Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 First Impression:
Great anticipation has been building for the Wave Inspire 8. Many loyal Inspire runners were taken aback by the sweeping changes made to the Inspire 7. Unfold the tissue paper in the box and you’ll see what looks like a Wave Inspire 6 but you’ll find a new but strikingly familiar ride in the Wave Inspire 8.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 Upper:
Mizuno turned back the clock when laying out the plans for the upper of the Wave Inspire 8. Gone is the higher cut heel collar and Dynamotion Fit tab of the Wave Inspire 7. Instead we find a much more lower profile upper with similarly cut overlays as found in the Wave Inspire 6.
Mizuno is still using a wide hole mesh for breathability and the overlay material feels identical to that of my old Wave Inspire 6. Also removed are the flex eyelets and the longer tongue of the Wave Inspire 7.
In fact, the only Wave Inspire 7 design carryover I could find was the inner heel lining material, the Ortholite sock liner and some very slightly modified lateral overlays.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 Sole Unit
Mizuno reinvented the entire midsole for the Wave Inspire 8. While the VS-1 cushioning wedge is still found in the heel, everything else has changed.
Mizuno reengineered the wave plate in the Wave Inspire 8 to provide a level of stability that I haven’t seen in this series since the Wave Inspire 4. Not only is the wave plate providing more arch support, Mizuno has also slightly flared the medial aspect of the heel to ensure a stable landing and transition through toe off.
In the forefoot Mizuno has carved out a bit more midsole foam at the flex point and added flex controllers which almost act as a secondary wave in the forefoot. Still in place is Mizuno’s AP+ midsole foam which is a more durable and springy formulation of their classic AP foam.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 Opinion
I have liked every version of the Wave Inspire series since I ran in the Wave Inspire 2. However, as the series progressed it became less stable and more geared towards light weight and quick transition thus making every Inspire after the 4 not suitable as my workhorse training shoe. When the Inspire 7 came out I broke my half-marathon personal record twice in them! I had relegated the Inspire series to a distance racing shoe for the most part until I ran in the Wave Inspire 8.
Until now, no other shoe has challenged the Mizuno Wave Nirvana as my go to shoe. The Wave Inspire 8 is a real threat to do just that. I simply cannot keep from reaching for these shoes for every run! In fact, I just took them to the New Orleans Jazz half marathon and shattered my previous best by six minutes.
The Wave Inspire 8 is hitting the sweet spot for me – the arch is there, the transition is still quick and the ride is cushioned but never separated from the road. During the race, I never even thought about my Wave Inspire 8’s. And trust me, New Orleans asphalt will exploit any weakness in a running shoe. Mizuno has turned all the dials to 10 on the Wave Inspire 8. Burn!
Wave Inspire 6 fans, Mizuno has heard you and answered with a low profile heel collar and increased stability. Rejoice!
We thank the nice people at Mizuno for sending us a pair of Wave Inspire 8 for testing. This did not influence our review, written after running more than 50 miles in them
price comparison
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Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 Men Pewter/anthracite/cyber Yellow Holabird Sports Free shipping over 69.95$ |
$62.95
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Mens Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 Running Shoe RoadRunnerSports Free shipping, 60-day perfect fit guarantee: possible to exchange shoes after using them for two months. |
$79.95
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Written by Theo Clyatt
Theo Clyatt lives in Mississippi and works as an Exercise Physiologist. He and his wife, Melanie, are raising their first child and potential track star, Jackson. His passions outside of running include herding four cats and playing insanely loud electric guitars.
My go-to shoe! Great companion to the Elixir.
This is a fantastic shoe – I agree with the review. The only negative I can find is borderline forefoot cushion – I’d like to see a bit more under the ball of the foot.
Great job, Mizuno!
The Wave Inspire 7 was bad, the 8 is great again and if you get the Osaka Marathon special edition, than you have a nice cool version in blue of this shoe. I fell in love with it the second I tried it on again. I still do not feel home in the 7. Great shoe.
I’ve enjoyed running in the Inspires for years…but, the arch in the 7 is too high for my liking … how does the arch in the 8 compare?? I also run in the Elixirs and they work well for me in races.
Hi Mike,
I’m the author and I really prefer the arch of the 8 to the 7 because it is more stable and a little longer. I think I know what you mean about the 7 as it had a “spike” kinda feel to it. It did not bother me at all though. In my opinion, the 8 is the best Inspire since the 2. Thanks for reading!
