Mizuno
Wave Sky 9
Product Judgment
Strong
8.2
Category: Max Cushioned
Release year: 2025
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$180
Availability: Widely Available
Description
Premium maximalist daily trainer in Mizuno's lineup, designed for neutral runners seeking plush comfort. High stack, dual-foam midsole, and improved outsole traction. Reviewers highlight its soft ride, durability, and secure fit.
Ride feels cloud-like and protective, absorbing impact over long distances. Smooth, controlled transitions with moderate inherent stability. Upper breathes well but toebox remains restrictive for some. Energy return is muted, making the shoe feel steady but not lively.
Best suited for high-mileage runners, heavier athletes, and those prioritizing comfort on daily or recovery runs. Ideal for easy and long efforts where protection and durability matter most. Less suitable for speedwork or racing due to weight and low rebound. Remains a strong choice for neutral runners needing reliable cushioning.
Performance Scores
Comfort
9Plush dual-layer foam and padded upper deliver excellent long-run comfort.
Energy Return
6Softer foam and lower rebound reduce propulsion compared to previous version.
Stability
7Wider base and Wave geometry offer moderate inherent stability for neutral runners.
Durability
9Extensive X10 carbon rubber outsole and robust upper show minimal wear after testing.
Fun to Ride
6Smooth, controlled ride prioritizes protection over excitement or speed.
Run Fitness
Daily
9Excels at daily mileage with plush cushioning and reliable protection.
Long
9High stack and soft foam provide comfort and shock absorption for long runs.
Tempo
5Bulky feel and low rebound limit performance at faster paces.
Race
4Heavy weight and muted energy return make it unsuitable for racing.
Recovery
8Soft, stable ride and impact protection support easy recovery efforts.
Pros & Cons
- Plush cushioning
- Durable outsole
- Improved breathability
- Secure heel fit
- Narrow, low toebox
- Limited stability
- Low energy return
Dual-layer foam and high stack height deliver outstanding impact protection and plush comfort.
X10 carbon rubber outsole provides excellent durability and improved traction.
Single-layer woven mesh upper offers better ventilation than previous versions.
Rigid, padded heel counter ensures a secure and supportive rearfoot fit.
Toebox is narrower and lower than before, which may feel restrictive for wider feet.
Stability is only moderate, making it less suitable for overpronators.
Energy return is reduced compared to the previous model, resulting in a less lively ride.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30-7:30 min/km
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
44 mm heel / 38 mm forefoot
Weight
295 g
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
44 mm heel / 38 mm forefoot
Weight
295 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
Mizuno Enerzy NXT, Foam Wave, X10 Outsole
Plate
no
Best for paces
5:30-7:30 min/km
Comparable Models
Mizuno Wave Rider 29 is lighter and less cushioned, while Wave Sky 9 is the more protective premium trainer.
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Mizuno Neo Vista 2 is plated and more rockered, while Wave Sky 9 is a more traditional max-cushion daily trainer.
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ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 is softer and more comfort-focused, while Wave Sky 9 feels more structured underfoot.
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Brooks Glycerin 23 is a traditional premium daily trainer, while Wave Sky 9 is higher-stack and more protective.
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Hoka Bondi 9 is softer and more recovery-focused, while Wave Sky 9 feels more like a structured premium daily trainer.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 is more maximal in daily cushioning, while Wave Sky 9 feels more structured and traditional.
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Saucony Triumph 23 is a softer premium daily trainer, while Wave Sky 9 keeps a more stable, structured platform.
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Nike Vomero Plus is softer and more springy underfoot, while Wave Sky 9 feels more traditional and structured.
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Nike Vomero Premium is more maximal and less traditional, while Wave Sky 9 is a steadier premium daily trainer.
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Puma MagMax Nitro is bouncier and less traditional, while Wave Sky 9 is more stable in fit and ride character.
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