After 15 years of running, I thought I had tried every major trainer brand. But Mizuno was one I had never worn until last month. While Adidas and Nike dominate with flashy marketing, Mizuno focuses on heritage craftsmanship and word-of-mouth. Yet it produces some of the best shoes in the industry.
When I got the chance to test the new Mizuno Neo Vista 3 Shoe ($320), released this June, I eagerly laced them up. Billed as a max-cushioned super trainer, it promises a bouncy, propulsive, and smooth ride for daily miles, long runs, and tempo efforts. Designed for mid-to-long distance races, it aims to keep feet feeling good while running fast.
First Impressions
Out of the box, the vibrant colourway immediately signals speed. The upper is unconventional: instead of a traditional tongue and lace setup, it wraps around the foot like a sock. While not my favourite style to put on, I understand the design choice—it makes the shoe lighter and more propulsive.
Weighing just 220 grams, it sits on the lighter end of the trainer market. Key features include Mizuno's wave-shaped sole structure for cushioning and stability, plus ENERZY NXT nitrogen-infused midsole foam for an energetic ride.
Fit and Comfort
Once on, the shoe is surprisingly comfortable. The sock-like design keeps the foot perfectly locked in place, ideal for faster paces or longer distances where forefoot slipping can occur. During a recent speed session, it performed admirably across various paces, from an easy warm-up to two-minute intervals and a tempo finish. It felt easier at faster speeds, with no wobbling—just a locked-in focus on running.
Verdict
I loved the Mizuno Neo Vista 3 and plan to use it for all tempo-based marathon pace workouts. If you're searching for your next fast running shoe, this is a great addition to your lineup. For more information and to purchase, visit the Mizuno Australia website.
