Neo Zen 2
Community Rating
  • SEasy Pace
  • CModerate Pace
  • CRace Pace
  • SComfort

Mizuno

Neo Zen 2

$160.00Daily Trainer

The Mizuno Neo Zen 2 is a versatile daily trainer designed for a wide range of runs, from easy miles to tempo efforts, offering a reliable "workhorse" experience. It features an engineered mesh upper for a secure, true-to-size fit with improved heel lockdown, though some found it narrow or noted it runs slightly long. The Enerzy NXT nitrogen-infused foam midsole delivers a comfortable, bouncy, and squishy ride with significantly enhanced stability over its predecessor, though some felt it lacked the radical dynamism of the original when pushing the pace. While durable, its outsole grip on wet surfaces was often questioned, and its increased $160 price point makes it highly competitive in the market, with differing views on its overall value.

Highlights

  • Significantly improved stability and secure heel lockdown compared to the previous version
  • Tunable midsole ride that feels plush for easy miles but firms up for faster paces
  • Secure, breathable engineered mesh upper that minimizes lace bite and adapts well to the foot
  • Smooth heel-to-toe transition that encourages a natural forward-rolling motion
  • Durable outsole with ample rubber coverage for reliable mileage

Considerations

  • Narrow forefoot and pointy toe box may not accommodate wider feet comfortably
  • Outsole traction can be inconsistent on wet or frosty surfaces
  • Less dynamic energy return and bounce compared to the original Neo Zen
  • Slightly heavier weight than the previous version
  • Can feel subdued or sluggish when transitioning to faster paces

Specifications

Heel Stack40 mm
Toe Stack34 mm
Drop6mm
Weight243 g
StabilityStable Neutral

Key features

  • Gusset
  • Max Cushion

Midsole

  • Primary midsole

    Enerzy NXT (EVA)

    EVA · Mizuno