Mizuno Pro Wave Black & White Mid-Cut Umpire Plate Shoes
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Official Review: Mizuno Pro Wave Black & White Mid-Cut Umpire Plate Shoes
Watch why Ty is riding the wave of these Mizuno Pro Wave Black & White Mid-Cut Umpire Plate Shoes.
Additional Video
Official Reviews
Ray B. Upland, CA |
Nice shoe but I need a wide size.
Richard H. Florence, SC |
I cannot recommend these plate shoes even though lightweight and very comfortable. I had the same experience as the reviewer from 7/20/24. Took a moderate speed 16U fastball off my right foot the very first day. Thought my big toe was broken, but it was apparently just severely bruised. Could hardly walk for several days and am still having some pain nearly three weeks later. As always, Ump Attire was great in issuing an immediate refund, and I returned these as defective.
Scott H. Napoleon, OH |
Very comfortable and softer. Also lighter. Wear it. 5 stars.
James K. Henderson, KY |
These shoes are like walking on clouds. I really enjoy these shoes more than other plate shoes I have worn. They are light and fit true to size. The only downfall is no pocket under the tongue for your shoe strings. I have tucked mine in or even tied them up around my ankle, either way, I still give these shoes a 5 star rating. That's how nice they are!!!
Troy L. Hermon, ME |
Much lighter than anything I've worn before. Very comfortable.
John B. Albany, NY |
I've had Mizuno plate shoes in the past. Getting back into umpiring and decided to try these again. Have worked two games in them thus far. They've held up well. Very comfortable and lightweight. Plenty of room around the toe. Time will tell how they hold up, but I'd give five stars at this point based on weight and comfort.
Kevin B. Anderson, CA |
Good looking and lightweight. I wish they were slightly wider in width but very nice plate shoes. Feels comfortable to wear. Will see after a season of hot ASTRO turf games.
Nathan P. Strasbourg, France |
When I placed my order, I knew the Mizuno will be lighter than the New Balance. It was indeed the case when I got them in hands. But the real test is on the field. First run down the 1st base line, I felt weird. It was like I was wearing running shoes but with protection. They are easy to clean. I also like that I could use my orthopedic soles. Would recommend!
Ed M. Mason, OH |
I have been very disappointed with the Mizuno Plate Shoes. I took a foul tip off the toes on my right foot & thought my toes were broken. Fortunately they were not, but were severely bruised. I struggled walking for a few days. The shoestrings are similar to dress shoes, and the quality of the shoe seems cheap. I would caution fellow umpires, do your research before considering purchasing these shoes.
James H. Monroe, NC |
In my 17 years of umpiring from high school to college wood bat to college showcase, I always wanted the most comfortable shoe. I found it at the age of 63. I have never felt so much support. Other brands I have used have left my hips and knees sore after umpiring 5 games in 1 day. Not with the Mizuno plate shoe. No more pain. I am moving much faster in rotation. Great shoe. If you buy this, All-Star shin guards for umpires work really well with the mid cut shoe.
Matthew E. San Jose, CA |
If you’ve been thinking about getting the Mizunos but are worried about the fact that they don’t come in wide sizes, like I was, worry no more! I had a 2E on my New Balance plate shoes, so I ordered a half size larger, and the fit is great. After my first game in these Mizunos, the difference in how my feet felt was noticeable. Great shoes!
Eric P. Rochester, IL |
I typically wear a 9.5-10 2E in New Balance. Initially ordered size 10 but they were a little snug. 10.5 feel great! So much more comfortable than the New Balance plate shoe. New Balance better step it up quickly.
Todd C. Burlington, WA |
After years of wearing New Balance I gave these a try. Very glad I did. Great support like the NB, but lighter and more comfortable--felt like I was in tennis shoes. I highly recommend.
Ryan K. Endicott, NY |
They are so much more comfortable than the New Balance shoes. The only problem I have is I got hit once in the shoe and the toe of the shoe and the leather ended up splitting. Like I don't know what can be done but, yeah, they're like a $100 pair of shoes. They should be able to withstand getting hit by a baseball and not do what the pair that I got did.
Tom R. Peoria, AZ |
Umpires can be a very sentimental and tight group. We hate to part with things and tend to keep the old gear when we do break down for new stuff. With my final days on the field closing in soon, and staring at my old and melted Reebok Zigs, I came to conclusion that it was is long overdue for me to get new shoes. The Mizuno's will get me past third and heading for home. No question. This shoe is a God send, and I don't rush to get them off after a game. In fact, I keep getting yelled at for wearing them in the house. Honest, some times I don't realize I still have them on. PS. I've asked that they're on my feet when it comes time for me head for the field in the sky.
