CONTENDER S

The Contender is an archive silhouette which was originally released in 1995, featuring design ideas from Mizuno’s founder, Rhiachi Mizuno.
This was a lightweight style characterized by stability and support, created for entry level runners who were looking for a well cushioned shoe suitable to run on or off road.
For the upper, the original Contender combined mesh with suede reinforcements for a durable construction whilst maintaining maximum comfort.
The midsole is a single density compression moulded EVA foam with Mizuno’s Transpower technology in the heel, a highly responsive foam insert that also provides shock absorption and added cushioning.
For the outsole, a new one-piece solid rubber was used with forefoot flex grooves for a smoother transition from heel to toe. The 90 classic look and the balanced way the matte mesh and suede are alternated create a unique mix between a casual feel and the sporty origins of this silhouette.

In AW23, Contender S is evolving into a new material combo, mixing suede and synthetic suede, with white base and contrasted colour eyelet.