The RW Takeaway: Big updates to the 17th version make the Inspire a moderately responsive and durable workhorse that offers mid-level stability for overpronators and plush cushioning for heel strikers.

the weight and heel to toe drop both fall on the high side of things (11 oz. and 12mm, respectively), but one rarely notices the weight or the height because of the consistency in design throughout the shoe, The Wave Horizon combines a stable, cushioned ride with exceptional durability. The current model, the Wave Horizon 6, represents a significant revamp to the design. The midsole features an all-new combo of resilient Enerzy and super-soft Enerzy Core foams for improved cushioning. Like in Mizuno’s other models, the wedge of Enerzy foam in the heel of the Inspire 17 lends the shoe a softer touch and bouncier response. The placement gives it a more cushioned feel on landing, and it helps the shoe roll smoothly into the forefoot transition. The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 are built for stability and miles, unfortunately their refusal to evolve and adapt prevents them from standing out of a crowded stability field.When it comes to creating durable training running shoes, I think Mizuno does some fantastic work, and the 17s are no exception. Excellent grip on Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 I have a slightly more rectangular shaped foot, and the Inspire fits me really well,” one reviewer says. “My heel stays put, and more forefoot has plenty of room.”

Out of the box, the Inspire 17s feel like it's ready for miles to come. If they perform anything like the previous generations I have run in, they will be around for just about as long as you wish. Subsequent runs have proven that the shoes continue to show up day in and day out, no matter the mileage. It takes a tough shoe to be called a workhorse, and this is just what the Mizuno Wave Inspire 17s are. Although, a roomier toe box would have been welcomed. The ample cushioning is welcomed, but it adds to the narrow fit. The toe box is flexible and bouncy while the ride is stiff and heavy in the heel at times. The wave plate provides stability but it comes at the cost of comfort.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 First Impressions

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 was the first edition of the Inspire to use ENERZY foam in the midsole, and the Inspire 18 continues that tradition. The result is a softer, bouncier feeling than previous models. The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist for InsideHook, Men’s Journal, and other outlets. I’ve written more about running shoes than any other kind of gear, and I have firsthand experience running in models from a range of brands. I first wrote this guide in 2018, and I have updated it regularly as Mizuno releases new shoes and running shoe tech. What to Consider When Shopping For Mizuno Running Shoes This is my second edition of the Wave Inspire I have ran in, with last year being my first. My overall experience with these was similar to that of the 16s. Let’s get to the strengths and disappointments of the Wave Inspire 17. Mizuno continued overhauling its lineup with a new type of foam called Enerzy. Designers already added the new foam composition to shoes like the Wave Rider 24 and the Wave Sky Waveknit 4.

A pair of lighter racing variants, Enerzy Lite and Enerzy Lite Plus foams, give the Wave Rebellion Pro a snappy, propulsive ride while saving weight. Enerzy Lite is formulated for maximum energy return–Mizuno claims it delivers 35 percent more energy return than U4ic–while the even lighter Enerzy Lite Plus minimizes weight and maximizes softness.The G3 compound used in the outsole saves weight over traditional rubber, and has been enhanced with a more durable G3-DR compound to keep it durable. As a result, it’s built to withstand plenty of mileage.

Last year I said “It is almost like running in two different shoes because of the different sensations felt in the forefoot and midfoot/heel areas” about the 16s. You’ll find the standard Enerzy foam in shoes throughout the brand’s running lineup. In shoes like the Wave Horizon, Wave Sky, and Wave Rebellion Flash, you’ll find it acting as a firm base cushion, paired with softer or more responsive foams. In the middle of the midsole is a double fan wave plate. The plate is an elastic, thermal plastic wave running from the heel to the midfoot. they provide a wonderful ride that makes you wonder just how this is a stability shoe in the first place.

Maybe Mizuno could shed a few ounces here and there, but when it comes to stability running shoes, I want my designers to prioritize comfort and stability first, and a moderate weight will do just fine. Familiar Mizuno durability You’ll notice this from the MIZUNO WAVE plate in the midsole area. I felt all over cushioning in the upper along with how breathable they felt. Mizuno didn’t make too many changes to the latest version of the Wave Inspire, which means if you enjoyed the previous version you’ll likely enjoy this one, too. They are heavier shoes but that’s due to all the stability technology put into the midsole. They weigh 9.1 oz for women and 10.6 for men. The Neo Wind is designed for speed training. In our testing, we found it feels best when pushed to tempo pace. The midsole features Enerzy Lite foam and a wave plate, both of which are made from castor beans. The result? The midsole serves up a firm sensation that’s ideal for speed, though it might feel too unforgiving for slower runs.