Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Review (2024): Still a Classic?

Julien Guyod

Published on 12/16/2024

Does the Mizuno Wave Rider really need an introduction? The brand’s iconic flagship daily trainer is now in its 28th edition and is still a bestseller. These shoes have remained current despite the major shifts in running towards “super shoes”.

This new edition introduces a few changes, but without changing the DNA of the series.

So what’s new exactly? And is it for you? That’s what we’ll find out in this in-depth review.

In a Nutshell

Cushioning

The midsole stack height remains unchanged: 38.5 mm in the heel and 26.5 mm at the forefoot. Unsurprisingly, shock absorption is very good, suitable for longer distances like the marathon for most runners.

The 12 mm heel-to-toe drop of the shoe remains unchanged, and is the only potentially negative point raised by the testers.

Somehow, I felt the high drop even more than on the previous version due to the Wave Plate’s new honeycomb design.

However, there’s no absolute truth or ideal configuration when it comes to drop. It’s a personal preference above all so it’s best to experiment and discover for yourself if 12 mm works for you.

The midsole also comes now with two foams: Mizuno Enerzy (17% softer and 15% more responsive than the previous version, according to the brand) and the new Mizuno Enerzy NXT in the heel.

This combination ensures a balanced ride, still on the firmer side but less so than on version 27.

Personally, I found the ride smooth and quite enjoyable, even during my longer runs.

Energy return

Weighing 270 g/9.5 oz in US size 9 (10 g/0.3 oz ligther), the shoe is slightly lighter than many of its direct daily training competitors.

There’s more bounce than on its predecessor, making it easier to pick up the pace when your training requires it.

According to the brand, SMOOTHRIDE technology reduces the acceleration and deceleration phases of the gait cycle. It’s always difficult to verify such statement, especially as they’re often embedded in a bunch of marketing, but we can confirm that the heel-to-toe transitions are very smooth.

Support and stability

Mizuno’s fans are likely already familiar with the Wave plate.

It provides torsion to better distribute the shockwave on impact. This rigidity, combined with a fairly wide platform, provides good support and delivers excellent stability.

The Wave Rider 28 is a neutral shoe, but it should also work for light pronators.

Foot Lockdown

The upper has a new look, featuring a seamless Jacquard Air Mesh fabric. It offers greater breathability than the previous version, without sacrificing cold-weather protection thanks to the inner lining.

Like Asics, Mizuno is famous for crafting premium uppers and the Wave Rider 28 is no exception. It feels like stepping into slippers when you put the shoes on. The paddings help with comfort and allow to keep the shoes for long periods of time without discomfort.

The fit is classic, neither too close to the foot nor too loose. It should suit many foot sizes, including wider ones like myself.

However, it’s worth noting that the shoe is a tad shorter than the previous version for the same size lengthwise, so it’s best to try before you buy.

The rigid heel counter is classic and keeps it securely in place. The anatomically shaped gusseted tongue on the upper part supports the foot and contributes to comfort. The lacing system with flat laces is efficient.

The toe bumper is a welcome feature, but prevents from running without socks.

Finally, the removable Premium Insock insole respects the shape of the foot and ensures good moisture management.

Therefore, we can validate a comfortable upper with excellent lockdown.

Traction

Visually, it’s hard to note any differences with the previous version’s outsole.

There’s still X10 carbon rubber coverage in all the strategic areas to prevent early wear and maximize grip.

Traction is very effective, including on wet pavement, guaranteeing a safe ride.

Also, SMOOTHRIDE comes with a central groove that increases flexibility (and shows the plate).

In terms of terrain, besides road surfaces, you can also run with these shoes on easy trails (e.g. dirt paths) — just stay clear of anything technical to prevent tearing the rubber or the upper and slipping.

Use

As the quintessential daily trainer, there’s not much you can’t do with the Mizuno Wave Rider 28.

From recovery jogs to long tempo runs, it’s a model that serves as a jack of all trades for all your sessions and races.

With optimal shock absorption (independently from your weight or gait), there’s no limit in termes of distances — marathon running is right up the Rider’s alley.

Also, the better responsiveness allows you to run faster without much clunkiness. Of course, it’s not a racer, so not the best pick for fast workouts like interval training, but it’s still a good pick for most runners.

Similarly, there are higher-performance competition shoes (e.g. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2) comes race day, but the WR28 is a very durable and comfortable marathon pick, especially if you don’t want to bother with the rigidity of a carbon plate.

Quality and Durability

These shoes are undoubtedly sturdy. The upper and the outsole are very resilient, offering great durability. With a mid-range price, the value is among the best on the market.

Also, the Wave plate uses Pebax RNew, an organic nylon manufactured from castor oil, and over 90% of the upper fabric, lacing and inner lining is made from recycled materials.

The new ENERZY NXT foam uses more environmentally-friendly resources, according to the brand, although it doesn’t give any further details.

Last but not least, the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 are vegan running shoes and, therefore, don’t contain any animal materials.

Conclusion

The years go by and so do the Wave Riders. This version 28 subtly improves the series with a more responsive and overall enjoyable ride.

A versatile daily trainer, it’s the ultimate one-shoe-fits-all-and-everything to tackle any session or race over any distance.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use