The Mizuno Wave Rider 18 is definitely the flagship of the japanese brand. Although initially intended for neutral runners, it is stable enough to provide mild pronation support. After the release of the new compound U4ic (softer and 30% lighter than old AP+) in the previous Wave Rider 17 no big change is expected in this update.
This new version of the Wave Rider presents a redesigned upper where lateral logo is no longer printed on the mesh but stitched to join lace area with sole wall for a better fit, removing stripe around the rearfoot. Although color transition is really cool, this model is not the best one to wear under poor light conditions as reflective material only shows up on the rearfoot's small logo.
Outsole has been redesigned looking for better flexibility an improved grip using same well known materials: hard and durable carbon rubber (X-10) in the heel and a softer one in the forefoot. Thicker midsole wall helps to provide a better shock absorption making gait cycle feel much simpler.
