Mizuno Wave Rider 28

To speak of the Mizuno Wave Rider is to speak of a legend in the world of running. Since its debut in 1998, this line of shoes has been a reference for runners of all levels. In my case I was able to try the Mizuno Wave 19 for the first time and even back then I loved them. And with each new version, Mizuno has managed to maintain the essence of the Wave Rider, but always looking to improve the runner's experience. The Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is no exception, and in this review I will tell you why this shoe has earned its place in the olimpo of running shoes.

First impressions: comfort and support right out of the box

As soon as you put on the Mizuno Wave Rider 28, the feeling of comfort and foot support is immediate. The fit of the upper, now made of a seamless jacquard-like Air mesh fabric, is soft and enveloping, keeping the foot in place without generating uncomfortable pressure points. In addition, this material is extremely lightweight and with an acceptable breathability, although it is true that especially on those hot days and long distance races I miss some more breathability.

The foot support is one of the aspects that surprised me the most. The anatomical tongue and the raised heel contour provide a secure fit that protects the Achilles tendon, a detail that is appreciated when you accumulate kilometers. This security not only improves comfort, but also contributes to the overall stability of the shoe.

Cushioning and reactivity: a winning combination

The Mizuno Wave Rider 28 stands out in particular for its balance between cushioning and responsiveness. The addition of the innovative MIZUNO ENERZY NXT foam in the heel area was a complete success. This foam not only provides soft cushioning that absorbs shock efficiently, but also offers excellent responsiveness. Each stride feels firm but with remarkable energy return, making it easy to maintain a steady pace throughout the run.

Mizunos iconic Wave platform, made of Pebax RNew, remains at the heart of this shoe. This plate, in addition to being eco-friendly, ensures a soft landing and a smooth transition from heel to toe. The feeling is of a well-cushioned yet dynamic stride, something that many runners appreciate, especially over long distances.

Stability and control: perfect for any terrain

One of the strengths of Wave Rider 28 is the stability they offer. Mizuno has increased the width in the midfoot, which provides a more solid and balanced base. This feature is especially useful on uneven terrain or when you need to make quick changes of direction. The sense of security it provides is palpable from the first kilometer, allowing you to run with confidence even on less stable surfaces.

The outsole has also been reconfigured to improve traction and durability. X10 carbon rubber in the heel provides exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces, while rubber in the forefoot adds an extra layer of cushioning and responsiveness. This combination makes the Wave Rider 28 suitable not only for asphalt, but also for gravel, parks and compacted trails.

Long-distance comfort: ideal for marathons and demanding workouts

If there is one thing I enjoyed about Wave Rider 28, it is their comfort over long distances. Thanks to the combination of good cushioning, firm support and a responsive stride, these shoes are ideal for those looking to rack up the miles while trying to minimize foot fatigue. The upper wraps the foot nicely, while the heel structure and anatomical tongue ensure that the foot remains comfortable and protected throughout the run.

In addition, the heel lift with a 12 mm drop adds extra protection for the Achilles tendon, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury in this critical area. For runners who tend to land on their heel who train regularly and are looking for a shoe that can accompany them on their longer sessions, the Wave Rider 28 are an excellent choice.

Comparison: Mizuno Wave Rider 28 vs Mizuno Wave Rider 27

For those who were already fans of the Wave Rider 27, the 28 version will not disappoint. Mizuno has taken everything that worked well in the previous version and taken it to a new level. The more agile and reactive midsole is one of the most noticeable changes, along with increased cushioning and a more dynamic response in each stride.

The upper material has been optimized to be lighter and more breathable, reducing the weight of the shoe by 10 grams. This change, while it may seem small, translates into a more agile and comfortable running experience. In addition, the increased width in the midfoot improves stability, a detail that is especially appreciated on more demanding terrain.

Finally, the raised heel adds extra protection, something that was not present in the previous version. This, combined with the improved Wave platform, makes the Wave Rider 28 a more complete shoe capable of delivering superior performance in a wide variety of conditions.

Sustainability: a commitment to the environment

Mizuno has not only worked to improve the performance of the Wave Rider 28, but has also made a significant effort to reduce its environmental impact. This shoe is 100% vegan, which means that no animal-derived materials have been used in its construction. From the sole compounds to the upper textiles, every component has been carefully selected to meet the highest ethical and sustainability standards.

The Wave platform, made from Pebax RNew, a bio-based nylon made from castor oil, is a clear example of Mizuno's commitment to innovation and respect for the environment. This choice not only makes the shoe more environmentally friendly, but also ensures exceptional performance without compromising durability.

Ideal runner profile

The Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is designed for runners of all levels who are looking for a versatile, high-performance shoe for their daily workouts and races. They are especially suited for those who value a balanced combination of cushioning, stability and reactivity. Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable shoe or an experienced runner who needs a shoe that can handle long distances, Wave Rider 28 have something to offer you.

Recommended distances and uses

Thanks to their versatility, the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is suitable for a wide range of distances and paces. From short training sessions to half marathons and full marathons, these shoes are designed to go with you for every mile, giving you the support and comfort you need. Plus, their improved outsole makes them suitable for different types of surfaces, making them an ideal choice for those looking for an all-terrain shoe.

Technical Specifications

Weighing only 280 grams in size EU 42, the Wave Rider 28 are light enough to keep your stride agile and energetic during your workouts and races. As for its geometry, the shoe features a height of 385 millimeters in the heel and 265 millimeters in the forefoot, offering a 12-millimeter drop. This configuration provides a smooth and efficient transition, absorbing impacts and reducing the load on the joints.

What I liked most about the Mizuno Wave Rider 28

This is undoubtedly one of the most balanced running shoes of 2024. If you're looking for a versatile, durable, high-performance shoe that can keep up with you over any distance and surface, these shoes are an attractive option that you shouldn't pass up.

I like the good foot support, but without losing comfort on the run. Plus, by choosing the Mizuno Wave Rider 28, you'll also be contributing to a more sustainable future, as they are 100% vegan and made from environmentally friendly materials. So, not only will you be getting an exceptional running shoe, but you'll also be making a conscious and responsible choice.