When it comes to running shoes, being a “classic” isn’t just about having been around for a long time. It’s about offering the peace of mind that comes from being consistently chosen by many runners, while continuing to evolve with the times.
One series that offers both of these features is MIZUNO’s “Wave Rider.” Since the release of the first model in 1997, the series has undergone continuous improvements based on the concept of a “smooth ride,” supporting the daily runs of a wide range of runners—from beginners to serious runners.
The latest model in the series—the 30th in the lineup—the “Wave Rider 30,” has been released.
MIZUNO WAVE RIDER 30 ￥ 19,800
In this model, the designers have preserved the smooth ride that the “Wave Rider” series has always been known for, while pursuing the cushioning and responsiveness suited to today’s running scene. They say they redesigned the shoe from the ground up, aiming for a new ride experience that sets it apart from previous models in the series.
The completely redesigned midsole is what drives this evolution.
Compared to the previous model, the forefoot has increased by 6 mm to 34.5 mm, and the heel has increased by 4 mm to 42.5 mm. The upper features the “MIZUNO ENERZY NXT” supercritical foam material, while the sole uses the standard “MIZUNO ENERZY NXT,” aiming to balance cushioning with smooth weight transfer.
In addition, it features the series' first full-length wave plate.
As a result, this shoe retains the “Wave Rider’s” signature smooth weight transfer from heel to toe while also delivering the bounce that’s in demand in today’s running shoes.
In addition, stability has been improved by increasing the outsole’s contact area. Although the midsole has been made thicker and features a full-length Wave Plate, the weight has been kept to approximately 265 grams (per foot, size 27.0 cm)—the same as the previous model—by optimizing the rubber placement.
How do they actually feel when you wear them?
At a media event held ahead of the product launch, a running session was also organized at Shichirigahama in Kamakura. While testing the comfort of the “Wave Rider 30,” participants ran approximately 6 kilometers round-trip along the coastal road from the event venue toward Enoshima.
So, how do they actually feel when you wear them? Here’s what some of the participating runners had to say.
Despite the thick sole, it offers the stability you need to run with confidence.
Natsuki
BEAMS Event Planner
"From the looks of it, the sole seemed thick, so I thought they might be quite cushioned, but when I actually ran in them, they felt incredibly stable. I felt confident running even on uneven surfaces, and I really liked how they were cushioned without feeling wobbly. Not only are they great as running shoes, but their design also makes them easy to incorporate into everyday wear, and I think their stylish look is another appealing feature."
“An all-around evolution that retains its ”true character.”
Issey Enomoto
Editor-in-Chief of SHOES MASTER, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Runners Pulse
“The appeal of the ”Wave Rider’ lies in its well-balanced combination of the elements expected in a running shoe. This model features a thick-soled design that’s unusual for the series, so I was curious to see how much of its signature feel it retained. But when I actually went for a run, I found a firm core within the softness, and it offered excellent stability from the moment my foot hit the ground through to my next stride. It was unmistakably the ‘Wave Rider’ feel. I think it’s a versatile everyday trainer that runners of all levels can wear with confidence.”
Now in its 30th generation, the “Wave Rider” has taken another step forward. While retaining the familiar comfort that has made it a long-time favorite, this shoe offers the cushioning, responsiveness, and stability perfect for today’s running scene. If you’re looking for a partner for your daily runs, be sure to give it a try.
