Details
Brand
Mizuno
Heel To Toe Drop
12mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• Open mesh upper that provides a sock-like fit and a high level of ventilation• Improved U4icX midsole technology that offers even better cushioning than previous editions• Full-length wave plate for better shock absorption• Extremely good performance for heel strikers• Gender-specific SmoothRide technology tailored to the runners’ physiology
Upper
The upper has been redesigned with a new and well-padded open mesh material that’s comfortable around the ankles and provides a sock-like fit. Although some runners may think this feels a little constraining, the upper is smooth and comfortable to the touch while remaining breathable, allowing the foot to stay fresh and dry throughout a ride. The Enigma 5 is secured by a semi-flat lacing system that provides a snug fit after lace-up, providing a glove-like fit while its soft and smooth material helps the runner avoid getting blisters during a run. This shoe is specifically designed for high mileage runners and for those who prefer extra cushioning and stability. Compared to the previous edition, the Mizuno Wave Enigma 4, the upper of Enigma 5 is very similar. However, there has been an improvement in this edition in the form of a supportive overlay in the midfoot of the upper and a more open toe box.
Midsole
The Enigma 5 has been introduced with an upgraded midsole technology, replacing the U4ic from previous editions to the new U4icX midsole unit. This new tech has been placed at the heel and forefoot of the midsole to provide a much more comfortable ride, particular for heel strikers. Complimenting this improvement is Mizuno’s inimitable molded plastic Wave attachment that’s placed between two coatings of foam. This innovative midsole is more responsive and provides a smoother ride than previous versions, which were firmer and seemed to be a bit uncooperative and made transitions more difficult.
Outsole
The Mizuno Wave Enigma 5 is outfitted with the company’s X10 carbon rubber outsole technology, which provides both improved tractions for heel strikers and extends the durability of the shoe’s outsole, allowing for longer wear in high impact areas. The forefoot of the outsole has been designed with deep flex grooves in the new Wave plate, which gives the outsole more flexibility and offers the optimal pliability and propulsion during toe-off, along with greater stability.
Breathability
The upper’s open-air mesh of the Enigma 5 provides an outstanding ventilation for the feet. While running in this shoe, the feet will stay cool and dry throughout the ride, which also helps the wearer avoid getting blisters. Many runners have praised the excellent job this porous mesh material performs during a run, which is to keep the feet dry during intense, high mileage training, which is an important factor for those who train for marathons.
Comfort
Many runners who have tested the Enigma 5 have concluded that this is a highly comfortable shoe. The fit is snug but not overly tight and it secures the foot firmly in place during the run without constraint. While some runners found that this shoe made the feet numb after the first couple of miles, this experience may vary from runner to runner. The extra cushioning provided by U4icX foam midsole provides a cloud-like run and provides considerable energy return, even more so than the previous editions of this line.;There has been some discussion about whether the size fits true or not, as some runners felt that the size was too small while others claimed it fit true to size. However, this may vary from runner to runner. It is still recommended that the runner tries on the shoe before purchase making sure it fits comfortably and correctly to avoid any potential discomfort.
Style
This time around, Mizuno has really put some thought into the look and design of their shoe. There are several color variations the Enigma 5 comes in to choose from, all of which are very stylish. The design and colors are not overly dramatic or flashy, and runners can be assured they will not look like an overgrown kid running in shoes that are too garish or cartoonish.;Whether a runner picks black with red accents or blue and yellow (as the men’s color schemes run), or the white with blue or purple for women, the color combinations compliment each other in a very well-orchestrated symphony of style and sophistication. Some runners have even commented that the style of this shoe was the initial factor that influenced them to try them on, and for the runner reading this review, it may even be the deciding factor for trying a pair of the Enigma 5, too.
Durability
Upgraded with a synthetic upper mesh, the Enigma 5 has been considered as one of the best in the series. The midsole has been made from the U4icX technology, which improves its durability in high-wear areas of the shoe along with high cushioning and great energy return.;The outsole has been equipped with Mizuno X10 outsole technology, a carbon rubber material that ensures the durability of the shoe sole for many miles. The dual Wave plate outsole has an assortment of plastic and rubber lugs which range from soft to hard materials that are tactically placed to ensure that the high-wear sections that are vulnerable to wear and tear are sufficiently supported and protected for enhanced durability. In addition, the forefoot has a plastic toe cap that is made from industrial strength molded material that enhances its durability on the track.
