Mizuno Wave Kien

Kick off your trail runs with the highly- adaptable Mizuno Wave Kien. Despite its lack of popularity among runners, the shoe still packs a mean streak. It features a no- nonsense construction with the Concave Wave, a brand- exclusive technology from Mizuno. A combination of a breathable upper and a grippy outsole gives off a stable platform that will last on varied terrain. If you are the type of runner who alternately runs between road and trail, this shoe will be an investment you will not regret.  The Mizuno Wave Kien was released in 2014, so the model is fairly new to the scrutiny of the running community. Being the 1^st version, the model is not considered flawless. Despite Mizuno’s reputation as one of the best running shoe manufacturers, the Mizuno Wave Kien did not reach the expectations of avid fans. With proven and tested technologies and features in the construction, the shoe does not offer anything new for trail runners. At the price of $120, some of them might just look for better and cheaper alternatives.

Arch Support and Pronation Control

The Mizuno Wave Kien is designed to facilitate a neutral foot motion. When it comes to arch support, its midsole can only provide control for runners with medium to high arches. Runners who experience supination (under pronation) and neutral pronation can take advantage of this shoe.

Terrain                                         

The Mizuno Wave Kien is made for off- roads and soft trails, like loose rocks, muddy paths and grassy surfaces. It can also handle uphill and downhill runs decently.

Use

The Mizuno Wave Kien is engineered for everyday training. Its low- profile platform is not light enough for racing, but short trail runs can be done with ease.

Durability

The Mizuno Wave Kien has a low threshold of durability in the upper and midsole. However, its outsole fares well with excessive use, thanks to the X- 10 carbon rubber on high- impact areas.

Outer Sole

Being a trail shoe, the Mizuno Wave Kien is expected to have an aggressive outsole to provide a balance of stability and protection on varied terrain. The main material of the outsole is the synthetic leather/rubber compound that runs the full length of the underside. It features the Wet Traction engineering, which allows a better grip and traction in various weather conditions. The X-10 carbon rubber can be found in high- impact areas to lessen the wear and tear despite excessive use and frequency of trail debris.

Midsole

The midsole of the Mizuno Wave Kien features the brand- exclusive midsole technology, Concave Wave. Designed with an advanced support mechanism, this technology improves the impact protection during striking, especially on even ground. Runners can expect smoother transitions from the heel to the toe with the Wave integration.

Upper

The upper construction of the trail shoe provides a fit like no other, thanks to the integrated Dynamotion Fit system. Using the latest in motion capture technology, this technology will facilitate better gait cycles. Comfort is also not compromised with the AIRmesh material, which makes up the majority of the upper. Adequate airflow will ensure that your feet will be kept cool and dry throughout the run.

The Mizuno Wave Kien is indeed a boring model that features the same, old technologies from Mizuno. Runners cannot expect anything new in this shoe, unless they are new to trail running. Beginners can truly make use of the versatility of the shoe because its outsole can handle varied terrains, even wet surfaces. However, it could not be used on technical trails because it lacks ample protection and support in its construction. At the price of $120, the Mizuno Wave Kien belongs to the mid- range category, yet you can still find better shoes that can offer more in terms of performance and protection at the same price.

Price Range

The Mizuno Wave Kien originally retails at $120. It belongs to the mid- range category, along with other models from the brand’s Wave collection. If you choose to save, you can purchase a pair at a fraction of its price through the use of offers and discounts from physical and online stores.