Alastair RunningVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
An absolutely fantastic running shoe that offers exceptional comfort, bounce, and versatility at an incredible price point.
Mizuno
Neo Zen
Super trainer · Neutral · 235 g · 6 mm drop · MSRP $150
BuildMax cushion
$75 at Running Niche$15050% off today
Critic consensus
from 5 reviewsThe Mizuno Neo Zen delivers a plush, bouncy ride with energetic supercritical foam at an accessible price point, though the upper tends to fit roomy. While its soft, non-plated construction excels on recovery runs and easy miles, it can feel unstable when pushing faster paces. It is best suited for neutral runners looking for a comfortable, highly cushioned daily trainer.
Reviewers agree
Enerzy NXT foam delivers a very soft and bouncy ride5/5
Offers strong value at its price point5/5
Roomy knit upper often requires sizing down a half size4/5
Generous outsole rubber provides reliable grip and durability4/5
Reviewers disagree
Stability of the soft, non-plated platform2 vs 2
Performance at faster, uptempo paces1 vs 4
What reviewers use it for
Easy5 of 5
Long run3 of 5
Tempo2 of 5
Race0 of 5 · no tag
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
5 reviews · 5 scores inferredKofuziVideo · Mar 14, 2026INFERRED
While it struggles with responsiveness at higher speeds, its comfort and natural ride make it a compelling option.
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
An interesting and enjoyable shoe for easy and recovery efforts, offering significant cushioning and bounce, but excessive softness limits its versatility.
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
Both agree it's a really solid daily trainer, offering impressive cushioning and a pleasant ride for its $150 price point.
EasyWatch review
Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 21, 2026INFERRED
The shoe's softness and lack of upper support lead to instability, especially for runners who mildly pronate, are heavier, or have skinny feet.