Details
Brand
Mizuno
Heel To Toe Drop
12mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Mizuno Wave Kien 3
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• 12mm drop• Removable insole• EL8, a light midsole compound that combines cushioning and rebound energy• Mizuno Wave Technology• AIRmesh Upper that provides a high standard of breathability• X10 Outsole, the most durable carbon rubber from Mizuno• X-shaped gripping lugs
Upper
Mizuno has outdone itself when it comes to the upgraded upper on the Wave Kien 2, as it now includes various features that make the upper much more comfortable and flexible. The shoe uses AIRmesh upper fabric, which is a mesh material that creates a much more open construction that the previous version. This creates a breathable and dry environment for the foot, preventing that awful clammy feeling that some runners described in the previous version. The shoe also has the DynaMotion Fit that essentially hugs the foot and keeps moving with the foot. Runners felt that the DynaMotionFit makes the upper unit more responsive to the movements of the foot. The shoe also utilizes more stitching and layered in options than the original version. The overlays make the fit more comfortable while working with the shoe’s lacing system. This provides an added layer of stability and maintaining the shoe’s structure. The shoe has a reflective coating and the tongue provides an additional level of breathability with comfort. Overall, the shoe’s upper rates high with reviewers.
Midsole
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2’s midsole uses typical Mizuno technology to create a strong midsole as well. The shoes have an EL8 layer that is essentially a lightweight material that provides cushioning along with rebound energy. This is a feature that is an upgrade from the previous version. The Wave Kien 2 also uses Mizuno Wave technology, which is a separate part of the shoe that is inserted into the midsole. This features adds more cushioning and provides lateral and medial stability. The wave technology is also able to absorb shock during running, in particular during the heel strike. This helps the foot be in a more neutral position when running, thus creating a more efficient form. There is also SR Touch, an additional cushioning compound that is on the rear part of the shoe providing easy bounce-back on the landing. Overall, the Mizuno Wave Kien 2’s midsole is above average due to its innovative technologies that create smooth, cushioned rides.
Outsole
The outsole helps to support the foot from underneath. The Mizuno Wave Kien 2’s outsole uses X10 technology, which is a rubber component used to protect the shoe from excessive wear and abrasion. Upgraded from the previous version, the Wave Kien 2’s outsole is a dependable outsole construction that is thicker for trail -specific necessities like traction. The outsole provides a sticky shield from wear and tear while still holding onto rough surfaces. The outsole also has x-shaped gripping lugs that provide traction and grip when out on the trails. This helps on downhills, wet surfaces by preventing slips. Overall, the shoe’s outsole is above average with features that allow for longer wear and better traction.
Breathability
Breathability is above average on the Mizuno Wave Kien 2. Mizuno’s upgrades to the shoe’s upper from the previous version definitely impact that shoe’s breathability in a positive manner. Mizuno uses AIRmesh fabric on the upper to create breathable coverage. The mesh material creates a more open feel than the original, allowing air to enter and keeping the foot more cool and dry. The shoe’s tongue also contributes to the breathability as it covers the top of the foot comfortably.
Comfort
Comfort ratings for this trail shoe are above average. The Mizuno Wave Kien 2’s features and upgrades definitely impact just how comfortable this shoe is. Starting with the shoe’s DynaMotionFit that essentially hugs the foot, while adding support, the shoe has a very comfortable upper unit. The uppers overlays and lacing system work together to make the fit of the shoe more customizable and comfortable for the runner. In addition, the EL8 midsole layer offers cushioning that contributes to the shoe’s comfort. There is also a removable sockliner for additional comfort and cushioning. The only concern related to comfort came from sizing, as some reviewers felt the shoe was a bit snug, and they felt they should have been directed to order a ½ size larger. Overall though, the shoe is a very comfortable trail option.
Style
While the shoe has a very sleek design, it does not offer very many color options. Mizuno could have done a bit more when it comes to the coloring of the shoe for such a streamlined design, as the trend is currently to be a bit more colorful. However the shoe does has a reflective coating that is on the sides, forefront and heel of the shoe. The coating is there to provide visibility for night running, but it also helps improves the shoe’s style.
Durability
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 has good durability. With the shoe’s X10 on the outsole, Mizuno uses the carbon rubber to create a durable outsole. This helps increase the shoe’s wear in high impact areas. Reviewers felt that the shoe delivered high performance along with durability. The shoe’s added cushioning also creates an element of durability throughout trail runs, as well as the grip.