The Inspire went up $15, as did the Wave Rider. Kind of a joke really.
Colin, you’re right! It is a $15 increase and I can’t say exactly why. I do know that most shoes have or will be increasing in price due to a number of factors. Petroleum is still very expensive and is utilized in most every phase of shoe production and shipping. Secondly, the Chinese standard of living is increasing and so are their wages. Thanks for the comment!
Snug, foot hugging feel in heel and arch area, a bit roomy in the toebox.
I don’t know why but expected them to be less bulky. To be honest, the last period I was running in the DS Trainers so I am a little prejudiced maybe. Anyway, after some meters you forget about their volume since they feel lighter than they are.
Until now I was running in really soft shoes. Even the DS trainers are very cushy for their category. So I had my doubts if I would like the firmer Mizuno ride…
What I was missing until now..!! Simply awesome!
The perfect blend between cushioning and responsiveness.
You land smoothly on the heel or middle (I haven’t decided yet what striker I am) and you feel immediately that you are ready to take off. No waste of energy or effort, like the shoe does the transition for you. Maybe I would like the forefoot a bit more cushioned but again that’s something I notice only in slower pace.
The arch sits a little high but it’s something I notice only when walking.
I cannot describe/explain their level of support but all I can say is that I felt no pain or discomfort, being a moderate overpronator who does fine in GTS 11 or 2160. For what it’s worth, looking at my feet while running, they were landing in an almost neutral position.
Good flexibility, breathable and awesome looking (the Osakas, not the others).
Excellent job, Mizuno!
I have always been a fan of the Wave Inspire’s, and really liked the Wave Inspire 4 and 6 in particular, however I ran into issues with the 8. The outside midsole seems to be lacking some of the support I’ve grown accustomed to. Any recommendations on other brand/models?
The Asics 2170, Nike Structure, Brooks Adrenaline and Ravenna, New Balance 860 V2 and Saucony Guide would be what you should look at.
These were great for a few days and since then I cannot even jog my ankles hurt too much. Im new to jogging/running and have been wearing neutral cheap runners up until now (a few months).
In these I cannot even run 20m as my ankles feel as if they will snap. Any suggestions? With the cost I want them to work as I really cannot afford another $200 odd pair of runners right now, but I also need to keep up my training.
Anastasia, it sounds as though you should make a trip to your local running store and have someone evaluate your gait. The Inspire may not be the correct choice for your foot type. Keep us updated on what happens!
Try thick socks. Or double up 2 thin pairs. I had the same issue and thick socks was the answer for me.
These have been disastrous for me. I had previously run in ASICS GT2160 and Brooks Adrenalines. These felt like running on concrete to me. I have never loved my ASICS more than when I put them on after these Mizunos.
Carolyn, not all shoes work for every runner. Sounds like you’ve already found your shoe in the Asics 2000 series. I wouldn’t mess with something that’s working. Thanks for reading!
I have got a pair of these and ran the Paris marathon with them and have to say these are the best shoes I’ve had for long distance running. I wonder how does this compare to Wave Rider 15 though, I tried those on but they felt a bit tight on the sides hence I opted for Inspire 8 which I am glad to say enabled me to get below 3 hours in the Marathon for the first time which was fantastic!
Thanks
Nick
Congrats Nick! Breaking 3 hours is a true milestone and one I haven’t been able to do yet. Cheers!
The Inspire is the stability counterpart to the Rider. The Rider is a neutral shoe and since you’ve had such good fortune with the Inspire, I wouldn’t change a thing.
I am a new runner and have a definite heel-strike running pattern. I’ve been running in Brooks Adrenaline and tried out the Puma Ventis as well. As a moderate over-pronator, I’m trying to decide between the Mizuno Wave Inspire and the Mizuno Wave Elixir. I’m working up to my first 5k (after doing Warrior Dash last weekend). Which shoe do you recommend? Thanks,
Bre
Bre, I would go with the Inspire or Nirvana for a daily trainer and use the Elixir for racing/speedwork/tempo runs. Congrats on the Warrior Dash, I just did my first one two weeks ago. Most fun I’ve ever had at a race.
