Mizuno Neo Zen vs Neo Zen 2

The Mizuno Neo Zen 2 and Mizuno Neo Zen are two versions of the same model, and while both midsoles carry the Enerzy NXT branding, they aren't made from the same material. The original Neo Zen is the more exciting and more distinctive of the two, built around a supercritical TPU version of Mizuno Enerzy NXT that helps give it a bouncy, cushioned, lightweight ride. While the ride can be a bit chaotic, it definitely makes daily miles feel less monotonous. The Neo Zen 2 moves to a nitrogen-infused EVA-based Enerzy NXT foam, which tones that personality down in exchange for a more stable and controlled ride, helped further by a wider platform. It is still lightweight, but not quite as light-feeling or as wild underfoot as the original. The upper also changes meaningfully: the first Neo Zen uses a more sock-like knit upper, while the Neo Zen 2 shifts to a more conventional mesh construction layered over that knit-based concept, giving it a bit more structure, but it's not quite as roomy in the toe box.