Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 23 WAVEKNIT Running Shoe Review
The Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 23 WAVEKNIT Running Shoe in Blue Fog-Vapor Blue combines innovative cushioning technology with a modern lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned runners and those new to the sport. With a featherweight frame, this shoe is engineered to provide a smooth ride and dynamic response, thanks to the unique combination of U4icX and U4ic in its dual compound midsole. The moment you lace up and hit the ground, you'll notice how responsive the shoe is, ensuring that every stride feels effortless.
The knitted upper not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also offers a fit that adapts to the shape of your foot flawlessly. This feature, along with Mizuno's renowned Wave cushioning technology, guarantees unparalleled comfort, especially for neutral runners or those who underpronate. If you've enjoyed previous iterations of the Wave Rider series, the knit's enhanced flexibility will surely impress you.
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Features
- WAVEKNIT Upper: Provides a natural and dynamic fit with stretch capabilities that move with your foot.
- Mizuno WAVE Technology: Ensures durability and shock attenuation without relying heavily on midsole foam.
- U4ic Midsole: Offers optimal shock absorption and a superior ride.
- Parallel CLOUDWAVE: Delivers excellent cushioning for a comfortable run.
- Breatheable Mesh Material: Keeps your feet cool during intense workouts.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning and responsiveness.
- Breathable and flexible knitted upper.
- Ideal for neutral runners.
- Lightweight design enhances performance.
- Improved sock-like fit compared to previous versions.
Cons
- May not provide adequate support for overpronators.
- The knit upper might wear out faster than traditional materials.
- Limited color choices may not suit everyone.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Mizuno Wave Rider 23 WAVEKNIT | Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 | Adidas Ultraboost 21 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Technology | Mizuno WAVE | Zoom Air | Boost Foam |
| Weight | Featherweight | Lightweight | Medium weight |
| Upper Type | Knitted | Mesh | Primeknit |
| Best For | Neutral Runners | All Runners | Long-distance Running |
Detailed Review
The Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 23 WAVEKNIT Running Shoe stands out for its advanced cushioning and supportive structure. The integration of U4icX and U4ic in the midsole creates a responsive springiness that feels as good during your last mile as it does at the start. This responsiveness is further complemented by the parallel CLOUDWAVE technology that effectively absorbs shocks.
One of the most notable upgrades from the previous generation is the WAVEKNIT upper. Not only does it provide an adaptive, sock-like fit, but its breathability ensures your feet remain comfortable even on longer runs. The stylish design appeals to many, enabling you to transition from a training session to casual outings seamlessly.
Despite its strengths, it's essential to note that this shoe is tailored for neutral runners; those who overpronate might find it lacking in support. Additionally, while the knitted material is comfortable, it may not be as durable as traditional upper materials over time.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | 9/10 | Exceptional shock absorption and comfort for long runs. |
| Fit | 8/10 | Sock-like fit that adapts well to foot shape. |
| Durability | 7/10 | Good, but expect some wear on the knit upper over time. |
| Style | 9/10 | Modern design that works well for both running and casual use. |
User Reviews
For the past 8 years, I have worn only Mizzunos. I have had several Prophecys, Waveknits 1 and 2, several Wave Riders, several Inspires, Wave Creations, and Wave Sky. Overall, I like Waveknit 3s much better than the Waveknit 2. The toe box is wider, which for me, makes up for its shortness. The Waveknit 2s either required a huge break-in period, or sizing up a half size. The cushioning is the same on these. I wouldn't buy these for races, but for kick boxing, the waveknit gives me the durability, and the waveplate gives me the stability. The heel to toe drop isn't a problem for me because I need the extra cushioning for my knees, and is great if I decide to run in them (as were intended for a runner shoe). My only complaint is at first, the waveknit, before being broken in - compresses down on my forefoot and toes. I also wish the shoe would give back more energy/bounce back - as the Prophecys do - but those are much too heavy for long sessions. Overall, a huge win over the Waveknit 2s and not as bulky as the Skys - and the foot hug sensation is much better for me than the looseness of the Inspires.
