I will admit that I am a relatively new runner.I only began running in May 2008.I began running with the Couch to 5K program.Due to the nature of that wonderful intro to running program I started my running life as a low mileage runner.So, for much of the program I wore a pair of shoes that I had already.Naturally, as my interest in running increased I increased my reading and research and learned about gait analysis, etc.So, off I went to the local running store to find out what kind of gait I had.
I learned that I am a size 8.5, with a medium arch, and a very neutral gait.The saleswoman brought out all 14 brands of shoes they had for neutral gaits and I started a 45 minute process of trying a pair on, running for a minute on a treadmill, then trying on a different brand on one foot, run for a minute, decide which of the two I liked best, take off the loser, put on a new one, repeat.
At the end of this I ended up with the Mizuno Wave Rider 11.
And it's been a love affair ever since.
Since that day I've become a medium mileage runner.I trained for a half-marathon, which I completed, and now I run about 30 miles a week (2 5-milers and 2 10-milers a week).
These shoes have been fantastic.I have run injury and pain free the entire time.
Until about 3 weeks ago.
I started having a pain in my upper left calf (felt like it was behind my knee) and my middle toe on the same leg began feeling increasingly bruised.Running became increasingly unfun and uncomfortable, with a great deal of discomfort later.
I realized that I had ~350 miles on my shoes.
So, a few days ago I went to the running store and bought the Mizuno Wave Rider 12.
IMMEDIATELY, my pain and discomfort disappeared.On my very first run in my new shoes.
I can't say if the 12's are better than the 11's because it's been so long since my 11's were new.But, I can say that wearing the 12's has been a joy.My calf/back of knee and toe feel completely fine.My last 6 mile run felt great, with my knees not feeling fatigued at all.I felt very energized.This is a very responsive shoe.
So, I would definitely recommend this shoe to any neutral gait runner with similar mileage as mine.And I think the shoe fails fast so you'll know when it;s time to replace it.
Other info about me....I am a 34 year old female.I would be considered a heavy runner as I am 5'4" and weigh ~140lbs (I am distressingly muscular for a women...this is just my genetic luck).I run a 7:45 pace for 5-6K and 8:00 for halfs.Use this info (ie, pace and weight) to help you understand the timeline in which the shoe failed for me.
Product Description
In classic Mizuno® style, the Wave Rider 12 women's running shoe is crafted especially for supportive comfort. It features a combination of Mizuno Wave® and VS-1™ cushioning technologies, with an X-10™ outsole for dependable traction on a variety of surfaces.
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