Details
Brand
Mizuno
Heel To Toe Drop
12mm
Breathability
7.8/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Durable construction, with the outsole being made of X10™ carbon rubber material, which provides excellent traction and is designed to resist wear and tear• Very comfortable shoes designed for neutral pronation• Smooth Ride technology improves performance while running• Upper made of AIRmesh and intercool ventilation system in the midsole secures the best ventilation for the feet• Hybrid traditional/mechanical shoe• Lightweight, compact, responsive• U4ic midsole compound provides the same comfort and performance as the AP+ compound but is much lighter
Upper
Unlike many other running shoes, the Wave Creation 17 does away with unnecessary adornments and overlays. Instead, it has a secure yet flexible upper construction that hugs the feet and moves in tandem with the foot’s natural movement, making it one of the most dynamic upper constructions on the market. Made of AIRmesh, an extremely breathable and lightweight material that covers the entire upper, this improves airflow throughout the shoe, keeping the feet well-ventilated and preventing overheating even during a long, extensive workout.;Dynamotion Fit in the upper allows the fabrics to move naturally as the foot bends and twists during a run or workout, stretching and contracting in response to natural foot movement. This dynamic material also prevents blisters, as it keeps consistency with the foot during a run. The inside of the upper’s foot chamber has a fabric lining and removable OrthoLite sock liner, both of which are extremely soft and help wick away the moisture from the skin, keeping the feet as dry and comfortable as possible.
Midsole
The midsole of the Wave Creation 17 is made from a proprietary material called U4ic. It is a replacement for the AP+ material used in previous versions of this and other Mizuno shoes. The U4ic is more comfortable than AP+ and performs better while remaining extremely lightweight. It also proves to be a better shock absorption than the standard AP+ midsole. In addition, the Mizuno Intercool ventilation design was also added to combat excess heat and buildup of humidity in the midsole, keeping the platform free of sweat and moisture. But the most notable feature of the midsole is the shoe’s namesake: the Mizuno Infinity Wave cushioning technology, which is placed in the heel. This redirects impact forces and centers the foot while providing cushioning. Made of a durable, lightweight material, the Infinity Wave provides a great deal of energy return and retains its performance capability long into the shoe’s life.
Outsole
The outsole is made from Mizuno’s proprietary SmoothRide technology that has been used to improve energy transition from heel to toe by minimizing impact and smoothing out transitions during the gait cycle. The Wave Creation 17’s outsole also increases responsiveness and helps guide the foot during a run, which makes it an excellent shoe on rough terrain. Plus, the outsole is made of carbon rubber, which provides exceptional durability and traction. The X10 carbon rubber material in the outsole has been strategically placed in high wear and tear areas that protect the outsole from abrasive surfaces, making the outsole more durable. This material also provides much better traction, allowing the runner to attain higher speeds more quickly and feel more secure on various terrains. Mizuno’s Wave technology continues to be a defining element in this line, and this edition introduces an extended wave plate, which enhances overall cushioning and performance.
Breathability
The breathability of the AIRmesh material allows the foot to cool down even during a run. However, this material tends to absorb water, so they aren’t particularly well-suited for running in the rain. But in dry conditions, the AIRmesh works well to provide excellent ventilation and keep the foot cool and dry. In addition, the Mizuno Intercool ventilation design in the midsole also works to combat humidity and excessive heat buildup in the shoe, providing a cooling platform for the runner to ride on.
Comfort
From the midsole to the upper to the outsole, the Wave Creation 17 is built with the comfort of the runner in mind. The outsole hugs the feet and provides excellent impact protection, the elastic laces fix securely, and the upper provides great cushioning and holds the foot in place securely after lace-up. Meanwhile, the U4ic material in the midsole enhances overall comfort, even more so than previous versions.;The InfinityWave bounce back heel provides the runner with a lot of energy return, making the heel spring off the ground, which aids in overall performance during a run. After reading reviews from many customers, It is suggested that runners purchase a half size larger than what you would normally wear, as the Wave Creation 17 does not run true to size and are somewhat narrow in the forefoot.
Style
The Mizuno Wave Creation 17 isn’t too flashy and doesn’t stand out too much, like some more garish running shoes tend to. The simple design and materials used in the upper create harmony between the wearer and the shoe. The design was inspired by Japanese art, making these not only functional but aesthetically appealing, as well. In addition, the Wave Creation 17 comes in a number of color combinations so runners can choose a palette that matches their sensibilities and style preference.
