I’ve been a Mizuno girl for ages now. Every once in a while I try a different brand of running shoe, but Mizunos are always my go-to shoes for every day training. Through Fitfluential, I was offered an opportunity to review the new Mizuno Wave Inspire 12, and I am loving the lightweight support of this updated model.
Miles Change You
Mizuno is building on its “If Everybody Ran” campaign with “Miles Change You.” I like the new slogan better, because I don’t believe that running is for everyone, but I do believe that if you run, the miles will change you.
The physical changes may be obvious. Hilly miles will make your legs stronger. Track miles will make your legs faster. But the mental changes are what make me love running so much. A glorious run–what Mizuno calls a mezamashii run–fills my heart with joy. Almost any run clears my head. Even a sucky run has its advantages–mental fortitude and all that.
The best part of this run in Chicago was finishing it.
So, what do I think of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 12?
Mizuno Wave Inspire 12 Review
Within the Mizuno brand, there are lots of choices of shoe styles–lightweight, cushioning, stability, etc. Compared to the Wave Rider 18s I reviewed last year, the Wave Inspire 12 have more cushioning, which I appreciate on my longer runs. Compared to the Wave Paradox I was “prescribed” after my running assessment, the Wave Inspire 12 feel much lighter.
So far I’ve worn them for one hill workout, one track workout, one 8 miles run, one 10 mile run, and several 4-5 mile runs. They didn’t weigh me down on my challenging runs, and my feet appreciated the cushioning on the longer runs. I think they will be great for the Army 10 Miler this weekend, with enough support to get me across the 14th Street Bridge but not so much that they slow me down.
One little thing that I really like is the laces! I don’t know how much thought running shoe companies put into the laces, but these seem to have a bit of stretch and squishiness that helps them stay snug. They also are the perfect length–the “just right” between the too-short laces of the Waver Rider 18s and the too-long laces of the Wave Paradox.
[Tweet “Checking out @MizunoRunning #WaveInspire12 #MilesChangeYou #Fitfluential #sponsored”]
Do you stick with one brand of running shoe or do you mix it up?
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I mix it up: more minimal for long runs, more cushioning for easy runs. I usually have about 5-6 pairs I’m rotating through.
I have Mizuno Wave Sayonara, which I didn’t like at first — too stiff — but eventually they broke in, I guess, and now I like them for speedwork/tempos.
I love the color. I do love the miles change you slogan, I believe that wholeheartedly. I have never actually tried Mizuno’s.
I have been sticking to Brooks lately, but I am always open if a shoes feel great to try something new.
If a shoe in working for you, there’s no reason to change, but give Mizunos a try next time you are looking for something different.
I generally stick with one brand for road and one for trails. Since my back troubles last fall I have become a Mizuno Girl. I actually love the Wave Paradox and now am stoked about trying out the Wave Inspire! And, yes, miles totally do change you in so many ways!
I am currently reviewing them too! I really like the light weight feeling and the cushioning. I’ve recently ditched my previous shoes for Mizunos
Wave Inspires are my shoes. However, the last generations have a very stiff section that outlines the top of the laces, near the toes. I can’t remember what that’s called. The older models were very soft there. It is just underneath that section that I coincidentally developed my stress fracture. I may be forced to find another shoe after all this time.
Oh, no! You should contact them and see if this model has the same construction. I have noticed anything like that.
You know I love all Mizuno posts. I have never worn the Inspire since they are a stability shoe and I am a neutral girl. However, I have heard amazing things.
They look super comfy–I’m a big fan of super-light shoes, and I like the sound of those laces!
So are these a neutral shoe or supportive?
Stability – not neutral.
I’m a big fan of the Inspires as well! I recently wrote my review on them as well. I recently only wore my Saucony Virratas for the majority of my runs and my Merrell Trail Gloves for trail / obstacle course races. I will definitely be incorporating the #WaveInspire12’s into my regimen. 🙂
I wore Virratas for treadmill workouts a few years ago. Then I found Moms Run This Town and stopped using my treadmill!
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I’ve got the Mizuno wave inspire 11’s, so I’m sure I’d love this updated version as well! My fav thing about these shoes is that they provide enough support while still feeling very light on the feet.