I am just wearing out my second pair of Wave Inspire 7s. I love the ride! As I have gotten into better shape, I’ve noticed my foot strike migrating a bit from heel to mid-foot. The Wave Inspire 7s seem to be too snug in the forefoot, causing a few blisters on the tips of my toes. Has the forefoot changed any in the Wave Inspire 8s? Thanks,
Cory
Blisters on the toe tip almost sounds like you need to go up 1/2 size. However, I have never seen your feet so that’s quite difficult to judge-your best bet is to head to your local running store and compare sizes.
I found the forefoot width to be similar in the Inspire 7 and 8 but the 8 rides and performs much better. Thanks for reading and let us know what happens.
I have found the review very informative, but it has also left me with a problem – do i go for the Inspire 8, Nirvana 8 or Alchemy 11? I over-pronate and need arch support as well as a slighty wider forefoot fit. Am currently using NB 1226 which are ok, but not great. I am looking for a multi purpose trainer that can be used for training and up to half marathon distance – any suggestions??
Barry, I have worn the 1226 and if you need that level of support plus a roomier toebox I would look at the Nirvana 8. The Nirvana 8 will go any distance without worry.
Hi Theo,
Thanks for the advice on the Nirvana 8 – tried them, loved them and bought them. I also tried the Inspire 8 and Alchemy 11 – the Inspire felt good but unfortunately didn´t offer the support i need, the Alchemy however did and they are a perfect fit for my feet, so bought them as well. I guess you could say i am a Mizuno convert.
The Nirvana & Alchemy both have a great “locked in” feeling. Having run in both for the last three weeks i would say the Nirvana feels a little more firm, direct and quicker, while the Alchemy is a little more comfy and smooth. It will be difficult to choose between them for my next half marathon.
Two questions: what purpose does the elastic strip (from tongue to sole) in the Nirvana serve? Have you ever run in or tested ECCO trainers?
Good deal! I’m currently testing the new Wave Alchemy 12 so look for that review soon. I’d wear the Nirvana to the race since it moves quicker and the straps on the tongue are there to kkep it from sliding over. The Enigma, Nirvana, Creation and Prophecy are the only shoes that offer this feature.
Oops, forgot one thing; I have neither worn nor reviewed any ECCO shoe.
I live in Japan so I am looking at buying a pair of these. I am i the Air Force, and they only sell one pair of shoes for those with flat feet, the Asics Gel Foundation 9 (http://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/gel-foundation-9). They seem to be heavy, and the review states for heavier set people, or people or overly pronate. I run maybe 25 – 30 miles a week, so I’m hoping these will feel like they give my flat feet a little more freedom as I run the Japanese countryside.
As far as the Asics go, when I do run I do find my the underside of first metatarsel does ache a little. I’m not sure if that’s because of the shoe, or me adjusting to running outside. It’s like my back has a lot of support but not so much in the front.
Andrew, i would look for a Mizuno or Asics retailer off base since they are both Japanese companies. Get fitted with each brand and decide which works best for you. I’m an old Navy guy myself. Thank you for your service.
Hi Theo, after consulting a friend (who is a podiatrist and a runner) following developing pain at the head of my second metatarsal while running, she recommended your site for reviews of shoes for overpronators. After reading your reviews, I am trying to decide between the wave inspire 8 and the alchemy 11. I completed the questionnaire on http://www.myprecisionfit.com to help find the Mizuno shoe best suited to me and I was matched to the Inspire 8. Bring on the weekend so I can get to the shops to try them out. Fingers crossed they help.
Jane, the Inspire will likely work well for you. How did it go?
Hi Theo, tried the Inspire 8′s but had to change them as foot pain continued. I then tried the Alchemy 12′s but to no avail as developed Achilles pain in the other leg!!! The funny thing is, despite being assessed as being an over-pronator needing stability I don’t get nearly as bad foot/achilles pain while wearing my trail shoes ( Inov8 X-Talon 190′s) even when used road running. I am now at a complete loss as what to try next and would be grateful for any recommendations/advice. I tried the Asics, Brooks instore but didn’t find them very comfortable.
I’ve recently gone into Mizuno’s for the first time, after 2 years in Saucony Guide 4′s. I tried the mizuno 7′s a year or so ago but they were way too high at the back of the shoe for me – the Inspire 8′s however are an excellent shoe, everything I didn’t like in the 7′s I love in the 8′s. I’m in week 2 of wearing and the shoes are not only stable and very well cushioned for longer runs but also light enough to kick on in a tempo run, these will be my ‘turn to’ shoe for months and hopefully years to come. Top marks to Mizuno for this one.
