As a heavier novice runner, finding the perfect pair of running shoes has been quite the challenge for me.
No matter what I’ve tried, I’ve struggled with persistent shin splints, so I’ve been left wondering if the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 could finally be the solution I have been searching for.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2, £149.99
The original Neo Vista launched in 2024 and quickly gained popularity for its plush cushioning, excellent shock absorption and remarkable comfort.
Now, just over a year later, the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 has arrived, featuring updates to the upper and a dual-layer midsole for enhanced performance.
Eager to see if this new model could not only live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor but also resolve my running woes, I decided to put it to the test.
Keep reading to find out how exactly I got on…
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How I tested the Mizuno Neo Vista 2
To put the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 through their paces, they became my go-to running shoe for several weeks.
I tested the shoes on concrete, woodland trails and the treadmill, with both shorter and longer runs on each.
During my testing, I paid close attention to the quality of the shoes, the cushioning, energy return, and whether or not they helped any injuries to determine just how good they are for my needs and if they are worth their £150 price tag.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2, £149.99
Mizuno Neo Vista 2: Quick summary
Pros:
- Incredible shock absorption
- Very high stack
- Extremely lightweight
- Breathable
- Plush foam
Cons:
- Not ideal for flatter feet
- Not a great deal of energy return
- A little difficult to get on
Rating: 4.6/5
The Mizuno Neo Vista 2 has been a revelation for me as a heavier runner, transforming my runs into a much more comfortable experience.
With its towering 45mm stack height and plush dual-layer midsole, the cushioning is exceptional, massively easing the strain on my knees, shins, and hips.
Despite the thick foam, the shoes are impressively lightweight at 264g, and the breathable sock-like uppers provide great support and keep everything secure.
On first wear, the shoes felt soft and bouncy underfoot, offering incredible shock absorption without being mushy or unresponsive.
They took some breaking in, but once settled, they performed brilliantly across pavements, trails, and treadmills.
While I did experience mild instability due to my flatter feet, switching insoles helped, though I ultimately preferred the plush originals.
Although slightly tricky to get on due to their snug design, the pull tabs made it manageable.
These runners prioritise comfort over energy return, making them ideal for heavier runners (like myself), recovery runs or everyday training.
Stylish, lightweight, and highly cushioned, the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 is a fantastic option for those seeking a smoother, pain-free ride.
They may not suit everyone, but for me, they’ve been a game-changer.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2: Full review
Mizuno Neo Vista 2, £149.99
As a heavier runner, it’s fair to say my journey so far hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing.
My knees and shins have somewhat become accustomed to feeling every lump and bump in the road, meaning most of my workouts leave me feeling like I’ve just been leg kicked by UFC Heavyweight champ, Tom Aspinall.
Naturally, with all my ailments, I’ve been seeking new ways to make my runs less of a chore, and that’s when I came across the Mizuno Neo Vista 2.
First launched in 2024, the original Neo Vista model quickly gained popularity among the community thanks to it’s incredible cushioning and high stack.
Now, a year on, this latest model promises to be even better with updates to the upper and a dual-layer midsole.
On first impression, these runners certainly look the part.
Atop a thick midsole, crisp white uppers are decorated with splashes of purple, giving these shoes a great aesthetic.
Wasting no time, I slipped on these new shoes, and instantly found myself to grow by what felt like 3″ thanks to the massive stack height.
Coming in at 45mm, this stack height offered plenty of distance between my foot and the ground, filling the gap with plenty of cloud-like foam.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2, £149.99
Underfoot, these shoes feel incredibly soft and bouncy, all without being mushy and unresponsive.
Admittedly, I did find them a little bit difficult to get on at first, but luckily there were two pull tabs to help me out.
The sock-like uppers offer a great deal of support around the upper foot and effectively keep everything in place.
Despite the thick layer of foam, the weight for these shoes comes in at 264g, which is pretty respectable for a heavily cushioned silhouette.
Fast forward to my first run, I grabbed my smartwatch and smart ring, and tackled a short pavement-bound circuit around my local park, and I couldn’t have been much happier.
Throughout, it felt like my feet, knees and hips had so much more support, and I managed to end the session without any pain or discomfort.
I do have slightly flatter feet than most, so I did notice a little bit of instability there, but not enough for me to complain.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2, £149.99
On my next run, I did opt to change the insoles to help with arch support, but after I’d finished, I was really left missing the plush inners that had helped me so much on my first outing.
After returning to the regular insoles, I tackled a range of runs over the coming weeks over treadmill, trails and pavement, and I’ve got to say things only got better.
As soon as the shoes were broken in, it almost felt like my aches and pains were a thing of the past.
The incredible shock absorption provided by the dual-layer midsole, combined with the plush foam, made each run feel significantly more comfortable than anything I’d experienced before.
Overall, the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 has been a revelation for me as a heavier runner.
While it might not be the perfect choice for everyone, its remarkable cushioning, lightweight design, and stylish aesthetic make it an excellent option for those prioritising comfort over speed.
Whether you’re looking to ease joint pain or simply enjoy a smoother ride, these shoes are well worth considering.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2: The verdict
For those who struggle with joint pain or impact-related discomfort, you seemingly can’t go wrong with the Mizuno Neo Vista 2.
With its towering 45mm stack height and plush cushioning, it delivered exceptional shock absorption and a smooth ride, easing the strain on my knees, shins and feet.
Lightweight and breathable, the sock-like uppers keep my feet secure while offering impressive comfort.
Moving forward, I might just have found my running shoe for years to come, because it’s going to take a lot for me to switch from this shoe.
Running shoe FAQs
What size running shoes should I buy?
It depends entirely on the model to determine which size of running shoes you should buy.
While many shoes are considered true-to-size, other running shoes might run half a size small or half a size big.
In some cases, certain brands might even recommend taking a full size up or down to achieve the right fit.
To ensure you get the sizing right the first time, it’s best to check reviews online to gauge the general consensus.
What to look out for when buying running shoes
When buying running shoes, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure you choose the right pair.
Firstly, focus on comfort and fit. Make sure the shoes aren’t too tight or too loose, as this can lead to discomfort or injury during runs.
Next, consider the type of running you’ll be doing. Road running, trail running, and treadmill running often require different types of shoes with specific features like cushioning, grip, or durability.
It’s also worth checking the shoe’s support and stability, especially if you have flat feet or overpronation.
Finally, read reviews and try multiple sizes to find the best option for your needs.
How long does a pair of running shoes last?
Generally speaking, a pair of running shoes typically lasts between 300 to 500 miles, depending on factors such as the shoe’s build, your running style, and the surfaces you run on.
If you notice signs of wear like flattened cushioning, reduced support, or worn-out soles, it’s likely time to replace them.
Runners who train frequently or on harsher terrains may find their shoes wear out faster, while lighter use might extend their lifespan.
To maximise longevity, rotate between multiple pairs and keep track of your mileage.
For more sports, health and fitness content and buying guides, check out our dedicated talkSPORT shopping hub.