Neo Zen 2 Specs
Best For- Daily training, long and easy runs
Category- Neutral
Weight- 8.5oz (Men's US 9)
Drop: 6mm
Stack Height: 40.55mm
What's Similar? Asics Novablast, New Balance Rebel, Mizuno Neo Vista 2
What Does Avery Think?
Smooth, effortless, and fun, the new update to Mizuno’s classic Neo Zen has me wondering if this will be my new go to daily trainer. There are a few key changes in the second version that are important to note: the redesigned upper on the Zen 2 now has a semi detached tongue that allows for a more adjustable feel, but they left the sock-like knit texture. If you’re a Zen lover you know the struggle of wrestling the old version on and off, this new version allows for a more hassle free adjustable seamless fit.
The Good
Mizuno also added a padded heel collar at the back of the heel to give the upper a more structured traditional feel. Mizuno updated the previous nitrogen-infused ATPU to a new, nitrogen-infused Mizuno Enerzy NXT EVA foam which is also used in the Wave Sky, Wave Rider, Wave Inspire, and Neo Vista. Big words aside, when I started my run the first thing I noticed was the change in foam. Compared to the first version of this shoe (which I absolutely fell in love with) the Zen 2 feels firmer making me feel more confident to take this shoe on terrain other than sidewalks and roads, on long runs and even speed work. Combined with the new secure upper, and the firmer foam, the Zen 2 feels more controlled.
My Tweaks
After 5 miles I experienced blistering at the back of my heel where the new padded heel collar sits. I sized up from my usual women's 7.5 to an 8. In my opinion the Zen 2 runs slightly bigger than the first version. I would recommend sizing down in the Zen 2, from your typical go-to Mizuno shoe size for the perfect fit.
Summary
Although I will miss the plush feeling of the first version, I feel more assisted underfoot than I did in the Zen 1. If you’ve been running in the first Zen, I would venture to say this new version will feel like home for you. And if you want a traditional daily trainer feel with a smooth, effortness edge, the Zen 2 would be perfect for you.
What Does Alex Think?
The Neo Zen 2 is the latest running shoe from Mizuno. Siloed under their “Swift” category, the Neo Zen is a stellar combination of daily comfort and peppy speed. The updated Zen 2 features a new midsole foam from the first iteration, and a new upper configuration, to address feedback from the first version.
The Good
The Zen 2 is a much tamer version of the shoe, compared to the first model. The first iteration had an ultra-cushioned ride that I loved personally but found hard to market to the average runner. It was borderline unruly, and the new version solves that problem. I see the Zen 2 being purchased by a much wider market of customers. That being said, Mizuno did not sacrifice any of the feel of the old model. Yes, the squish factor is less in the new version, but while testing, I found the Zen 2 to be just as responsive and much more stable. The updated upper is nearing perfection. The Neo Zen 1 featured a “sock-like” upper that was made from one piece of material. I could never get it on my foot right without it rolling and folding (I have a narrow, low-volume foot). This new model adds separate panels for the eyelets, so they cinch more closely to the profile of my foot. Overall, while some may miss the super softness of the Zen 1, I think the Zen 2 is a definite upgrade.
My Tweaks
While testing, a piece of the heel collar rubbed my ankle raw and led to a hot spot. There is a seam in the heel collar where the padding is stitched to the rest of the shoe, and it hit my ankle bone just right. In a perfect world, I’d move that seam, but I’m sure some people won’t even notice it’s there. One other note is that the Zen 2 runs big. I normally wear 12D, but I sized down to 11-5D.
Summary
The Neo Zen 2 is a super bouncy and fun trainer, designed for the average runner to add some pep to their daily runs. A versatile shoe, the Neo Zen is the perfect staple for the runner with only 1 or 2 shoes in their rotation. It will be a core member of my line up going forward.