Scott D. Wilson, NC |
If you DON’T want to wear concrete shoes behind the plate, these are the shoes for you!!! The Mizuno’s are very light. They don’t even feel like you’re wearing plate shoes. I love them!! Con(s) - no tongue pouch to tuck away laces. - apparently they don’t come in wide sizes, but that’s not an issue for me.
Dwaine S. Spokane, WA |
Very comfortable and true to size. Easy to clean and expect them to be used daily.
Jeremy H. Utica, OH |
Great fitting comfortable shoe. Easy to add a shine to, though out of the box doesn't really need one. Sits a little higher, closer to a high top or Smitty base shoe than the older model that I had to order from Japan as fast pitch umpire. Wish it was solid black over white running bird. But over all great shoe, great fit for a narrower foot. Will definitely buy again when time comes.
Ron L. Waltham, MA |
Good shoe. Comfortable enough, easy to clean post game. Haven’t been hit hard on foot yet but feel confident in the provided protection.
David H. Washington |
As others have noted, the shoes are lightweight and comfortable. However, the material on the upper is easily scratched and cut - I've been wearing these all spring and they already look more beat up than the 10 year-old Reeboks they replaced.
Robert M. Newark, CA |
I bought the Mizuno Plate Shoe because I have two AAA Umpires who swear by them. I have to say that they are very comfortable. I have a normal width and they fit perfectly. I took a College foul ball off the toe and felt nothing. They clean up very easily as well.
Codi A. Jacksonville, FL |
I originally got these because as a lady, they are the only plate shoes that come small enough to fit my actual shoe size. However, the 7.5 was extremely narrow. I ended up exchanging for the 8 in the New Balance, which I found better designed and more comfortable.
Rob S. Ludlow, KY |
Great shoes so far. Seem to be well built and clean up easily. Light weight and comfortable to wear.
Blair C. Springdale, AR |
Wow! These live up to the hype. Super lightweight and comfortable. If you have a wide foot go up a half size, I was skeptical but it works! I feel much faster with these shoes than my old new balance. Wish they came in all black but I will find a way to black them out. Really impressed with this shoe.
Dustin C. Watkinsville, GA |
I already had some decent plate shoes but had worked with some folks who used the Mizuno Pro Wave plate shoes and loved them. I have used them several times and love the shoes. For high top shoes they are lightweight, comfortable, and look great!!!
Carl H. Sylvania, OH |
I just wore these for four games in a dome on turf; that's my only experience so far. With that being said, they're OK. They have a good grip on turf, and while I didn't take any shots to the feet, they seem like they would deflect balls with ease. I do like the fact that the steel upper is connected to the toe with cloth, not leather...my New Balance shoes only lasted 3 years because that connection tore. Now, with that being said, the New Balance shoes are more comfortable; with NB, it's like you're walking on pillows. The Mizuno aren't bad, but they're not as comfortable. However, New Balance are more pricey than these, so you get what you pay for.
Jeremy D. Jefferson, TX |
We are just now starting the season here in Texas. I needed a new pair of plate shoes and these are perfect! I ordered a half size larger than I normally wear due to not having extra width available. They are very lightweight and feel great on my feet! I absolutely love them!
Mark H. Oregon City, OR |
Received mine about a week ago. Lightweight and comfortable. They shined up nicely. I'm looking forward to the start of the season to actually try them out!
Colby A. Cookeville, TN |
Very comfortable and light-weight, was able to wear them out of the box with no issues and minimal break-in time. Felt great when having to run on a rotation. Laces feel a little thin, so I'm not sure how long the laces will last before needing to be replaced, but the comfort is well worth it.
William L. Tampa, FL |
Received my Mizuno Plate Shoes. They look great and feel very comfortable and light on my feet. I put them on and wore them in the house for a day. They felt great. I can't wait to use them in my first game come February.
Alan B. Clermont, FL |
Phenomenal looking shoe, so much nicer looking than the New Balance plate shoe. The shoe is also much lighter than the New Balance plate shoe. It is a little snugger in the toe box but that tends to widen out during the break-in period. Looking forward to my first plate assignment to break these bad boys in!!!
Spencer B. San Diego, CA |
Love these plate shoes! Super comfortable and light like a basketball shoe. Best plate shoe I've ever tried.
Chadwick S. Lithonia, GA |
These are very light and almost feel like basketball shoes on your feet. They are way more comfortable than the previous model New Balances. Awesome shoes!
