Last Updated: June 20th, 2021
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Although they are from the same manufacturer and uses almost the same technologies, one is meant for overpronators and the other is meant for neutral runners.
As a baseline, for this comparison, we are using Mizuno Wave Rider 24 and Mizuno Wave Inspire 17. Both of these versions are the latest models of these running shoes.
What else is different? Let’s find that out in the detailed comparison between Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider.
This is our winner
Last update on 2023-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mizuno Wave Rider 24
Why did we pick this one?
- Lighter.
- Excellent protection.
- Snappy cushioning.
- Good for both long and short-distance running.
- Roomy toe-box.
- More affordable.
The main differences between Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider
- Mizuno Wave Inspire is a support shoe, whereas Mizuno Wave Rider is a neutral running shoe.
- In terms of weight, Mizuno Wave Inspire is heavier than Mizuno Wave Rider. Mizuno Wave Inspire weighs around 9.2oz / 260.8g for women and 10.9oz / 309g for men. Mizuno Wave Rider weighs around 8.3oz / 235g for women and 9.6oz / 272.1g for men.
- The upper of Mizuno Wave Rider has angular holes for ventilation. Mizuno Wave Inspire looks more traditional with rounded holes on the upper for breathability.
- On the outsole of Mizuno Wave Inspire, there is a hexagonal pattern with vertical gaps whereas, on the outsole of Mizuno Wave Rider, there are rounded rhombus-like patterns.
- The latest generation of Mizuno Wave Rider is 24, and the current Mizuno Wave Inspire is 17.
Content
- ✅ Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider
Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider – An Overview
Mizuno Wave Inspire is for runners with overpronation whereas Mizuno Wave Rider is meant for overpronating runners.
Both of these running shoes are excellent. They are lightweight, flexible, and protect your feet from the impact of the road.
In the below sections, you will find all the differences and similarities between Mizuno Wave Inspire and Mizuno Wave Rider that we found relevant for your research.
Let’s proceed…
Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider – Features at a glance
| Mizuno Wave Rider 24 | Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 | |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
|
| Price | ||
| Type | Neutral | Stability |
| Heel-to-toe Drop | 12mm | 12mm |
| Weight | 8.3oz / 235.3g (Women) 9.6oz / 272.1g (Men) |
9.2 oz / 260.8g (Women) 10.9oz / 309g (Men) |
| Arch Support | Moderate arch support | Moderate arch support |
| Midsole Type | Energetic Cushioning | Energetic Cushioning |
| Technology | Wave Technology, PEBAX Wave, INTERCOOL, U4ic, X10 carbon rubber | Wave Technology, Mizuno Enerzy, U4ic, X10 carbon rubber. |
| Sizes | 6.0 – 12.0 (Women) 7.0 – 16.0 (Men) |
6.0 – 12.0 (Women) 7.0 – 16.0 (Men) |
| Width | Standard, Wide (Women) Standard, Wide (Men) |
Standard, Wide (Women) Standard, Wide (Men) |
| Use | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road |
| Editor’s Rating |  |
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Mizuno Wave Rider Vs. Mizuno Wave Inspire – A head to head comparison
Above you will find the broad differences between Mizuno Wave Rider and Mizuno Wave Inspire.
However, we wanted to check if there are any more differences between the different parts of these two Mizuno running shoes.
Here is what we have found.
Outsole
Mizuno Wave Inspire and Mizuno Wave Rider have the same material on their outsole.
The X10 carbon rubber is very durable and doesn’t wear off easily. This produces excellent grip and durability for these shoes.
Also, if you turn over these shoes you will hardly be able to see any kind of difference between these outsoles.
However, there are very subtle differences which I’m not sure why they are there. But nonetheless, since they are there you should be in the know.
The lug patterns on the inner edge of these outsoles are different. Mizuno Wave Inspire has hexagonal lugs whereas Mizuno Wave Rider has quadrilateral lugs.
