Summary
We spent 8.3 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what runners think:
5 reasons to buy
- The stability mechanics of the Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 were lauded by some consumers.
- This running shoe was true-to-size, according to several testers.
- A reviewer commented that the fit was perfect.
- A few runners who had tendon and muscle problems reported that the underfoot platform was able to alleviate their discomfort.
- The premium sock liner received positive feedback from a purchaser who thought that it offered some extra bounce in every step.
1 reasons not to buy
- A few people noted that the façade of this running shoe looked awkwardly bulky.
Bottom line
Most of those who have tested the Wave Horizon 2 believed that it was a worthy update to the recent series from Mizuno. They welcomed its apparently efficient stability features, its correct sizing scheme and width profiles, and the comfortable underfoot experience. Some testers lamented its seemingly large silhouette, but they’re isolated complaints.
Facts
| Update: | Mizuno Wave Horizon 3 |
|---|---|
| Terrain: | Road |
| Arch support: | Stability |
| Weight: | Men: 12.1oz | Women: 10.2oz |
| Heel to toe drop: | Men: 12mm | Women: 12mm |
| Pronation: | Overpronation |
| Arch type: | Medium arch |
| Use: | Jogging |
| Material: | Vegan |
| Strike Pattern: | Heel strike |
| Distance: | Daily running | Long distance | Marathon |
| Heel height: | Men: 33mm | Women: 33mm |
| Forefoot height: | Men: 21mm | Women: 21mm |
| Brand: | Mizuno |
| Type: | Heavy | Big guy |
| Width: | Men: Normal | Women: Normal |
| Price: | $160 |
| Colorways: | Black, Blue, Grey, Pink, Silver |
Rankings
Expert Reviews
Experts are runners, who post reviews at youtube, directly at RunRepeat or at their own websites. Each expert is categorized from level 1 to level 5 based on expertise. See stats on expert reviews and how we calculate scores here.
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84 / 100 based on 2 expert reviews
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This is a whole ‘lotta shoe, which was a real positive for those who love stability and cushioning, but it felt “like a tank” to runners who prefer a lighter, faster feel.
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The Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 is for runners seeking a high amount of stability but desire a soft, cushy ride. The construction of the sole makes you forget how heavy it feels and allows you to roll through miles with ease.
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- The Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 is a running shoe that’s designed for those who have moderate to severe overpronation. It makes use of components that stabilize the arch and support the entire underside of the foot. They are placed intricately in the midsole for maximum functionality and efficiency.
- 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 foam midsole, protecting it from the abrasive nature of the surfaces. The forefoot has been decoupled from the midfoot and heel to encourage more flexibility during the toe-off phase.
The Mizuno Wave Horizon 2 is true to size. It accommodates the regular preferences of consumers when it comes to length. The available widths for this shoe are B – Medium for women and D – Medium for men. The foot-shaped last welcomes the regular dimensions of the wearer’s foot.
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.
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.
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.
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.