Mizuno Neo Zen 2

The Mizuno Neo Zen 2 is the light, bouncy daily trainer of the Neo range: lots of foam underfoot and no plate, for easy runs, medium-length runs and the occasional change of pace. It pairs with the Neo Vista 3, which has a taller stack and is somewhat softer, and sits above the classic Wave Rider 30 in lightness and liveliness, the Rider remaining the more traditional option for piling on the miles.

The first Neo Zen offered great responsiveness but was quite unstable, with a loose upper that forced you to tighten the laces a lot. This version fixes that: the upper is new, a mix of breathable mesh and stretch knit with the tongue attached to the sides, which at first seems too snug and then gives exactly where needed. The heel has more padding and holds better, without rubbing the Achilles tendon. The forefoot is not one of the roomiest, so anyone with wide feet should try it on first.

Leaving the upper aside, the big change is in the midsole: the supercritical TPU of the first version gives way to nitrogen-injected Enerzy NXT on top and an EVA-based Enerzy NXT layer below, which adds stability. The central cut-out in the outsole is also gone, now filled with foam. The result is a firmer, less unstable ride than before, though with plenty of bounce, and a relatively stiff platform with a moderate geometry (the Mizuno Smooth Speed Assist) that allows a smooth transition. With 40 mm at the heel and a 6 mm heel-to-toe drop, the drop now feels like what it is, unlike the first version, where the foam compressed so much that it seemed much lower. It is neutral, but the medial wall in the midfoot pushes the foot outwards, which may bother anyone sensitive in the arch area. The X10 rubber outsole is thin but has proven to withstand wear well. Ideal for daily runs and medium-length runs, responding without trouble when the pace picks up.