Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2

The striking geometry of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 attracts the attention of all runners, making them undoubtedly one of the most intriguing models on the market. The main unknown that surge when seeing them is how they will feel when running with them, and let me tell you that they will surprise anyone who has the opportunity to have them on their feet.

At first, I must admit that the sensations when running with these new Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 running shoes are strange; personally, the structure with which they are designed did not convince me at all, but as the kilometers go by, that first impression disappears.

What kind of runners are the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 for?

Are you looking for a shoes to push yourself in your competitions? The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 has all the features to be one of the options with which to hang a bib and go out to beat the stopwatch. However, there are several nuances to keep in mind when talking about this racingshoe.

Primarily, they are designed for lighter runners as the geometry of the shoe can become a bit unstable for heavier runners. One aspect that has surprised me is that, despite the geometry, they have managed to avoid the absence of foam in the heel area during the race. This eye-catching model from the Osaka brand encourages a natural midfoot drop, which provides a smooth and fluid transition.

It is not a model that conveys extreme reactivity; however, the midsole composed of Mizuno ENERZY Lite and ENERZY Lite+ technologies offers a pleasant feel, with a firm touch.

Personally, when I have enjoyed them the most, it has been at paces between 3'30" and 4' per kilometer. On the other hand, in short interval workouts like 400 meters or less you don't get that good feeling that you get when you wear them for long runs.

For what distances do we recommend the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2?

There is some debate here: for both 10K and 21K races, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 emerges as a very attractive option to consider. However, facing a marathon with this model may be somewhat risky, as it could become a double-edged sword. Let me explain, as the miles pile up and fatigue unconsciously comes into play, major changes in the way you run are likely to occur.

Unless you are a very experienced runner, for most recreational runners the structure of the shoe could be a considerable drawback. If you start to drop too steeply with your heel, you are likely to experience a feeling of instability in that final stretch of the run when fatigue is at its greatest.

What we liked most about the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2

I'm going to explain what I liked the most, and what I consider to be the strongest points of these innovative Wave Rebellion Pro from Mizuno.

For running at brisk paces is an ideal shoe

From the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 I would highlight its ability to maintain excellent performance in training or races at high paces. Its construction is very balanced, offering an ideal combination of lightness and cushioning, allowing you to maintain a high speed without a high perception of effort or fatigue in the legs. With these shoes, you can enjoy your most demanding training sessions or competitions without sacrificing speed or comfort.

Highly breathable and comfortable upper

The upper is extremely minimalist, ensuring exceptional breathability that keeps your feet cool, even on the hottest and most humid days. It also offers a comfortable fit that adapts perfectly to the shape of the foot without causing pressure points or chafing. However, as I'll mention below, it won't appeal to all runners.

Outsole performs great in both wet and dry conditions

The G3 outsole of this shoes is another highlight, thanks to its excellent traction and durability. The design of the outsole pattern and the type of rubber used provide great grip in every stride. During my workouts, both on dry surfaces and on rainy days, the outsole has performed exceptionally well, offering a secure grip.

Opportunities for improvement of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2

Now it's time for the improvement opportunities of the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2:

Instability in very sharp turns.

One of the main drawbacks of the shoes is how they behave in sharp turns. The structure does not offer the support needed to maintain stability during quick directional changes or sharp turns. This can be especially problematic in races where tight turns are recurrent. Runners may experience a feeling of insecurity.

In my experience, when taking major directional changes I have had to slow down, as controlling the shoe safely became difficult.

The structure at the heel collar needs to be reinforced.

Another negative aspect is the lack of structure in the heel collar. As I mentioned earlier, the upper is very minimalist and the lack of firm support in this area can be a significant drawback for runners who need more support around the heel to feel secure. Those who are accustomed to shoes with a sturdy heel collar may find that these shoes do not provide the level of stability needed, leading to a feeling of insecurity when running.

What models can we compare the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 to?

At the level of design is so disruptive that these Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 do not have a counterpart in the current market; but yes that at the level of performance and running behavior, these running shoes with carbon fiber plate can be compared with:

Why choose the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2?

Undoubtedly, these Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2running shoes have a very distinct and fun identity, offering all the necessary features to perform at the highest level. However, this model is not suitable for all runners, as it requires some experience to take full advantage of its features.