Mizuno has been on a roll in 2024, consistently releasing impressive running shoes like the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2, Neo Vista, Wave Rider 28, and Wave Sky 8. The Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 is another addition to this lineup, offering a reliable, all-weather solution for runners who don’t let a little rain or mud slow them down. After putting in over 22 miles in these shoes, I can confidently say they deliver on performance, especially in challenging conditions.
With upgrades in traction, cushioning, and water resistance, the Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 is perfect for runners looking for comfort and durability, whether on wet roads or light trails.
Key specifications:
Brand: Mizuno
Model: Wave Rider GTX 2
Weight: 9.8 oz. (277 g) for US 9 model
Heel: 39 mm
Toe: 27 mm
Heel drop: 12 mm
Cushioning & Ride
Amount of cushioning: Medium cushioned
Purpose: Daily training, road running and light trail running
Technology used in Wave Rider GTX 2
The Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 features some of Mizuno’s best technologies:
- Gore-Tex Invisible Fit: Provides waterproof protection while maintaining breathability, perfect for running in wet conditions.
- Mizuno Enerzy NXT: Located in the heel wedge, this material offers 20% more cushioning and 15% more energy return than previous iterations.
- Mizuno Wave: Aids in dispersing impact, improving stability, and enhancing forward propulsion.
- WGrip Outsole: Delivers superior traction, offering 33% more grip compared to regular rubber, ensuring reliable performance in both wet and dry conditions.
Upper
The Gore-Tex Invisible Fit upper makes the Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 a reliable choice for wet weather without sacrificing comfort. The waterproof membrane is seamlessly integrated into the upper, creating a smooth, lightweight fit. One standout feature is the heel pull tab, which has been retained from previous models. Additionally, a new pull tab has been added to the tongue, making it even easier to slip the shoes on and off quickly.
Midsole
Equipped with Mizuno Enerzy NXT in the heel and Mizuno Enerzy foam in the top midsole, the cushioning is both soft and responsive. The energetic feel with each stride is noticeable, especially on longer runs. Whether running on dry roads or wet surfaces, the midsole provides great shock absorption and an excellent energy return, making each step feel smooth and effortless.
Outsole
While the outsole design remains similar to the previous version, Mizuno has made adjustments to the size and position of the lugs. This modification enhances grip and water evacuation when running in muddy or wet conditions. The WGrip outsole delivers excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, and the redesigned lugs offer better response, giving you more confidence when tackling tricky terrain.
Difference Between Wave Rider GTX and Wave Rider GTX 2
The Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 introduces several key updates over its predecessor:
- New Upper: The addition of Gore-Tex Invisible Fit technology provides a smoother fit and better waterproofing.
- Improved Midsole: Enhanced with Mizuno Enerzy NXT in the heel for greater cushioning and energy return.
- Refined Outsole: The position and size of the lugs have been adjusted for better grip and improved water drainage, making it even more reliable in wet and muddy conditions.
- Pull Tabs: The addition of a pull tab on the tongue makes it easier to put on and take off the shoes.
Verdict
After over 22 miles of testing, I can confidently say that the Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 is a top-tier option for runners who face unpredictable weather. The combination of Gore-Tex waterproofing, Mizuno Enerzy NXT cushioning, and the redesigned WGrip outsole makes this shoe a solid choice for daily training, road running, or light trails in wet or dry conditions. If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable shoe that will perform in all conditions, the Mizuno Wave Rider GTX 2 is worth considering.