Mizuno Spotlights the "Runner's Wave" in New 2016 Campaign

NORCROSS, Ga., March 2, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- To wave or not to wave? This is the question Mizuno Running North America is posing to runners in its new 2016 running campaign, "Wave," released in February. Mizuno is showcasing the "power of the wave," grounded in the company's core belief in the transformative power of sports.

Running possesses a truly unique transformative power, one that can bring people together for the common purpose of self-improvement. The "wave," a simple hand gesture, exemplifies this subliminal bond amongst runners. While some runners wave, and some don't, Mizuno is giving every kind of runner plenty of reasons to embrace the wave in the new "Wave" campaign. By doing so, Mizuno hopes to make running better for all runners — encouraging them to encourage each other, which, in turn, impacts the running community.

"Running may be perceived as a solitary exercise, yet running is an activity that brings people together even if just through the unspoken bond created by the simple wave of the hand," said Kim Hoey, Sr. Director, Brand Marketing & Management – Running, Mizuno USA. "When runners wave to one another, it can indicate support, camaraderie, gratitude or simply a mutual appreciation for one another as athletes. Waving not only represents goodwill toward another runner, it is a symbol of what Mizuno stands for as a brand. Just as Mizuno Wave® technology can transform a run, so, too, can the simple act of waving make an impact in the running community. With the 'Wave' campaign, we hope that runners are inspired to wave to each other more often."

Paying homage to Mizuno's proprietary Wave® technology that has been the cornerstone of its running shoes for nearly 20 years, the "Wave" campaign will encourage runners all across the country to find new reasons to wave to one another – and celebrate the reasons they already do. Wave technology cushions the run by absorbing impact and changing momentum. The Wave plate is responsive for an ultra-smooth ride while creating stability by keeping the foot centered and supported. Just like the physical wave, Mizuno Wave plate technology makes running better and puts positive energy into the world.

Mizuno is already making waves with the launch of the new Wave Catalyst. Runner's World and Competitor Magazine awarded the Wave Catalyst with the distinction of "Best Debut" in their respective 2016 Spring Running Shoe Guides. Featuring Mizuno Fan Wave® technology combined with a U4ic midsole, the all-new Wave Catalyst is a performance support shoe that offers a lightweight feel and responsive ride.

"The Wave Catalyst is the ideal choice for those who want to feel 'everyday fast' without giving up any of the support they need," said Mark Sheehan, Vice President of Product Management – Running, Mizuno USA. "At a weight of just 9.4 oz. for men and 8.0 oz. for women, it's a light, versatile shoe that can be used for everything from short interval workouts to long training runs. Runners will love the fit and feel of the Wave Catalyst as they glide smoothly across roads, trails or grass."

The Wave Catalyst hit stores nationwide in February with a suggested retail price of $109.99.

Check out the latest ad for the "Wave" campaign here on Mizuno's YouTube page. For more information about Mizuno's product line-up, visit MizunoRunning.com. Follow Mizuno Running North America on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest to share your #MizunoWave stories and keep up with "runners' waves" in 2016.

About Mizuno USA
Mizuno USA, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mizuno Corporation, one of the largest specialty sporting goods manufacturers in the world. Mizuno USA, Inc. manufactures and distributes golf, baseball, softball, running, and volleyball equipment, apparel, and footwear for North America.  Mizuno USA, Inc. is based in Norcross, Georgia.

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SOURCE Mizuno USA