Mizuno Neo Vista review
Mizuno Neo Vista Verdict
The pros
- Secure, sock-like upper provides good lockdown
- Flexible glass fibre plate blends in well
- Super soft, squishy ride
- Great outsole durability
The cons
- Feels too mushy for uptempo runs
- Upper material is not breathable
Rating breakdown
Facts / Specs
Size/Fit
Cushioning & ride
Usage
Who should buy the Mizuno Neo Vista ?
If you enjoy a marshmallow-like ride with a sinking-in feeling, the Neo Vista is a good choice.
If you want a plated ride which isn’t very stiff, the Neo Vista is also a good option.
Who should not buy the Mizuno Neo Vista ?
If you’re looking for a versatile trainer which can go slow as well as fast, the Neo Vista is not for you.
If you like firm rides with lots of ground feel, you should give the Neo Vista a miss.
Mizuno Neo Vista Introduction
There used to be a time when it was guaranteed that a Mizuno is always going to ride like a Mizuno due the signature Mizuno Wave plate: firm, supportive, and creaky. It used to take a while for the Wave plate to properly bed in which was also a Mizuno signature characteristic.
This can’t be said of Mizuno anymore. The Wave Rebellion Pro is arguably the wildest and craziest shoe design of the last 5 years: it’s aggressive, innovative and has a ride like no other. This race shoe is the complete opposite of the safe, typical Mizuno designs prior to it.
Now, Mizuno is focusing on the training side with a shoe which is inspired by the Wave Rebellion Pro 2 and Flash 2. The Neo Vista was named the “mystery shoe” by Mizuno when they teased it at The Running Event last year.
They didn’t provide the name of the shoe or the name of the new midsole foam in it. ASICS used a similar marketing tactic when they launched an all white version of the Nimbus 25 with no branding on it.
Mizuno calls it their first super trainer but they already have the Wave Rebellion Flash 2 which has all the technology to be classified as a super trainer. The Neo Vista is however Mizuno’s first running shoe above 40 mm in stack height.
The Mizuno Neo is a line of shoes designed with the environment in mind. They’re made from materials designed to limit carbon emissions. The line consists of the Wave Neo Wind, the Wave Neo Ultra and now the Neo Vista. On Mizuno’s website, they claim that they plant 2 trees for every Neo Wind or Neo Ultra sold.
The Neo Vista is 20 grams lighter than the Neo Ultra, and they claim that it has 83% more cushioning than the Neo Ultra but they don’t specify how they measured it. The Neo Vista is designed to be a versatile daily trainer for any type of run.
Mizuno Neo Vista First Impressions
My first run in the Neo Vista was a steady-paced 15 kilometre run. It wasn’t at all what I was expecting. I expected a really energetic, propulsive ride like the New Balance SC Trainer v2 or the Hoka Mach X.
The Neo Vista felt like an easy day or recovery trainer. The ride felt even softer than I imagined and it reminded me of the ASICS Nimbus 26. Both trainers have bootie construction uppers with really soft rides but the Neo Vista felt more squishy.
The stack height (44.5 mm) is similar to that of the ASICS Superblast (45.5 mm) but the Neo Vista felt much lower to the ground because of how much it compresses. The Neo Vista felt like it had under 40 mm of stack height.
Mizuno Neo Vista Upper
I have mixed feelings about the stretchy, sock-like upper of the Neo Vista. On the one hand, it’s comfortable and provides good lockdown but on the other hand, it feels very warm and it gives the entire shoe a relaxed, casual feel rather than a performance one.
There’s a design flaw with the lacing system: the lacing goes inside the shoe, between the 1st and 2nd eyelet. You can feel the lace on the inside of the shoe because it’s a flat lace that twists, so the twisted lace creates a pressure point on your ankle- it’s very difficult to keep the lace flat where it goes inside the shoe. There is also no way of using a runner’s knot due to the bootie construction.
The material bunches and folds over when I tie the laces but the fold doesn’t annoy me during runs. It has a snug fit which is best suited to narrow, low volume feet. If you have wide feet, you might need to go up a half size.
Mizuno Neo Vista Sole Unit
It’s quite evident that Mizuno was inspired by the New Balance SC Trainer version 1 when they were designing the Neo Vista. There are some noticeable similarities between the 2 trainers: bootie construction, a deep central channel, a flexible plate and above 40 mm of stack height.
The main difference between these 2 super trainers is that the Neo Vista has a much softer ride than the SC Trainer with less energy return. It also has a more flexible plate and forefoot than the New Balance.
It feels best when I’m running slower than 6 minutes per kilometre. It provides plenty of plush cushioning when my legs are tired and I’m not worried about my pace. I’m able to pick up the pace to my marathon pace for short periods but it’s not comfortable and it feels a bit like I’m running on a mattress.
