Blog
Test & review: Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2
If this model surprised us last year with the atypical geometric shape of the sole - the Wave Rebellion Pro returns this season in a new generation retaining the same identity but with more performance and the defects corrected. Strap in, we'll explain it all in the article below.
|
DROP |
1.5 milimeter |
|
WEIGHT |
211 grams |
|
TYPE OF RUNNER |
Advanced / elite riders |
|
SHOE TYPE |
Competition |
|
CARBON PLATE |
30% carbon / 70% nylon |
|
SELLING PRICE |
240 euros |
|
AVAILABILITY |
ROD
PLATE
SEMELLE
3 reasons to run with the new Wave Rebellion Pro 2 :
Are you a confirmed or elite runner looking for an ultra-reactive model?
this Rebellion Pro 2 could be just what you're looking for! Provided you have a certain running pace (we estimate a minimum of 4:00/km) from 5 km to marathon, and a midfoot or forefoot attack. Let's face it: if you don't meet these two conditions, you won't be able to get the most out of this model, and it won't be right for you. On the other hand, if you do, you'll discover new running sensations, with a strong rocking sensation (the highest of any carbon model on the market) and forward propulsion. The first few strides are quite impressive, and as the pace quickens, you'll feel the full effectiveness of the cushioning.
Looking for a model to beat your PR over 5 and 10 kilometers?
it's mainly over these two distances that this Rebellion Pro 2 will prove most effective and efficient. As the cushioning is fairly rigid and the running economy limited, it will be harder to bring to half-marathons and marathons. That's our vision. It's really on short, fast workouts that we're able to reveal the shoe's full potential. The cushioning is quite stiff compared to a HOKA Rocket X 2 or Nike Vaporfly 3, so it's much more responsive and playful. This is particularly appreciated if you're looking for new sensations when running. Foot support during exercise is good, stability a little less so, especially in bends (although Mizuno has improved on this point compared to the previous generation). On a positive note: excellent grip in wet weather or even on cinder track in Kenya (tested and approved by our athlete Julian).
You're a brand die-hard and have been running with it for a long time:
you'll love this model, which will fit perfectly into your shoe rotation. A pair of Wave Rider for your daily workouts and this Rebellion Pro 2 for your fast intervals and competition day. It's hard to beat that. If you've already run with the first-generation Rebellion Pro: the running sensations remain broadly the same, with more cushioning in the foam, identical weight and a lower drop (down from 6 millimeters to 1.5 millimeters).
MIZUNO
WAVE REBELLION PRO 2
MIZUNO
WAVE REBELLION PRO 2
2 points to remember about the new Wave Rebellion Pro :
Compared to the competition :
Even if it's a high-performance model, it's still not one of the very best carbon models on the market. Mainly because of the lack of muscular economy when running in it. It's a fairly demanding shoe, which can't suit every type of runner like a Rocket X 2 or Nike Vaporfly 3, for example. It's clear that you need to be fast, light and muscularly strong to be able to get the full benefit of the shoe. benefits of the shoe. If that's your case: you're going to have a lot of fun with this model in training (especially on the track and fartlek on the road), which is our case. On the other hand: we'd opt for a higher-performance model for weekend road racing.
Compared to the previous-generation Rebellion Pro:
As mentioned above, you won't discover any new running sensations, as the shoe's geometry and overall design remain the same. Mizuno has made some corrections, notably in terms of stability and foot support during exercise. The inner plate is 70% nylon and 30% carbon. The price has increased by 4%, from €230 for the V1 to €240 for the V2. This makes it one of the least expensive carbon competition models on the market today.
Our shoe rotation tips at mizuno :
Shoe rotation means using two or three different models in your training week. This is recommended if you have a performance-oriented profile and run more than 4 times a week:
Wave Rebellion Pro 2 (road racing) - Wave Rebellion Flash 2 (fast training) - Wave Rider 27 (jogging and long outings) - Wave Neo Ultra (jogging and long outings for maximum cushioning)
General opinion on the shoe
We tested this Rebellion Pro 2 for several weeks, on every possible type of session and surface. Even if it's only suitable for a closed circle of runners and not for the general public, and mainly for short, fast distances, this model has potential and has become 100% part of our shoe rotation, especially for track intervals where the sensations are excellent. We wouldn't wear it in competition at the weekend, as we feel there are better-performing models on the market at the time. But it's still an excellent 4 out of 5, because Mizuno breaks the mould with such a model and brings something good and new to the market.
Highlights
Weak points
Similar models from other brands : Hoka Rocket X2 - Nike Vaporfly 3 - adidas adizero Adio Pro 3 - New Balance SC Elite V4
MIZUNO
WAVE REBELLION PRO 2
Comment for the heel strike team:
I use the V1 in training and I heel strike and it's a pleasure to discover new sensations, and "it still goes" because the foot adapts naturally to the shoe.
It's just that I don't use them beyond the 10km pace, because attacking forward strains my calves, so on long threshold-style intervals, they pull. What's more (in my personal opinion), I think it's a good way of varying the mechanical constraints.
But knowing that we won't be able to use it for compèt, it might be better to go for the flash 2 / V1 to save money.
Thanks for the comment and reminder 🙂
For a 10km race, how would you position it in relation to a Puma Nitro 2 Elite? (Dynamics and comfort). Thank you for your interest!
I just beat my PR on a half with this morning in 1h46 so far from the pace you recommend. And I love this model. Can't wait to see how the Pro Max turns out if it's even softer.
Congratulations already! Of course this doesn't prevent you from running with it on other paces, but the brand recommends it on fairly high paces as it's quite demanding 🙂