Mizuno Shoe Guy Answers Your Footwear Questions—November, 2012

by Bob "Wish" Wischnia on November 13, 2012

Do you have a shoe-related question? Or a running shoe question, specific to Mizuno for the Mizuno Shoe Guy? If you have a question you’d like him to answer, send it to Shoeguy@Mizunousa.com. If we pick your question for the Mizuno Shoe Guy to answer, we’ll send you a beautiful Mizuno DryScience T-shirt.

Q: I've worn Mizuno shoes for several years, but often change from model to model. I am currently enjoying the Wave Elixir, but I'm worried it might not have cushioning for marathon training. I am an experienced runner so long runs aren't anything knew to me. Do you think I might do better in a more substantial shoe such as the Wave Nirvana or Waver Inspire? Killaine Sharman, North Vancouver, British Columbia

A: The Wave Elixir is an excellent lightweight training shoe and has more than adequate cushioning, but it certainly doesn't have as much cushioning (or support) as either the Wave Nirvana or Wave Inspire. It depends on what type of a runner you are and what level of cushioning you need. My advice is to get the new Wave Inspire 9 for long runs and use the Elixir for races, speed work and shorter runs. BTW: If you're planning to use the Elixir in your marathon, use it on at least one of your long runs.

Q: Is it a good idea to train in the Wave Rider and/or the Wave Inspire and wear the same shoe in an upcoming half marathon and later next month in a marathon? I'm a new runner and want to make the best possible choice for my first races. Randy Robles, Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic

A: Yes, it is a very good idea to wear your training shoes in your first half marathon and marathon. For a beginning runner, your best option is to wear either the Rider or Inspire in your first important race. But, make absolutely certain you are not wearing a worn-out pair of training shoes in the race. If you have more than 2-250 miles on the shoes, I suggest you get a new pair a week or so before the race.

Q: I am a heavy overpronator and need all the support I can get. I am wearing the Wave Rider, but don't feel it's supportive enough. What would you recommend? Mario Rodriguez, Houston, Texas

A: Mario, the Wave Rider is a great shoe, but there is no question that it is not the proper shoe for you. The Rider is classified as a neutral shoe which means it is designed primarily for runners who don't need support. Clearly, you do so I would recommend a shoe switch to either the Wave Nirvana, Wave Alchemy or Wave Inspire. All three are support shoes that would serve your needs better. The Nirvana and Alchemy are the most supportive of the three, but the Inspire has plenty of support too. My advice is to go a good running store in Houston and try on all three and go with the one which fits and feels the best.

Q: I have high arches and overpronate. I have the Wave Inspire and really love them, but I've been looking at the Wave Prophecy because I think they might offer better cushioning on the sidewalks. Do you agree? Wendy Potter, Newport Beach, California

A: Yes, I do think the Wave Prophecy would be a better cushioning option on the sidewalks and hard ocean front in Newport. The Prophecy has a unique, full mechanical midsole which is extremely durable and provides great cushioning. It isn't as supportive as the Inspire, but it has a much cushier ride.

Q: I read your posts on the Runner's World Shoe Forums and know you like the new Wave Rider 16 and Wave Inspire 9 quite a bit. Can you explain the greatest difference between the new models and last year's version? Harlan Jimenz, Denver, Iowa

A: You are absolutely correct. I do love the new Wave Rider and Wave Inspire. Why? The most significant difference between last year's models and the '13 versions is in the upper. Making greater use of lightweight mesh and removing the overlays in the forefoot, the upper is lighter which results in a shoe which is noticeably lighter and provides a snugger, more glove-like fit. Both shoes also have a more responsive, quicker ride.

The Mizuno Shoe Guy will personally answer your Mizuno shoe questions. Send your questions to him at shoeguy@Mizunousa.com.