The plate of the Neo Vista is flat, unlike the SC Trainer series which has a convex plate that can store and return more energy. The result is a flatter, less lively ride than the SC Trainer series. The Neo Vista has a less prominent forefoot rocker too.
The Neo Vista is one of the softest running shoes I’ve tested and its new foam, Enerzy NXT behaves like the older version of FuelCell that didn’t have PEBA in it. Enerzy NXT is an EVA foam, so it doesn’t possess the rebound that PEBA (or even TPU) has.
The midsole compresses so much that the ride feels mushy. If you’re a heavy runner, the ride will feel way too soft and the cushioning not substantial enough.
The Neo Vista has Smooth Speed Assist which is built into the geometry of the midsole. It’s designed to lessen muscle tension and promote a midfoot-strike, similar to Skechers’ M Strike technology so the midsole is shaped like a boat, with a rearfoot and a forefoot rocker.
My longest run in it was 32 kilometres (at easy pace) and it felt comfortable, cushioned and smooth throughout the entire run. It has a gentle forefoot rocker which makes it feel slightly more efficient but the rocker is muted due to how soft the midsole is.
Due to the softness of the midsole, there’s some lean bias so the Neo Vista is not ideal for heavy overpronators who need support. I’m a light overpronator and I find it stable enough, even during long runs.
The entire outsole is protected by a layer of soft rubber which makes landings feel very padded. This rubber is above average when it comes to durability. My pair is showing minute signs of wear after 80 km. Traction is not so great on wet surfaces because of how flat and smooth the outsole rubber is.
The hollowed-out central channel on the outsole is the longest and widest I’ve seen on a running shoe.
It aids in straight-line tracking, makes the ride softer and allows for a lot of weight saving. I thought that small rocks might get stuck in it but so far, it has never happened.
Mizuno Neo Vista Conclusions
I really enjoyed running in and testing the Neo Vista. It feels incredibly polished for a first generation running shoe and its super squishy ride is a breath of fresh air for Mizuno. It continues to break the Mizuno mould. Out of context, the Neo Vista is a good running shoe but it doesn’t quite do what Mizuno advertises.
I think that the Enerzy NXT foam needs some tweaking because it doesn’t have enough energy return and it feels too mushy. I would also prefer a traditional upper instead of a bootie because the bootie design has some issues.
When I think of super trainers, I think of really versatile, do-it-all shoes like the Superblast, SC Trainer v2 and the Kinvara Pro which have the ability to pick up the pace. The Neo Vista can’t compete with these super trainers when it comes to speed- it’s far too soft.
The Neo Vista is a glorified max-cushioned trainer, and is priced $20 more than the other max-cushioned trainers. I’ll only be using it for easy and recovery runs in my rotation. It should be closer to the $160 price point.
How does the Neo Vista compare?
Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2
Mizuno Neo Vista
Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2
Why you can trust us
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.We purchased this pair of Mizuno at Running Warehouse with our own money.
This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our policy.
Reviewed by Brandon
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
User feedback (5)
Similar shoes to Mizuno Neo Vista
2 months ago
I’ve logged 200 miles in the Neo Vista and can confirm it excels as a recovery day shoe. The super soft Enerzy NXT midsole provides incredible impact protection, though I agree it feels too mushy for tempo runs. The glass fiber plate is subtle but effective – I noticed it most during longer runs when fatigue sets in. Coming from the Wave Rider series, this feels like a completely different shoe. Durability has been excellent, especially the outsole which shows minimal wear. The sock-like upper does run warm, particularly on humid days. For pure easy day running, it’s become my favorite shoe.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
After putting 150 miles on the Neo Vista, I can confidently say this is one of the softest rides I’ve experienced. The Enerzy NXT midsole feels like running on clouds during my easy 10-milers, though I agree it’s too mushy for speedwork. The glass fiber plate provides just enough structure without feeling intrusive. Compared to the Hoka Bondi 8, the Vista offers more cushioning but less stability. Used it for a recent marathon training cycle and while great for recovery runs, I switched to the Saucony Triumph for tempo days. The upper does run warm – noticed this especially during humid summer runs. Perfect for easy days but limited versatility holds it back from being a true daily trainer.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
Hey everyone! Need some advice – my physical therapist recommended getting a max cushioned shoe for recovery days after my knee issues. Torn between these and the Bondi 8. Anyone tried both? Also, should I size up? My feet tend to swell on longer runs and Mizunos usually feel snug on me.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
As a longtime Wave Rider fan, finally tried the Neo Vista. The Enerzy NXT foam feels amazing on recovery runs, but way too marshmallowy when trying to pick up the pace. That glass fiber plate adds nice stability without being too noticeable. Great lockdown but my feet are cooking on warmer days. Honestly, at $180 these are pretty niche – my Triumph 22s are more versatile. Great pure recovery shoe but definitely not replacing my daily trainers.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
