New 2009 models keep coming in and the shoe companies keep upgrading to improve, but not drastically change, your favorite shoes. Most of the shoe companies have focussed on gender engineering for years, but routinely have concentrated on the differences in foot structure...the heel, forefoot girth, etc.... "Brooks For Women" was the first company to really focus on engineering specifically to a women's foot type. Now, all the companies focus on this and are starting to take "Gender Specific" engineering to another level by also incorporating the differences in bone structure, biomechanics, gait cycle, etc....

What shoe company biomechanic labs found to be the gender differences between men and women are that the angle velocity and speed of pronation is much higher in women while the transition of the foot strike is much slower with men runners. Also the angle of the foot strike is more severe in women than in men.

Taken this into account, Mizuno has designed all their running shoes to feature "Gender Specific Engineering" to acomodate for these differences. Their top of the line performance models in Stability (Wave Nirvana 5) and Neutral Cushioning (Wave Creation 10), which recently hit stores, take this into account. Early returns at MRC indicate these updates are smoking, when it comes to performing. Below is a brief description of the New 2009 Wave Nirvana 5 and Wave Creation 10.

Mizuno Wave Nirvana 5 (Maximum Stability - Over Pronators) - $140

The Wave Nirvana 5 has been updated to better fit the "Maximum Support" runner. The new triple density wave is designed to flow with the natural movement of the foot, while maintaining strong support. Gender Engineering allows Mizuno to tailor the Nirvana 5 to the different needs of men and women, with the women's version having increased flex grooves and a rounder heel for a more natural ground impact.

Mizuno Wave Creation 10 (Maximum Cushioning - Neutral) - $135

The Wave Creation 10 is Mizuno's most cushioned shoe, designed for the neutral runner looking for maximum comfort. This is the first Mizuno to feature a new and improved Infinity Wave, offering incredible cushioning while minimizing weight. It features all the other technologies runners have come to expect from Mizuno, such as their Gender & SmoothRide Engineering, AP Mid Sole, and loads of VS-1 to absorb shock in the heel and forefoot.

Both shoes are currently available at Maine Running..... So whether your a guy or a gal, you know the shoe companies are working so you can.....Run Happy!