Also, the grooves that are present in Mizuno Wave Rider’s forefoot are curved and are placed in the shape of a fan. However, Mizuno Wave Inspire has completely horizontal parallel grooves.
However, both of them have good flexibility in the forefoot.
Midsole
They use almost the same materials for the midsole and you will almost get the same experience out of them.
The midsole of both of these shoes uses U4ic which is a lightweight material and provides you with excellent shock absorption, improved durability, and a resilient ride. Also, they have Mizuno ENERZY which is a more responsive version of U4ic and provides you with a soft, pillowy underfoot feel.
However, the first difference that you will observe in these two running shoes is that Mizuno Wave Rider uses Mizuno Wave which is a redesigned elastic, thermal plastic wave running from the heel to midfoot. It produces an incredibly springy and well-cushioned ride.
In Mizuno Wave Inspire you have the Double Fan Wave which provides stability for overpronation runners without increasing the stiffness of these shoes.
The second difference that you have with these two running shoes is the stack height. Although the drop of both Mizuno Wave Inspire and Mizuno Wave Rider is 12mm, they have different heel and forefoot heights.
Mizuno Wave Inspire has a forefoot height of 26mm and the heel height of 38mm whereas Mizuno Wave Rider has a forefoot height of 24mm and a heel height of 36mm.
Upper
The upper of Mizuno Wave Rider uses engineered air mesh which is a lightweight mesh and produces optimal breathability.
Also, to improve breathability, you will find small holes in the shape of eyelets throughout the upper. However, they are not complete holes as they have a layer of material at the bottom to close them off.
The upper of Mizuno Wave Inspire has double-layered air mesh with a durable bottom layer. This provides excellent breathability.
Alo they have overlays on the medial and lateral sides of this shoe and will help you to secure your foot in place.
However, the number of sizes and the widths available for both of these shoes are the same and we have already included them in the feature highlights table.
Weight
The weight of Mizuno Wave Inspire is a bit more than Mizuno Wave Rider. It may be because of the use of more material in the midsole.
The weight of Mizuno Wave Inspire is 9.2 oz / 260.8g for women and that of Mizuno Wave Rider is around 8.3 oz / 235.3 g for women’s version.
For the men’s version, it is 10.9 oz / 309 g for Mizuno Wave Inspire and 9.6 oz / 272.1 g for Mizuno Wave Rider.
Price
The price of Mizuno Wave Inspire is more than Mizuno Wave Rider.
Also, there is a recent price cut that is going on for Mizuno Wave Rider. This has increased the pricing gap and you will get Wave Rider for around $40 to $50 bucks less.
What I understood from frequenting different related websites is that it may be that Mizuno is planning to launch its new Wave Rider which justifies the price cut for older models. However, I am yet to read an official statement on this, and is completely my speculation.
In the above sections, we have provided you with all the details that we know of Mizuno Wave Rider and Mizuno Wave Inspire.
However, you may be interested in some alternatives as well. Below we have provided you with the best alternative to Mizuno Wave Rider and Mizuno Wave Inspire.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To Mizuno Wave Rider 24
For Mizuno Wave Rider we still don’t have a list of alternatives. However, below we have found the best alternative to Mizuno Wave Rider.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.
Last update on 2023-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Running Shoes Similar To Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
Since Mizuno Wave Inspire is a support running shoe, below can be the best alternative to it.
Last Updated: January 30th, 2021
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System – Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
- FlyteFoam Midsole Technology – Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams.
- DuoMax Support System – A dual density midsole system positioned to enhance support and stability, positioned sport specifically.
Last update on 2021-06-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
After going through all the similarities and differences between Mizuno Wave Inspire Vs Mizuno Wave Rider we found that picking a favorite one is a really tough job.
However, based on certain factors we have picked one. This by no means is minimizing the other one.
We have picked Mizuno Wave Rider over Mizuno Wave Inspire because the former is lighter, costs less, and more stylish.
However, your thoughts may differ from ours. So, let us know your opinion in the comment section below…
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
