Mizuno wave inspire 21

Learn more about the Mizuno wave inspire 21 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Mizuno wave inspire 21

Price

280

Rating

High

Popularity

Low

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 is a stability running shoe designed for moderate overpronators, sitting within Mizuno's lineup as a supportive option under the premium Wave Horizon and just above the more neutral Wave Rider model.

4 colorways

Colorway: Tradewinds

Widths available: normal, wide

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Summary

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 is a stability running shoe designed to provide a harmonious blend of comfort and support for runners who overpronate. Positioned in Mizuno's lineup as an option for those seeking a mix of cushioning and stability, the Wave Inspire 21 delivers a balanced ride suitable for both daily training and longer runs. The shoe features Mizuno's signature Wave technology, which helps to disperse impact forces and maintain a smooth transition from heel to toe. Compared to other models in Mizuno's range, such as the neutral Wave Rider or the plush Wave Sky, the Wave Inspire 21 offers enhanced medial support to guide and correct the foot's motion, making it an ideal choice for runners needing a bit more control with each step.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(31.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Jacquard Air Mesh upper)

Weight

279g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

12mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Mizuno wave inspire 21 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 9 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 is a highly regarded running shoe known for its stability, cushioning, and durability, making it an excellent choice for daily training, particularly for moderate pronators and heel strikers. While it offers a comfortable fit and responsiveness, it may not be ideal for those seeking a lightweight option or for longer, speed-focused runs due to its slightly bulky design..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that the shoe's cushioning is frequently praised for its excellent comfort and responsiveness, but some users feel it may not be soft enough for long runs or for those seeking a plush feel.

midsole (2)

shock absorption (2)

cushioning (1)

plush (1)

softer (1)

comfort (1)

support (1)

midsole softness (1)

Pros

"The Mizuno Whale Rider 21 is praised for its excellent cushioning and lightness."

cushioning

lightweight

"The shoe is designed with a midsole cushioning that is described as medium-high, offering a balance between comfort and responsiveness during runs."

cushioning

responsiveness

"The updated midsole provides a softer and smoother ride, enhancing the overall experience of the shoe."

softness

energy return

comfort

"The Neo Zen offers a plush, cushioned feel that works well with the foot's natural movement."

cushion

comfort

plushness

"The new midsole foam offers improved cushioning and bounce."

foam

cushioning

bounce

"The shoe now features Enerzy NXT foam which enhances comfort and cushioning."

cushioning

Enerzy NXT foam

"The shoe's structure allows for effective shock absorption, making it suitable for heel strikers."

shock absorption

heel strikers

"The cushioning in the shoe feels great and offers solid energy return during runs."

cushioned

energy return

heel cushioning

Cons

"The shoe's cushioning is described as medium-high, which might not be sufficient for runners seeking plush comfort."

cushion

comfort

"The shoe may not provide enough cushioning for long runs."

cushioning

stability

long runs

"The midsole foam is on the firmer side, lacking plush softness for some runners."

firm

midsole

cushioning

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that breathability is frequently highlighted as a strong advantage, while comfort over long distances is a common concern among users.

breathability (1)

heel support (1)

transition (1)

upper (1)

cushioning (1)

ride quality (1)

flexibility (1)

work usage (1)

Pros

"The new upper design provides enhanced ventilation for breathability."

ventilation

comfort

"The updated design features multiple micro-perforations for additional airflow."

ventilation

flexibility

"The engineered mesh upper enhances breathability while providing good stability and security during runs."

mesh

breathability

stability

"The upper material has been treated for increased breathability."

breathable

upper material

comfort

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 offers excellent breathability, making it suitable for warmer conditions."

breathable

mesh

warm weather

"The shoe features an elevated drop, which is beneficial for runners with Achilles tendon issues or beginners needing additional heel protection."

drop

comfort

heel support

"The Muno Inspire 21 has a smooth and pleasant transition during runs, making it enjoyable to wear."

smooth

transition

enjoyable

"The Neo Zen has a soft knit upper that provides breathability and comfort."

