Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 Running Shoes

Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 upper

The Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 running shoe upper is made of mesh with larger ventilation holes for better-than-average breathability. Despite being a racing shoe where every gram counts, the Rebellion Pro 3’s mesh upper is surprisingly not thin. It is not stiffly structured, so it moulds well to the shape of the foot. The tongue is thin and not fixed in place, but there are three loops through which the laces can be threaded to prevent the tongue from slipping out of place while running. The laced lace holes ensure a snug fit when the shoes are tightened. The minimally padded and stiffened heel collar hugs the ankle tightly. However, the heel collar has a sharper edge than average, so it is advisable to wear socks that cover the heel collar when wearing these shoes. The upper is true to size and moderately wide. The insole is glued into the shoe, so it cannot be replaced.

Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 midsole

The Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 running shoe midsole is not a typical midsole, as is clear at first glance. While its geometry and height are clearly unusual, its real special feature — the material of the midsole foam — is not visible from the outside. The midsole of the Rebellion Pro 3 is made of a nitrogen-injected foam called Enerzy XP, which is light, soft and dynamic. A curved nylon-carbon composite plate in the middle of the midsole makes the shoe more stable and dynamic. With a heel height of 39.5 mm and a front height of 35.5 mm, the midsole is officially legal for elite runners in competitions. However, the midsole is not actually at the heel, but 5–6 cm forward from the heel. Based on my own measurements, the highest point of the midsole in EU size 42 is 55 mm. This is above average and can be felt while running. Due to the 5-degree heel wedge, landing on your heel is almost impossible, and even if you manage to do so, the shoe feels very unstable. If you land on the middle of the midsole, you will experience extreme rebound thanks to its height. If you land at the forefoot, the shoe will feel slightly stiffer than average but still bouncy. The high midsole and large drop propel you forward quickly and dynamically, and transitions in the shoe are fast. Running in these shoes felt very unusual, but they are definitely fast. I would only recommend them for distances longer than 10 km to very experienced runners with good muscle. Even for shorter distances, only advanced runners who strike the ground with the middle of their foot will be able to take advantage of the shoes’ capabilities. The midsole is narrower than average at the heel, but wider than average at the forefoot, so it has good stability at the forefoot but is very weak at the heel. It is almost impossible to stand or walk in these shoes. When I tried them on and took a few steps, I was afraid I would break my ankle in these shoes, but while running, this feeling completely disappeared.

What does Smooth Speed Assist geometry mean?

Following thorough research and analysis of multiple runners’ strides, Mizuno designed this type of midsole geometry. The aim was to create a geometry that would support fast running and reduce muscle strain for runners.

The shape was created by designing the midsole to strongly strike the heel. This 5-degree wedge reduces the load on the ankle and foot muscles by 27% at the same speed.

This geometry supports forefoot and midfoot ground contact for a more efficient running motion and faster transitions.

The aim of this development was not to achieve a large heel wedge or a midsole height of 55–60 mm, but rather to provide a high midsole that offers much greater dynamic support and shock absorption while running.

Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 outsole

The Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 running shoe’s outsole completely covers the midsole, which is unusual for competition-designed running shoes. While other running shoe brands can save significant weight by using segmented outsoles that do not cover the entire midsole, Mizuno has chosen not to do so with the Rebellion Pro 3. This design feature improves the shoe’s grip, which is essential for speed. The outsole is made of a harder rubber compound called G3. Since it is harder than average, it is more resistant to wear, which is also unusual for a racing shoe. Grip is further enhanced by small rubber studs on the midsole. The outsole provides excellent grip on dry surfaces and average grip on wet surfaces.

Who are the Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 running shoes for and what kind of running are they suitable for?

The Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 is a fast, lightweight running shoe designed for racing. Its unique midsole geometry supports fast running and reduces muscle fatigue. The extremely high midsole provides excellent bounce and shock absorption. The upper is lightweight and less cushioned and stiff than most racing shoes, but more comfortable. The outsole offers excellent grip on dry surfaces and above-average durability. The Mizuno Rebellion Pro 3 is designed for advanced runners to use during faster training sessions and races. However, the unique geometry is not easy to ride and will feel uncomfortable and unstable for heel-strikers. However, if you strike the ground with the middle of your foot, you can take advantage of the high cushioning and dynamic plate. However, due to the unique geometry of the heel, the shoe is completely unsuitable for walking.