oz in EU size 42/US9.

The ride is very responsive, confirming two things: the shoe is the most demanding on the market, but also the highest-performing if you manage to harness its potential.

Support and stability

Main sticking point of the first version, the geometry is less radical, with a single longitudinal groove.

But with the very high stack, carbon-plate and heel bevel, and extreme rockers, many reviewers found the shoe unstable during testing. I confirm but I think it will vary greatly from one runner to another.

At least, the lateral stability is greatly improved

The shoe is neutral runners.

Foot Lockdown

The AIRmesh upper is light and airy. Airflow is very good, allowing for excellent breathability, although you may catch a cold if you run in winter. However, this is standard with this type of racing shoes.

Less structured than the previous version, the upper still features an internal support strap in the midfoot. Apart from that, the upper is minimalist and fairly stretchy. The seamless design offers great comfort.

Compared with the v1, there’s more length for the same size and more room in the front. Overall, the Wave Rebellion Pro 2 offers a more classic fit.

The heel counter is semi-rigid, which can be a problem for those who need support in this area.

The tongue is attached to the upper only at the front, and floats on the sides. But runners didn’t report slippages (and neither did I experience any), thanks to the three slots through which the flat laces pass, which hold it securely in place.

Therefore, we can validate a good foot lockdown.

Traction

Already impressive on the v1, the outsole is even better on the Wave Rebellion Pro 2.

The new G3 Sole rubber provides excellent traction. It covers the entire outsole, ensuring excellent grip.

Even in wet conditions, the grip is very good, and you should be safe during rainy sessions.

With the new geometry, there’s now only one (but large) longitudinal groove, which helps to provide good flexibility.

The shoe’s preferred surface is the road, of course, but it can also be used on easy non-technical trails like dirt paths and gravel roads.

Use

There’s no real debate on this point: we have a racer for, suitable from 5K up to marathon and beyond.

For daily training, it’s best to opt for a model like the Wave Rebellion Flash 2 or Wave Rider 28.

It’s worth noting that the Smooth Speed Project focuses primarily on marathon running, so the shoe reaches its full potential over this distance.

This is confirmed by the shoe’s impressive dimensions, optimal cushioning and excellent shock absorption. As far as pace is concerned, it’s clear that the shoe won’t necessarily be comfortable at low speeds.

The question arises: at what pace should I start using them?

There’s no simple answer, as every stride is different. In my reviews, I often notice that it depends as much on foot strike as on speed.

As already mentioned, the shoe is very demanding and some runners will find it hard to run in it. But beware of generalizations: I know several runners who heel strike and run the marathon in 3 h 30, who are fully satisfied with the shoe.

On the other hand, I know an elite runner (international level) who finds the shoe unstable and too demanding. So it’s best to experiment and reach your own conclusion.

Quality and Durability

As with the previous version, Mizuno’s conception quality is very high.

Only the very light mesh will need monitoring over time, but you should be good if you stick to the road and avoid obstacles that could tear it.

Therefore, the durability is standard, making it good value among similar plated racing shoes.

The upper used over 90% of recycled materials, and the plate is made from plant-based materials.

And like all Mizuno running shoes, the Rebellion Pro 2 is vegan.

Conclusion

Mizuno has put a lot of effort and research into this new racer before bringing it to market. And it shows.

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 will never be a crowd pleaser due to its unstable and challenging nature.

And yet, the ride is simply incredible, with a propulsion that’s hard to describe to someone who hasn’t experienced it.

For us, it’s clearly in the top 3 of the best carbon-plate running shoes available right now.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use