Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Review: A Return to a Better Fit and Forefoot Feel

Introduction

The Wave Rider has long been a favorite in the daily trainer category, and the Mizuno Wave Rider 26 feels like a course correction after a couple of models that divided loyal fans. Earlier versions introduced Mizuno Energy into the midsole, first partially and then full length, but the Wave Rider 24 and 25 brought fit and flexibility issues along with that change. The Wave Rider 26 goes back to a fit and ride closer to what made the line popular in the first place.

Who This Shoe Is For

The Wave Rider 26 suits runners who want a comfortable, secure daily trainer with enough volume for longer runs. If you liked the fit of older Wave Rider models, this one is built with that same feel in mind: a comfortable upper that is not too long and not too wide, but still holds the foot well.

A More Controlled Forefoot

One of the main complaints with the Wave Rider 25 was a very flexible forefoot. Lots of flex grooves, combined with the more pliable Mizuno Energy foam, created noticeable pressure through the first MTP joint, the big toe joint, for some runners.

The Wave Rider 26 reduces the number of flex grooves in that area and adds a bit more stacked material through the forefoot. It still rolls nicely and retains useful flexibility, but it is slightly more rigid, which reduces the demand placed on the big toe joint. Runners who felt forefoot pressure in recent models may find this version much more agreeable.

Fit and Upper

The fit is the headline change. The Wave Rider 24 and 25 were built on a last that felt longer and wider, which left too much wiggle room through the whole shoe, especially in the forefoot. The Wave Rider 26 returns to a fit reminiscent of the Wave Rider 23: a really comfortable upper that is not too long, not too wide, and still locks the foot in well.

There is enough volume in the forefoot for toe splay, which keeps it viable for longer runs, while the overall hold feels secure rather than loose.

Weight and Drop

A men’s size nine weighs in at 10.1 ounces, or 287 grams, on the scale. That places it firmly in the traditional daily trainer category rather than the lightweight trainer space.

The shoe carries Mizuno’s typical 12 millimeter drop for the Wave Rider line, and you can feel it. There is a lot of rubber in the heel, which stiffens that area up a little, so the higher drop is noticeable underfoot. If you are partial to higher-drop shoes, you will still get that here. If you are sensitive to drop, the Wave Rider 26 is likely to feel the same way previous Wave Riders did.

Buying Advice

Some full specifications are still to be confirmed, and longer-term durability will only show itself with more miles. If you are considering the Wave Rider 26, it makes the most sense for runners who want a dependable, comfortably fitting daily trainer with a familiar Mizuno ride, and who found the fit or forefoot flex of the 24 and 25 off-putting.

Conclusion

The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 brings back the secure, comfortable fit of earlier favorites and reins in forefoot flexibility to reduce pressure on the big toe joint. With its familiar 12 millimeter drop and traditional daily trainer weight, it is a welcome return to form for the Wave Rider line, though final judgment awaits more miles in a full review.