Mizuno Wave Universe 5 review
85
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
Verdict from 8 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Smooth transitions
- Great ground feel
- Superior traction
Cons
- Tight fit
- Lacks cushioning
- High-end price
Any color
Men
Women
71% say it's true to size.
Out of stock in all 30 shops
Mizuno running shoesRankings
- Top 29% in slip-on running shoes
Comparison to similar running shoes
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Table of contents CoreScoreVerdictProsConsComparisonWho should buy the Mizuno Wave Universe 5Updates to the Mizuno Wave Universe 5Extra traction in the Wave Universe 5Added flexibility upon impactWave technology in the midsoleMizuno’s U4ic midsole foamSmoothRide technologyAirMesh in Wave Universe 5Facts / SpecsPopularity
Overview
Who should buy the Mizuno Wave Universe 5
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 is a solid fit for you if:
- You want a fast and durable competition shoe
- Excellent barefoot-style shoes perfect for serious minimalist runners
- You want a great ground feel with superior traction
- You prefer snuggly fit shoes that are lightweight and flexible
Updates to the Mizuno Wave Universe 5
- Lowered stack height in the heel and forefoot to increase speed in running
- Enhanced flexibility with sock-like feel upper
- Padded insole for cushioning and enhanced fit
- New U4ic midsole for softness and protection after the rubber outsole
- Removed drainage holes
Extra traction in the Wave Universe 5
Mizuno uses its proprietary G3 outsole or the configuration of dots in the forefoot for added traction. The nubs on the outsole are fairly regular, which gives the shoe more than enough bite on the road, gravel, or light trail.
Added flexibility upon impact
Mizuno cuts a concave near the midfoot for a little flexibility upon impact. It is a feature that makes the run a bit softer to protect the foot and the legs from the almost there outsole and midsole.
Wave technology in the midsole
This flexible, thermoplastic material lends cushioning and shock-absorbing features. Additionally, it is patterned after the waves in nature that returns back some of the energy for a more dynamic run.
Mizuno’s U4ic midsole foam
To compensate for the skeletal structure of the sole, this midsole foam makes the ride a bit softer and acts as a second level of protection after the rubber in the outsole. It is a very resilient and responsive foam that is lighter than most of the foams in Mizuno’s fold.
SmoothRide technology
Located in the midsole of the shoe is the SmoothRide technology. It is the series of grooves in the midsole that enables shoe flexibility and smooth transitions.
AirMesh in Wave Universe 5
The upper is superbly breathable and flexible courtesy of the AirMesh. A sockliner adds step-in comfort and fit.
This is an upper that is barely there and lends little or no support to the arches for a truly minimalist style of running.
Facts / Specs
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