Weight 253g
Evaluation The Phantom has always been a fantastic midweight racing shoe. It became even better when Mizuno added its Wave technology into the midsole. With minimal weight cost, that added cushioning, because the rippled plastic plate absorbs shock as it compresses, and stability, because of the way the ripples broaden on the medial side and the plate extends around the midfoot to stop the shoe twisting. Now it’s even more stable, because Mizuno has added support into the upper, which draws into the lacing system to cinch the rearfoot more snugly. The midsole has the appeal of being firm yet cushioned and protective, which increasingly characterises Mizuno shoes, and some weartesters have even been using it in brisk training in the place of heavier performance trainers. As it is, it’s a great marathon shoe for lighter, more efficient runners, and a good first-time or shorter-distance racing shoe for others.
