The Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Mizuno Wave Sky 8 is a premium daily trainer designed for runners seeking cushioning and support. With a stack height of over 40 mm, it is particularly suited for those prioritizing endurance in their runs.

The new foam technology incorporated into the shoe ensures it remains lightweight while providing a bouncy, responsive feel. However, lab assessments indicate some potential concerns regarding stability and breathability in the upper materials.

Overall, the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 represents a notable advancement over its predecessor, making it a viable choice for runners looking for a balance of comfort and performance.


Pros

  • Reduced weight from v7
  • Softer midsole
  • All-around comfort
  • Ideal for long-distance runs
  • Perfect for heel strikers
  • Maximalist yet lightweight design
  • High-quality upper
  • Great for winter

Cons

  • Needs better breathability
  • Not very stable
  • Outsole lacks durability and grip
  • Price may deter some

Key Features

  • MIZUNO ENERZY NXT: The next generation midsole material designed for enhanced energy return and cushioning.
  • Foam Wave Technology: Features two layers of foam, with U4icX on top for comfort and Mizuno Enerzy below for support.
  • Smooth Stretch Woven Upper: Adapts to foot movement and maintains correct foot positioning for optimal performance.
  • Gusseted Tongue: This design element hugs your foot securely while providing comfort, eliminating any stress during your run.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Nylon
  • Inner Material: Synthetic

Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 Adidas Ultraboost 5 On Cloudeclipse
Price $170 $160 $180 $180
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.6 oz / 271g 9.1 oz / 257g 10.3 oz / 292g 9.6 oz / 272g
Drop lab Drop brand 10.0 mm 10.5 mm 10.6 mm 9.4 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Good Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good Bad
Outsole durability Bad Good Good Good
Breathability Moderate Warm Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Wide Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 40.7 mm 36.9 mm 35.2 mm 39.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 30.7 mm 26.4 mm 24.6 mm 30.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Narrow Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 8% Bottom 36% Top 14% Top 11%
Popularity Bottom 43% Top 40% Top 47% Bottom 35%