Dan, I’m definitely a fan of this shoe. I had a personal best 1/2 marathon in this latest Inspire. Hope it continues to give you miles of trouble free running. I also answered you in the 870 V2 review. Thanks for reading.
The inspire 8 has been my favorite shoe so far, as well as my first mizuno shoe. i’d like to get the inspire again, but im having a hard time deciding between models.
I found the inspire 8 for 95$ and the 7 for 45$. obviously, id rather get the 7; BUT i am so in love with the inspire 8, i dont want to save 50$ but get a less comfortable shoe.
is the inspire 7 clunkier or more loose than the 8? what are the major differences between the shoes?
Stick with the 8 since you love it and it has worked out for you. Trouble free running is gold!
unfortunately i have found the inspire 8 to cuase me nothing but problems. the 7 was great but the 8 seems to be to stable and after only 2 runs i have niggles – what will i try next
Check out the Mizuno Wave Elixir, Asics DS Trainer, New Balance 860v2, Saucony Guide or Brooks Ravenna. Good luck!
I tried these on at a shoe store and they fit well, and every online “match” function seems to pair me with these. I’m still deciding whether to buy them or not, though, mainly because of concerns over how the downgrade in forefoot cushioning (compared to my current shoe, GT-2160) will play out, especially since I don’t run my longer sessions at a fast pace (~9 min per mile). Does anyone have any advice on how these will feel at a slower pace? I’m 6’2, 204 lb., medium arch, heel striker. Thanks!
I am currently training for my first marathon (Kielder!) and have some 3 month old Mizuno Wave Inspire 7′s which seem to be suiting me well, these were purchased from a specialised running shop following gait analysis. I would like to purchase an additional pair of trainers for when mine are wet/muddy etc would it be ok to train in the Mizuno 7′s and 8′s if I were to purchase the 8′s I have been looking to buy from the internet, saving a bit of money and the 8′s seem to be an improvement on the 7′s? Hope that makes sense! Thank you for your advice
I received my first pair of Mizuno’s today & I’m so excited I can’t wait to go running in them. The first thing I noticed was how light they were. Then when i tried them on, they immediately felt so comfortable like i had already been running in them. I’m also glad I purchased half a size larger than my normal shoe size as they are a perfect fit. This site has been fabulous in assisting me to decide which trainers to purchase next. I’m seriously considering getting a second pair already! My last pair was Saucony Hurricane & Asics Kayano prior to that. Definitely a Mizuno convert already I think! I am predominately a heel striker with mild over pronation.
Glad we could help you out Michelle. Stay tuned as we are always testing new footwear.
Hi Theo,
I recently bought a pair of Nirvana 8 and have had a trouble free breaking-in period with no foot, ankle, shin or knee problems – however after clocking up 100km I am now experiencing rubbing/pinching to the underside of my Great Toe Joint as soon as I get to about 7km. I use decent socks (Falke)and size wise I have a fingers width from big toe to the top of the shoe. Could it be that the lacing is to tight or loose or do you have any other ideas as to what could be causing the problem?
I have previously had a similar problem with Nike Structure, but had no problems with NB 1226 even though I dont feel the NB 1226 is any wider than the Nirvana?
Barry, I would suggest that you try loosening the laces on your shoes. It sounds as though you may have a bit of nerve compression going on. However, I’m not a physician and cannot say for sure. If the lacing trick doesn’t help, I would seek the advice of a local sports medicine doctor. Best wishes and thanks for reading.
These are my first pair of Mizuno’s. I am usually an Asics GT 21XX fan. Was fitted many, many moons ago for them. Tried the 2170′s, seem to wear out in about 200 miles. But great while they lasted. I think the Mizuno Wave Inspire 8′s are extremely comfortable, I have the loud mint green version. But have been running in them for about 2 weeks, and my right hip is hurting. I am debating to going back to a new pair of Asics GT 2170′s to see if it quits hurting. What do you think?
Amber, I’d say that’s worth a shot. Instead of spending more money, just use your older 2170′s for a few runs and see what happens. Best wishes and thanks for reading.
