The Mizuno Neo Vista is a new super trainer that offers exceptional bounce and comfort, making it suitable for various running paces. With a unique midsole foam, a flexible design, and a secure knit upper, it stands out in the market, especially at a competitive price of $180.
In the world of running shoes, the Mizuno Neo Vista has emerged as a noteworthy contender in the super trainer category. Initially kept under wraps, this shoe has finally made its debut, and after logging 20 miles in it, I’m excited to share my thoughts on its performance, specifications, and who it might be best suited for.
The Mizuno Neo Vista comes in various sizes, with the men's size 9 weighing in at 9.4 ounces and the women's size 8 at 7.8 ounces. My size 10 weighs approximately 9.6 ounces (or 274 grams). The shoe features a very soft underfoot feel, attributed to its dual-layer midsole made from what appears to be Mizuno's proprietary foam, known as Mauno Energy NXT or NEX. This foam is incredibly soft and bouncy, reminiscent of the New Balance SC Trainer version one but with even more bounce and softness.
The shoe's design includes a well-structured heel bevel that transitions smoothly into a wide midfoot and forefoot. While the forefoot has a slight stiffness, it maintains enough flexibility for a comfortable ride.
The Mizuno Neo Vista excels in various running scenarios. It is not equipped with a carbon plate, which some runners might expect, but instead features a glass fiber material that provides a good amount of snap. This design allows the shoe to perform well during daily training and uptempo runs. I personally tested it during two-minute intervals, reaching paces as fast as 5:10 per mile, and it handled the challenge admirably.
While I wouldn’t recommend this shoe for distances shorter than a half marathon, it is an excellent option for marathon training and longer runs, especially for those who find carbon-plated shoes too rigid. The Neo Vista offers a bouncy ride that can accommodate a variety of paces, making it versatile for many runners.
It’s important to note that the Mizuno Neo Vista is not a stability shoe. Runners with significant stability needs may need to consider other options. However, the shoe features a groove in the midsole that helps maintain a centered ride, which I found beneficial during my runs. The lateral guidance in the forefoot provides additional support, particularly for those who may overpronate slightly.
After 20 miles of use, the durability of the Mizuno Neo Vista appears promising. The midsole and outsole have shown no signs of wear, and I plan to continue testing it to provide a more comprehensive review on its longevity. The foam feels resilient, and the overall construction seems robust.
The upper of the Neo Vista is crafted from a full knit material, which lacks a traditional heel counter. While this design offers a snug fit, I did experience some pressure on my Achilles due to a crease in the material. Wearing socks mitigated this issue, so I would advise against going sockless. The fit is generally normal in width, with enough stretch to accommodate wider feet, making it suitable for a range of foot shapes.
At a price point of $180, the Mizuno Neo Vista is competitively priced compared to other super trainers, many of which exceed $200. Given its durability and superior bounce, it presents a great value for runners seeking a high-performance training shoe.
Overall, the Mizuno Neo Vista is an impressive addition to the super trainer market. With its exceptional bounce, comfortable fit, and versatility across various paces, it stands out as a strong contender for runners looking for a reliable training shoe. If you’re in the market for a shoe that combines the feel of a super shoe with the practicality of a trainer, the Mizuno Neo Vista is definitely worth considering.
