Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4

Something is changing in the world of running shoes. Especially in Japan where we have already seen how ASICS has changed both in the design of its models and in the focus on finding a balance between comfort, lightness and design. Exactly the same is happening in another Japanese company such as Mizuno. And the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 that we are going to analyze are a clear example of what I am talking about. The protagonism of the popular runner for sports footwear brands is no longer focused on the runner who participates in races, in that segment are focused on shoes with carbon plate or models where lightness at high prices, very high I would say. Now the new point of interest is focused on the popular runner who runs for health. Mental health, such as clearing your mind from a hard day's work or an exhausting day with your children. Also in physical health related more to cardiovascular wellness, staying in shape, losing a kilo or two. And this type of runner is mainly looking for comfort. Pleasant, smooth sensations in each of his steps.

The Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 arrives in 2023 to compete in the segment of shoes with very good cushioning but above all very good running sensations. Very soft touch, lightness, dynamic transitions and a design that already seeks to compete with fashionable sports shoes, or sneakers.

For what type of runners do we recommend the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4?

The Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 is a runningshoes that allows us to enjoy every stride without worrying about what our sports watch tells us. If one day we feel like running at 5:30 for 60 minutes, there is the Skyrise to provide a safe, reliable, ample cushioning. If the next day we only have 30 minutes and we want to run at a faster pace of 4:20 - 4:30 m/km, the Skyrise 4 will accompany us, showing us its dynamism and versatility. Of course, always with a differentiating point, and that is the comfort and good sensations in each step.

It is a shoe that I would take perfectly to do a half marathon at a pace of 4:45 or 5:00 m/km for example.

Its secret is possibly in its new upper, made of an elastic mesh that adapts to the anatomical shape of the foot depending on the different shapes it adopts during the stride cycle. An upper that also has some body to give structure to the shoe. With a lacing system with eyelets at different heights that embrace the instep and prevent movement during the race. The heel and ankle area is well protected (without being excessively high), with padded areas. The tongue is probably one of its weak points that we will comment on possible improvements for future editions.

As for its midsole, we will find Enerzy Core foam, one of its most cushioned and reactive foam. Its 2 layout and its characteristic wave-shaped design (Wave) are an insurance for our joints, as well as a pleasant experience of comfort sensations during the race.

A shoe that weighs less than 300 grams in a size 95 US (43 EU) with a drop of 8 mm and oriented to neutral footsteps.

Possible points for improvement

We clearly identified 2 points of improvement for the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 5 futura 5. On the one hand, as we mentioned before, its tongue, uses a lining that could be improved,.Which reminds us of shoes from a few years ago, but also is not attached to the laces and being some what narrow can cause unwanted movements in the race if the laces are not placed and adjusted properly.

Secondly, its price. This is a shoe to compete head to head with the Nike Pegasus 40, the ASICS Novablast 3 or the Hoka Clifton 8 And all these shoes can be found for less than 100€. Their starting price is 150€ but as always we recommend you to compare prices in RUNNEA in search of a more reasonable price.

Prices Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4

What are the rivals of the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4?

Their rivals are shoes that can compete in comfort and at the same time respond to more demanding rhythms.

Nike Pegasus 40

Hoka Clifton 8

Brooks Ghost 14

New Balance Fresh FoamX 880 v13

Conclusion

Mizuno is getting into its stride. Brands are moving forward in search of new runner profiles beyond the field of popular races. And these Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 are a clear example of this. A very successful example. Comfort, softness, dynamism, lightness. A very versatile shoe that covers all the needs of runners up to 80-84 kilograms looking to enjoy running. Of course, you will be able to participate in popular races with them, but you will do so regardless of the brand. If your goal is the stopwatch, Mizuno has models that will help you achieve that time goal. For everything else, Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4

RUNNEA Tester Rating

• Lightweight: 8
• Responsiveness: 8
• Cushioning: 8
• Stability: 7
• Flexibility: 9
• Grip: 8
• Value for money 7