Mizuno wave inspire 20

Learn more about the Mizuno wave inspire 20 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Mizuno wave inspire 20

Price

$280

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is a stability running shoe designed for overpronators, sitting just above the neutral-focused Wave Rider in terms of support within the Mizuno lineup.

9 colorways

Colorway: Iron Gate Blue

Widths available: wide

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Summary

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is part of Mizuno's lineup of stability running shoes, designed to provide the necessary support and cushioning for runners who overpronate. This model maintains a balance between comfort and performance, featuring Mizuno's signature Wave Plate technology, which delivers a smooth and responsive ride. The Wave Inspire 20 is known for its lightweight design compared to other stability shoes, offering a harmonious blend of support and flexibility. It fits comfortably within the Mizuno lineup as a reliable option for daily training, positioned between the more cushioned Wave Sky series for those seeking maximum softness and the lighter, more responsive Wave Rider model favored by neutral runners who prioritize speed.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(31.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(airmesh upper)

Weight

302g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

12mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

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Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Mizuno wave inspire 20 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 17 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is a well-regarded stability running shoe that offers a comfortable fit, excellent cushioning, and support for mild overpronation, making it suitable for long runs. However, it is noted to be heavier than average, and some runners may find its high drop and firm ride less appealing..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Soft

The most common points are that the shoe's cushioning is generally praised for comfort and responsiveness, but some users find the forefoot less cushioned and the overall feel lacking in bounce and springiness.

comfort (4)

firmness (2)

impact (1)

heel support (1)

responsive (1)

performance (1)

stack height (1)

forefoot (1)

Pros

"The shoe's cushioning offers a firmer heel and softer forefoot, contributing to overall comfort during runs."

cushion

enerzy

heel

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 features a highly cushioned midsole for superior comfort during runs."

cushioning

shock absorption

comfort

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 features soft and propulsive cushioning, enhancing the overall running experience."

cushioning

comfort

long distance

"The shoe features a soft and propulsive cushioning that enhances comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

"The shoe features great impact dampening, enhancing comfort during runs."

impact absorption

shock dispersion

"The heel height of 37.5mm provides excellent shock absorption for heel strikers."

heel cushioining

shock absorption

"Increased cushioning enhances the comfort and responsiveness of the shoe."

cushioning

energy-return

"The cushioning provided by the Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 prevents fatigue during long distance runs, enhancing performance."

comfort

performance

"The stack height of the shoe contributes to a soft landing, enhancing overall cushioning."

stack height

cushioning

Cons

"The forefoot feels less cushioned compared to the previous version."

cushion

forefoot

comfort

"The shoe lacks any bounce during runs."

bounce

cushioning

"The landing feels harsh, potentially leading to discomfort."

harsh

discomfort

"The firmness of the cushioning never eased even after extensive use."

firmness

durability

"The cushioning, while soft, may not be sufficient for some runners looking for a firmer experience."

cushioning

comfort

"Overall, the midsole cushioning is described as uninspired."

uninspired

midsole

"Not very springy despite improved cushioning."

cushioning

ENERZY foam

"Some users may still feel the need for more pronounced cushioning."

impact

heel

strike

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that comfort is frequently highlighted due to generous padding and secure heel hold, while limited breathability is a notable downside.

padding (2)

heel (1)

seasonal (1)

overall (1)

breathability (1)

cushion (1)

insock (1)

Pros

"Runners will appreciate the comfortable and secure heel hold provided by this shoe."

comfort

support

locking

"The shoe has generous padding that contributes to overall comfort and support."

comfort

padding

cushioning

"The shoe features a plush fit with padding around areas prone to discomfort during runs."

padding

comfort

fit

"The shoe maintains comfort even in cold conditions, proving its year-round usability."

year-round

cold weather

comfort

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is recognized for its excellent comfort, making it suitable for all-day wear."

comfort

all-day wear

"Its upper construction is designed for breathable comfort during use."