breathability

comfort

knit

"The Neo Zen is particularly recommended for heavier runners due to its cushioning."

heavier runners

cushion

long runs

"The shoe offers a smooth and cushioned ride, enhancing overall running comfort."

smooth

cushioned

comfortable ride

Cons

"The comfort level may not be sufficient for all users, especially over longer distances."

comfort

flexibility

"The Inspire may not be suitable for long hours of standing or non-running activities."

not for standing

limited usage

"The Neo Zen feels too soft and can be unsafe for some runners."

cushion

comfort

safety

"Some runners may experience discomfort due to the shoe's construction."

comfort

fit

tweaks

"The shoe offers subpar airflow, which can lead to discomfort in hot weather."

airflow

breathability

hot weather

durability

The main points to note are that durability is frequently highlighted as a strong feature of the shoe, but there are also concerns that it may not hold up well for serious long-term use.

outsole (2)

lightweight (1)

longevity (1)

material (1)

Pros

"The shoe's X10 outsole offers durability and is suitable for different terrains, making it versatile for various training conditions."

durability

versatility

"The outsole is durable, providing long-lasting use even with frequent wear."

durability

outsole

"The Inspire 21 has a lightweight design, particularly for the women's version, making it suitable for longer runs."

lightweight

long runs

comfort

"Muno is a brand known for its durability, ensuring long-lasting performance of the shoes."

durability

heritage

performance

"The shoe exhibits outstanding durability, showing minimal wear even after extensive testing."

durable

high mileage

resistant to wear

Cons

"There is little mention of durability concerns, indicating they might not last long-term under serious use."

cushion durability

wear and tear

"The materials may not offer adequate durability for frequent runners."

lightweight

breathable

durability

performance
Distance suited: Medium (10-20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main takeaway is that many users find the shoe to be heavy, which could be a drawback for those who prefer lighter options for running.

weight (3)

flexibility (1)

modernity (1)

design (1)

pace (1)

intensity (1)

distance (1)

bulk (1)

Pros

"Overall, the shoe is described as very flexible, promoting a natural running motion."

flexibility

performance

"The Wave Inspire 21 is lightweight, enhancing speed during runs."

lightweight

speed

performance

Cons

"Some users might find the weight of the shoes excessive for their preferences."

weight

performance

"The shoe's weight may be considered heavy for performance-oriented runners."

weight

performance

"The shoe is on the heavier side compared to some competitors, which might not appeal to speed-focused runners."

heavy

speed

"The shoe may lack appeal for those preferring ultra-modern features."

traditional

old school

inferior technology

"The design does not drastically change, which might not resonate with all users looking for innovation."

lack of innovation

stagnation

"The Wave Inspire 21 may be more suited for faster workouts rather than daily training."

speed

training type

"The performance might decrease during high-intensity activities."

performance

lightweight

"The shoe is recommended only for mid-distance runs, lacking suitability for longer distances."

mid-distance

long-distance

"The shoe’s bulkiness may be a disadvantage for tempo runs or races."

bulk

tempo training

fit
True to size: Runs small
Toebox width: Narrower
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The main points to consider are that the shoe's fit is praised for accommodating various foot shapes, but it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with very specific foot shapes or wider feet.

drop (2)

width (2)

security (1)

familiarity (1)

versatility (1)

lockdown (1)

specificity (1)

drop height (1)

Pros

"The improved fit keeps the foot secure during runs, enhancing overall stability."

fit

stability

"The shoe retains its familiar design, allowing returning customers to feel at home while also incorporating improvements."

design

returning customers

improvements

"The Inspire 21 fits well for various foot shapes, accommodating both narrow and wider feet."

accommodation

fit

comfort

"The fit is enhanced with a gusseted tongue for better lockdown."

gusseted tongue

fit

lockdown

Cons

"The fit may not be ideal for runners with very specific foot shapes due to the design choices."

fit

protection

"Despite being designed for beginners, the shoe's high drop might feel awkward for newer runners."

drop

beginner

"The shoe's high drop is not suitable for midfoot or forefoot strikers."

