Mizuno Contender Premium Dark Shad/Cloud Cream/Ult Grey

The Contender is an archival silhouette that was originally released in 1995 and features design ideas from Mizuno founder Rihachi Mizuno. It was a lightweight style characterized by stability and support, created for beginner runners looking for a shoe with good cushioning suitable for running on or off the road. For the upper, the original Contender combined mesh with suede overlays for a durable construction while maintaining maximum comfort. The midsole is a single-density compression-molded EVA foam with Mizuno’s Transpower technology in the heel, a highly responsive foam insert that also provides shock absorption and additional cushioning. For the outsole, a new one-piece solid rubber was used with flex grooves in the forefoot for a smoother heel-to-toe transition. The classic ’90s look and the balanced way in which the canvas mesh and premium suede alternate create a unique blend of a casual feel and the athletic origins of this silhouette. The color direction is primarily tonal with slight contrasts and subtle accents or contrasting sole elements.