Mizuno Neo Zen Review: Is This Soft Daily Trainer Right for You?

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If you’re looking for a new daily running shoe and have your eye on the Mizuno Neo Zen, this review breaks down everything you need to know — from performance and comfort to where it fits in your running shoe rotation.

Mizuno Neo Zen: Key Features and Specs

• Price: £130

• Weight: 262g (UK size 9.5)

• Stack Height: 40mm heel / 34mm forefoot

• Drop: 6mm

• Foam: Supercritical TPU

• Upper: One-piece knit

• Outsole: Full-length rubber coverage

• Fit: Runs large — consider going down half a size

The Mizuno Neo Zen is a non-plated daily trainer designed to offer a soft and springy ride. It incorporates a highly cushioned supercritical TPU foam midsole and a breathable knit upper with a minimalist design.

How It Performs on the Run

This shoe has been tested across various paces and distances, including easy runs and a 10-mile middle-distance session. The foam delivers a very soft, cushioned feel, which makes it ideal for recovery runs and general daily mileage.

However, that softness comes with a tradeoff: heel instability, especially for runners who mildly pronate or prefer a more structured ride. The knit upper also lacks lockdown and support, making it a questionable fit for those with narrow feet or who need a more secure upper.

Fit and Comfort

While the shoe is light and airy, the knit upper runs voluminous, and the extra-long laces don't help dial in the fit. Runners with narrow feet or in-between sizes should definitely consider going down half a size. The lack of support in the upper can lead to instability when combined with the ultra-soft foam.

The Neo Zen is best suited for:

• Easy daily miles

• Recovery runs

• Runners who prefer plush, cushioned rides

• Lightweight or neutral runners who don’t require motion control

  
  

Avoid this shoe if:

• You’re a pronator or require stability

• You prefer firmer midsoles

• You want a shoe that can handle tempo or speed work regularly

  
  

Comparison With Competitors

In terms of rivals, the Asics Novablast 5 and Adidas Adizero SL come closest:

• Neo Zen: Softest foam, great for comfort

• Novablast 5: Slightly firmer, better lockdown

• Adizero SL: Lightstrike foam offers more structure, but less plush

  
  

If you love a plated shoe or want a more balanced ride, the Mizuno Neo Vista might be the better option. It offers more stability and a slightly firmer platform that many runners may find more versatile.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros:

• Soft and springy supercritical TPU foam

• Lightweight for a daily trainer

• Grippy, durable outsole

• Stylish, modern design

• Excellent value at £130

❌ Cons:

• Too soft for some runners

• Heel instability, especially for mild pronators

• Voluminous knit upper lacks lockdown

• Laces are excessively long

  
  

Final Verdict

Should You Buy the Mizuno Neo Zen? The Mizuno Neo Zen is a fun, super-soft daily trainer that’s best for easy runs and recovery days. It’s not ideal for heavier runners, overpronators, or those who prefer a more structured upper and firm ride. If you’re light on your feet, don’t require support, and love plush foam — this could be a fantastic option. Otherwise, consider the Neo Vista for a more stable experience.

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