I need stability and also look for a shoe that feels like it molds to my foot and has a feeling of security without feeling too heavy or bulky. This one is fantastic on all counts there. I do add an orthotic which was chosen for me by Fleetfeet staff. I run short distances on the road to maintain an active lifestyle so my rating is based on usage so far at distances less than 3 miles. These shoes are so comfortable that at times I do not want to take them off even though I'm TERRIBLE about wanting to be barefoot all the time in the house on hardwoods which causes me some problems at times. I could actually wear these in the house and still feel unencumbered. I enjoy wearing them to the store too. They are just so comfortable. True to size. I got the blue vapor in size 12M.
I wear a size 11 in women’s shoes, so when I find a pair in my size and color I’m over the moon happy. When I tried my shoes on it felt like they had “little clouds” in them. I bought them with the intentions of picking up running again but it’s too cold out here for that now. I wear them for work - I work for you a retail grocery store chain so I’m on my feet for over 8 hours a day and my feet don’t hurt. They have been comfortable since day 1... wear as sometimes it takes a few days to get them broke in. The best part for me was they came in my favorite color. I will be getting another pair come warmer weather to run in☺️
As a former athlete and dancer I have had many foot/ankle surgeries (including two this year). I needed a shoe that was sturdy and comfortable. This is both. My feet do not over-pronate in these shoes. I also appreciate the price, materials and roomy toe box. However, the mesh is rather thin on top, so I tried reinforcing it from the inside with duct tape. I don't think the tape will last long. When you remove the insole and add orthotics, your heel comes out of the shoe. Too bad the heel tab is not higher to cover your heel. To help keep my heel in the shoe, I took advantage of the extra eyelets. But, the laces are so short that when you use the extra eyelets to get a more snug fit, you can't easily make a bow to tie them. The Mizuno company suggests that I buy my own long laces. Sadly, they would not match the blue color of the shoes. In summary, if Mizuno made this same shoe with reinforced mesh near the big toe area, made a higher heel tab and provided longer laces, it would be a perfect shoe.
These shoes are amazing! I was a long time new balance fan but I started running more recently and wanted to upgrade to give myself a little more support and Miles… At first I tried the Brooks ghost but I felt like I didn’t have a connection with the ground, whether on treadmill or outside it was just a little too much cushioning. These however I fell in love with as soon as I slipped them on. I have 1 foot that is why I am one that is not and it’s the perfect shoe, I did order a wide but I’m able to tighten the lease is enough on the other foot that they fit wonderfully. Just ran a few miles today and they feel good with socks or without!
I’ve been wearing Wave Riders to run in for almost 10 years and switched to the knit version last year. I really love these shoes. They provide a lot of cushion and prevent shin splints, knee pain, and plantar fasciitis, for me. I have high arches and these have always worked. I ran about 700-800 miles, outside, in the last pair before I started to notice the cushion was going flat. I have a picture showing the old pair next to the new. The old ones look pretty good for all the mileage I put in them.
I purchased these just to try-and love them! They were delivered when I was recovering from a knee sprain, and they were great for support around the house. I love the wide toes, cushioning and designed for supinators. I now wear them to work out and very happy with the comfort. I plan on ordering additional pairs-if any are available. Be sure to size up 1/2 size as advised-because of the knit. The blue is neutral, I will look for colors that pop.
Tried to switch away from Mizuno and spent a small fortune on various new balance or nike shoes, but after a month of wear, back to the Mizunos for comfort and fit. ordered a half size up which seems to work for my exercise sneakers.. I do not wear a thick padded sock, but a lightweight tennis sock. I am a walker and love these for my daily 3 mile walks. Cushiony, lightweight, good support. No break in period needed or blister issues.. Out of the box Ready to put on and GO !