The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 is a value-oriented, support-packed trainer designed for everyday runs. With our lab results confirming a significant drop of 12 mm, this shoe is ideal for heel strikers seeking stability and control. The rugged outsole and partial plate contribute to its durability, making it suitable for runners who prioritize support over a lightweight feel.


Pros

  • Great choice for heel strikers
  • Stable but flexible too
  • Now features Enerzy NXT foam
  • Durable outsole
  • Good fit with gusseted tongue
  • Wide platform for secure landings
  • Great for everyday wear
  • Fairly priced
  • Weighs less than v20

Cons

  • But still feels a bit heavy...
  • Sky-high drop not for everyone
  • Subpar airflow in hot weather
  • Foam doesn't have much bounce

Key Features

  • Eco Friendly Materials: Made with recycled materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.
  • Jacquard Mesh Upper: Provides breathability and a snug fit, keeping your feet comfortable during long runs.
  • MIZUNO WAVE: The innovative WAVE plate disperses energy from impact across a wider area, offering superior cushioning and stability.
  • Gusseted Tongue: This feature ensures a secure and comfortable fit without adding stress to your foot.
  • X10 Outsole: Constructed from durable carbon rubber, this outsole enhances durability and extends the life of the shoe.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Nylon
  • Inner material: Polyester

Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 Nike Structure 26 Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Price $140 $145 $165 $140
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 10.1 oz / 286g 10.4 oz / 296g 10.8 oz / 305g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 12.9 mm 10.1 mm 10.1 mm 13.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Small
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Good Good
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Wide Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 38.0 mm 36.1 mm 37.8 mm 39.0 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.1 mm 26.0 mm 27.7 mm 25.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Narrow
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 46% Bottom 31% Bottom 12% Bottom 42%
Popularity Top 50% Top 16% Top 12% Top 2%