has once again shaken the industry with a fresh and innovative design. Last year, caught everyone's attention with its radical design, but as the hype settled, people still talked about . It had a higher midsole, a bigger heel than Wave Duel Pro, and attracted attention with its dynamic shape and fun take-off.
Now introducing , Wave Rebellion Pro 2 along with its sibling, 2, each shoe promises to elevate the runner's experience to new heights.
The biggest update
We begin with the speedy Wave Rebellion Flash 2. While the original Rebellion (2021) was followed by a modestly updated Rebellion Flash (2023), Flash 2 is a major improvement. This shoe brings significant changes to the table.
Flash 2 positions itself as a tempo or competition shoe, a more accessible counterpart to Rebellion Pro 2. It delivers an extraordinary rolling feel, anything but subtle. Essentially, both models challenge running shoe conventions with their striking and innovative design, adding an entertaining dimension to the running experience.
Wave Rebellion Pro 2 vs. Flash 2 - The difference lies in the take-off
While both shoes provide a noticeable take-off, offers a more pronounced experience. It incorporates a carbon plate embedded between a generous amount of soft Mizuno Enerzy Lite+ foam and the slightly firmer Enerzy Lite foam, boasting a more aggressive forward tilt. This design gives an energetic run at all speeds.
It's different with Wave Rebellion Flash 2, which still has Enerzy Lite+ foam but is supplemented by more resistant Enerzy foam for increased durability. Between the foams, you'll find a fiberglass plate. Compared to Pro 2, Flash 2 feels less springy, but more rolling, emphasizing a smooth transition instead of a more springy midfoot take-off. Our primary tester, Emil, recalls the feel of Flash 2 as unparalleled, even better than last year's Pro model.
A common quality of both shoes is that they feel best when you increase both your cadence and speed. These are not shoes for slow runs. But when you increase the pace, your hips automatically push forward, making your running motion fluid and forward-leaning.
Wave Rebellion Pro 2 vs. Flash 2 - Suitable for running fast
Both models feature lightweight, race-like uppers, but Wave Rebellion Flash 2 adds extra midfoot support and comfort around the heel. 2's upper is designed to feel feather-light and gives a little more space in the forefoot, ideal for long, fast runs on hot days.
Mizuno's expertise in creating uppers shines through in both shoes. They haven't overcomplicated the design; instead, they've produced two distinct thin uppers: one leaning towards a (Flash 2) and one expressing the essence of race-day (Pro 2) - all while maintaining comfort.
Wave Rebellion Pro 2 vs. Flash 2 - Good grip and more stability!
The previous 's outsole was known for its impressive grip, a feature that remains intact in the new Pro 2. However, changes in the midsole have made it possible to add more rubber, as part of the sole has been removed on the inside to increase stability. Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is developed to be a more universally appealing shoe - still distinctive in its feel, but now more stable and springy.
2 inherits a similar midsole design, featuring a groove in the middle to give the foam maximum energy return. Its grip, though less aggressive than the Pro model, is designed for durability and less prone to wear out.
Overall, both shoes have quite good grip, but even though Mizuno has improved the stability of Pro 2, they are still both high shoes, which some people may find unstable.
Wave Rebellion Pro 2 vs. Flash 2 - Cadence
Whether you choose Wave Rebellion Flash 2 or Pro 2, you get a shoe that promotes a fast cadence and provides an effortless and quick run. Wave Rebellion Flash 2 is versatile for tempo runs and competitions. Meanwhile, Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is the born racer, designed to maintain a springy take-off on your longer runs.
With Wave Rebellion Pro 2 and Flash 2, Mizuno continues to push boundaries, offering runners innovative options that cater to different needs, yet still united by their groundbreaking design and ability to make running an exciting experience.
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