breathable

upper material

"The shoe includes a high-grade removable premium insole, which adds comfort for longer runs."

comfort

insole

premium

"The high-grade removable premium insock adds an extra layer of comfort for the wearer."

insock

comfort

Cons

"Limited breathability due to the structure of the upper."

mesh

upper

overlays

durability

The pros highlight durability and quality, while the cons mention a lack of long-term durability information, but the pros dominate the discussion.

longevity (2)

sustainable (1)

construction (1)

long-lasting (1)

outsole (1)

long-term (1)

Pros

"The upper is made from durable and sustainably produced materials, which is an environmentally responsible choice."

sustainability

durability

eco-friendly

"The build quality of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is noted to be top-notch, showcasing great craftsmanship."

durability

quality

"Durability is highlighted, as the shoe appears to maintain its condition even after extensive use."

durability

long-lasting

"The outsole is made of X10 durable carbon rubber, ensuring long-lasting performance and preventing excessive wear."

durability

outsole

long-lasting

"The durability of both the upper and outsole ensures long-lasting performance."

durability

material quality

"The outsole is made from durable X10 carbon rubber, which enhances the shoe's longevity."

durability

outsole

Cons

"There is insufficient information on the long-term durability of the materials used."

durability

long-term

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's smooth transition and stability for long runs, while a significant number find it heavier than expected, which can hinder performance.

weight (2)

transition (1)

long-distance (1)

technology (1)

long runs (1)

injury prevention (1)

stiffness (1)

speed (1)

Pros

"It provides a smooth transition with a consistent ride, perfect for daily training and longer runs."

smooth transition

daily training

long run

"The Wave Inspire 20 is capable of handling long-distance runs effectively."

durability

mileage

performance

"The shoe's midsole features advanced technology for stability and responsiveness."

midsole

energizing

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 handles longer runs effectively, providing good support throughout."

performance

long-distance

cushioning

"SmoothRide technology minimizes rapid acceleration/deceleration, reducing the risk of injury during runs."

performance

injury prevention

technology

Cons

"The shoe is heavier than necessary, affecting performance."

weight

heaviness

"The shoe may feel a bit heavy compared to some alternatives."

heavy

comparison

"The heel can feel clunky when trying to run quickly."

performance

clunky

responsiveness

"Running at a faster pace felt like a struggle due to the shoe's inflexibility."

performance

struggle

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Wider
Orthotic friendly: No

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's true-to-size fit and spacious toe box, while a significant number of users find the shoe too wide, especially for those with narrow feet.

width (3)

upper (2)

forefoot (2)

toebox (1)

customization (1)

adjustment (1)

drop (1)

Pros

"It features a true-to-size fit with increased width in the forefoot, accommodating a variety of foot shapes."

fit

forefoot

accommodation

"The toe box offers ample breathability and roominess, accommodating various foot shapes."

fit

roomy

breathability

"The upper material of the shoe is praised as one of the best experienced by the reviewer."

fit

upper quality

"The updated AIRmesh upper enhances the shoe's fit while allowing for some forefoot space."

mesh

breathable

fit

forefoot

"The shoe is available in a wider version for enhanced fit."

fit

width options

Cons

"Some users might experience sliding in the forefoot during downhill runs."

fit

sliding

downhill

"Forefoot construction may not suit everyone."

volume

toe box

"There is a need for a more dialed-in fit to prevent sliding."

fit

adjustment

comfort

"The shoe might feel too wide for runners with narrow feet."

width

fit

"The shoe may be too wide for runners with narrow feet."

fit

width

narrow

"The shoes may be too wide for runners who prefer a narrow fit."

fit

width

"The 12mm drop in heel height can feel unusual for runners not accustomed to it, possibly requiring an adjustment period."

heel drop

adjustment period

stability
Stability level: Average

The main points to note are that the Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is frequently praised for its excellent stability and support, while some users feel it lacks intensity compared to earlier models.

