Mizuno Wave Sky 8 running shoes

The Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Running Shoe is a highly cushioned, comfortable, neutral daily running shoe. It has been significantly changed from the previous version, with a different upper, new foam in the midsole and a lighter weight thanks to the changes. The Wave Sky has retained its character as a comfortable running shoe for longer distances, with the option to run a few faster sections when necessary.

Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Upper

The upper of the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Running Shoe is made of a mesh knit called Smooth Stretch Woven, which is more flexible than the average. The breathability of the upper is good, but not outstanding for wearing on warmer days. A wide version of the Sky 8 is available, but the base model is not narrow, so runners with narrow feet may want to tighten the laces. The tongue of the shoe is well cushioned and fixed, which locks the foot very comfortably. A change from the previous version is that the heel collar has been raised to provide better ankle support. The heel collar is also heavily padded, the lower part is very stiff, the upper part is softer. The upper is clearly designed for comfort rather than performance.

Mizuno Wave Sky 8 midsole

The Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Running Shoe Midsole is made up of two different foams, Enerzy NXT and Enerzy Foam, a change from the previous version which only had Enerzy Foam. The new Enerzy NXT foam, which sits at the top of the midsole, is a lighter, softer, more dynamic foam that makes the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 running shoe lighter and more comfortable and dynamic than its predecessor. Without the plastic Mizuno Wave Plate in the midsole, the foams are wave-shaped for a more dynamic fit and improved stability. Despite the high midsole (41mm at the heel and 33mm at the forefoot), the shoe has good stability due to the wider than average midsole. The Wave Sky line has always been about comfort, but the new foam has made the shoe even more comfortable and improved its dynamics.

Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Outsole

The outsole of the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 running shoe is made of a rubber compound called X10, which is on the harder side, so it has very good abrasion resistance. The outsole covers a large area of the midsole, but is segmented so it doesn’t make the sole structure stiff. Thanks to the transverse segmented outsole, the torsional flexibility of the shoe remains good, while the wide outsole segments improve the stability of the shoe.

Summary

Overall, the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Running Shoe is a comfortable, neutral, everyday running shoe with good stability for longer distances. It has a high midsole that provides great shock absorption, making it even more suitable for longer runs. Compared to the previous version, the upper is more comfortable and supports the foot better, the midsole is softer and lighter with a more dynamic feel thanks to the addition of Enerzy NXT foam. If you are looking for a highly cushioned, comfortable running shoe for longer distances, the Mizuno Wave Sky 8 is a good choice.