Mauricio C. San Ysidro, CA |
Best plate shoes I’ve ever purchased! Super light and easy to clean. These shoes are amazing.
Lee W. North Augusta, SC |
Great shoe!! It is lightweight and allows you to move around the infield with ease. Excellent feel, and support.
Lewis S. Cape Coral, FL |
Best plate shoes I’ve ever purchased! Super light and easy to clean. Definitely recommend.
Joseph H. Chesterfield, VA |
WOW, I know it was only for one night doing two games, but these shoes are amazing.
Andrew E. Binghamton, NY |
The Mizuno plate shoes feel lighter than the New Balance shoes. They run a little narrower than New Balance plate shoes, but overall very comfortable. My only complaint is the flat shoelaces. I can triple-knot them and they’ll still somehow come untied by the 5th inning. Great plate shoe if you swap in oval shoelaces.
Michael L. Seaford, DE |
Very comfortable but don’t seem to be holding up. One of the plates stitches has already worn out and now flops around. Looks like this shoe only lasts one season.
Eladio V. Clifton, NJ |
Oh my! I have been umpiring for years and I have used New Balance and 3N2 but these are the ONES!! Light and extremely comfortable! Finally a plate shoe that makes the job easier and bearable! Thank You Mizuno!!!
Daniel D. Southaven, MS |
I bought these because a lot of people I know that has bought the new model New Balance plate shoe has a problem with the toe of the shoe coming lose. After wearing these for a couple of tournaments I'm extremely satisfied that I purchased these. Very lightweight and comfortable. Only thing I can knock them for is the shoe strings. They're not as good as the ones that New Balance uses.
Troy M. Pulaski, TN |
I am very impressed with this plate shoe. I have been wearing New Balance for years, but the Mizuno is far better. Fit is true to size. Feels great on my feet for multiple games behind the plate.
Dale H. South Williamsport, PA |
Very comfortable shoes.
Jim T. Oshawa, ON |
Remarkable plate shoe. I have been a loyal New Balance customer for years but the Mizuno is a few steps ahead. It is very comfortable and lightweight. I have a wide foot and went up half a size with no issues. Hats off to Mizuno.
Brock C. Tulsa, OK |
These shoes are by far and away so much more comfortable than my previous New Balance shoes. They are also very lightweight but protect my feet perfectly. I highly recommend these and thank you, Mizuno, for coming out with a plate shoe!
TP Niagara Falls, NY |
Well made shoe and very comfortable.
Eddie B. Toledo, OH |
Beautiful and comfortable. Great customer service from Ump Attire. I strongly suggest ordering the next size up from what you usually wear. I wear a size 10 1/2 ordered them, the length was good but very tight. Contacted customer service they issued me a return slip and suggested a re-order of a size 11, which I did. Perfect! In a matter of four days, received the size 11s. I couldn't be happier with both the shoes and Ump Attire!
Timothy T. Charleston, IL |
Switched over from New Balance. These are the most comfortable plate shoes I've worn.
Dean H. Morehead, KY |
Lighter than my old New Balance shoes. I like that they have a minimum of the "impossible-to-keep-clean" mesh materials designed into this shoe. I like the look of the shoe itself; very clean design with a minimum of nooks and crannies that attract dirt and make the shoe difficult to clean. The metatarsal plate is attached very similarly to the New Balance design. Time will tell if this model will endure or suffer the same failure as some models of the New Balances. I will probably take them to a cobbler to reinforce in the off-season. The fit seems to be a bit snug. If I were to order again, I’d probably go up a half-size. Also seems a bit narrow, but the fit for me is good. My advice to any who order is to order one pair in your normal size and another in a half-size up and try them both on and return the one that doesn’t fit as well. All in all very happy with these shoes. Don’t have a lot of games on them yet, but very much recommend.
Stephen W. Laguna Niguel, CA |
LOVE these new plate shoes! I think they are lighter than the NB, and I like that they are made of leather. Very satisfied with them.
Ismael P. San Antonio, TX |
It might be the best shoe since the Unicorn Reebok. It's not heavy, has great fitment, and, most of all, feels like a tennis shoe. Have had them on for 5 games on Saturday, 3 Sunday, and 2 Monday. With other brand plate shoes, my feet would have been killing me just from the weekend work. Put them on this past Monday. I had no problems at all.
Brett D. Box Elder, SD |
Great shoes! Wonderful fit in the arch and around the side of my feet. They breathe in an outstanding manner which leaves my feet feeling very relaxed, and thankful that we bought these!
Stephen D. Wichita, KS |
Very comfortable and they fit true to size.