Protection
Mizuno offers several features that contribute to the overall protection the shoe provides. The Wave Kien 2’s outsole uses a durable runner component that protects the shoe and foot during times and high wear and abrasion. The Mizuno Wave technology also offers cushioning and stability that protects the heel and midfoot during impact. There is also the SR Touch that is a cushioning compound that protects the rear section of the foot during landing on the ground. Combined with the wave technology, the SR touch helps deliver a smoother ride. Finally, the shoe’s reflective coating is an added level of protection for runners who like to be out without the sun. Overall, the Mizuno Wave Kien 2 rates high on protection.
Responsiveness
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 is designed to help with responsiveness, without sacrificing on the overall weight of the shoe. The shoe’s features maximize stability and responsiveness during impact. The shoe itself is made to help wearers improve their run. This is seen in the combination of the SR Touch with the Mizuno Wave technology. Combined these features protect the foot during impact while also allowing the foot to bounce-back easier when landing on the ground. This creates a much smoother ride. The shoe also has the DynaMotion Fit that allows the upper to be more responsive to the foot’s movements. An additional feature that contributes to the shoe’s responsiveness is the EL8 layer that provides cushioning with rebound energy. Overall, the shoe rated above average for responsiveness.
Support
As a trail shoe, support is a feature that is necessary, and Mizuno has added features that help provide support throughout the Wave Kien 2. While the previous design was lacking, the Wave Kien 2’s upper is built to provide security and structure. Mizuno added more stitching and layered-in overlays to create a more supportive upper. The Mizuno Wave technology also delivers support and cushioning. The shape of the shoe, in general, helps dissipate the force of impact away from the foot. Overall this creates a supportive, yet smooth ride for trail runners.
Terrain
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 is designed to be used on trails. The shoe’s X10 outsole, a durable runner component, stability mechanics, x-shaped gripping lugs and the concave wave cartridge are all features of the shoe that help runners navigate trail surfaces. The X10 helps the shoe resist wear and tear while creating a sticky shield that helps with the shoe’s overall traction. The outsole also boasts x-shaped griping lugs that provide grip on trail surfaces, while preventing slips on downhills and wet conditions. Finally, the concave wave cartridge is designed to provide security and performance while out on the trail.
Price
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 is priced at full retail price around $130. However, since the Wave Kien 3 is out, it can be found at discounted rates. At full price, many runners felt that the $130 price tag was a bit expensive for the shoe.
Drop
The shoe has a 12mm heel to toe drop. This is a common drop for runner’s that need a little more cushioning while running. It definitely works for running on trail surfaces.
Stability
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 offers flexibility on a type of shoe that is often lacking in this area. The shoe’s Dynamotion Fit is designed to make the shoe work with the foot as it moves, twists and bends. As a part of the upper, the shoe moves with you. There are also Flex Eyelets that secure the runner’s heel throughout each step by allowing the upper to contract and stretch. The upgraded upper and lightweight feel, ensure that the shoe is much more flexible than the previous version.
Flexibility
The Mizuno Wave Kien 2 offers flexibility on a type of shoe that is often lacking in this area. The shoe’s Dynamotion Fit is designed to make the shoe work with the foot as it moves, twists and bends. As a part of the upper, the shoe moves with you. There are also Flex Eyelets that secure the runner’s heel throughout each step by allowing the upper to contract and stretch. The upgraded upper and lightweight feel, ensure that the shoe is much more flexible than the previous version.
Traction
Traction is not an issue on the Mizuno Wave Kien 2. As a trail running shoe, it is designed to provide added traction and grip on trail surfaces. The construction of the shoe is much more robust than the previous version, strengthening the shoe’s traction from the previous version. The thicker outsole unit, the X10, uses carbon rubber to resist wear and tear, while also creating a sticky shield that helps with the shoe’s traction on rough surfaces. The outsole also uses x-shaped gripping lugs that provide traction and grip on many trail conditions, including downhills and wet conditions. Reviewers felt that the shoe provide incredible traction and a tough design that is helped by the shoe’s strong outsole. One runner felt that in addition to the reduced wear, the shoe maximized traction on heel strike. Overall, traction rated high on this shoe.
Bottom Line
Mizuno has created a strong trail shoe with many features that create a comfortable, efficient running experience. Improved from the previous version, the Wave Kien benefits runners of all levels who want to be out on the trails. The lightweight trail shoe has an improved, breathable upper, strong outsole, and Mizuno Wave technology that all contribute to the shoe’s comfort, durability, and stability. While some runners felt that the shoe was a bit snug and potentially expensive, overall this shoe has many great features that make it a great option for trail runners.