I have about 400 miles on my pair of these and am overdue for a new pair of shoes. I’m not sure about another pair though. In the spring I had severe shin splint in my right leg that took about a month of recovery (I wasn’t sure if it happened from the shoes, a lack of calcium, or took much time on the track)but this summer I decided to continue in the shoes anyways and I’ve felt occasional pain in my right knee that may or may not be resultant but I has never become unbearable and only happens once in a while. I’ve never bought the same pair of shoes twice in a row because I generally like change in my shoes. So in the past I’ve done wave inspires and brooks adrenalines alternating for the most part. I’ve always ended up with some kind of injury at the end up my track and cross seasons though. So I’m debating between going wave inspire or adrenaline again vs trying something completely new like the nike lunarglide or perhaps brooks launch or pureconnect? I’m just not sure and I NEED good shoes (and some serious luck haha) for senior year to lead my team without injury. Any advice?
Also I’m pretty sure I’ve moved from over pronation to slight overpronation in my 6 years of running, is that possible and if so why?
Hi Theo! I just found your website and love your reviews! Thank you for sharing all of them! I went through 2 pairs of the Inspire 6 in 2010. I was a new, but not a regular avid runner. I would log about 10-20 miles/week. When I went back to the store to purchase the 2nd pair, I asked why they wore out so quickly…it felt like they had gone flat. I was told that reviews came back of that being an issue with the Inspire 6 and that it had to do with the material in the forefoot. After reading your review on the Inspire 7, I understand this much better. I never did purchase the 7, since I had stopped running completely for 18th months now. I suffered from shin splints badly on 2 occassions and then 2 more times on a mild level that pretty much scared me off. I was deeply sad because I really liked running and for the first time in my life, felt great about exercising. I am ready to start again, but want to be very careful about my running shoes. I was fitted back in 2010 instore by 2 different stores and both presented me with the Inspire 6. I just completed the “my precision fit” and also was presented with the Inspire (8). I’m not sure if the forefoot going flat is what contributed to my shin splints or not. My question to you is regarding that forefoot issue….. Did you find this to be a problem in the 6 and how do you compare that factor to the 8? I would be disappointed to find the forefoot going flat in the 8 with only minimal mileage and I am torn on trying another brand. The lightness and comfort of the Mizunos has really sold me, so I’d like to stick with them, but I’m open to other suggestions. Thank you for your time with this.
Hi,
thanks for your reviews. I really enjoy reading them.
May I seek your advice?
I am 6ft. 175 pounds. male 30yrs.
I’ve played all sorts of sports in my day, and I’ve been doing a tiny bit of running a few years back, mostly 8km-18km runs rather slow.
I’ve picked up running again, but with an 8 year old Asics gel 1080, which makes my knees hurt a bit. I bought them at an excellent running shop, which I don’t have available right now, so I will have to order online and try them out. I therefore need a few suggestions, which shoes to look at.
I did a little test run last week, 6km with some 100-150m differences in elevation and did it in just under 28:30 min
I am thinking of getting 2 pairs of shoes. A cushioned one for longer runs up to 25km, which is the furthest I’ve run this year, and a more minimalistic one, for faster sessions and technical training, where I’ll strike more just using the forefoot rather than as well using the heel.
I have normal feet to slight over-pronation, when using the heel. When using the middle of the foot or the fore-foot, it’s completely neutral. My feet aren’t particularly wide.
The Inspire 8 may be the workhorse I’m looking for, for the cushioned one. Or maybe a Brooks Ghost 5, or a Mizuno Wave Nexus
The Brooks Pure Connect, the Saucony Hattori, Adizero Tempo 5 or F50 might be the candidates for the more minimalistic ones.
I run mostly slightly sandy foot paths and road. I’ll go over grass and on light trails as well, but no reason to get a trail shoe (as a third later on maybe). I don’t get cold feet easily, so Goretex will not be necessary.
I am glad for any advice you may have, or if you could refer me somewhere to ask for help. Going to a professional running store ,however, is not an option
Thanks a lot.
Regards,
Andi
Andi,
Congratulations on your return to running!
That’s quite a varied list of shoes you have in mind but I’ll be happy to help you out any way I can. The Inspire has a pretty good dose of support but I always prefer to err on the side of having a little more shoe for longer training runs. I think it’s a great training shoe and I like it for long races too(1/2 marathon and up).