Dana H. Olivet, MI |
These shoes are comfortable, look good, and easy to clean. I am very impressed with the Mizuno plate shoe.
Jason P. Belle Plaine, MN |
Awesome Fit and are very comfortable they look really sharp. I would highly recommend buying these Plate shoes to anyone.
Len Burbank, CA |
I far prefer these Mizuno plate shoes to the New Balance. Feels less like a heavy boot and more athletic to run in. Better "leather" and also not as wide, which suits me better. Yes, you will need to buy new shoelaces as these are awful but other than that, they are better in every way. I wore a size 11 in the New Balance shoe and the size 11 Mizuno fits the same.
Drew A. Lexington, KY |
Great shoe! Very light and fits true to size. Much more support than my New Balance and is lighter as well.
Bill W. Madison, AL |
I bought these to be my "Turf only plate shoes." I had a couple of games yesterday on an all-turf field so I wore them for the first time. WOW! Rotations were a lot easier. By the end of the game, they had gotten a little broken in and felt almost like base shoes. Not only are they super light, but they also have more flex than my other plate shoes, so they are way easier to run in and are more comfortable. They may end up being my go-to plates and my others get relegated to "Turf-only." I wear a "D" width but have to get EE in New Balance, but these were perfectly fine.
Scott D. Birmingham, AL |
These shoes are more narrow than the New Balance but run pretty true to size (I wear a 15 in each). I find them much lighter and easier to umpire in than my old shoes. I'm very happy with the fit and the level of protection.
Matthew B. Manhattan Beach, CA |
These shoes have cheap dress shoe strings. The shoes run very narrow and small. The logos on sides are poorly done. The cloth will be very difficult to clean. The shoe is cheap!! Smitty is much much better. On 1 to 10, I’d give a generous 2.
Bob R. Glenwood Springs, CO |
I wasn't sure what to expect. I ordered a pair of the turf shoes for football last fall and they weren't comfortable at all. New Balance don't work well for me so I thought I would go ahead and give these a shot. I am so glad I did! I haven't had comfort and support in a plate shoe like this ever and I have had Reebok, Smitty and a couple different New Balance. I am glad Mizuno finally became available!
Anthony L. Berlin, CT |
I love the new Mizuno plate umpire shoes. Just have to make sure you order up a size as they run narrow and small. Other than that they're awesome. Very comfortable and durable.
Robin M. Sierra Vista, AZ |
No hyperbole, just great fitting, extremely comfortable shoes. If you are looking for new plate shoes give these a try, you won't be disappointed.
Walter C. Sparks, NV |
These shoes are extremely comfortable. The metatarsal guard attaches in a way that allows me to lace my shoes nice and tight, just the way I like them. Plus, they look great.
Tony C. Conyers, GA |
Great shoe, I like the tight fit. Not bulky, like the New Balance.
Bobby N. DeKalb, TX |
Wow, these shoes are so much lighter than the New Balance shoes. To combat the already perceived narrowness, I bought a half-size larger than I normally wear. Great shoe, and as always, incredible service from Ump Attire.
Janet T. Woodstock, GA |
I have the all black Mizuno plate shoes and wanted to have a back up pair so I ordered these. Mizuno is the one of two companies to offer a size smaller than a men's 8 (I need a 7) and I don't trust the other brand. I received them on a Wednesday and wore them Wednesday night, Thursday night and Saturday and many times since then. They're amazing. The fit is great, and it feels like I'm walking/running on cushions. I did change the lacing at the top and that made the fit a little better at the top of the foot - felt more secure. The tread on the bottom is tight so it's a little tough to get the mud/dirt out, but it's not horrible. I highly recommend these shoes. They look SHARP and feel GREAT!
Lane M. Allen, TX |
I picked these up to replace my well worn Smitty plate shoes. My Smitty plate shoes are a little roomy, I wear double-socks when using them and they are still a little roomy for me. I also wear a 12 2E New Balance base shoe because I'm kinda in-between a standard and mid-wide size foot. I got the size 12 of these shoes. These Mizunos are SUPER comfy, and look great, love the way the protection plate lays over the foot. The fit is a tad narrow though (not tight on my foot, but feels narrow on the bottom of the foot); the shoe seems to fit fine and comfy, but the sole of the shoe is very narrow, so it feels like I'm standing on a 2x4 edge kinda even though the shoe itself doesn't seem to NOT fit. I am going to return them and hopefully they'll come out with a slightly wider sole for the shoe soon, because these look fantastic.
