REVIEW FACTS
Outsole
One of the most unique features of this shoe is that it uses Michelin rubber in the outsole and the same lug system used in mountain bike tires. The lugs system is called XtaticRide. This is Mizuno’s newest trail outsole design. The lugs are located not just along the perimeter, but also throughout the heel of the shoe for extra traction. This unique design not only helps the outsole grab on tight to the trail below it, it is also uniquely designed to shake off excessive mud and dirt to keep traction of the shoe at its peak. Runners were also pleasantly surprised at the added flexibility the outsole of this shoe offered. There is a flex groove in the shape of an X that promotes a natural movement for the runner.
Midsole
The midsole of the shoe features Mizuno’s patented Wave technology. This provided added stability and support to the runner, which is even more important while on the trails. The midsole material is made from AP+ material. Mizuno decided to go with this midsole material because it is more responsive and more durable than a standard IMEVA or EVA midsole foam. Another superior element of the Wave technology is that absorbs the shock from each footfall, allowing the runner to go longer and avoid injury.
Upper
Get ready for some brilliant technological design elements in the upper of this shoe. To start, it features Mizuno’s patented DynamotionFit. Mizuno created this technology to mirror the natural movement of the foot and feel like a second skin while wearing it. By using a combination of breathable, stretchy materials (Stretch Mesh and Flex Eyelets), Mizuno is able to provide the runner with an upper that is durable but extremely comfortable too. Runners loved the fit and feel of the upper. The breathability of the upper can be attributed to the AirMesh material which features a more open construction that allows airflow but still is able to keep the debris off the trail from interfering with the run.;In addition to the superior breathability, the shoe features strong support and structural designs too. The heel counter used in conjunction with the durable overlays keep the foot locked in place to avoid unwanted friction and irritation. Finally, Mizuno finishes the upper of the shoe with a removable In sock liner and flat laces. This sock liner provides added cushioning. It also helps keep the foot cool and dry, eliminating bacteria and odor from the shoe. The laces stay tied even on the toughest of terrains.
Breathability
Runner loved the breathability offered in these shoes. The breathability can be attributed to the air mesh material. It provides superior airflow and a lightweight cover to the shoe. Runners loved how the shoe kept their feet well ventilated and the interior dry. The overall Dynamotion fit provides a stretchy, breathable fit. This is key on the trails.
Comfort
This shoe offers a very comfortable ride for the trails. The upper is breathable and does a great job of keeping the foot sweat free. The AP+ midsole provides cushioning but not so much so that the runner can’t feel the trail below and respond accordingly. It has the perfect amount of spring to it but also provides a nice, stable cradle for the foot. The wave technology that is located below the midsole foam is a perfect tool to propel the foot forward and promote a natural movement.
Style
Mizuno has a way of designing a shoe that is both aesthetically appealing and allows the world to know that a serious athlete is in their presence. The Mizuno line features a unique insignia along the side of the shoe that looks similar to a lightning bolt. The colo r combinations offered in the Wave Daichi 2 are vibrant but still give an outdoor adventure feel. Runners loved the combination of rugged and stylish in this shoe.
Durability
Any trail runner knows that a quality trail shoe is built from the bottom up. The Wave Daichi 2’s outsole adds durability and traction to the overall running experience of this shoe. The rubber used in this outsole is the same used on Michelin tires. Runners reported that this helped them keep their fit and feel longer than other trials shoes they’ve tried in the past.
Protection
The key protective element on this shoe comes via the Michelin outsole. This outsole not only protects the foot from the elements on the road, but it also acts as a shield to the rest of the shoe, protecting it from wear and tear. Runners appreciated that the traction on the outsole protects the runner on uneven and even slippery surfaces. The lugs system is aggressive and the shoe is covered not just along the perimeter, but also on the heel to improve. The upper of the shoe is also designed to protect the foot against trail debris.
Responsiveness
For as protective and durable as the shoe is, it also provides a surprisingly high level of responsiveness. While the Wave Daichi 2 is highly responsive, runners commented that the second model of the Diachi is not quite as responsive as the original Mizuno Daichi. This can be attributed to higher heel stack in the 2 compared to the original model. Although runners reported that it is slightly less responsive, they still found the Daichi 2 to be more responsive than other trail shoes they tried in the past.
Support
The Mizuno Flex Eyelets help to lock down the heel during the stride, allowing the upper to stretch and contract as needed. Meanwhile, Stretch Mesh delivers a contoured fit which helps to combat bunching, pulling, and sliding, ensuring that the foot is comfortable from toe-off to heel strike.
Terrain
This shoe is designed for the most extreme conditions and surfaces. The outsole is made from Micheline rubber and is designed with a lug system that is similar to that of a mountain bike tire. This prepares the runner for the most aggressive elements of nature. However, since the shoe is more lightweight than some other trail shoes, and it offers a higher level of responsiveness, this shoe can also tackle road running as well.
Price
This shoe comes in at slightly above the average price point for a pair of new trail running shoes. It certainly is the most affordable shoe on the market, but it also isn’t the most expensive either. Runners also commented that due to the high level of durability, this shoe should be seen as an investment.
Drop
This shoe offers a 12-millimeter heel drop. This is one of the highest heel drops offered on the market today. If you are a runner who is looking for a more traditional running shoe, this is a good choice for you. It offered added cushioning in the heel and gives the foot a cushioned landing pad. This is not a shoe for the runner who is looking for a natural running or minimalist running experience.
Stability
The Wave technology that is located underneath the midsole foam is where this shoe gets its superior stability. Although it is marketed as a neutral running shoe, runners agree that the Wave features works great to keep the foot secure and protect it from rolling too far inward on the gait cycle. The AP+ midsole foam also supports the foot and gives it just enough cushioning to keep it stable inside the shoe.
Flexibility
Even though the outsole of this shoe is very durable, runners reported that it also felt very flexible. This can be attributed to the flex grooves that are found underfoot. In addition to this, the midsole of the shoe, the AP+ material is more flexible and promotes a natural gait cycle than some other more traditional midsole foams. Finally, the upper of the shoe is stretchy and bendable and easily conforms to the unique shape of each runner’s foot.
Traction
Runners found the traction on these shoes to be superior in comparison to other trail shoes they have purchased in the past. This can be attributed to the aggressive lug system. Lugs line the perimeter of the shoe but they are also placed along the heel as well. This helps the shoe grip onto the terrain while trudging uphill and also holds tight while traversing steep down hills. The lug system is also designed to shake off excessive mud and debris to keep the lugs as effective as possible.
Bottom Line
This is a shoe that is designed for the outdoor adventurer. Mizuno includes a plethora of thoughtful technological design elements that create a shoe with superior fit, comfort, and traction. The XtraRide lugged outsole is made from Michelin Rubber and is designed to mimic a mountain bike tire. These lugs keep the runners safe and secure on uneven and slippery terrain and they also expel extra mug and debris to keep them working efficiently throughout your entire run. The upper is breathable and light and features the Dynamotion Fit that stretches and conforms to the unique shape of each runners foot. Overall, the Wave Daichi 2 is a durable shoe for the trails.
Key Features
• Dynamotion Fit• Air Mesh• Mizuno’s patented Wave technology• Xtra Ride lugs• Micheline Rubber outsole
