The Mizuno Wave Rider 29 continues the legacy of one of Mizuno’s most trusted daily trainers—but this time, it feels smoother and snappier than ever. Built to handle just about everything in your training lineup, it’s comfortable during slow runs yet quick to respond when you pick up the pace.
Compared to the previous model, the Rider 29 transitions better and feels more responsive underfoot, making it a true all-rounder. Add in Mizuno’s well-earned reputation for durability and a consistently smooth ride, and you’ve got a daily trainer that can go the distance without losing its charm.
Table of Contents
- Key Specs at a Glance
- What’s New in the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
- Ride & Cushioning
- Fit, Upper & Comfort
- Outsole & Traction
- Durability & Value
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
- Final Verdict: Mizuno Wave Rider 29
- Mizuno Wave Rider 29 FAQs
Key Specs at a Glance
- Category: Neutral daily trainer
- Weight: 9.3 oz men, 8.0 oz women
- Stack Height: 39 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm
- Midsole Foam: MIZUNO ENERZY NXT (nitrogen-infused EVA)
- Support Structure: Mizuno WAVE plate
- Outsole: X10 carbon rubber
- Upper: Jacquard mesh
- Price at launch: ~$150 USD
What’s New in the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
Mizuno didn’t just tweak the Wave Rider—they gave the 29th version some meaningful upgrades that you’ll notice on the run. First, the heel-to-toe drop shifts from 12 mm to 10 mm, giving the shoe a smoother, more balanced transition. Along with that, the stack height increased from 37.5/25.5 mm to 39/29 mm, which means you’re getting nearly 4 extra millimeters of cushioning under the forefoot. Translation: softer landings and more comfort up front.
Despite the added foam, Mizuno managed to shave off some weight—the Rider 29 is about 0.4 oz (11 grams) lighter than the previous model. That’s a win for anyone who likes a daily trainer that doesn’t feel clunky when you pick up the pace.
The biggest change is in the midsole. The Wave Rider 29 now features a full-length MIZUNO ENERZY NXT midsole, a nitrogen-infused EVA that feels more responsive and plush compared to the older ENERZY foam. The result? A smoother, bouncier ride that’s easier on the legs, whether you’re jogging easy miles or cruising through a longer workout.
Ride & Cushioning of the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
The Mizuno Wave Rider 29 takes a big step forward in comfort thanks to its new full-length MIZUNO ENERZY NXT midsole, a nitrogen-infused EVA that replaces the older ENERZY blend. Right away, you’ll notice the difference—this version feels softer underfoot and much less rigid than past Riders. If you thought previous models felt a bit stiff, the 29 delivers a ride that’s plusher, bouncier, and more responsive.
That softer foam also makes the shoe more flexible in the forefoot, giving your stride a smoother roll. The MIZUNO WAVE plate is still in play, dispersing impact forces and keeping the ride stable while adding that signature Mizuno snap. The best part? It feels lighter on the run—and quicker, too—making it easier to pick up the pace than in the Rider 28.
There is a tradeoff, though. The older model’s firmer midsole (a mix of ENERZY and ENERZY NXT) felt a touch more stable, while the Rider 29 leans softer. Still, it remains a neutral daily trainer with good stability for most runners—just best suited to those with a neutral gait.
The new 10 mm drop (down from 12 mm) adds to the smoothness of transitions. That elevated heel, typical of high-drop shoes, also helps reduce stress on the foot, Achilles, and calves—making this a shoe that feels forgiving during both easy runs and longer efforts.
Fit, Upper & Comfort of the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
The Mizuno Wave Rider 29 keeps the Jacquard mesh upper, but the fit has definitely changed compared to the last model. This time around, the upper feels thicker and snugger, which is great if you’ve got medium to narrow feet and want that secure wrap. On the flip side, the toe box is a bit tighter than before, so if you loved the roomier fit of the Rider 28, you might notice the difference.
Step-in comfort is excellent, thanks to the extra padding in the heel counter that gives you a nice balance of plushness and lockdown. The gusseted tongue also does a great job of hugging the midfoot with a touch of compression, which helps keep the foot centered and stable while you run.
Despite the thicker construction, breathability is impressive, so your feet won’t overheat during longer efforts. Heel and midfoot lockdown feel dialed in, giving you confidence whether you’re jogging easy miles or cranking up the pace. Overall, it’s a snugger, more supportive fit than the last model, with comfort that holds up mile after mile.
Outsole & Traction of the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
Mizuno sticks with what works here—the X10 outsole, a durable carbon rubber compound that covers nearly the entire bottom of the shoe. The only exceptions are a few exposed foam areas in the heel and midfoot, which help shave weight and add a touch of flexibility.
