Finding the right running shoe is a bit like selecting the perfect wedding dress: When you put it on, you just know.
In fact, saying "yes" to the shoe comes with many of the same anxieties—Will I feel the same way a few months from now? Will it be comfortable for an extended period of time? How do I feel when I put it on?
At ACTIVE.com, we face these anxieties every time a shoebox arrives on our desk, and over the years we've all become loyal to "our" brands. But every once in a while, a shoe comes along that unites our predispositions and entices a string of approving nods in our daily editorial meeting.
This spring, that shoe was the Wave Catalyst, a debut from Mizuno that promises speed without sacrificing stability.
| Wave Catalyst | Weight | Heel/Toe Drop | Drop | Retail |
| Men's | 9.4 oz. | 20/10 | 10 mm | $109.99 |
| Women's | 8.0 oz. | 20/10 | 10 mm | $109.99 |
We tested the women's version in atomic blue, white and yes, diva pink. The majority of our training runs ranged from three to 10 miles, and we interspersed some off-road and speedwork as well. We even wore them at the gym a few days for good measure.
Initial Impressions
For the average runner, the Wave Catalyst is just plain easy. You slip it on and it works without worrying about stability vs. cushioning, neutral vs. overpronation, or any of the other variations of biomechanics and running shoe styles.
Don't get us wrong, those are all extremely important considerations when choosing the right running shoe (you can learn more about them here), but there's something to be said for a shoe that can appeal to a broad base of runners, especially beginners.
The Wave Catalyst is lightweight out of the box, although not to the degree of a shoe like the Nike Free RN Distance. The women's version clocks in at 8 oz., putting it somewhere between a high-mileage trainer and a true performance trainer.
The fit runs true to size, has a roomy toe box and is appropriately snug in the heel and forefoot.