As for your second shoe I would look at a light stability shoe such as the Brooks Ravenna, Asics DS Trainer or Mizuno Elixir. These are all great shoes that offer a slight amount of support yet still feel light and fast. However, they all run differently and everyone has their personal preference about how they like a shoe to ride. The DS Trainer is cushy, the Elixir is firm and the Brooks is somewhere in between, I feel that the Elixir has the most support and the fastest ride of the three. At any rate, they’re all good and you really will have to try them out for yourself as reading about a shoe is far inferior to having it on your foot.
Best wishes and thanks for reading.
These did not have the best shock absorption to begin with, however deteriorated rapidly after 200 miles.
Anyway I’m waving goodbye to these + going back to my Nike Triax.
I should mention my wife runs in Inspires + loves them!
Ellis, if you like the current Triax, then stock up! Nike has overhauled the shoe and it is vastly different.
After years and dozens of pairs of 11 1/2 4E NB 580′s i went to 11 1/2 2E Inspire 6′s on my 50k. not bad, toes numb. went to 12′s still a problem, went to 13′s and less of a problem. They do not make a 13.5 and a 14 2E sounds like a huge jump for me. Also have Alchemy 10′s in 13 2E that feel the same and maybe even a little tighter in the arch area. I have Flat feet. Should I move up or switch. All were used for Marathon and Ultra distance.
John,
I do not know of any manufacturer who makes a wider toe box than Mizuno. Why did you switch from the 580? And, unless I’m mistake isn’t the 580 a neutral shoe?
Great article!
I just purchased these shoes after having my strike analyzed.
I’m flat footed with a very poor arch.
I tried the Inspire 7 & 8, & while I found the 7 had more arch support, I found the rest of the shoe a little more narrow.
I’m coming from a cheap pair of shoes with a wide, stability description.
They were great except for arch support.
Running in the Inspire 8′s this am, I’m again feeling the lack of arch support.
The rest of the shoe is great. As I look down at my feet, I can definitely see the inner side of my foot protruding (flat feet).
Is there a show that you know of that has the features of the 8 plus a little additional arch support? Haven’t tried any other mizuno’s, but saw another poster mention the Nirvana?
Would I be better served to keep these 8s & just add an arch cushion?
Thanks,
Jon
Jon, take a look at the Mizuno Alchemy and Nirvana. Be quick, though, as Mizuno has discontinued the Nirvana for 2013.
How would you compare these shoes to the Brook Ravenna 3? I’m looking for a shoe to rotate. Currently running about 30 miles per week and starting to train for a late spring marathon.
Brent, I’m sorry but I have not tested the Ravenna 3. However it is a step down in stability from the Inspire. The comparable Mizuno shoe to the Ravenna would be the Wave Elixir. It is worth a look if you like a fast shoe with a touch of support. Thanks for reading!
I have been running 10k twice a week for half a year, and half-marathons since summer of 2012. I’ve been having a lot of pain in knees and hips, because I’ve been running in an neutral, very old model of Asics (so I can’t even tell you which model it is).
I had a test done at my local runners store, and they told me I have a slight overpronation (feet moving ‘inward’ while running). They recommended the Nike LunarGlide 4, Asics GT 2170 and Mizuno Wave Inspire 8.
I’m training for a full marathon in the summer, and need a good long distance shoe – I just can’t seem to figure out which one is the best.
Besides the knee problems, I’ve had issues with blackened nails and blisters on tips of toes.
Can you give any recommendations?
I’ve had a break from running because of pains and nasty toes, so I can’t wait to get some new shoes and get started!!
Francine, I cannot say which of these shoes you’ll like best. Personally I would choose in this order: Mizuno, Asics, Nike. Thanks for reading!
I’ve been wearing Asics GT-21xx for many years and not had any problems, but I have a new pair of GT-2170 and I feel a small lump just past the ball of my foot. I vaguely remember this from the last pair I got, but I don’t feel anything like that in those now. Never had any soreness or injury with the GT series except maybe during break in. I tried on the Wave Inspire 8 at a local store and didn’t feel anything like this. Any thoughts on switching? I saw you also reviewed the 2170 and new 2000 so I thought you’d have a good comparison.
Gerry, I’ve never felt a bump in the forefoot of any Asics I’ve tested. I think the new Inspire 9 has a slight edge over the GT2000 because the Inspire is both lighter and more stable.
