Mizuno Wave Inspire 18

IF you LOVE a firm shoe….this one is for YOU!!!

How does it feel?

When first pulling the Inspire 18 out of the box I was very pleased with the appearance of the shoe. I love a bright colored shoe and Mizuno nailed it with the turquoise WAVEKNIT upper. Color aside, as we all know that color and appearance doesn’t matter if it is the right shoe for you, this shoe did not continue to hold up to my excitement and expectations. The first thing I noticed while trying it on was that shoe runs short. I normally wear a 9.5 but had to size up to a 10 for proper toe space. I started out just wearing the Inspire 18 around work, and home for a few days to ease my way into the new shoe. While wearing it at work I noticed that the arch support did not hit my foot in the correct area. I then decided to try out an insert for arch support in the shoe and it felt much better.

Now, for the opinion part

After a few days of kicking around in the Inspire 18 I decided it was time to take them out for a run. I had 5 miles on the books and was ready to try these bad boys out! I picked a trail that was part cement and gravel to test the overall feel and traction of the durable carbon outsole on different surfaces. As I took off for my run, I noticed some slight slippage on my heels. This is a normal occurrence for me as I have a narrow heel, so this may not be an issue for others. I stopped to adjust and used the lock-lace technique for securing the shoe. This greatly improved the fit for me. The next thing I noticed was the support of the wave plate. This is Mizuno’s midsole technology that provides support for those of use that experience overpronation. Fun side note, the wave plate is made from eco-friendly materials-corn! As I mentioned earlier this is a firm shoe. I did not feel much give or flexibility in the sole of the shoe as I ran. I normally train in the ASICS GT-2000 or Kayano, both soft yet support shoes. So, as I made my way down the road I noticed I was feeling more of the impact as I landed than I am used to. I made it one mile out and decided to turned around to run one more mile back to my car. The Inspire 18 was just too firm and bulky feeling for me. I was ready to put my normal trainers on and continue my run. I will continue to wear this shoe for relaxed, short walks and around town.

Who Is This Shoe Good For?

 

Now I will say… this shoe may not be for me but it may be for you! Stability wise, I felt that my left ankle (my problem child) was supported perfectly while running in this shoe. The upper WAVEKNIT material was breathable and my toes had just the right amount of space to move around as needed. The durable carbon outsole had great traction on both cement and gravel. The Wave Inspire 18 is for the folks who like a firm feel with great traction for road or gravel running. I would recommend this shoe to customers seeking a responsive shoe without the “marshmallow” cushion feel. And, of course, for those who already love, and are accustomed to running in the Mizuno brand.

Who Is This Shoe NOT Good For?

This shoe is not for those of us that prefer a “bouncy” cushion feel while we run. I would not recommend this shoe for long distance or standing on your feet for long hours.

In conclusion, if you are already a Mizuno lover or prefer a firm responsive shoe and are in need of a good stability shoe…give the Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 a try!

Now for the SPECS:

• Price: $139.95
• Drop (12 mm)
• Weight: 9.1 oz Women’s/10.6 oz Men’s
• Support: The MIZUNO WAVE® plate disperses energy from impact to a broader area providing a stable platform and a superior cushioning
• Midsole: U4ic; Delivers optimal shock reduction, durability, and a superior ride.  Innovatively light, well cushioned, responsive, and resilient
• Outsole:  X10; Durable carbon rubber that allows for longer wear
• Category:  Stability
• Upper: Engineered mesh, both breathable and durable for high performance

 

Shop Mizuno Wave Inspire 18

  Men’s Mizuno Inspire  Men’s Mizuno Inspire WIDE

 Women’s Mizuno Inspire  Women’s Mizuno Wave Inspire WIDE

About TRWS GURU Angie

Angie Carpenter picked up the love for running in September of 2020. During this time she has completed a hand full of 5ks and two half marathons. She also enjoys hiking and trail running. She has completed three trail races so far this year and just started training for her first 50k! She started working at The Running Well Store on Barry Road in March of 2022. Angie loves getting to know her clients and helping them find the prefect shoe to fit their needs and goals! Between running on the trails and working at TRWS, Angie has her own cleaning business. Angie’s Dust Bunny Cleaning. Need a cleaning: reach out at [email protected]

 

 

Not certain if this shoe is right for you?

We understand!  There are a lot of options of footwear on the market and deciding what model is the right model for your needs is not easy.  We are here for you! You can come into one of our three locations (Lee’s Summit, Northland and Mission, KS) for a free stride analysis. No appointment is necessary, but if you would like to schedule an appointment, click here.  We take in-person and virtual fittings.  Want to do research online?  We have a find my fit tool that will help you narrow down footwear options.  We hope to hear from you soon!