Supernova Prima 3 vs Wave Rider 28

The Supernova Prima 3 is adidas' comfort-first daily training shoe, a max-cushioned road trainer built to soak up easy miles and keep you fresh over the long run. With a 38mm heel and 8mm drop it sits firmly in the plush, protective camp, and the Dreamstrike+ foam is what gives it that soft, forgiving landing. This is not a shoe chasing pace. At 290g it is on the heavier side for a daily trainer, so you feel it more as a mile-eater than a snappy one. What you get in return is a smooth, stable ride that holds up well as fatigue sets in, helped by the Support Rods that add a touch of structure without turning it into a stability shoe. We rate it as a straightforward everyday running shoe for runners who value cushioning and calm over speed. If you want more energy return for tempo days, the lighter Supernova Rise 3 is the more versatile sibling.

The Wave Rider 28 is Mizuno's long-running neutral daily trainer, and version 28 keeps doing what this line has always done: give you a smooth, dependable road running shoe you can lace up every day without a second thought. It is not the softest or the lightest daily trainer out there. At 280g and with a traditional 12mm drop, it leans firmer and more old-school than the tall, bouncy foam trainers filling shelves right now. That is the point. You get a settled, planted ride that rewards steady mileage and a natural heel-to-toe roll rather than a springy pop. We rate it as a workhorse for runners who want structure and longevity over trend. If you have run in Wave Riders before and liked them, the 28 will feel like home. If you want maximum softness, look elsewhere. For an honest daily miles shoe at RRP 140 pounds, it earns its keep. The newer Wave Rider 29 refines the same recipe if you want the latest version.