Protection
In terms of protecting the feet of the runner from the shock that is caused by the impact of the foot striking the ground, the Enigma 5 offers a great amount thanks to its U4icX midsole. In addition, this model has been equipped with a full-length Wave plate that will offer the runner maximum shock absorption and cushioning during a run. The Wave plates between the midsole and the outsole have a small vacuum space that absorbs the latent impact that may cause injuries to a runner’s foot. This feature offers the wearer a unique sense of comfort and cushioning along with great shock absorption.;The Wave plate in this model has been designed differently from earlier versions, since this Wave plate has been split into a U-shape in the forefoot to support the edges, and the foam under the plate has been made softer to offer extra cushioning. When paired with the Enigma 5’s 12mm drop, this offers the runner a natural roll-like movement, providing more comfort and protection during a run.;Meanwhile, the new U4icX midsole delivers an outstanding cushioned ride, as many runners who have already tried this shoe on the road have commented. The Enigma 5’s open mesh upper offers a sock-like fit, and since it is a bit stretchy it can expand and stretch with the movement of the foot during a run, providing not only protection on rough terrains but also conforming to the natural movement of the foot.
Responsiveness
The great responsiveness of this shoe is due to its full-length Wave plate that has been implemented in the midsole of this shoe, which offers not only comfort and solid energy return but also high responsiveness. The Mizuno U4icX midsole technology complements this feature with a maximum shock absorption due to its outstanding cushioning. This technology was placed in the forefoot and heel area to achieve a targeted pillow-like underfoot feel.;The Mizuno Save technology is designed so that it evenly distributes the force of the impact. the Wave plates have been designed in a U-shape, which provides better responsiveness by supporting the edges of the shoe. In addition, a new premium sock liner provides maximum shock attenuation that softens roughness during a run and provides a more efficient stride.
Support
The Enigma 5 offers a well-supported platform for the runner. Designed for high-mileage training, this shoe was crafted to ensure that the foot is well-supported throughout a run. The full-length Wave plate distributes the impact of the foot hitting the ground across a wider area, reducing the shock of impact. Complementing this is a small vacuum space between the two plates in the midsole, which provides extra cushioning and smoother ride for the runner. In addition, the open mesh upper is designed so that it fits the feet like a sock, providing a natural feel and support for the foot.
Terrain
Due to the extremely high level of cushioning implemented in this shoe, it runs well on rough terrains where a high degree of support and comfort for the foot is required, although it will feel just right for asphalt and other regular running surfaces, as well–especially if the wearer is looking to perform high mileage training.
Price
The Enigma 5 offers numerous advanced features at a pocketbook-friendly price. There is a range of prices that runners will find this edition that seems to fluctuate based on specific requirements like size and color. But overall the Enigma 5 is a moderately priced running shoe that runners can put many miles on without worrying about deterioration.
Drop
The heel-to-toe drop on the Mizuno Wave Enigma 5 is 12 mm. This offset between the heel and the toe is slightly higher than average, but thanks to the midsole technology and Wave plate in place, this drop does not affect equilibrium and runners will still be comfortable when walking, jogging, or standing.
Stability
Prior to the release of the Enigma 5, some runners were concerned that the high drop of the shoe would lower its stability and that the extra cushioning would cause the same effect. However, these worries have been dismissed upon the shoe’s release and runners got to try them in real-world conditions. The U4icX midsole and Wave plate technology provides a highly cushioned and comfortable stride without losing the stability of the previous editions. The technology of the two Wave plates separated with a small space of vacuumed space also contributes to this, as it absorbs the impact of the shoe and evens out overall weight distribution. However, runners should keep in mind that this is not specifically a stability shoe.
Flexibility
Smooth Ride technology has been used in the creation of the Enigma 5. This is proprietary Mizuno technology that offers a more flexible and smooth ride. Placed in the midsole of the shoe, this technology incorporates advancements in its compacted foam structures that are malleable and offer sufficient support while in use. In addition, deep-cut horizontal flex grooves in the outsole allow for superior surface control.
Traction
This shoe is equipped with the X10 carbon rubber outsole that provides excellent grip and is a common component in most of Mizuno shoes. Thanks to this solid traction, the wearer will feel comfortable with any varying terrain they may prefer, and it is designed for rough terrains in particular. The outsole is also equipped with tread-like grooves that compliment the tough compound rubber, which increases the overall traction of the Enigma 5.
Bottom Line
The new Mizuno Wave Enigma 5 is the perfect shoe for long distance training runs and everyday training. With its high-performance cushioning and moderate heel-to-toe drop, this shoe will work best if you intend to cover a lot of miles in a single run or if you plan on training up for a marathon. The highly-cushioned shoe is reasonably light, weighing in at only 10.9 ounces/409 grams. Equipped with the new U4icX midsole and combined with Wave plate technology, the Enigma 5 provides a smooth and comfortable ride and will serve the runner well on rough terrain and standard running surfaces alike.
