Mizuno Neo Zen 2

A solid improvement over the original Neo Zen with a more refined ride and better stability, though the $10 price bump and waxy outsole rubber knock it down to a thumbs-up B overall.

Best for: Daily training and longer easy-to-uptempo runs for neutral runners who want a fun, bouncy ride.

A really solid update that firms up the midsole just enough to add stability and extends the shoe to longer miles, with a much-improved upper and heel lockdown.

Best for: Neutral runners wanting a workhorse daily trainer with some structure for longer miles

The reviewer calls the Neo Zen 2 the best daily shoe he's tried in some time, praising its balance of comfort, cushion, weight, and usability, though noting it's not the most versatile when pushing the pace.

Best for: Aerobic base miles and daily training; can stretch to longer runs. Not geared for out-and-out speed.

A major improvement over v1 and an early contender for daily trainer of the year — essentially a lighter, cheaper Neo Vista with a stable, versatile ride.

Best for: Versatile daily trainer that handles easy miles and progressive/tempo efforts for neutral runners.

An excellent update that keeps the soft cushy character of v1 but adds enough energy to function as a proper daily trainer — albeit limited at faster paces.

Best for: Comfortable daily training, recovery runs, and long time-on-feet efforts at easy paces

The Zen 2 tones down v1's untamed bounce with a new super critical EVA midsole and improves the upper, resulting in a more plush, controlled, and versatile daily trainer.

Best for: A more versatile, well-rounded daily trainer that can handle slower miles as well as faster efforts.

A competent but uninspiring lightweight daily trainer that has traded the original Neo Zen's bounce and fun for added stability and a duller, less energetic ride, leaving it overshadowed by stronger daily trainers in a crowded market.

Best for: Easy daily mileage and cushioned recovery runs for neutral runners who want lightweight comfort and don't need a lively or versatile midsole.