Mizuno Wave Kazan Review

I was compensated for this review as part of the FitFluential campaign but all opinions are my own.

Lets just start with the money shot...shall we? 

This shoe is awesome.  If I had to describe it in one word, I would say "Versatile" .  I've worn them on Grant's Trail, a paved trail and they felt great.  Flexible with plenty of cushioning without feeling clunky at all.

I've worn them on an unpaved trail and they provided enough grip and stability to keep me moving over rocks, branches, and dirt.

Mizuno got it right with the Wave Kazan. I got these shoes as part of the FitFluential campaign and I really didn't think I would like them as much as I do.  I'm learning to love trail running and I love that I don't have to worry about getting them wet, or rolling ankle.  Here are some details about the shoe:

KEY FEATURES

• Our most versatile, all-terrain trail shoe lets you glide smoothly over any type of terrain.
• A Concave Wave cradles the heel against excessive movement, while a midfoot “X” groove allows the heel and forefoot to move independently and adapt to uneven terrain.
• The ultra-aggressive x-studded outsole pattern is strategically patterned to provide optimal grip and traction while still allowing for optimal flexibility where needed.
• And at just 8.0oz., the Wave Kazan is light enough for a fast day on the trails, yet rugged and protected enough for an epic, 100 mile ultra.

The motto (or hashtag) for this shoe is #BlazeNewTrails and it really resonated with me.  I'm such a creature of habit, especially when it comes to my run routes that when this shoe arrived, I knew it would challenge me to try something new and not only did I like it, I loved it.  I discovered a new hidden gem right in my own back yard.  Who knew this little oasis was back there?!

I needed these shoes right now...I needed this run right now...I needed the change...I needed to know it would be ok to shake things up, to run the route less traveled to blaze new trails.  There's a lot going on right now, a lot of good but tough decisions and these shoes, this run provided a perspective and made me realize some things.

Who knew?!  All that from a pair of shoes!?

Do you trail run?  What kind our trails are your favorite?