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Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2 Review

Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2

Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2 Review

The Good

Thomas: The original Wave Sayonara was one of my favorite shoes last year, so it was smart of Mizuno not to change too much on the shoe. When I first got the Sayonara 2 I couldn’t even see the difference between the original and the predecessor. With a closer look I saw some slight, what I thought were meaningless cosmetic changes. When I dug deeper I can see they are very intentional design changes. The biggest difference between the shoe is that it is slightly wider, and I felt the forefoot of the Sayonara 2 was slightly more cushioned. So how did they add volume to the shoe without adding weight? The Sayonara and the Sayonara 2 weighed in at 9.3 oz for my size 10.5. This is where the minor cosmetic changes in the upper played a role. The “running bird logo” went from a stitched vinyl one piece to a welded on appliqué. Even the eyelets for lacing lost the reinforced stitching around the holes. I am sure there are other tricks Mizuno used to drop the weight to match the original Sayonara. Pretty clever stuff. So how does the shoe ride? If you liked the original Sayonara you will continue to like the 2. If you haven’t tried the Sayonara yet, here is what you get:

  • U4ic midsole provides a fair amount of cushioning without being sloppy. The Sayonara 2 is good choice for any distance.
  • Smooth transition through the stride with aggressive grip on the outsole for toe-off.
  • A superb fit on the upper
  • The wave plate makes the Sayonara 2 a very stable shoe.

Meaghan: We tried the original Wave Sayonara just over  a year ago. I liked the shoe, but had one major complaint: the overly snug fit.  I have wide feet and prefer a broader toebox. The original Wave Sayonara wasn’t quite spacious enough for me. The good news is that the second variation comes with a wider forefoot. Mizuno used a lighter, softer mesh that conforms around the foot nicely. The upper stretches well but still provides  a secure, supportive fit. This shoe generally feels more comfortable than the original. Weighing in at 6.8oz, they even managed to lighten it up.

Other than the alterations to the upper, the Wave Sayonara 2 remains very similar to its predecessor. Mizuno kept the rubber dot pattern and the plastic wave plate remains in tact from the heel to the midfoot. It’s a fast shoe, if you want it to be. If you’re not familiar with the Wave Sayonara, its a lightweight neutral trainer that can be used for every day use or speedier days. There is ample cushioning for long distances, but the light build also makes it ideal for racing.

The Bad

Thomas: The update is good, but for a new shoe it feels like a small update more of  a 1.5 than a 2.

Meaghan: Mizuno knocked out 1/2 of my complaints from the original model. However, I still had issues keeping my shoes tied. I found on several occasions I had to stop and lace up.

Conclusion

Thomas: The Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2 is a solid choice for both fast days and long slow days. This shoe remains one of my favorites from Mizuno and a top pick all around. If you haven’t at least tried these on you should consider it next time you try on shoes. I would also recommend snatching up the original Sayonara at a discount since the shoe is not that different.

Meaghan: Although many people will find the updates to this shoe are minimal, I think they’re significant. Adjusting the upper and providing extra room in the forefoot took the Sayonara from a good shoe to a great shoe. If you have a wider foot or just prefer a roomier toebox, I would spend the extra cash for the second generation. The “minor” updates are totally worth it.
Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2

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  1. Marco says:

    I use the first version in 2 half Marathon, but after 400km i leave it, the sole loose all the cushioning.

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