RIA Member – Mizuno
Mizuno, a Japanese sports equipment maker founded in Osaka in 1906, has become a globally respected running brand. Early on it diversified from baseball gear into running shoes in the 1980s, before revolutionising the category in 1997 with its patented Wave Plate midsole for cushioning and stability.
The iconic “RunBird” logo emerged in 1981–82, symbolising boundless movement, energy, and the soaring spirit of athletes, meticulously crafted by Osaka R&D under Noboru Kono. This emblem embodies Mizuno’s deeply rooted Japanese craftsmanship, reflecting a philosophy of precision, improvement, and passion seen in its bespoke design approach at HQ and global studios.
Today, Mizuno blends its heritage of engineering excellence with dynamic design. Its Wave Rider series remains a steadfast trainer, while innovations like the Wave Rebellion Pro 3 – a carbon-plated race shoe featuring an aggressive rocker and Enerzy XP foam – push performance limits. Meanwhile, the Neo Zen and Neo Vista incorporate ultra-responsive foams for modern training – soft, light, and designed for maximum bounce, complex technology wrapped in clean aesthetics, perfectly conveying a Sense of Japan.
Looking ahead, Mizuno aims to broaden its impact in sport by targeting diverse runners – from elite racers to wellness enthusiasts – through technologically advanced, environmentally conscious products. Its commitment to sustainability is clear, with goals like CO₂ neutrality by 2050 and increased use of recycled materials.
In summary, Mizuno continues to evolve by merging Japanese precision with bold innovation -championing high-performance racing shoes, cutting-edge training models, and a mission to inspire every runner worldwide.