Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Ronin 2

Having used a lightweight trainer, I experience how the weight of the shoe affects the speed of the runner.  That is why, I was looking for another lightweight shoe to train for my goals this year.

Just recently, I saw new models from Mizuno and this time, they have new lightweight racers, the Mizuno Wave Ronin 2 and the Mizuno Wave Musha.  Both are extremely light shoes except that the Wave Ronin 2 is a neutral shoe while the Wave Musha is a support shoe for moderate overpronator.  I got the Ronin 2.

Specifications

Model:  Mizuno Wave Ronin 2

Type:  Neutral, Lightweight, Racer

Weight: 7.5 oz.

Color: Orange Popsicle/Silver-Black

Price: 4,295 Php

First Impressions

Here are my first impressions of the Wave Ronin 2.

Pros

• I love the color and the design.  The tribal prints around the shoe may look inappropiate but it adds to its intimidating appeal.  However, this is the only color that is available for both men and women.
• Comfortable and wide fit.  It has a wide width that fits well to my feet.  Very stable at the forefoot and avoids slipping of the foot with the insole.
• Shiny laces.  Probably to further lessen the weight of the shoe, Mizuno used the flat and thin shoelaces.  The laces has metallic strands on it.
• Durable rubber.  The Ronin uses the X10 carbon rubber for the soles to make it last for more miles.

Cons

• The heel part is a bit tight.  I had to loosen the laces a little bit to get a good fit at the heels.  But after that, it fits quite ok.
• Reflective material is only at the back of the shoe.  Since, I start running while it is still dark, I have to be more careful on the road with these shoes.

The first 6K

I can’t wait to go home and wear the shoe for a test run.  It was my schedule for a tempo run.  Perfect time to test the Ronin racers.  While I was excited to use the shoes, I was a bit scared as well.  The midsoles of the shoes are thinner which lessen the protection of impact, thus,  making me more prone to injuries.

But my first 6K with the Wave Ronin 2 was great.  I can really tell the difference in how light the shoe is.  Despite having thin midsoles, the cushioning was still enough to protect my feet.  So far, I experienced zero pains from my test run.

Did the lighter weight helped me run faster?  My previous tempo runs would average between 5:10-5:30 min/km.  I could hardly maintain a 5:00 pace.  For my 6K test run with the Ronin, my Garmin showed me that I was able to have an average of 5:02 min/km for 6kms.  This is with a 3 minute recovery at 3km.

So based from my initial test run, I think the Wave Ronin 2 and I will be in good terms for a long time.  I just find them perfect for my tempo runs and future races as I will start chasing my PRs for the year.

Up next… The First 100K

I’ll be having more runs with the shoe and get back to you after 100kms.  Let’s see if the rubber is indeed durable and if the cushioning is still good after several runs.

Mizuno Wave Ronin 9 are now available at Mizuno stores.  I saw the shoes at their branches in MOA, Festival Mall and BMG Center in Magallanes.  The shoes cost 4,295 Php.