On the run, the outsole feels as reliable as ever. Grip is excellent in both wet and dry conditions, giving you the confidence to keep your stride smooth no matter what the weather throws at you. And because the X10 rubber is famously tough, you can expect the outsole to last well beyond the midsole’s lifespan. In other words, this is a shoe that’s built to rack up miles without worrying about traction giving out.
Durability & Value of the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
You can expect the Mizuno Wave Rider 29 to last about 300–500 miles before the cushioning starts to break down—right in line with other reliable daily trainers. Thanks to the tough X10 carbon rubber outsole, the grip will likely outlast the foam, so durability isn’t something you’ll have to worry about.
At $150, the Rider 29 sits squarely in the daily trainer price range. It matches the cost of the Brooks Ghost 17, comes in at $10 more than the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 27, and is $5 more expensive than the Saucony Ride 18. Considering Mizuno’s track record for long-lasting shoes and smooth ride quality, it’s a solid value if you’re looking for a dependable trainer that can handle just about everything.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Softer, bouncier ride with full-length MIZUNO ENERZY NXT foam
- More responsive and flexible than the previous model
- Lighter weight makes it feel quicker on the run
- Smooth transitions with the reduced 10 mm drop (vs 12 mm)
- Excellent outsole durability and grip in wet/dry conditions (X10 carbon rubber)
- Secure lockdown with gusseted tongue and padded heel counter
- Step-in comfort is excellent, with padding in all the right places
- Impressive breathability despite the thicker upper
Cons:
- Less stable than the previous model due to softer foam
- Tighter toe box compared to the Rider 28—may feel snug for wide-footed runners
- Upper is thicker, which might feel warmer in hot weather
- Still a neutral-only shoe—won’t work for runners who need added stability
- At $150, slightly pricier than some close competitors (ASICS Gel-Cumulus 27, Saucony Ride 18)
Who Should Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
Who Should Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
- Neutral runners who want a comfortable daily trainer that still responds when you pick up the pace
- Runners who disliked earlier Riders for being too stiff — the Rider 29’s softer foam might win you over
- Those looking for a balance between cushioning and responsiveness — not a pure plush shoe, but more forgiving than older versions
- People who appreciate durability and a reliable outsole (thanks to the X10 rubber)
- Runners with medium or narrow feet who will benefit from the snugger fit
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Mizuno Wave Rider 29
- Runners needing stability or motion control features (overpronators) — this is a neutral-only shoe
- Those who prefer a very roomy or generous toe box — the Rider 29’s forefoot is less spacious than previous model
- People seeking a pure speed or racing shoe — this is optimized for daily training, not all-out tempo sessions
- Runners who strongly prefer a firmer, more stable feel — the new softness may feel too yielding
- Budget-conscious buyers who see better value in slightly cheaper trainers for similar performance
Final Verdict: Mizuno Wave Rider 29
The Mizuno Wave Rider 29 strikes a refreshing balance between comfort and performance. With its full-length ENERZY NXT foam, softer underfoot feel, and lighter weight, it feels like Mizuno finally gave the Rider series a more forgiving, modern update. The lowered drop (10 mm) and improved transition smoothness make it more enjoyable for longer runs, while the responsive setup keeps things fun when you accelerate.
If you’re a neutral runner looking for a daily trainer that can handle easy runs, moderate efforts, and steady long miles—with a reliable outsole and solid longevity—this is a strong choice. But if you need extra stability, a wider toe box, or a firmer ride, the Rider 29 might not be your ideal match.
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Mizuno Wave Rider 29 FAQs
Not sure if the Mizuno Wave Rider 29 is the right daily trainer for you? Here are answers to the most common questions runners ask about this shoe—from sizing and fit to durability and how it stacks up against the competition.
Is the Mizuno Wave Rider 29 good for marathon training?
Yes, it can work for marathon training, especially for easy runs, steady long runs, and daily mileage. However, if you want maximum cushioning for marathon day, the Mizuno Wave Sky or a racing model like the Wave Rebellion Pro may be better.
How does the Wave Rider 29 compare to the Wave Rider 28?
The Rider 29 is softer, lighter, and more flexible. It drops from 12 mm to 10 mm, adds more cushioning, and switches to full-length ENERZY NXT foam, making it bouncier and smoother.
Does the Wave Rider 29 run true to size?
Yes, it runs true to size. But note that the toe box is a bit narrower than the Rider 28, so wide-footed runners may need to consider the wide version.
How durable is the outsole?
The X10 carbon rubber outsole is highly durable and grips well in wet or dry conditions. Expect 300–500 miles of use before major breakdown.
Who is the Mizuno Wave Rider 29 best for?
Neutral runners who want a reliable daily trainer with a softer, more responsive ride. It’s versatile for easy runs, daily mileage, and some faster sessions.
Is it good for walking or all-day wear?
Yes, the softer cushioning and improved step-in comfort make it a great choice for walking and standing, not just running.
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