MIZUNO: MERGING SCIENCE & STYLE
From baseball goods in 1906, to state-of-the art silhouettes in 2024
LIVESTOCK STAFF
2024.09.16
The struggle between fashion and functionality is an age-old battle. Nowadays, footwear fanatics are committed to finding brands that create styles which not only amplify their collection but also possess the functional features expected from a brand in 2024. In this era we are looking for designs that have just as much function as they do fashion. This is where Mizuno shines.
Emerging in 1906, Mizuno was founded in Japan by two brothers, Rihachi and Rizo Mizuno. Rihachi’s love for the American sport of baseball inspired him to share his passion at home in Japan. The brand began its journey as an ‘athletic wear’ company, creating baseball goods. Over the years, Mizuno expanded into producing and distributing both clothing and equipment for sports such as tennis, golf, skiing, track and field, boxing, soccer and more.
Mizuno is known for its dedication to incorporating scientific research into its designs. This began in the 1940’s when they opened their first research lab. From then onwards they strove to find ways to improve functionality and comfort through materials that they created independently in their labs. One of the brand’s most notable successes came to light in 1998 with the launch of ‘Mizuno wave’ technology. The new Wave Plate within the shoe stretched out on impact, supporting the foot as well as propelling the runner forward and then returning to its original position.
Now, Mizuno is taking its scientific knowledge, and incorporating it into the runner and lifestyle scene. Its recent designs vary from classic, to futuristic whilst still retaining Mizuno’s renowned functional features that earned them their respected name in the sporting community.
Our first release from Mizuno contains two styles that perfectly encapsulate the polarities of Mizuno’s capabilities. The MXR, a quintessential retro-style shoe and the Wave Prophecy LS, a forward-thinking futuristic silhouette.
The first arrival from our Mizuno release is the MXR. This style blends the brand’s passion for technical evolution with exceptional quality. Taking elements of a classic retro aesthetic, the MXR adds contemporary elements to elevate the design. Lightweight uppers allow for breathability while contrasting overlays add substance and stability making this style ideal for both sports and casual wear. In the MXR, Mizuno have curated the perfect new-age retro silhouette.
First introduced in 2020, the Wave Prophecy LS shocked footwear fans with its futuristic profile. With high-tech uppers and a gapped sole, this style has garnered itself a well-deserved fanbase in its respective community. The centerpiece of this design however, is Mizuno’s signature ‘Infinity Wave Plate’ which stretches out on impact and propels the wearer forward, providing both comfort and support. We could very well be looking at the next cult silhouette in the Wave Prophecy LS.
Mizuno MXR Snow White / Magnet - Silver
$155 CAD
Mizuno Wave Prophecy LS Black / Black - Black
$330 CAD
Find Mizuno at usbchub.website or in our stores at Chinatown & Spadina.