support (2)

guidance (1)

ride (1)

overall (1)

control (1)

pronation control (1)

design (1)

gait (1)

Pros

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 provides excellent stability without a medial post, making it suitable for various foot types."

stability

wave plate

guidance system

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 provides a reliable and stable running experience, making it suitable for overpronating runners."

stability

reliability

neutral

"The shoe provides sufficient stability to help runners with a moderate level of stability needs."

stability

support

"The anatomical wave plate offers a secure fit and stabilizes the foot, preventing over-pronation during runs."

stability

support

over-pronation

"The shoe provides excellent overall stability, crucial for longer runs."

stability

support

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 provides excellent control and support for over-pronators."

over-pronation

support

"The Wave plate technology effectively controls pronation without becoming intrusive."

Wave technology

control

dynamic

"The anatomical wave plate design improves stability by following the natural shape of the foot."

wave plate

stability

"The shoe minimizes issues related to gait, reducing excessive ankle rolling which improves stability during runs."

gait

stability

"SmoothRide technology incorporated into the shoe helps reduce the risk of injuries from overuse by minimizing rapid acceleration and deceleration."

SmoothRide

injury prevention

Cons

"The stability feels less intense and less supportive than in the previous version."

stability

comparison

support

"The shoe's design could benefit from a more beveled heel for improved transitions."

design

transitions

smoothness

grip

The pros of the shoe's grip, such as its excellent traction and versatility on different surfaces, are highlighted, while the only con mentions that the grip is just okay for off-road use.

traction (4)

versatility (1)

outsole (1)

Pros

"The shoe holds up well in both wet and dry conditions, enhancing its versatility for different road surfaces."

grip

wet

dry

"The excellent traction of the outsole ensures reliable grip even on wet surfaces."

traction

wet surfaces

grip

"The shoe's traction performance was commended, performing well under various conditions."

grip

traction

wet conditions

"The outsole offers great grip on various surfaces, enhancing performance."

grip

traction

outsole

"The shoe performs well on various surfaces, thanks to its durable traction."

traction

versatility

path

Cons

"The outsole grip is only okay, impacting off-road performance."

grip

outsole

road

other

The main points to note are that the shoe's comfort for light trails and its suitability for both walking and running are mentioned frequently, while concerns about its weight and heel drop are also common.

versatility (2)

sustainability (2)

weight (2)

drop (1)

visibility (1)

preferences (1)

heel (1)

Pros

"The shoe can comfortably handle light trails, broadening its usability."

multi-use

light trails

versatility

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is suitable for walking as well as running, enhancing its practicality for various activities."

multi-use

walking

practicality

"A significant portion of the shoe is made from breathable recycled materials, contributing to its sustainability credentials."

sustainability

recycled materials

breathability

"The use of recycled materials in the shoe's construction supports environmental sustainability."

recycled materials

sustainability

Cons

"The 12.6 mm drop may not be suitable for all runners."

drop

suitability

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is somewhat heavy compared to other shoes."

weight

heaviness

"The shoe is heavier than average, which may affect overall performance and comfort during runs."

weight

performance

"The shoe lacks reflective elements for night visibility."

visibility

safety

"The shoe may be unsuitable for runners seeking a soft ride."

soft ride

heavy impact

"Some users may find the heel drop too high for their preference."

heel drop

preference

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Model Updates

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 running shoes introduce an updated upper design for an improved fit and enhanced breathability, ensuring better comfort and performance. Additionally, they feature a more responsive midsole technology, offering increased cushioning and support for a smoother and more efficient run, differentiating them from their predecessors.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Mizuno wave inspire 20 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (17)

4.1/5

Prices

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Mizuno wave inspire 20

Mizuno wave inspire 20

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the Mizuno wave inspire 20 is right for you?

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Need help picking the right size?

Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.1/5

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