On Cloudrunner 2 vs Mizuno Wave Inspire 22:
Which to Choose

Start with what they share: both run a moderate, honest cushioning level, both use a firm-leaning foam with a plastic composite plate (On's Speedboard, Mizuno's Wave) that drives structure and smooth transitions rather than pop, and both feel composed and even-keeled but go a little flat if you ask for real speed. Their everyday pace windows are the same (roughly 5:30–6:30 min/km), and their weights are close enough to call a wash — both sit right around 277–280g in a men's US 9. The meaningful split is support philosophy. The Cloudrunner 2 is stable-neutral: it earns its steadiness from a wide base and firm sidewalls, with no medial post, so it guides a neutral stride without actively correcting one. The Wave Inspire 22 is a true stability shoe built for overpronators, using the guiding Wave plate to counter inward ankle roll — a more targeted intervention that a neutral runner doesn't need and may even feel. Underfoot geometry differs too: the Mizuno rides on a taller platform (about 37mm heel / 29mm forefoot) versus the On's lower, more ground-hugging stack (about 34mm heel / 25mm forefoot), so the Inspire gives you a bit more protection between you and the road while the Cloudrunner feels closer and more connected. Both list a 10mm drop but actually measure closer to 8mm, so their under-heel feel lands in similar territory. Finally, range: the Cloudrunner 2 peaks at the half marathon, while the Wave Inspire 22 has the stack and support to carry comfortably into full-marathon training and long runs.