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

A more cushioned, more versatile, more fun-to-run-in alternative to the Pegasus 42 — reviewer picks it over the Nike if forced to choose.

Best for: Runners wanting a max-cushion daily option with strong all-round range

A more traditional daily trainer feel with more stack than the Puma Pure, better suited for easy and long runs.

Best for: Easy miles and long runs

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.