The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a reliable daily training shoe designed for runners seeking a straightforward, no-frills option. With a notable 12 mm drop, this shoe is ideal for heel strikers who require additional cushioning and support.

The well-cushioned foam provides a smooth ride, translating to a stable platform that enhances comfort during runs. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a solid choice for consistent training.


Pros

  • Comfortable and breathable upper
  • Cushioned ride, especially for heel strikers
  • Lightweight
  • Good lockdown
  • Great traction on most surfaces
  • Durable
  • Dependable daily trainer
  • Classy and conservative design
  • Eco-friendly

Cons

  • Tight around toes
  • Sky-high heel drop
  • Needs some breaking in
  • Not for fast paces

Key Features

  • Engineered jacquard mesh upper made from recycled materials for superior breathability and durability.
  • MIZUNO ENERZY FOAM provides versatility while maintaining softness and resilience to enhance performance.
  • MIZUNO WAVE plate disperses impact energy for a stable platform and superior cushioning.
  • X10 outsole constructed from the most durable carbon rubber, allowing for longer wear on the roads.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Rubber
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Adidas Adistar 3 Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Mizuno Wave Rider 29
Price $140 $130 $170 $150
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.3 oz / 291g 9.7 oz / 274g 9.6 oz / 271g 9.1 oz / 258g
Drop lab Drop brand 11.8 mm 10.5 mm 10.0 mm 8.3 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size -
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Normal Normal
Toebox durability - Bad Good Decent
Heel padding durability - Decent Good Good
Outsole durability - Good Bad Decent
Breathability Moderate Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width - Medium Medium Wide
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 39.2 mm 40.7 mm 40.7 mm 37.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.4 mm 30.2 mm 30.7 mm 29.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 46% Top 28% Top 8% Bottom 47%
Popularity Bottom 19% Bottom 33% Bottom 43% Top 34%