Justin K. Bedford, PA |
After my first plate game of the season, I can say that I like both the look and feel of these umpire plate shoes more than that of the NB v3 shoes. They were comfortable, protective, and look great!
Michael H. Johnson Creek, WI |
Purchased these after not liking the New Balance V3 (didn't like how high the toe cap sits and interfered with my shin guard fit). Just got them earlier today; the first impression is great! Very comfortable and the fit was as expected (10.5 for both New Balance and Mizuno) and the shin guards sit perfectly behind the toe cap. I'm looking forward to using them on the field. I appreciate the free return policy. It made it easy to send back the New Balance and I've already received the refund.
Questions About This Product
Q: | I see an above question about how there will not be an all black version. What I'm wondering is will they make a low cut version like New Balance did? – Brad Dickerson |
A: | At this time, we do not expect an low-cut version of this shoe. – Brandon LawsonSupport Specialist, Pro Umpire School Graduate and Umpire, Football Official & Basketball Referee |
Q: | Will there be a shoe with ALL black Mizuno RunBird logo available for purchase? For those that work softball at the higher levels, not allowed to wear any white. Thanks in advance & greatly appreciated.
– Rick Sanzone |
A: | Mizuno does not intend to offer a version of this shoe with the logo blacked out. While it would make the shoe unreturnable, applying some black paint to the logo would be the best route to comply with softball association/conference requirements. – Ty UnthankMarketing Specialist, HS & College Umpire |
Q: | What is the length of the laces supplied and does the tongue have a hidden pouch to store excess? – Nicholas Travis |
A: | The laces on these plate shoes are 60" inches (5 feet) in length. There is no pouch to store any excess laces. – Holly MontgomeryCustomer Service Specialist |
Q: | Are they steel toed? – Kelly Cook |
A: | No, there is no steel in these shoes. In an attempt to decrease the weight of umpire shoes, manufacturers began changing steel toes with composite materials several years ago. Therefore, the "plate" in plate shoes is short for "home plate", not "steel plate". – Cortney AndersonCustomer Service Specialist |
Q: | do the insoles come out to accommodate orthotics? – Eladio Villanueva |
A: | No, the insoles of these shoes are not removable. – Holly MontgomeryCustomer Service Specialist |
Q: | Is this made with 100% leather or man made leather? – Joseph Carter |
A: | The upper portion of these Mizuno Umpire Plate Shoes are constructed of a synthetic leather material. – Hunter FrySupplier Relationship Manager, Customer Service Specialist, Former Basketball Referee |
Q: | How is the sizing of these vs. New Balance? Are they true or size up? I normally wear a 10.5 plate shoe from New Balance. Thanks! – Michael Henningsen |
A: | We encourage umpires to order their true size. If necessary however, take advantage of our Free Returns Policy. – Brandon LawsonSupport Specialist, Pro Umpire School Graduate and Umpire, Football Official & Basketball Referee |
Q: | I use 8.5 in New Balance because, at the front, it's a little tight. What size is better for me in Mizuno; 8 or 8.5? Is Mizuno wider in the front? My real size is 8. – Magali Báez |
A: | The Mizuno Plate shoes are true to size. Also, at this time, Mizuno only makes their plate shoes in standard width, not a 2E or 4E width. Remember that Ump Attire offers a generous Free Return Policy, so you can order with confidence and return any unused, non-game-worn product that doesn't fit quite right. – Holly MontgomeryCustomer Service Specialist |
Q: | Do these plate shoes come in wide or extra wide? – Eddie Duff |
A: | These Mizuno umpire plate shoes are only available in a D width. – Sherie SandiferOffice/Service Manager |
Q: | How does sizing with the Mizuno plate shoe compare to the Smitty plate shoe? Should you order the same size as Smitty? Any significant difference in the width between the two? – Nathan Huang |
A: | The sizing will be similar in length, however the Smitty All-Black Mid-Cut Umpire Plate Shoe is a generous D width while this Mizuno is a standard D width. We would encourage ordering the same size but also rest assured knowing Ump Attire is happy to offer Free Returns. – Ty UnthankMarketing Specialist, HS & College Umpire |
Q: | Do these shoes fit to size? – Brian Jackson |
A: | Yes, we have found these shoes are fitting true to size. However, if you find the sizing unsatisfactory, please take advantage of our Free Returns Policy. – Sherie SandiferOffice/Service Manager |
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WARNING: Participants in any sports activity assume risk of injury. This equipment may be used to help aid in preventing or reducing the extent of injury. No equipment can guarantee umpire or player safety from injury during participation, and use of this equipment carries no such guarantee. Do not use any umpire equipment that is damaged in any way.