Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Review

The Best Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Review (Guide + Pros & Cons)

Are you looking for a sports shoe with dynamic cushioning and a high level of performance? Then what you are looking for is the brand new Mizuno Wave Rider 23 running shoe. Read on our Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Review.

Keep reading my review to find out the features, the runners' opinions, and the price.

Are you ready? Let's begin!

ATTENTION: The new version of these shoes is out: take a look at my review of the Mizuno Wave Rider 24.

Mizuno is one of those brands that doesn't make many changes between one edition and its footwear. In fact, many of the Mizuno running shoes, including the Wave Rider, have not been made profound changes. Lovers of exclusive Wave midsole technology will surely be satisfied with the Wave Rider 23.

Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Release Date

This running shoe, released on the market at the end of 2019, is very similar to the previous edition (the Rider 22), but with a completely revised upper. Mizuno Wave Rider 23 is a perfect running shoe for daily workouts (if you like to run safely with the Mizuno Wave's signature snap).

The Wave branded heel and flared forefoot make the Mizuno versatile and ideal for most types of running.

There is ample padding for both long and cool-down runs as well as marathons.

Mizuno Wave Rider 23 vs. 22 

But if there have been no changes in either the midsole or the outsole design, what has changed then?

Mostly the style of the upper and partly also the fit of the upper.

The Rider 23 no longer has the various seams on the torso, which the 22 was full of. The tip moves inside, and the tongue is now welded and no longer sewn. The fit is loose, characteristic of Mizuno, but positioning the tip inside makes the fit more tapered on the front.

Mizuno Wave Rider 23: General Characteristics 

Although the 12mm drop can lead anyone to think that it is a shoe suitable for those who run with a heel, the Rider 23 is actually suitable for practically anyone.

Of course, with this type of drop, most of the cushioning materials are placed in the back. A dual-density layer forms a Wave thermoplastic backing, so you have most of the padding right's softness in the heel area.

The only soft part of the Mizuno's Wave Rider 23 seems to be the insole with injected foam (which looks like Ortholite both to the eye and to the touch of the footbed, but in reality, it is not).

Also, the sole is made of thin and hard rubber (X-10), which does not bend when the foam is compressed.

For the foam and plastic parts to work together best, you need to use the Rider 23 for a few tens of kilometers.

The midsole, in the forefoot area, becomes more flexible over time. On the other hand, the sole has multiple grooves that ensure good flex, but it takes a while for the midsole to use them effectively.

Thanks to the thinner processing on the side, the Wave Rider 23 allows a cushioned and snappy ride in the heel area and keeping the foot firmly in place and with a good grip in the front. The rubber injected in the forefoot is softer than the one on the heel, so the runner supports the foot in a cushioned way.

The compactness and uniqueness of the cushioning system make the Wave Rider ideal for neutral runners. The protective midsole allows you to use this running shoe even on simple routes.

The printed Wave plate makes the shoe very versatile. The steady step makes the Rider 23 the best choice for a faster run than other neutral trainers in this industry.

Mizuno-Wave-Rider-23-Sole

Sole

The Mizuno Wave Rider 23 is a fairly long-lived running shoe, but it must be said that it does not last as long as other shoes that do not have the EVA midsole and rubber compounds of the outer sole.

That said, the shoe provides about 500-600 km of reliable performance.

Upper

The upper of this Mizuno shoe follows an easily recognizable pattern, thus having a comfortable fit. The two embroidered Mizuno logos support the upper at the foot's median part; the tongue is wide.

For the Wave Rider 23 edition, Mizuno has provided some updates to the upper design compared to the previous edition. Among the most notable, I point out the toe (now no longer sewn) and the tongue (now multi-layered).

There were other small changes, such as the inclusion of flat laces in place of the round ones used on the 22 and the streamlining of the external heel design. Some of the changes make the Rider 23 modern.

The Wave Rider series is synonymous with spacious forefoot and continues to be so with version 23.

Pros and Cons of the Wave Rider 23 Shoe

If you like your running shoe to hold firm and fast, a surprise awaits you. The Wave Rider 23 is no ordinary foam running shoe.

The Pebax sole gives the run a tinge of firmness, a trait that makes Mizuno stable and ideal for the speed run.

At the same time, however, there isn't enough cushioning for everyday runs. In short, Rider 23 has plenty of versatility. Even with the thinnest toe, this shoe has enough room for the foot to stretch out.

There are some quirks: the ride feels awkward due to the stiff sole, and the cushioning foam also packs up after a while.

Technical Features

  • Brand: Mizuno
  • Model: Wave Rider 23
  • Weight: 290 grams in the male version and 240 grams in the female one
  • Drop: 12 mm
  • Family: Rider
  • Previous model: Wave Rider 22

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Wave Rider 23 suitable for?

The model is suitable for runners with neutral support for competitions, long distances, and daily training.

How much does Wave Rider 23 cost?

The price of the brand new Wave Rider 23 ranges between 40 and 130 $.

Where to buy Wave Rider 23?

You can buy this running shoe in specialized stores or on Amazon.

Conclusions

The Mizuno Wave Rider 23 is a reliable running shoe that can last for hundreds and hundreds of kilometers without ever abandoning you.

One of the strengths is undoubtedly the fit: the greatest merit is linked to the upper's new design that gives the shoe a less clumsy and more modern look.

The Wave Rider 23 is a fantastic running shoe for neutral runners (and for those who run with the heel first) looking for a shoe that gives great comfort during runs (even over long mileage).

Must Read:

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About the Author

Hey, I'm Wayes. I'm passionate about reviewing shoes and writing!
I know to pick the right pair of shoes, not easy. Different people have different physical requirements, so it can be quite tricky for them to choose the best shoes. I help readers choose the most suitable shoes for them!

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