Wave Rider 29

A classic, do-everything daily trainer that keeps the Wave Rider’s traditional 10 mm drop but modernizes the ride with Mizuno’s newest Enerzy Next midsole blend and a reworked Wave plate.

The Wave Rider 29 delivers a responsive and firm ride with enough cushioning for daily mileage and a little pep when you wind it up. You can feel the traditional 10 mm drop, which gives it a slightly segmented heel-to-toe transition versus the ultra-smooth rockered shoes, but the Enerzy Next midsole adds bounce that old-school EVA trainers lack. It’s happiest from easy to steady efforts and wakes up nicely at uptempo “marathon-effort” paces, though it’s not a tempo-shoe or racer replacement. The full-coverage outsole grips confidently on wet pavement and brings best-in-class durability for sidewalk and mixed urban routes.

Fit is true to size with a medium width and moderate toe-box volume; thick socks can make it feel a touch snug up front. The engineered-mesh upper is classic and drama-free—padded tongue and heel, secure lockdown, and no hot spots. Underfoot, the Wave plate lends subtle rearfoot guidance without feeling intrusive, keeping the ride stable yet neutral.

• Modern bounce from Enerzy Next while preserving the Rider’s familiar manners
• Secure, comfortable upper—no rubbing, no fuss
• Excellent wet-road traction and long-wear outsole
• Versatile “one-shoe” daily option for many runners

• Not the coziest for recovery days
• Noticeable 10 mm drop could be a con depending on your shoe preferences
• Segmented heel-to-toe transition