A little bit heavier than last year the Mizuno Wave Rider 22 goes back to similar weight figures seen in Wave Rider 20 and gets closer to always reliable Wave Ultima 10 leaving more room within Mizuno's lineup for responsive Wave Shadow saga. Japanese brand is somehow trying to get rid of well gained reputation for firm cushioning while not losing most part of loyal runners who love it. There is available an special Wave Rider 22 Osaka edition plenty of bright colours for most festive runners.
More refined upper is major visible change from its predecessor Wave Rider 21 which keeps dual layer construction but featuring improved breathability with bigger ventilation holes arranged like a big wave from heel to forefoot. Classical "Runbird" logo is made of reflective material and sewed on both sides to provide not only consistency but also enhanced visibility under poor light conditions. Honestly, it seems not enough to successfully face greatly update competitors like Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 or Adidas Solar Glide.
Rest of Wave Rider 22 meets expectations (including nowadays not so common 12 mm drop) with clasical midsole construction based on reliable U4ic™ foam with embedded CloudWave™ plate and U4icX™ pad under the heel to enhance cushioning when landing combined with superb stability typical from Mizuno. It seems japanese brand has been working on mentioned CloudWave™ unit to deliver a less rigid experience but must be verified with feedback from unbiased runners. Following the trend from its bigger sibling Wave Sky 2, a third main flex groove has been added in the forefoot for smoother transition and lug pattern features spiral design to improve traction. No change in rubbers, using more robust X10 in more exposed areas to increase durability.
