Mizuno has been making impressive strides in the running shoe market with bold innovations and standout designs. In 2023, they shook things up with the Wave Rebellion Pro, a race-day shoe featuring a heavily rockered design and an unorthodox 50mm+ midsole in sections not measured by World Athletics. This shoe was aggressive, fun, and a break from the norm. Then came the Neo Vista, a super trainer with a snug knit bootie upper, Enerzy NXT foam, and a Wave Plate for added propulsion. It was soft, comfortable, and capable of handling long distances.
Now in 2024, Mizuno has unveiled the Neo Zen, an all-new daily trainer that builds upon the Neo Vista’s legacy while carving out its unique identity. This shoe was among the exciting announcements made at The Running Event 2024, where Mizuno also teased four mystery shoes that left the running world buzzing.
Key specifications:
Brand: Mizuno
Model: Neo Zen
Weight: 9 oz. (255 g) for US 9 model
Heel: 40 mm
Toe: 34 mm
Heel drop: 6 mm
Carbon plate: No plate
Price of Mizuno Neo Zen
Price: $150 USD
Release date: December 13, 2024
Upper
The Mizuno Neo Zen borrows heavily from the Neo Vista’s design, starting with the same premium knit upper. It’s breathable, stretchy, and soft but manages to feel structured and supportive where needed. The seamless integrated tongue is padded just enough to let you cinch the laces securely without causing irritation on the top of your foot. This upper ensures a comfortable, locked-in fit that accommodates various foot shapes.
Midsole
At the core of the Neo Zen’s performance lies its Enerzy NXT midsole foam, a nitrogen-infused TPU material that delivers a springy, responsive ride. Unlike the Neo Vista, which included a Wave Plate for added propulsion, the Neo Zen opts for a midsole-only design, making it more flexible and versatile.
The shoe’s stack height—40mm in the heel and 34mm in the forefoot—is slightly lower than the Neo Vista’s towering 44.5mm stack. This difference not only reduces weight (the Neo Zen is just 9 ounces for a US M9, a half-ounce lighter than the Neo Vista) but also provides a smoother, more natural ride.
Outsole
The Neo Zen features an almost full-coverage X10 rubber outsole, offering exceptional traction and stability. This outsole design helps maintain the foam’s structure and ensures reliable grip, even on varied surfaces. The wide base and midfoot channel further enhance stability, making the Neo Zen a trustworthy choice for runners tackling uneven terrain.
Who Should Consider the Mizuno Neo Zen?
The Neo Zen is perfect for runners seeking a versatile daily trainer that balances cushioning, responsiveness, and stability. Its lightweight design, flexible midsole, and breathable upper make it an excellent choice for a variety of runs—from easy miles to mid-distance efforts. Whether you’re a neutral runner looking for a reliable workhorse or someone who enjoys a smooth, natural ride, the Neo Zen fits the bill.
Pros
✅ Lightweight
✅ Enhanced stability on various terrains
Cons
❌ Those seeking extra propulsion may miss the plate
Verdict
The Mizuno Neo Zen is a standout daily trainer that combines comfort, responsiveness, and value in a lightweight package. By refining elements from the Neo Vista and introducing new features, Mizuno has created a shoe that shines in performance and versatility. At $150, it’s hard to find a better shoe for the money. Whether you’re logging everyday miles or mixing in some speed work, the Neo Zen delivers a smooth, enjoyable ride that can handle it all.
