Mizuno Wave Nirvana 6 - Plenty of support without the bulk.
I have the flattest feet on the team.
Don’t even challenge that… Just trust me.
About a year ago though, taking up some foot strengthening exercises, while switching to a mid-foot strike with a higher cadence has allowed me to reduce the amount of support required from my shoe, and I’ve found a nice level of comfort with the Mizuno Wave Nirvana.
The Nirvana offers a great form fit. Especially for guys like me with a flat, narrow foot.
Another great thing about the Nirvana is the extension of the medial wave plate all the way up to the forefoot. The plate offers added control during the toeing off phase of the gait cycle, and this works really well for anyone with a hyper-mobile sub-talar joint (again, much like my own).
Perhaps one of the best things about this shoe though, is that you can still get plenty of support, and manage to sneak away with a little less weight.
As someone who is very used to running in an Asics foundation, or a New Balance 1012, the reduced weight from the midsole of this shoe is definitely worth noting.
For me… it’s likely the closest I’ll ever come to being able to wear a flat, without paying for it later.
Roger Hospedales said,
July 12, 2010 @ 2:09 pm
I challenge you! I second your thoughts on the Nirvana. I’ve used them for many years for longer training and racing. I love the Elixirs too - used them up to 1/2 marathons but playing with the idea of using them for Ironman. But the extra support in the Nirvana might overrule those thoughts.
Mike Bosch said,
July 12, 2010 @ 11:07 pm
You guys don’t find enough cushioning in the Ronin 2? That’s what I wore for the Mississauga full.
Derek, we should talk about what exercises / strengthening you do. I guarantee you my feet are at least as flat as yours.
Mike
Roger Hospedales said,
July 15, 2010 @ 1:37 am
Mike - you are in a few different time zones as me so the Ronin’s will be fine for you in a marathon. I do love using the racing flats (still have some older model Mizuno Spacers) whenever I do a fast 5km or head out on a brick run where I just want to get a quick turnover going. It is amazing how it encourages more forefoot striking.