high drop

midfoot strike

forefoot strike

"Despite improvements, the Inspire still has a high drop which may not be preferred by all runners."

high drop

not suitable for all

"Some users may find the shoe too narrow if they have wider feet despite the new considerations."

narrow cut

not suitable for wide feet

"The shoe runs slightly narrow which may affect comfort for some runners."

narrow

fit issue

"The fit of the shoes may not accommodate all foot types."

custom fit

anatomy

"The shoe's fit might not be ideal for everyone."

fit

versatility

breathability

stability
Stability level: More stable

The pros of the shoe emphasize its excellent stability and support, which is highlighted in over 25% of the points, while the cons mention concerns about noticeable support and potential stability issues for certain runners.

support (2)

wave plate (2)

protection (1)

injury support (1)

medial (1)

heel striking (1)

platform (1)

heel construction (1)

Pros

"The heel area has been modified to offer better protection."

heel protection

stability

"The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 offers excellent stability for runners, making it an ideal choice for those seeking extra support during training."

stability

support

"The shoe maintains its stability while enhancing cushioning."

stability

supportive

medial

"It provides reliable stability, which is especially beneficial for overpronators."

stable

overpronation support

not stiff

"The Mizuno Wave Plate provides unique asymmetrical support that enhances stability, especially for overpronators."

wave plate

asymmetrical support

"The wave plate design continues to provide stability and support."

wave plate

pronounced

stability

"This shoe offers good stability for runners, especially for those with form deficiencies or injuries."

stability

form support

injury prevention

"The Wave Inspire 21 provides excellent stability for overpronators thanks to its updated wave plate design."

stability

overpronation

wave plate

"The Wave Inspire 21 is a great choice for heel strikers due to its stability and flexibility."

heel strikers

flexibility

stability

"The wide platform provides secure landings for runners."

wide platform

secure landings

"The shoe has a well-constructed heel counter that provides both support and stability."

heel support

stability

firm

Cons

"The shoe's support feature is barely noticeable, which may not satisfy some runners looking for significant stability."

stability

support

"There may be stability issues for overpronators with the Neo Zen."

overpronation

heavier runners

"The shoe's design lacks aggressive rockers or heel bevels, which might not suit all runners."

rocker

forefoot

heel design

grip

traction (1)

Pros

Cons

"The shoe may lack certain advanced grip features that some runners desire."

grip

traction

other

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's safety features and versatility, while several express concerns about its weight and design not meeting everyone's preferences.

safety (1)

multi-use (1)

weight (1)

value (1)

lightness (1)

traction (1)

visibility (1)

updates (1)

Pros

"Reflective materials are incorporated for safety during low-light running conditions."

reflective

safety

"Both shoes are versatile and suitable for various types of runs, from tempo intervals to long runs."

versatile

tempo runs

long runs

"The Inspire 21 is lighter in weight compared to its predecessor."

lightweight

reduce weight

"The price point is reasonable and fairly positioned in the market."

price

value

"The shoe weighs less than its predecessor, making it a bit lighter despite its bulk."

weight

lightweight

"The flex grooves in the outsole aid in flexibility during runs."

flexibility

traction

"Reflective elements on the upper enhance visibility during runs."

reflective elements

visibility

Cons

"The shoe may not suit those seeking significant updates or changes in technology."

esthetics

technology

"The design changes in the shoe may not cater to all runners' preferences and expectations."

design

update

"The shoe feels heavy, which may be off-putting for some runners."

heavy

weight

bulk

"The shoe lacks ventilation, which could make it less comfortable for long runs in warm weather."

ventilation

breathability

comfort

"The color options are unappealing and may not satisfy those looking for aesthetic appeal."

color

aesthetics

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Model Updates

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 21 features an updated Enerzy foam in the midsole, which enhances cushioning and energy return compared to its predecessor. Additionally, this model introduces a more breathable upper design, improving comfort and fit for longer runs.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Mizuno wave inspire 21 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (9)

4.0/5

Prices

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Mizuno wave inspire 21

Mizuno wave inspire 21

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 21 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

...

4.0/5

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