The year was 2016. A shoe was released that changed the way we all (no hyperbole) thought about footwear. Lightweight, 1–piece, and seamless throughout the entire upper. I was obsessed. This new addition to the footwear market also featured a great cushioning system. And isn't that all you really require from your shoes? They're not too heavy, fit great around your entire foot, and the cushioning is, well, cushioned. Traction is important too, right? Who wants to be slipping and sliding all over the place? Especially in the winter when snow and ice are covering our streets and roads.
Oh, and you want the shoe to look good as well!
Fast forward to 2025. Friends, I cannot tell a lie (what's up G–Dub! That's George Washington.....) – when I first laid eyes on the Mizuno Neo Zen I didn't want to run in them. They just look THAT good! I was envisioning a myriad of casual fits with the Zen as the anchor. I'm actually doing this right now as I type. They pack THAT level of aesthetic power.
And.....then.....I.....put.....them.....on.....my.....feet. This is where I wish I could curse here, but WOW! I'm lucky to be able to experience lot of different footwear brands and models, and the Mizuno Neo Zen is right–out–of–the–box comfortable. I have a wider foot, so I am cautious when exploring footwear with 1–piece uppers. If that material isn't stretchy or forgiving, it's a tighter than welcomed experience and not conducive for comfortable running. That is NOT the case here. The Neo Zen is easy to pull on, and breathable around the entire foot. Lightweight, yet I still felt the shoe and its upper support. I immediately wanted to take it for a spin.
All of my Philadelphia Runner teammates who have experienced the shoe have raved about its performance. I, too, am immediately impressed. This lightweight, daily running shoe is perfect for someone looking for that vanishing feel in their running shoes. You're wearing it, but not thinking about it. From shorter jogs to longer runs, you'll like the Zen a lot.
The midsole is bouncy, but not too soft – ideal for speed/tempo work as well. You'll get a lot of versatile usage out of this new release. And did I mention how great it looks? Like I don't want to keep running in it.....but I shall.
The Tech Talk:
Discover serenity in motion with the Mizuno Neo Zen, merging the essence of Zen with advanced technology. Smooth Speed Assist technology allows for a smooth midfoot run, perfect for long jogs, while reveling in the bouncy sensation of a full–length MIZUNO ENERZY NXT midsole. With a 1–piece stretchable breathable knit upper and seamless integrated tongue, find your Zen in every step, embracing comfort, responsiveness, and a harmonious running journey.
Product Features:
Completely knit upper combines a sleek design and a natural fit for all foot types.
MIZUNO ENERZY NXT – The next generation of MIZUNO ENERZY midsole material. Designed to maximize energy return and cushioning for optimum performance.
Mizuno Enerzy NXT foam propels you forward with soft yet stable energy return.
Smooth Speed Assist guides your stride for a smooth and comfortable run.
Comprehensive rubber outsole maintains the integrity of the midsole material and provides multi–surfaced traction.
Specs, And Other Details:
Stack Height – Heel 40mm / Forefoot 34mm
Heel–To–Toe Drop – 6mm
Weight – 8.5oz (Men's), 7.1oz (Women's)
The Finish Line:
The Mizuno Neo Zen is here NOW. Continue your online visit to pick up a pair!