Mizuno Neo Vista 2 Review: A Surprising Upgrade with One Small Flaw

When I first tried the Mizuno Neo Vista, the original version, it completely took me by surprise. I didn’t expect much, but that shoe quickly became one of my favorites of 2024. So when the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 was announced, I had high expectations. I’ve now had the chance to test it on a 10K run, and while it’s early days, I’ve gathered enough thoughts to share a thorough mizuno neo vista 2 review based on my first impressions.

First Impressions: Familiar Yet Refined

Let’s start with the basics. My first run in the Neo Vista 2 was a 10-kilometer effort at a 4:50 per kilometer pace. Not an all-out workout, but a good benchmark pace as I return from a recent injury. Even from this single run, it was clear that Mizuno made some interesting tweaks with this update.

Right out of the box, the shoe feels very similar to the original—same stack height (44.5 mm heel, 36.5 mm forefoot), same 8 mm drop, and a nearly identical rocker geometry. But there are meaningful differences that make this a more refined, more versatile shoe.

Weight & Fit: Slightly More Volume, Slightly More Movement

The Neo Vista 2 comes in at 285 grams in my size (US 11/EU 45), which is just a couple of grams heavier than its predecessor. Still around the 10-ounce mark, and still in the sweet spot for what I’d call an “all-rounder.” That’s important, because this isn’t a race-day shoe or a pure recovery shoe—it’s meant to handle a little bit of everything.

The upper has seen the most noticeable change. The original Neo Vista had a snug, one-piece booty-style upper that I unexpectedly liked. The Vista 2 keeps that concept but adds more volume. The tongue is still stretchy and integrated, and the heel is similarly shaped, but it now feels a bit more relaxed overall.

Personally, I preferred the snugger fit of the first version. I noticed some heel movement in this update—not enough to ruin the experience, but enough to be worth mentioning. If you found the first Neo Vista too tight, though, this extra room might be exactly what you were hoping for.

“Read Also: Nike LeBron Prime 96“

Upper Materials: A Trade-off in Comfort

The upper material has also changed. It’s a little stiffer and less pliable compared to the soft, stretchy mesh of the original. That means less foot-conforming comfort but possibly more durability. It also contributes to that slightly roomier feel.

Visually, I really like the design. The white version I tested looks clean and modern, with a reflective bird-like logo on the side that catches light with a slight iridescence. It’s a nice touch, and I imagine future colorways will make this design even more eye-catching.

“Read Also: Low top Basketball Shoes Men“

Midsole & Ride: Subtle Changes, Big Impact

Now let’s talk about the midsole—where the magic really happens. While Mizuno kept the same geometry and plate setup (a flexible, glass-fiber-reinforced nylon plate), the foam has been updated. And it makes a huge difference.

The midsole is now built with two layers of Mizuno’s ENERZY NEXT foam. The bottom layer is the same compound used in the Vista 1, offering soft, stable cushioning. But the top layer borrows from the Mizuno Wave Neo MIOZEN, a plush and highly responsive foam that adds an extra element of bounce to the ride.

The result? A smoother, more dynamic transition, with enough flexibility to feel natural while still giving you that little spring when you pick up the pace. It’s still not a race shoe, but it feels livelier than the original. That extra responsiveness means it can handle more than just easy runs.

“Read Also: Reebok Engine A Review“

Versatility: Where This Shoe Really Shines

In my opinion, this is where the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 truly levels up. The first version was already impressively versatile—I could take it from an easy jog to a moderate tempo run without thinking twice. The second version does that even better.

I wouldn’t use it for short, sharp intervals like 200s or 400s, but it’s definitely capable of handling tempo work and threshold efforts. At the same time, it’s cushioned enough for recovery runs. If you’re looking for a daily trainer that can do a bit of everything, this shoe has earned its place in the rotation.

“Read Also: Best Running Shoes in 2025“

Stability & Outsole: Small Tweaks, Solid Grip

The outsole remains largely unchanged, which I think is a good thing. It held up well in the original, even on light trails and gravel. I expect the same durability here. The rubber coverage feels a bit thicker this time around, possibly contributing to a touch more stability underfoot.

That said, the outsole grooves do tend to catch a few rocks. Not a deal-breaker, but something to be aware of if you run on gravel or packed dirt often.

“Read Also: Puma MagMax“

Pros & Cons of the Mizuno Neo Vista 2

Pros:

• Versatile ride: Ideal for easy runs, steady efforts, and even some workouts.
• Improved midsole foam: Softer and more responsive than the original.
• Durable outsole: Grippy and built to last.
• Modern aesthetics: Clean design with appealing colorways.
• Natural ride feel: Thanks to the flexible plate and rocker geometry.

Cons:

• Looser upper fit: Might not work for those who prefer a snug, secure feel.
• Heel slippage: Slight movement can be felt at the back.
• Picks up rocks: Outsole grooves can trap small stones.

Final Thoughts: Is the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 Worth It?

If the price stays the same as the original—and I believe it will—then the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 is an excellent value. It doesn’t completely reinvent the wheel, but it builds smartly on an already strong foundation.

I do miss the tighter fit of the first version, but the improved midsole performance more than makes up for that. Whether you’re a casual runner looking for an all-purpose shoe or a more experienced runner wanting something versatile for daily training, the Vista 2 is a serious contender.

To sum up this mizuno neo vista 2 review, I’d say: it’s more fun, more forgiving, and more capable than the original. That’s a rare combination in running shoes, and one that makes the Neo Vista 2 well worth your attention.