Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 review

Who should buy the Wave Horizon 2

The Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 is a running shoe designed to stabilize the arch and support the entire underside of the foot. This running shoe is recommended for you if:

• You want a shoe that can be used for daily running and is comfortable enough for all-day wear
• You prefer a cushioned running shoe that can adequately support mild to moderate overpronation

Updates to the Mizuno Wave Horizon 2

• The upper unit features engineered mesh, a cloth-like material that brings ventilation and form-fitting comfort into the picture
• Synthetic overlays are stitched onto the façade to deliver additional structure and support to the foot of the wearer
• A thick rubber compound covers the midsole, protecting it from the abrasive nature of the surfaces
• The outsole has a decoupled design to encourage more flexibility during the toe-off phase

Decoupled outsole design for flexibility

The forefoot section of the outsole has been decoupled from the heel section, which means that it is its section and not directly connected to form a whole unit. The purpose of this configuration is to encourage flexibility during liftoff and isolate the impact forces during the landing phase.

X10 is made from carbon rubber, which is touted to be one of the most durable compounds on the market. Its purpose is to shield the midsole from wear and tear while also providing surface traction. This midsole material is also found in other road shoes like the Wave Ride 22.

Guaranteed bounciness from U4ic

The midsole unit of the Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 makes use of the U4ic foam, which has been updated to provide more bounce to each step. It’s also configured to last long.

U4icX is a lightweight yet more cushioned version of the U4ic foam. It’s exclusively added to the back part of the platform. Its purpose is to absorb impact shock and support the foot as it hits the ground.

Midsole elements that lend structure and support

A thermal plastic unit called Cloudwave is placed in the heel section. It adds more support and springiness to the back portion, increasing the appeal of heel striking to those who desire it.

A network of grooves that have been optimized to accommodate the structure of each gender’s foot is added to the midsole. It keeps the underfoot experience stable throughout the movement. This design smoothens the gait cycle by connecting the motion of the foot and the midsole. It also helps in addressing overpronation.

The fan-shaped geometry of the medial midfoot section serves as a foundation that holds the arch and keeps it neutral. It fundamentally addresses moderate-to-severe overpronation.

Placed above the main midsole foam is a premium anatomical sock liner. The goal of this removable article is to provide additional cushioning and support to areas that don’t usually receive them, like the arch and the metatarsal area.

A cool and dry upper coverage

The Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 utilizes engineered mesh. It has the qualities of standard cloth, which means that it’s soft, breathable, and conformable to the shape of the foot. Its ventilation pores on the upper section of the metatarsal area accommodate environmental air, ensuring a cool and dry experience for the runner.

Synthetic overlays are stitched onto the profile. These add-ons support the foot and keep it in place as they are directly connected to the lacing system. They also provide some more durability.

A padded heel collar serves as a locking mechanism to prevent the back of the foot from wobbling or exiting the shoe involuntarily.