I’ve put about 150 miles on my Neo Vistas and can confidently say they excel at easy runs. The Enerzy NXT midsole is incredibly plush – much softer than my previous Wave Riders. I’ve used them primarily for recovery days and long runs up to 18 miles. The sock-like upper provides great lockdown though I agree it could be more breathable, especially on warm days. The glass fiber plate adds just enough stability without feeling intrusive. While they’re too mushy for tempo work, they really shine on those easy days when you want max cushioning. Compared to other max cushion shoes like the Hoka Bondi, these feel more natural and less chunky.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
After 150 miles in the Neo Vista, I can confirm it excels as a recovery day shoe. The soft Enerzy NXT foam reminded me of the Hoka Bondi but with better stability from the glass plate. Used these for my easy runs between marathon training sessions. While they’re too soft for speedwork, they’re perfect for those long slow days. The lockdown is exceptional – zero heel slip. Compared to the Wave Sky, these are definitely softer but less versatile. The breathability issues are real though – my feet got pretty warm on summer runs. Worth the investment if you want pure comfort.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
My legs have been feeling beat up lately and I’m looking for a good recovery day shoe. Anyone switch to these from the Bondi 8? Need something with serious cushioning for those day-after-long-run shuffles. Also wondering how long they last with that soft foam – don’t want them dying after a couple months.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
These have been my recovery day companions for the past three months. The super soft Enerzy NXT foam really shines on those days when my legs are beat up. Did a slow 10-miler yesterday after a hard workout and the cushioning felt perfect. While they’re too mushy for tempo runs as noted, they excel at easy paces. The lockdown is fantastic – no heel slip like I experienced with the Wave Sky. The glass fiber plate adds just enough structure without feeling intrusive. One downside is the warm upper – really noticed this during my humid summer runs. Despite the price, they’re worth it for dedicated recovery runs.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
Really interested in these but wondering how the plate compares to my Endorphin Speeds – anyone made the switch? Also, do these fit like other Mizunos? My Wave Riders are perfect in 10.5 but heard these might run different.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
Training for Boston and looking at these to replace my Wave Riders. Anyone using them for serious mileage (40-50 miles/week)? My long runs hit 20 miles and I’m worried about the cushioning holding up. Also heard they run hot – bit concerned since I’ll be doing summer training in these. Any Wave Rider fans make the switch?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
Finally tried these on at my LRS yesterday – bit conflicted tbh. That upper feels really premium but might be a sweaty mess come summer. For $180 I was expecting something more versatile like my Endorphin Speeds. Interesting that they went with glass fiber instead of carbon – maybe that’s why they feel more cruisey than snappy? Might wait for a sale on these.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
I’ve put about 200 miles on the Neo Vista and can confirm everything in this review. The Enerzy NXT midsole is incredibly plush – perfect for recovery runs when my legs are beat up. Did a 20-miler in them and the cushioning remained consistent throughout. The glass fiber plate adds just enough structure without feeling intrusive. They’re not great for speedwork though – tried some 400m repeats and felt like I was running in mud. Durability has been excellent – outsole shows minimal wear. Compared to the Wave Sky 6, these are much softer but less versatile. Despite the breathability issues, I’d rate these an 8/10 for easy day comfort.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.5 months ago
My legs are begging for a cushy recovery shoe! Been using the Invincible but looking to switch it up. Anyone run in both? $180 seems steep if I’m only using them for easy days – wondering if the plush ride is worth the splurge?
5 months ago
I’ve logged over 200 miles in the Neo Vista and it’s become my go-to shoe for recovery runs. The Enerzy NXT midsole is incredibly plush – reminds me of the New Balance More v4 but with better stability thanks to the glass fiber plate. Did my last marathon recovery run (8 miles at 9:30 pace) in these and my legs felt great. While they’re too soft for speedwork, they excel at easy days. The lockdown is fantastic but I agree about breathability issues – my feet get pretty warm on sunny days. Durability has been impressive though – outsole shows minimal wear even after 200+ miles. For pure easy day comfort, I’d rate these 9/10, but taking into account the limited versatility and high price, overall 7/10.
7 months ago
I’m pretty light at 142 pounds and I find the Neo Vista too mushy. Instead of saving my feet and calves on long runs it works them too hard. My foot has to do a lot of work to turn the shoe over. It also feels heavier than it is, I think partly because of so much weight in the front of the shoe. Feels impossible to accelerate.
10 months ago
Where would you rank the Neo Vista in terms of durability compared to other Mizuno shoes? I usually get at least 400 miles, but you didn’t mention mileage here.
10 months ago
I gotta say, the Neo Vistas really deliver on the comfort side! The Enerzy foam feels so responsive, and I don’t feel fatigued even after long training runs. The fit is also fantastic—the snug design keeps my foot in place without being too restrictive, but still enough toe room for swelling. My only downside would be the arch support. It’s good but not great, especially if you have flat feet like me. Otherwise, top-notch durability and a very breathable upper make them worth buying!