Hello , I want to ask , if neutral runner use theese shoes, can he get some injury because of the shoe type ? Sorry for my english.
Theo,
Very nice article. I had been a runner primarily from in High School in the mid-late 1970′s up through my mid 20′s. However I find myself now at 51 years old looking to start running again. That being said I have a few questions perhaps you can help me with. I weigh about 215 now down from my highest weight of around 245. I was a very bad overpronator, very flat footed however as I looked at it recently I have seen my arch go a bit higher then it had been. I am looking into shoes that would feature a medial post as I believe since the slight weight loss I would now be more of a moderate overpronator (stability, or stability plus vs) rather than a NB 587 candidate (major motion control). I am looking at a number of models that perhaps in your expert opinion you could help me come to a decision on. The shoes I am considering are:
1) Asics Gel 1170, or the new GT1000
2) Asics GT 2170, or the new GT 2000
3) Saucony Grid Hurricane 14
4) Saucony Guide
5) New Balance 860 or 860 V2
6) Nike Structure (Triax) 15
7) Mizuno Wave Inspire 8
As you can see there are a lot of shoes here. However being one who likes to be very thorough in my search/evaluation. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Thank you for your tie and consideration. Regards
Jerry Fowler.
JerseeJerry55, that’s a very good question. I have not tested all of the shoes you’ve listed but I’ll give my opinions on the ones that I have.
Asics GT 2170, or the new GT 2000: GT2000 is lighter and firmer and sports a more supportive midfoot shank. All around improvement on an already good shoe.
Saucony Grid Hurricane 14: Terrible for me. One 5 mile run left me with aching feet. Could not complete the wear test.
New Balance 860 or 860 V2: Solid stability shoe that weighs heavy and runs slow. Not a bad choice, though.
Nike Structure (Triax) 15: Very good stability and good fit. Has been discontinued and replaced by a lesser shoe(Triax 16).
Wave Inspire 8, or 9: Best of the bunch in my opinion. Light, quick transition with ample arch support.
Thanks for reading!
Theo one last question what about the Nike Lunar Series shoes Lunar Eclipse, or Lunar Glide)for someone like myself? Thank you again.
Regards
JerseeJerry55
Hey Theo hope you’re well. Well I purchased a pair of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12 on recommendation of more than a few people. I tried them on at home and good thing I never ran in them. I found them to be extremely firm on the medial side, and returned them. Only to exchange them for Mizuno wave Inspire 8′s. I tried them on today when I received them and they are really comfortable. I guess I should’ve listened to you first, but better late than never. I plan in running in them starting next weekend. Thanks again.
JerseeJerry55
JerseeJerry55,
Sorry I missed your last question! My apologies. I do hope that the Inspires work out for you. The Nike I would choose is the LunarEclipse. It’s a good shoe although I have yet to review it here, I have worn it.
Great review Theo. I actually bought these as a result of your review and couldn’t be happier. I have flat as a pancake narrow feet and overpronate like crazy. I’m 52 years old and just getting back into running. My Asics GT-2150′s were killing my knees. I did some research, read a bunch of reviews and concluded that I probably needed something with more support. I am happy to report that after 2 weeks, my knee pain is completely gone and I’m loving this Wave technology. I think I’ve found a friend for live in Mizuno. Thanks!
Good to hear Ernie! Glad we could help!
Dear Theo
I have for years been running in Puma Magnetist 2 / 3 and they are out production now, i have been switching between these and New blance 1226. I found that puma consinnity 4 can do the job after the magnetist but im looking for a replacement for 1226 do to imflamation in lower front leg caused by 1226, so could Inspire or Nirvana do the job for me ?
Br Peter
I’ve been running in Mizuno Inspires for years and still love to this day. However, I have found that in the 2 pairs of Inspire 8′s that I have owned, the soles have worn out at only 200 miles on the shoes and in an area that does not usually wear out on my shoes. I generally get around 350 miles out of a pair of running shoes so I am VERY disappointed in my shoes wearing out so quickly.
It has been more than 3 days and the shoes are not breaking in. Do they take a lot of time? They are causing blisters on my ankle.
Also these Inspire 8 shoes appear to be slightly smaller than the standard shoe size. My US shoe size 8 is tight though all my previous shoes has been size 8 and they were just perfect.