Durability
Just like other running shoes that have a carbon rubber outsole, the Wave Creation 17’s outsole also has incredible strength and durability. Specifically, the X10™ carbon rubber material delivers maximum durability in high-impact zones, such as the heel. Mizuno has a reputation for making durable, long-lasting running shoes and always use the latest shoe technology, consistently providing a high-quality product that won’t let runners down, even in the long run.
Protection
Offering a high level of cushioning and an outsole that protects the feet from the shock of impact when striking the terrain, this trainer will prove to be one of your best options if you prefer to do long runs, marathons, half marathons, or running for an extended period of time. The Wave Creation 17 may even perform well on light trails. However, its upper’s materials tend to retain water when running in the rain, so runners should keep this in mind if they decide to go on a run on a rainy day with a pair of these shoes.
Responsiveness
Thanks to this shoe’s Wave plate technology and cushioning, the responsiveness of the Wave Creation 17 is outstanding, with dynamic energy return that leaves the runner feeling that the heel is being propelled off the ground during each lift-off. The Dynamotion technology introduced in this shoe provides an optimal fit for the foot and guides the foot during a run.
Support
If you have a moderate to high arch, this trainer is designed for you. Additionally, If you tend to place your weight on your forefoot, then the Wave Creation 17 will e provide the necessary support. The cushioning in this series is great–firm but supportive–and offers the highest level of cushioning as well as shock resistance. They are also highly recommended for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, as many reviews have pointed out. However, this is a neutral running shoe and as such will not address the problems those who suffer from overpronation or fallen arches may experience while running.
Terrain
The Wave Creation 17 will serve runners best on traditional running surfaces—asphalt, pavement, and springy track surfaces. The Wave technology improves the gait and offers a great amount of energy return with each step to allow for longer, more extensive workouts. While the cushioning on this shoe is very high, the InfinityWave plate has become wider than previous models, making the shoe more stable on rougher terrain. However, it has been noted that due to the deep cuts in its tread, the outsole seems to quickly pick up stones, which is a concern for runners that are used to traversing rocky and stony trails.
Price
The Wave Creation 17 seems to be more expensive than many other running shoes on the market. However, with all its features and the quality of its design, as well as all of the benefits which it provides to neutral runners, this is a good investment for runners looking for a well-cushioned trainer that provides a solid performance on a run. Online outlets may offer a better deal than a traditional brick-and-mortar store.
Drop
The heel to toe drop of this shoe is a slightly higher than standard 12 mm drop, A slightly2mm more than the traditional 10mm drop in running shoes. This drop provides much better-cushioning than that of a minimalist shoe, which usually tends to be much lower, and of course more than a zero-drop shoe. If the runner has decided to switch from a low heel-to-toe drop to a higher drop shoe, this might not be the best option, since a transition period will be required before one feels comfortable in a higher drop shoe. However, it is an optimal choice if the runner desires a higher level of cushioning for their feet and more neutral trainer.
Stability
Due to its relatively light weight and high amount of cushioning, some runners were afraid that it’s the overall stability offered by the Wave Creation 17 may leave something to be desired. However, this is not the case, as the Wave Creation 17 provides a solid amount of stability during a run. And this running shoe is rated as one of the most stable shoes currently on the market, thanks to its Wave plate technology in the midsole. However, this is not specifically a stability shoe.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the Wave Creation 17’s upper is great, made of a highly breathable material that is not constrained by heavy overlays. The midsole is outfitted with the Wave plate, which enhances flexibility and has been made wider than previous models, offering the runner a better cushioning, stability, and a higher energy return. The DynamotionFit technology of the shoe has makes it very dynamic and flexible, and the same material has been implemented in the lacing system, creating a shoe that will adjust to the motion of the foot and will bend and flex naturally with the body’s movement while providing a sense of stability at the same time.
Traction
The X10™ carbon rubber material delivers a great amount of traction, making this an ideal shoe for the track, road, and even gravely terrain. The outsole of the Wave Creation 17 was designed to prevent the high tear and wear effect that destroys the integrity of an outsole after putting many miles on a trainer. It also provides excellent traction that is further enhanced with SmoothRide technology that aims to minimize the rapid acceleration and deceleration of the foot during transition, providing a smooth ride for the runner.
Bottom Line
If you prefer a natural running shoe for running long distances, this will be the perfect option for you. However, the Mizuno Wave Creation 17 has been recognized as one of the best running shoes for runners that require more cushioning than the average running shoe and has been praised for its durability and comfort as well as its outstanding cushioning technology and lightness. It provides a high energy return that motivates the wearer to go beyond their previous limits and push forward with ease, ambition, and integrity. Simply put, this is one of the best options for running on the road and for everyday training, marathons and long runs.
