Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
A cracking shoe and an early contender for one of the best daily trainers of the year, ticking all the boxes for a desirable daily trainer.
Mizuno
Neo Zen 2
Super trainer · Stable Neutral · 243 g · 6 mm drop · MSRP $160
BuildGussetMax cushion
$46.18 at berunner.com$16071% off today
Critic consensus
from 8 reviewsThe Mizuno Neo Zen 2 shifts toward a more stable and structured design, offering a secure upper with much improved heel lockdown. The cushioned midsole provides dependable protection for daily miles, though runners disagree on whether it feels lively or sluggish at faster paces. It is best suited as a reliable, protective trainer for runners prioritizing stability and comfort on easy runs.
Reviewers agree
Improved upper fit and secure heel lockdown8/8
Significantly enhanced stability over the previous version7/8
Generous, protective cushioning for logging daily miles8/8
Reviewers disagree
Pace versatility for faster runs4 vs 4
Midsole bounce and responsiveness4 vs 3
Outsole traction in wet conditions2 vs 3
What reviewers use it for
Easy8 of 8
Tempo4 of 8
Long run1 of 8
Race0 of 8 · 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
8 reviews · 8 scores inferredSagasu RunningVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
The Mizuno shoe he's been waiting for, offering a brilliant blend of responsiveness and cushioning.
EDDBUDVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
The Mizuno Neo Zen 2 is recommended as a superb daily trainer, offering a max stack without excessive weight.
EasyWatch review
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
The Mizuno Neo Zens 2 is a great update from its predecessor, offering a refined and enjoyable ride.
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
The Mizuno Neo Zen 2 is a significant improvement over the original in terms of ride and stability, making it a solid contender in the daily trainer category.
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
It is a competent daily mile shoe for those who prefer a softer ride and are not looking for an overly exciting or lively shoe.
EasyWatch review
MidLife RunnerVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
The v2 addresses fit issues and provides a more supportive ride, but sacrifices the distinct softness and dynamic feel of the v1.
EasyWatch review
jogoncragoVideo · Mar 18, 2026INFERRED
While not a bad shoe in itself, it is a major disappointment, trading innovation and unique character for a broader, more conventional appeal.
EasyWatch review